Thoughts on the 442

[wrangler5]

I carried one IWB for a year or two and found that it would start to rust on the inside of the yoke if I didn't wipe that area down every night with a silicone cloth. The yoke and cylinder are steel, but only the yoke rusted.

I switched to a 640, then a 649, and now carry a 632 (basically a 6-shot 642 in 32 H&R magnum) and never had a hint of rust with any of 'em, even though I never wiped 'em down at night. Personally, if I wanted a lightweight hammerless 38 again I'd pick the 642 over a 442, just because of my experience with rust.

 

[whitestang]

I have had a 442 Pro for about 6 years now and have not had any issues with it. I use it as my summer time carry due to the humid conditions in northern Illinois. As others have stated it takes some practice to become good with it. I like mine and I think you would also.

 

[diceman3]

The 442 is great for carry, but if you can afford a little weight, the ole model 49 will also give you better results with more accuracy and less recoil, with stub hammer back.

 

[Mister X]

Rust seemed like a constant battle in hot weather, so I switched to the 642 and relegated the 442 to training gun status.

 

[Narragansett]

Rats .... I thought this was going to be a thread on the Olds 442 .... A very cool ride.

You beat me to it. I think they came out in 65. Nice ride

 

[REP]

I really like mine but my 351C sees more pocket time.

http://smith-wessonforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=461074&stc=1&d=1595020573

 

[mikerjf]

Prefer 642 over 442 because of the stainless cyl/bll. But for some reason I wind up with a 637 most days. It's not that I shoot SA any better. The 642 has pretty grips so I don't want to beat them up!

 

[Mrnurse]

I dont carry my 442 much...bought a MP 380 as its replacement. Ive shot 500+ rds of standard ammo through it with out a issue, no recoil, its just big for the summer days in NC.... perfect winter weapon with long shirt or jacket.

 

[PALADIN85020]

The 442 and 642 are my favorite EDC guns. Reliable, simple, and effective. I use Barami hip-grips with them, and carry either one in my Levi's right front pocket. With shirt tail out, they are invisible. Handy and quick, no holster required. Lightweight - you will forget they are even there (until you need them, of course).

John

 

[TTSH]

Condensed version of what I've posted before: I bought one. It refused to function right out of the box. It went back to S&W CS and came back functional (apparently) but cosmetically damaged. Never trusted it after that and sold it off at a big loss. Live and learn.

 

[gunny4053]

So I guess what you're saying is I could do a whole lot worse. I looked around today and can pick up a brand new one for a little over $400 OTD. I also found a used 642. That shop was asking $375, but I know the owner and can probably shave a few bucks off that price. I'm pretty much set for accessories, since I have 3 or 4 holsters, including a shoulder holster, several speed loaders, and a couple speed strips.

I like the idea of having a model 49. I've had a couple and wish I had never let them go. They're few and far between around here these days. There's one other shop I need to check tomorrow, but unless they have an incredible deal on something, I'll probably do the deed on either the 442 or 642 and come home happy.

 

[rich5674]

Yes to the 442

I was blessed to find a Performance Center 442 cheap. Stainless cylinder, factory trigger job, Desantis Clip. It shoots well and accurate for its intended purpose. The picture shows 5 shotsX2 to the torso, 5 to the head at 7 yds rapid fire with +p 125gn ammo.

 

[haywood]

Rust seemed like a constant battle in hot weather, so I switched to the 642 and relegated the 442 to training gun status.

I carry in Florida all winter an wipe my gun with Ballistol, no rust.

 

[okiegtrider]

It's a Smith Centennial. Whats not to like?

 

[38SPL HV]

I highly recommend J frames and like the 442/642 very much. Throw on a Hogue Bantam Grip and your in business to shot classic 158 gr lead loads both standard velocity and Rem/Win/Fed +P FBI rounds.

I prefer the ones without the lock. Just wish they made the 637 and 638 models without the locks as well.

 

[white cloud]

I prefer the "non magnum" 649 but my wife likes her 642. For me, J frames are always "there" in my pocket.

 

[haywood]

I highly recommend J frames and like the 442/642 very much. Throw on a Hogue Bantam Grip and your in business to shot classic 158 gr lead loads both standard velocity and Rem/Win/Fed +P FBI rounds.

I prefer the ones without the lock. Just wish they made the 637 and 638 models without the locks as well.

If I see the 38 or 49 with out the lock locally I'd definitely look into buying it.

 

[Puller]

I have a no lock 442 that is cut for moon clips. It's my "T shirt and shorts" carry gun.

 

[jnichols2]

I decided to try carrying a J-Frame. I thought single action was very important, so I bought a 637.

I spent a short time figuring out single action just wasn't the way to go. Then I spent a longer time learning how to shoot double action. It carried pretty well in a OWB holster.

Then I decided to pocket carry it when wearing gym shorts. On the first practice draw it hung up on the hammer. I would have died trying to yank it out of my shorts.

I went out and bought a 642 to replace it. I still have the 637, and will carry it in a OWB holster. But never in pocket carry. I don't practice single action much any more.

To be honest, I haven't seen a 442 in this area. They are all stainless finish.

 

[Jerryatric3]

Got a new 442 today. Been pocket carrying a 640 Pro (love shooting it) but wanted something lighter. 442 trigger was WAY to heavy for me. Stopped at my gunsmith on the way home...went back 4 hours later and WOW. Smooth, crisp break and half the pull weight of factory. 442 half the cost of my 640 Pro and/or M&P 340 (son carrying that one) and with the trigger job think it will just as good a pocket tool as them. Loving it