S&W 642-1: Do I want it?

[FCOD]

I have been in the market to expand my revolver collection this time with a snubbie. I found a 642 that appears to be in great shape that is being sold with 40 rounds of .38+P and CTC laser grips for $550. Does that seem like a decent price? I'm also curious if they can regularly take the +P round? The barrel is stamped .38+P.

Just curious if these are solid pistols and worth it.

Thanks guys!

 

[AZretired]

The 642 is designed for the +P round. Mine has close to five hundred+Ps through it as well as at least a thousand wad cutters and it's still tight. Some of the finish is worn but nothing to complain about.

Price sound good as long as the CTC grips still work.

 

[riverrat38]

The gun will handle plus P better than my old hands. I use standard load ammo in my M442. Like wad cutters. I can carry plus P, but it doesn't shoot to the same POA as my practice stuff. I now carry my no dash M60 most of the time OWB, but the M442 is still the pocket carry champ in hot weather.

Best,
Rick

 

[photoman]

It will handle the +P ammo with no problem. Seems like a fair price with the laser grips.

 

[Squarebutt]

My favorite pocket rocket in a Galco leather or Uncle Mike's pocket holster. It handles +P no problem, but it's also fun with my standard .38 reloads at the range. Speer Gold Dot 124 grain Short Barrel +P seem to be a popular carry load.

 

[photoman]

My favorite pocket rocket in a Galco leather or Uncle Mike's pocket holster. It handles +P no problem, but it's also fun with my standard .38 reloads at the range. Speer Gold Dot 124 grain Short Barrel +P seem to be a popular carry load.

FYI... That should read 135 grain...

 

[JCS&W]

The CT Grips go for $235 to $255, the 642 in my area typically sells for $350 to $375. So yeah, if the gun is in good shape, not a bad buy.

 

[snubbyfan]

Works for me.

 

[Squarebutt]

FYI... That should read 135 grain...

Good catch. I was thinking of that foreign caliber.

 

[FCOD]

Thanks fellas! Ended up picking it up. I'm going to sell the laser grips because I want a set of wood grips that have a place for a third finger. I have big mitts and the CTCs just aren't going to work.

I know with .357 I don't want to run the 128 and 130 grain loads through my k-frame excessively. Wil these lighter loads be okay with the .38+P? I only ask because I've got about 150 rounds of 130 grain .38+P Ranger.

 

[FCOD]

I'm also looking for input on a three finger accommodating set of grips.

 

[photoman]

I highly recommend the Uncle Mike's combat grips. They are a Craig Spegel design and he still sells them in wood.

 

[MajorHal]

642 Deluxe TALO Exclusive, photo is not mine but I purchased the exact same model, thru our local post exchange!

 

[riverrat38]

Thanks fellas! Ended up picking it up. I'm going to sell the laser grips because I want a set of wood grips that have a place for a third finger. I have big mitts and the CTCs just aren't going to work.

I know with .357 I don't want to run the 128 and 130 grain loads through my k-frame excessively. Wil these lighter loads be okay with the .38+P? I only ask because I've got about 150 rounds of 130 grain .38+P Ranger.

Yes, I use 125 gr standard and plus P. No problem.
Also, the J frame, being a 5 shot, has a stronger forcing cone than the 6 shot K frame, because it is not necessary to cut the flat in the bottom of the barrel at that point. On the K frame, it is necessary in order to provide clearance for the cylinder to close.

Best,
Rick

 

[FCOD]

Thanks for the replies. I do like those Talo grips. Are they thick or are they still pretty compact? I do like the design of the Uncle Mikes grips and I know that S&W still sells a similar design in the rubber. I think they call them the J frame full size or something.

 

[photoman]

Thanks for the replies. I do like those Talo grips. Are they thick or are they still pretty compact? I do like the design of the Uncle Mikes grips and I know that S&W still sells a similar design in the rubber. I think they call them the J frame full size or something.

Altamont Company - Smith & Wesson

 

[FCOD]

Sweet! Ordered a set with medallions. Thanks for the link.