Trade a 442 for a 642?

Helderberg

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Would you trade a 442, new two months ago, for a new 642? I realize people have been carrying blued carbon guns for decades without rusting, but I was just wondering what the experts think.
Thanks in advance, Frank.
 
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I'm no expert but I would not trade a 442 for a 642 because I was worried about the 442's finish. In my opinion these guns are meant to be carried and shot and show the wear that goes along with that. Wipe it down every day or two with a silicone cloth or lightly oiled rag and call it good. I have a 642 that by far has the most miles on it out of my carry options and it shows.

Now, if I had a model 19-3 with a 2.5" barrel and deep, dark bluing I could see my reflection in, I'd probably look for a 66 to tote around instead. But to me a model 19 is a MUCH nicer piece and a lot more worth protecting than a 442. That's where I stand.
 
I'm no expert either, but I'll add my two cents. I have a 442 that I carry daily in a Desantis Nemesis pocket holster. The 442 shows some wear on the edges, but I've been carrying it for 16 years. I wouldn't trade it for a 642, although I've considered adding a 642 to carry also.
 
I don't see why you would do it either. Just wipe it down every now and again and don't worry about it's cosmetics as long as it still works. Even the finish on the 642 is not the be all end all, it can tarnish too.
 
Potential freckling issues for potential chipping issues. Nope. Keep a good cloth and a touch of oil nearby -- wipe your gun down at the end of the day and thank it for being there to save your backside. ;)
 
The "Blue" looks a lot better after firing than a 600 model where the black powder and lead can really make a mess of things after just 18 rounds.

Just a matter of taste.............. but the SS shows finger prints and smudges way more than the 400's, if it matters to you.
 
I would not trade. Keep it and enjoy it. Just keep it clean and wipe it off with an oily rag occaisionally and it will do fine. I carried a blue M38 for years and it just showed honest edge wear from carrying. Sold the M38 20+years ago and just recently replaced it with a new 442. We will see how the finish is in 20 years...
 
attn Helderberg

Frank, you live in upper NYS. I don't know the situation in your county pertaining to the number of weapons on a CCW, but if more than one is allowed, I would get the 642 (or another J-frame) in addition to your present 442.

A single weapon could always need repair, and then you would have one to fall back on. I'm sure others are tired of my old song, but I remember when the antis tried to legislate snubs out of existence as "Saturday Night Specials". In our present legislative climate, this could always re-occur if we're not careful, and I would buy what I can now, rather than regret not doing so in a darker future when it may not be available.

Any doubters, let Frank tell you what the NYS governor has done to NYS shooters this year.

Kaaskop49
J-hound extraordinaire
 
Ive carried my 442 daily since 1996 at first while on the job as a primary in dicks then as a b/u in patrol and now for almost 10 years retired.It looks like an 18 year old carry gun should well worn and showing its age its shiny on the barrel and cylinder has some freckles and the grips are dull and dented but it works for me in numerous carry positions has never felt anything but comfortable and shoots like a dream I have 4 snub nose revolvers including a chief det special and cobra and the 442 outshoots them all. Wear or not I wouldn't trade it for anything not even a new 442.If you find something you like no matter what model it may be don't worry about its looks or how it may wear just consider how it works for you and you will be happy.
 
I was not impressed with the finish on my 638. I sold it and replaced it with a 442 Pro. Big Improvement. I have had the 442 for over a year, and it still looks new.
I am sure the 442 finish is more durable than the Clear Coat on the 642.

Bob
 
Frank, you live in upper NYS. I don't know the situation in your county pertaining to the number of weapons on a CCW, but if more than one is allowed, I would get the 642 (or another J-frame) in addition to your present 442.

. . .

Kaaskop49
J-hound extraordinaire
Wise words, even for those of us living in more rational parts of the planet.
 
Why trade one for the other ? What's the benefit?

Peas in a pod.

Now if you were talking about getting a M42, that would be worthwhile.

I much prefer two digit modeled S&W's.

My interest in three digit models is very low.

We all have our preferences.


Just my opinion, of course!
 
Humpbackand442_edited-1.jpg


These are my two j-frames. I feel like an idiot having even asked the question about moving the 442 for the 642. I guess I just needed to hear what all of you have posted. Thank you and I will not be moving these two and will be trying to add a 640 my j group.
Thanks you all again for your input, it means a ton to me.
Frank.
 
Your question was great Frank.Probably a lot of us out there thinking of the same thing only to shy to ask.Its great questions like yours that allow us all to chime in and learn what other guys and girls are thinking.
 
I've had a 340pd and 2 442(s). I never was partial to the 642.
Never regretted the blued guns.
 

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