Asking for Insight on a Model 042 J Frame

[326MOD10]

I have done some research on the Smith and Wesson Model 042 in .38 Special and understand it is a little rare.

I have a chance at getting one for around $525.00 and am a little torn. It looks to be in about 90-95% shape with some carry wear on the cylinder and on the muzzle area. I have several J Frames and currently carry a 442 from the performance center.

It has the original UM grips but no box or papers.

Any thoughts on good deal or not?

Thanks.

 

[Rpg]

The 042 was offered briefly. The rumor was that they were 642 frames with cosmetic issues so were anodized black.

They did not come with a box.

I wouldn't pay $525 for one: perhaps $400 for a lnib example.

 

[326MOD10]

Thanks. That is kind of the way I am leaning and passed on it for now.

 

[123Yellow]

sw042

I picked one up today from Cabellas. I have never heard nor seen one until today. It will go good in my J frame collection. It is like new but no box. I am delighted to have gotten it for $400.00.

 

[326MOD10]

The one I was looking at when I started this thread was from a Cabelas, I think in Utah or one of the Dakotas.

Maybe they came to their senses and marked it down a little.

Neat gun but I couldn't go the price they were asking.

 

[murphydog]

It is an uncommon model 42/Centennial variant, made both in polished and matte blue. Not a whole lot of difference between it and a pre-lock 442. Keep looking and you will find one at a decent price.

The factory was having trouble getting the 642 aluminum and steel parts to color match at that time, so the dark finish theory makes sense.

 

[JAREDSHS]

no pictures????

 

[jcelect]

042

.......... they were 642 frames with cosmetic issues so were anodized black.

They did not come with a box.

I have had 3 and 2 of them were 642 frames overstamped with "MOD 042" in white painted letters. These guns were not a catalogued item and came with a high polished black or dull black frame. The hard to finds guns are the "032". Here's a couple of the Centennials!

jcelect

 

[SAFireman]

Every one of the 042 that I have seen in person was 'high polish' blue/black finish.

They are a neat variant, but not worth double what a new 442/642 would cost. I had not heard of the 032 version....now I have one more thing to keep my eyes open for.

 

[jcelect]

Every one of the 042 that I have seen in person was 'high polish' blue/black finish.

I had not heard of the 032 version....

All the 042 guns I have owned and/or seen were the high polished blue/black finish. I have never seen a matte finish gun. Maybe they don't exist? ! ?
I have no information on the 032 guns! Mine is in the original box with product code 103678.
jcelect