J Frame quality issues

[Naples22]

Update: I spoke to S&W customer service today, they received the gun on June 13, today is June 21. They found the hand and trigger to be defective, and have replaced Therese parts. They were very apologetic. This no lock 442 replaced a lock 642 that would lock upon firing with WW white box 130 gr ball ammo. They're shipping the 442 back to me today. I'll report back upon receipt,and again after test firing.

 

[shawn mccarver]

Not to derail the thread, but I believe it is inaccurate to say that S&W is now a "lock company which sells guns."

 

[Naples22]

Not to derail the thread, but I believe it is inaccurate to say that S&W is now a "lock company which sells guns."

Not too long ago it was a British plumbing company selling guns.

 

[rogbn]

Sorry to hear about so many problems with new Smith's. For the first time in years I bought a new Smith & Wesson revolver three or four months ago. It's a 642 no lock and carry it every day in an Uncle Mikes pocket holster. Have shot it quite a bit and have had absolutely no issues with it at all. I have to say it is a fine little gun. I'm getting old and have been shooting handguns for long time. Also ex-law enforcement - shot on a Federal law enforcement agency's PPC team for several years. I, too, am a fan of the old guns but if some of you young guys think problems with Smiths is something new, I've got some news for you. Smith has had any number of owners over the years - some better at QC than others. If you should ever think about buying one in a blue box that say "Bangor Punta" on it you better look at it real close. I don't think I ever saw one that wasn't at least a little bit out of time - NIB. Among other things. Bear with them - They'll make it right. Just my .02 worth.

 

[Naples22]

Thanks for calling me a young guy, Ive been shooting for probably as many years as you, if not longer. I shot PPC ( 590 best score), IPSC, pins etc. I well know the history of S&W. My point was quality control isn't very good right now. Any mechanical object can fail, but two new ones in a row, somethings wrong with that statistic. I will say however, they have expedited replacement and repair.

 

[sbwilson51]

Locks?

The only J-frame I have with a lock was a 637, that I picked up about 5 years ago. A good # of the lock parts fell out when I had the side plate off. (go Figure) Anyway, have run at least 2k rounds thru it without any functional problems.
But the ejection rod will loosen over time, so do check that.
good luck.

 

[Naples22]

I received the 442 today, 2 week turn around from S&W. Trigger and had were replaced. It was obvious the gun was fired more then just a few rounds. I sent it back pristine, it came back filthy, and Im glad they did test fire it quite a bit. I dry fired it about 100 times, it feels smooth, has a very nice trigger pull. I'll report back when I get a chance to visit the range.