Thinking ultra-small IWB snub--options?

[Echo47]

While I've become prone to carry large capacity semi-autos, like Hi-Powers and .45 autos regularly, my work environment is screaming "carry something VERY SMALL and ultra-concealable".
I'm leaning toward a S&W .38 Spl +P revolver but choices are limited at 2018 prices.
At a LGS today, I saw three used S&W snubbies, the first was a 36 'bare bones' with 1-7/8" bbl and was the most expensive of the three, one was a 637 SS Performance Center with 1-7/8" bbl., and the third a 642 with 2-1/2" bbl. The last two were about $100 less than the M36.
I like the idea of a wee bit of a longer barrel but realistically doubt fired ammo will be going much faster than from a 1-7/8" tube. I will probably be carrying 158gr LSWC for the 'cookie-cutter' effect.
I've not fired a 'lightweight' before, but at 15 ounces, the chosen weapon will not feel as though I'm carrying a lead weight on my hip all day.
As a consequence, I believe the SS models, with stainless barrel and cylinder, will have a few more ounces of weight which I consider a plus.
What am I getting with a Performance Center model, all other things being equal?
All three revolvers were inspected and tested (with the sellers' permission) and the mechanisms have not been drastically altered, timing is good, barrel rifling is sharp and shiny, and function in single-action (for the hammered models) and double-action was comparable to a new revolver.
Anyone have any recommendations (please limit comments to either the M-637 or M-642) as I know I should be carrying a concealable with a larger ammo capacity (like a Shield or M&P auto) but my work attire prohibits those choices.
Echo 47

 

[Cal44]

Most 642's come with 1 7/8" barrels. I haven't heard of a 2 1/2 inch version, but then anything can happen.

I'd recommend the 642. Get the current production version with a 1 7/8 barrel and no internal lock.

Better for carrying in a pocket because no hammer to snag.

Best to buy from a store where you can try the trigger before buying as some have extra heavy triggers.

 

[Jeppo]

Last time I checked (a month or two ago), my go-to guy was selling 442/642's at $299 plus tax.

 

[SpartyME]

You might be interested in a thread I started about 442 vs 642 direct comparison

642 vs 442
642 vs 442

 

[gwpercle]

After many years of trying different firearms the model 637 Airweight has risen to the top . I started with a full sized 1911 and went all over the concealed carry spectrum. Two buddies , who were police officers , both carried them as back up and as CC off duty. Both assured me +P 38 Special would get the job done, compact and light weight meant you don't have a problem concealing or carrying it. If a gun is big and heavy ...chances are it wont get out the door with you. The 637 has a hammer, I was concerned about it snagging. Both said it wasn't a problem and showed me how to cover the spur with my thumb when drawing from a deep pocket...an easy thing to learn. I prefer it to have the hammer...if it bothered me I would trim the spur back but not remove it.
I tried a model 442 for awhile but just didn't like not having a hammer.
I purchased it in 2005 and it goes out the door with me every day , I don't think twice about what to carry. And to let you know I've never had a problem with the hammer spur snagging...just cover it with the thumb. This one is the one that works best for me and worked for my two now retired LEO friends .
And just to let you know I'm an old gun guy...started reloading in 1967
Gary

 

[ContinentalOp]

I may be biased since I EDC a 642-1 (the -1 has no internal lock), but that's what I would recommend. Inexpensive, readily obtainable, lightweight, and, depending on your experience, controllable with the right load selection. Being a new gun (I'm presuming), it would be covered by S&W's warranty. SA capability in a self defense gun is highly overrated in my opinion. With practice shooting DA will give good results. I like the 642's stainless steel for it's higher corrosion resistance over the 442's carbon steel.

I carry it IWB and it virtually disappears under a loose, untucked shirt. I would have to bend over at the waist to touch the floor (or at least try to!) for it to print. The nice thing about Airweight snubs is their carry versatility. You can carry it IWB. If you need more discreet carry you can use a pocket holster, belly band holster, or even an ankle holster.

 

[Bill In Texas]

I don't think that you can go wrong with either Echo47. I'll second gwpercle's post even though I did bob the hammer spur of my 637. When it had a hammer spur I covered it with my thumb as gw said and never had it snag on my pocket. I carry my 637 as at least a bug on an almost daily basis.

I've got many friends with 642's and have shot them many times. I think the trigger might be a little better in my experience with the 642-1 though.

A 642 with a 2.5" barrel would be a rarity, but I have seen pictures of these unicorns. It would be a little more difficult to carry in a pocket I'd imagine.

