**Got it** more 442 questions

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Ok, I posted previously about a used 442 I spotted locally, went back twice to look at it and upon second inspection I noticed some very light shards of metal sticking out from the barrel where it threaded into the frame and possibly a crack in the frame at the same point.

I passed on that one. Started looking at new ones, today I found a brand new no lock at another local shop (must say not a lot of snubs in my area), can get out the door for around $440-$450.

I don't know how many of you have different guns to carry depending on time of year/clothes but as I get older I'm finding the idea of an airweight .38 in summer clothes (shorts, t-shirt) more appealing than my M&P Compact and certainly 5" 1911 lol.

I intend to shoot it enough with standard pressure loads to get competent with it. Do I have anything to worry about?

****Here is the new 442, just got home, out the door for $414 including the mandated $10 background fee, woohoo. Speed strips with Federal 125gr Nyclads too. I initially thought I'd replace the grips with the Hogue Bantam but I like how these new S&W grips feel, range trip planned for Wednesday, that will determine if they stay or go.

IMG_3997_zps328ec0dd.jpg
 
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Nope, nuthin' to worry about in a 442 (or any J frame). They carry great all year. I carry mine in a Remora strong side IWB with gym shorts and a tee shirt in the summer.
 
Not sure which part of CO you're in but I just bought a 442 Pro from Brent at Conerstone Arms (online/phone) and he was a pleasure to deal with. Being in Florida, I didn't walk into their store but the pricing leads me to believe they have a large selection and do a lot of business. Very professional and courteous - can't say enough good things about that shop!

This is my second 442. I've had my first for some 17 years now without a single complaint.
 
My 1996 442 has about 1000 rounds through it and a lot of finish wear. Zero issues in all that time.
 
Only thing about those grips is that they tend to get in the way of speedloaders. Otherwise they are compact and comfy (as much as they can be for the size).
 
dbarale is correct. There's a slight variation in width that causes the HKS loader to hang up. A little trimming with an X-acto knife will cure this. The S&W knock-off grip is also lighter than the UM original by .46 oz. Take that, Snubbyfan!
 
I've dubbed this my ULBG lol (ugly little black gun), will be using the speed strips for my reloads so not concerned about speed loader clearance on the factory rubber grips.
 
kaaskop49 said:
dbarale is correct. There's a slight variation in width that causes the HKS loader to hang up. A little trimming with an X-acto knife will cure this. The S&W knock-off grip is also lighter than the UM original by .46 oz. Take that, Snubbyfan!
Click to expand...

I froze mine in a chest freezer overnight and trimmed the left side with a sanding drum on a dremel. Worked great and it now clears the speedloaders. I also radiused the cylinder release button as the sharp edge was tearing up my right thumb.
 
I carry my no-lock 442 daily and shoot it better than most of my other small thirty-eights for some reason. You really can't go wrong w/this little gun and while it isn't as "tactical" as one of the larger semi autos, I'm no longer an LEO and my orbits are pretty tame. Carry that w/a speed strip and you should be okay.
 
Ok, I posted previously about a used 442 I spotted locally, went back twice to look at it and upon second inspection I noticed some very light shards of metal sticking out from the barrel where it threaded into the frame and possibly a crack in the frame at the same point.
Click to expand...

My 442 came with the metal shards sticking out from where the barrel meets the frame. I ran a wooden toothpick around the barrel and they came off just fine. Unsightly at first, but easily cured.
 
I have a 642, because my LGS didn't have a 442 at the time. Pocket carry it year round.
BTW OP, what is this $10 background fee that you speak of?
 
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