642 a good first J-frame choice?

[lowercase]

A 642 was my first J Frame. When they made a batch of no-lock 642s in 2008, I ran down to my LGS and snapped one up. Been carrying it ever since and haven't had any finish issues in these 8+ years.

Have a no-lock 442 as well. Love both guns.

 

[riverrat38]

I had a no lock 442 from 2008 and and it was a dash 2. Go figure!
You never know with Smith. I have also had a 642, and prefer the 442 finish. Its too bad they paint the Aluminum. I have polished Aluminum bicycle parts like stems and they stay nice with maybe a little oil rubbed in once a year. The Flitz I used to polish has some kind of oil that protects Aluminum. Bare Aluminum and Stainless would suit me nicely.
I have since replaced the Airweights with a 640 Pro that I really like. I don't pocket carry much these days. Normally, I use an OWB belt holster. I shoot about a thousand rounds a year through the 640. Nicer than doing same in an Airweight.

Best,
Rick

 

[malph]

Right now my "lightweight" carry revolver is an SP101 (I also carry a CCO 1911 some of the time) but I've been thinking about getting a lighter one for a while. I had been leaning towards an LCR but am now thinking about a 642 for a couple of reasons. First, I think I should have at least on J-frame to go with my other Smiths and, second, my LGS is going to be have a sale next weekend and is offering 642's for $310. I guess S&W is getting aggressive as gun sales have slowed. I can't think of any good reason not to get one at that price, but wanted to ping the experts for your thoughts.

BTW, I shoot .44 mag and 10mm so recoil isn't an issue for me.

I think the 642 hits the sweet spot for j frames. Heavy enough to shoot. Light enough to be easily carried.

I have an all steal 640 38spc and some of those titanium, scandium models but if I had to keep only one it would be a 642.

 

[Penquin]

You can tell from all that's been shared that the 642 is well loved! Mine gets carried more than anything else. Excellent shooter also.

 

[one eye joe]

Good to know, thanks. I looked at the fine print on the ad and they are selling the SKU 103810 (some SS) and 150544 (black) versions at least - no internal lock.

DEFINITELY BUY ONE AT THAT PRICE ! ! !