Looking to get a J-frame which one to get?

brunk

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Well I have been kicking around the idea of getting another revolver already got a 64-8 got it a few months ago nice shooter and is fun to take to the range or for bedside duty. I have always had a semi auto for a carry gun and most of the time it is my Glock 27 gen4 but always wanted something to throw in my pocket especially for those days for what ever reason I don't want to carry one of my auto pistols which rides IWB or my colt commander in a shoulder rig. The little micro pistols in 380 and 9mm never seem to appeal to me either for various reasons they tend to be snappy or unreliable not all of them but there are ones that are. So now I need advice on what to get for a J-frame first off I want a S&W that would be good for pocket carry as that is what it's main role would be and also as a back up. Thanks in advance for the advise.
 
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If you are on a budget go with a a 442 or 642. If you can spend more the M&P 340 is a great revolver.
 
Between the 442 or 642 which one would have a better finish as for something that won't wear off and not rust. The 642 seems nice buds gun shop has them for around $350
 
I sometimes carry a 442, which I think is a good choice….look for a no lock model……just my preference……but don't over look the model, 36, 37, 60…….and one of my favorites the model 640….there are a lot of J frames that will be ideal for what you want in a handgun.

Semper Fi!
 
I prefer the exposed hammer. Aesthetics, plus single action capable for the range. I loved my 637 and 360. I didn't love to pocket carry tho.
 
637 gets my vote. Pocket carry for last seven years, planned on trimming the hammer spur if it hung up on things, it doesn't. The spur is a non-issue and I like the choice of single or double action shooting. This model was recommended by a police officer friend who carried one as back up for years...he was right!
Gary
 
Another vote for the 640 in .38 Special, not the .357 model. Snag-free, less worry about lint getting into the works, comfortable to shoot, and I find it easy to carry and conceal.

For self defense I don't want the option of single-action fire, for a number of reasons I've thought about a lot; but of course YMMV.
 
442. It's flat black. Just traded my 642 for it. I did it because I don't like a gun reflecting light off of it at night, be it the moon or street light. Just an ex-cop getting cautious in his dotage.
 
M&P 340 got my vote because of the light weight, night sight, no exposed hammer to snag on draw, available without the ILS, and ability to shoot 38 special or 357 mag. The finish is known to be durable. Easy to carry all day, every day. A nice Lobo Gunleather holster & Gunbelt help it conceal OWB under a T-shirt.

 
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For ultimate in pocketabilty I'd suggest looking at the air lights (337,342) with titanium cylinders. They cost more than the aluminum/steel, but not more than the .357 640's. I though nothing would take the place of my '70s era M37, but the 342 did, and the new-to-me 337 seems just about perfect.
 
I vote for a 442 or a 642. The finish on the frame of the 642 tends to flake off with use so I'd go for the 442 personally.
I've heard some say the finish on the 642 held up just fine and others say it wore off. I guess it depends on where you live, how much you sweat, your method of carry, type of holster and how well you take care of it. The finish on my 642 looks as good as the day I bought it.
 
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