Model 642

[SEVN3]

-The 442 is another airweight, but with a black coated frame that, in my experience, wears better than the 642's clearcoat. The 442 does have a blued cylinder and barrel, instead of stainless, so it's a trade-off.

Some of the newer no-lock 442s are suspected by some to having blued stainless cylinders and barrels. The front sights are similar to the 642s, having a notch, where the IL 442s had no notch on the sight ramp. I can't say for sure though; just an observation.

 

[dubhelix]

If true, that would be really great. I tried the old magnet trick to see if I could tell the difference, but apparently the stainless that S&W uses is also magnetic. I'll probably never find out due to corrosion, since I keep all my blued guns well oiled. It would really contribute to my peace of mind when carrying one of my 442's to sea, or to the gym.

Some of the newer no-lock 442s are suspected by some to having blued stainless cylinders and barrels. The front sights are similar to the 642s, having a notch, where the IL 442s had no notch on the sight ramp. I can't say for sure though; just an observation.