Difficulty Sighting 442?

[teekay]

I have seen a few comments in threads about individuals preferring a 642 vs a 442 because it is easier to use the silver toned 642 sights as compared to the black/blue 442.

Any comments pro or con appreciated.

 

[Florida J Frame]

I wouldn't worry about it one way or the other. This weapon is designed as a concealed carry self defense gun. If I'm far enough from my target to worry about the sight picture I probably shouldn't have drawn in the first place. It's not a comfortable range gun so you most likely won't do much target shooting with it. Just my opinion. I have a 642.

 

[dcb]

I like the 642 over the 442. But I usually always carry my 638 airweight.
The other go to carry is a flatlatch.
It takes a lot of practice to get efficient with a short barrel handgun. I am no means an expert but I have done the range time and can do pretty go to about 20 yards. Its fun to see what kind of shooter you are when you back up. Gennerally all your poor shooting style and habits show up and its good to have another shooter who can watch and make constructive adjustments.
Dave

 

[Moondancer]

New 442 owner here. I have been thinking about trying some white paint on the small flat section of the front sight to see if that makes it a little easier to line up.

 

[Dale53]

If a person is having problems seeing the sights on either the 642 or 442 then you might want to consider a set of Crimson Trace grips. I have a set of #305 CT's on my 642 and in dim light they are a "life saver". Further, they allow you to shoot from awkward positions with ease. I have rather large hands and appreciate the covered back strap and the grips are extended below the grip frame allowing a full hand hold for better control with Plus P loads. I carry in a Mika pocket holster and concealment is fine. If you have smaller hands you might be better served with the #405 grips (boot grip size).

Just a thought...

Dale53

 

[rock doc]

I wouldn't worry about the sights on either the 442 or 642. In a defensive situation, all the time you will have is to point and shoot. It's better to train the point & shoot technique than to train using the sights.

 

[amd6547]

I simply do not agree with the attitude "it's a snubby, it should be used for point and shoot only"...Or "if I have to use the sights, I shouldnt have drawn in the first place".
I always accept the possiblity of a longer than bad breath shot being needed, and legitimate self defense.

 

[TLG]

New 442 owner here. I have been thinking about trying some white paint on the small flat section of the front sight to see if that makes it a little easier to line up.

I tried that on my 442. I also put white paint on the rear sights. It helps a little. I agree with the poster that suggested the Crimson Trace Laser Grips. I have a set on my Taurus 85UL. The Taurus is the same sze as the Smith J Frame. Makes all the differance in the world.

The only reason I haven't went that route with my 442 is that I have a new set of Altamonts on it.

TLG from WV.....

 

[7shooter]

I put a layer of white paint and then a top layer of red paint on the front sight. The white paint bottom layer makes the top red layer more eye catching. Fishing lure paint works the best.

 

[druryj]

I put a layer of white paint and then a top layer of red paint on the front sight. The white paint bottom layer makes the top red layer more eye catching. Fishing lure paint works the best.

Same thing here, but uses fingernail polish. Practice acquiring that front sight and you'll get better fast!

 

[depicts]

I put a layer of white paint and then a top layer of red paint on the front sight. The white paint bottom layer makes the top red layer more eye catching. Fishing lure paint works the best.

Fishing stores are the best spot. Get some florescent colors made for painting streamer flies.

I paint a layer of white then a layer of green or yellow florescent, and do it on all my little carry guns.

 

[6pack]

I wouldn't worry about the sights on either the 442 or 642. In a defensive situation, all the time you will have is to point and shoot. It's better to train the point & shoot technique than to train using the sights.

I agree!!!

 

[indiandave]

I put bright orange nail polish on the front sight. Very close to the color of the insert on the ramps of my k,l,and n frames. Also have Uncle Mick's Combat grips on her to tame the recoil. At 21 feet I can shoot in a fist size target all day.