642 VS 442

There's enough "felt" weight difference in the pocket between the "Scandium" (eg, ~11oz. 340PD) and aluminum framed models (~14oz. 442, 642) that I favor the former over the latter for pocket carry. I don't ever carry my 642 anymore!
OTOH, for any revolver carried on or around the belt I prefer solid steel, usually stainless.
 
I contemplated getting a 642, 442, or 340 for a long time. Just about the time I was ready to make a decision I realized all the S&Ws had internal locks installed and they were all too big to wear in my Wranglers, which is all I wear when I'm not working. In hot weather I wear jean shorts. I have been carrying a Seecamp LWS 32 for about 7 years and then I finally made my decision. This is the one that made sense to me instead of any of the Smiths.

Yep, it's a 380 Seecamp loaded with Gold Dots. I'm anxious to try the new Corbon DPX to see how it shoots in my new pocket rocket.

120108651_96cfa163d3.jpg
 
I checked the S&W website, and the 642 is listed under the roster of guns that take the .38 cartridge. The 442 is listed under the roster of guns that take the .38 +P cartridge.

Does this mean that the 642 can only take standard .38s and cannot handle .38 overpressure ammunition whereas the 442 can handle both?
 
Have both, and for CCW prefer the blacker 442, but with my old eyes, find the 642 finish easier to sight. Wear is neglible on the 442 so far. Both (newer ones) handle +P.
 
IMHO a little holster wear shows character in a gun. For me they are tools, not pretty things that just sit around and look pretty.
 
I personally like the 642 over the 442. All of my guns are a silver type finish. I think they are easier to clean, and just look nice. Since I carry <span class="ev_code_RED">concealed</span>, and don't plan on going to war with any small countries, the reflective issue means nothing to me, once it clears leather the flame from the muzzle will be brighter than any reflection.
 
The newer 642s will shoot +P... It is engraved right on the barrel.
After firing mine for months, my wife wanted one for herself. So now, matching 642s (aaaww how cute!)
 
I too considered the 642 and the 442 but the 442 won hands down after a short time. Love the black look of it also resembles the Godfather gun in the movie. It is a real clasic. I put Crimson Trace on it and it is the best steath type CCW gun you can buy plus it is a S&W!!
 
I own the 442. by the way mine is more black than blue.
Model: 442
Caliber: .38+P
Capacity: 5 Rounds
Barrel Length: 1 7/8"
Front Sight: Black Blade Front
Rear Sight: Fixed
Grip: Rubber Grips
Frame: Small - Centennial Style
Finish: Blue / Black
Overall Length: 6 3/8"
Material: Alloy
Weight Empty: 15 oz.
 
I bought a 442 recently for my wife on her birthday. She loves the saving in weight over her previously-carried 640, and has remarked that the black-finished 442 is not so obvious when her carry purse is opened. I've equipped her gun with the hip-grip setup so she can tuck it in her waistband - no holster required. With the hip-grip and a grip adapter, it's just the ticket.
 
You can't go wrong with either; have both.

I prefer my ability to sight more quickly with the lighter color of the 642, but for stealth, the 442 wins. Tried the "ghost" glow paint and nail polish on the 442 front sight, better, but still not as easy for these aging eyes. Wish they had front pinned sights that could be replaced with XS ones.
 
Originally posted by abs:
You can't go wrong with either; have both.

I prefer my ability to sight more quickly with the lighter color of the 642, but for stealth, the 442 wins. Tried the "ghost" glow paint and nail polish on the 442 front sight, better, but still not as easy for these aging eyes. Wish they had front pinned sights that could be replaced with XS ones.
Click to expand...
Consider getting Crimson Trace grips - I did, now I have the stealth look of the black 442 along with the best sights you can get (note, S&W offers CT with their logo on it).makes one handsome package
 
I have the 642-1. I love it. I prefer the stainless beccause it is in my pocket daily. moisture from sweat tends to be there. I felt the stainless was a better choice for me. The way I figure its personal preference because both are great guns.
G
102_2360.jpg
 
WOW!!
This two year old thread is still going..
How Time changes things..
My first Airweight was a 642-2, Then I traded it for a 442-2 & then later traded that one for this 642 No Dash..
I love the Non Matte Finish of this Little snub & with the Spegel Grips it's a Keeper..
S&W Airweight Model 642
swmod642wk7.jpg

If You See Me Out I'll have this in my Pocket stoked with Nyclads carried in a Kramer Pocket Holster..
Gary/HK
 
I chose the 442 over the 642. I preferred the black for concealment also I had difficulty seeing the "silver" sight in the 642.
 
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