 

[ShivasIrons]

I carry small Snubs exclusively. Usually a J Frame, Ruger LCR or a Taurus M380 when I need to be most discrete.

I know many bash Taurus products and I have owned a few and a couple were turds. However, my M380 has been most excellent.

 

[326MOD10]

You might consider a 442 instead of a 642. I have had, and carried a bunch both, and found the 442 holds up better.

The 642 has that coating on it that peels away and can leave the gun looking rough.

I picked up one of the Perf. Center ones and the trigger is wonderful compared to stock.

 

[Lostaro]

Of those mentioned I'd go with the 642...

I carry a 442 daily....IWB or in an ankle holster. Same gun different paint job....no problems at all. Accurate, lightweight and not too expensive.

Also agree with the last comment on the 442....never had an issue with the finish. No rust or wear.

 

[hittman77]

While I have a model 60, and 36, and used to have a 37 ..... my LCR in 38 Special gets carried the most. I put the boot grip on it and use a Galco ankle holster.

 

[Echo47]

I've been seriously looking for a S&W snub variant for a few weeks now, and just discovered a "legal mail order (kinda)" with great prices.
Rural King Inc. has opened in many US states and is comparable in size and service to Family Farm & Home as well as having firearms departments in many of their stores.
To order a firearm (handgun, rifle, or shotgun), simply order on-line (after verifying you comply with local and Federal laws to purchase firearms) and pay with your credit card, specifying the local Rural King store (must be in your state of residence) to which the firearm will be shipped.
Shipping is relatively quick AND FREE (ONLY if shipped to your in-state Rural King store) and you will be notified of the firearms's arrival. It is simply a matter of providing personal ID and documentation of the purchase, complete the necessary ATF and state forms, and in a short time, you are leaving the store with your new firearm and paperwork!
RK Guns.com is currently offering three S&W Airweights, the M-637, 638, and 642, each for $369.99 plus local taxes, as well as a S&W M&P Bodyguard in .38 Spl. (essentially a M-36 with Crimson Trace integral Laser sight) for $449.99 (plus tax). It, also, has a stainless barrel and cylinder, but it is all black (PVD coated).
Now, I'd like to know if anyone would explain the differences between the 637, 638, and 642 models, as all have stainless cylinders and 1-7/8" barrels, but the 637 has an exposed (not shrouded) hammer, and possibly indicate which of the three is the superior model and why.
A buyer of the S&W M&P Bodyguard in .38 Spl. compared the Bodyguard to the M-642, stating, "the Bodyguard had far less perceived recoil with Gold Dot +P ammo (despite both revolvers being the same weight), much more accommodating for Safariland speed loaders, as it does not have the side mounted cylinder release, better empty cartridge extraction with the longer ejector rod, and the the integral Crimson Trace (device).
My question is: with these design differences, does the S&W M&P Bodyguard justify the extra $$?
Just call me 'ready to buy'.
Echo47

 

[adwjc]

Echo,
"A buyer of the S&W M&P Bodyguard in .38 Spl. compared the Bodyguard to the M-642, stating, "the Bodyguard had far less perceived recoil with Gold Dot +P ammo (despite both revolvers being the same weight), much more accommodating for Safariland speed loaders, as it does not have the side mounted cylinder release, better empty cartridge extraction with the longer ejector rod, and the the integral Crimson Trace (device).
My question is: with these design differences, does the S&W M&P Bodyguard justify the extra $$?"

That firearm, a polymer frame is vastly different that the metal J frames whether they are steel (like the 36), air weight alloy (442, 642 etc.) or newer air light scandium alloy (340 etc). Search this forum for more detail.

The name Bodyguard used to refer to a model 38, or 49, later 649 etc, which is a J frame with a shrouded (still visible) hammer, as opposed to the internal hammer on the centennial series (442-642).

You can get lasers on any of the Js, as well as some designated as Pro Series models which come with some upgrades from the factory.

Also, you can do better on pricing, consider some other on line vendor and locate a local FFL to process it for you.

 

[rwsmith]

A steel or stainless steel.....

....gun will be more enjoyable to practice with than any alloy or plastic gun unless you just have to have the extra light weight. I have a mod 36 and a mod 38 (alloy). I had to put cushiony grips (hogue monogrip on the 38 in order to be able to shoot it w/o wincing. The steel model 36 is a LOT more comfortable to shoot and I didn't have to replace the wood grips.