642 VS 442

[Mambeaux]

I have a line on both without the lock. Is there any difference between the two other than the color?

 

[Imaposer]

Stainless vs. carbon steel cylinder, barrel, cylinder latch. Several reports of the 442 rusting when used for pocket carry. Not that that is surprising but SS is easier to care for in that regard.

 

[snubbyfan]

Stainless vs. carbon steel cylinder, barrel, cylinder latch. Several reports of the 442 rusting when used for pocket carry. Not that that is surprising but SS is easier to care for in that regard.

That's about it. Mechanically they're the same. The only reason I went with a 442 is I found a great deal on a used one.

 

[VaRecon]

I can attest to seeing the 442 rust from pocket carry.
It's a pretty common complaint.
SS all the way.

 

[BlackTalonJHP]

Some 442's have blackened stainless parts, FYI

 

[Old cop]

My no lock 442 has a satin nickle finish (circa early '90's) that stands up well to moisture, but during the warm months it gets wiped down daily with a silocone cloth. So far no rust.

 

[Florida J Frame]

My 4 year old pocket carried 642 looks new. Just keep it waxed with Renaissance. Carry it in a Mika.

 

[eazyrhino]

My 442 pro is all stainless and finished the black finish.

 

[ek609]

I am following this thread but feel that I am missing something. I bought a 442 in the early 90's but it is stainless (no rust and always close to the body) not blue or black. At that point in time I do not know if the 642 was even available. Did the 442 come in stainless and blue steel then get changed to 642 for the stainless version?

 

[Old cop]

ek609: Your 442 may be satin nickle like mine, sounds like it is.

 

[C Islander]

As much as I like my 442, I do need to stay on top of it to keep it rust free.

 

[ltxi]

442 production dates to early/mid '90s and are blue only. Suppose it's possible you could have an early production one-off. If so, don't sell it.

 

[BlackTalonJHP]

My 442 pro is all stainless and finished the black finish.

Quoted for truth

 

[m4user]

I replaced my older 442 with a 642 Power Port as my back up gun. The main reasons were it is rated for +P ammo and I wanted to see if the ported barrel actually made a difference. The 442 now keeps my old Model 36 company in the safe.

 

[ladder13]

I am following this thread but feel that I am missing something. I bought a 442 in the early 90's but it is stainless (no rust and always close to the body) not blue or black. At that point in time I do not know if the 642 was even available. Did the 442 come in stainless and blue steel then get changed to 642 for the stainless version?

You mean satin nickel like this 442 no dash, pre magnum frame

 

[photoman]

I have both. The 442 is easier to hide. The 642 requires less maintenance and the bright sights are easier to see in low light.