Question on 642's

[Les Greevy]

I have several J frames but am looking at two new 642's. One is referred to as a Performance Center with SKU 10186 another is called Enhanced action with SKU 107348. What is the real difference between these two internally?
I am most interested in a trigger that breaks immediately after the cylinder locks.
Also looking at a 442 PC pro series SKU 178041. Is that any different internally?
Thanks in advance.
Les

 

[scruffy]

My experience. I had both and kept my 642 PC. The trigger is noticeably smoother and lighter. D/A is just under 9 lbs. and S/A breaks around 2.5 lbs. Both have zero hitches, stacking or grit. The PC is extremely accurate at 7-10 yds. Also I'm not a fan of wood grips on a small carry gun, but the stock S&W Altamont Basketweave PC grips work perfectly for me. Totally worth the extra $ for this particular PC version.

 

[Catwrangler]

The OP asked about 642's- your 637 is not a DA only Centinial it's basically an Airweight version of a 36.

 

[somorris]

Not much help from me, Les, but I was always under the impression that the Performance Center models were better shooters. I had not heard of the enhanced version. I am curious to see what the experts here say.

 

[pharmer]

I'm a fan of the 642. They are "belly guns" so "refined triggers" are a secondary concern to function. $.02. Joe

 

[TheTinMan]

In general, I object to the infernal lock on cosmetic and political grounds. However, in a revolver this light I really don’t want the internal lock. S&W makes both the 642 (sku 103810) and M&P 340 (sku 103072) in no-lock versions.

I have both an older 642 and an M&P 340. Based on my experience, I would get the visible front sight long before worrying about trigger pull. This is NOT a target revolver.

That said, it’s quite easy to clean up a Smith & Wesson revolver’s action. All you need is a good ceramic stone and Jerry Kunhausen’s book. Oh and the right screwdrivers. If you want to lighten the trigger pull, you can add a reduced weight rebound spring and reduced power mainspring. I know that many here consider modifying a carry gun as heresy; however, these little guys are hard to handle. Getting the (double action only) trigger pull down to 8-9 pounds to improve handling is reasonable IMHO. My M&P 340 was over the 12 pound limit of my Lyman trigger pull gauge and gritty. Wolff Springs work fine. Just DON’T TOUCH THE SEAR.

Hope that helps.

 

[scruffy]

The OP asked about 642's- your 637 is not a DA only Centinial it's basically an Airweight version of a 36.

You're right. I need to learn to read more carefully. I have the 642 PC also and use it primarily for pocket carry. Same comments about my 637 PC apply. Super smooth and light action. D/A is less than 10 lbs making it easier to hold the gun on target when pulling the trigger through. The rounded chrome trigger face is also a nice touch.