Which do I buy?

[beltron462]

I'm looking to pick up a new 642. I've found one without the lock for 499.00 and one with the lock on sale for 379.00, which seems like a great price. What do you guys think? Is the extra 120 bucks worth it, or is it really that big of a deal. I don't ever intend to use the lock, but am I risking a malfunction, or has that issue been taken care of? Thanks.

 

[Camster]

Others will disagree,but I'd go for the $379 gun.Certainly not a $120 issue,or reliability thing imo.If the dif was 50 or less,then I would go for the lockless.

 

[M29since14]

+1. If the lock really bothers you, disable it. Takes 15-minutes. If you're buying the gun to use, why pay the extra money? Chances of malfunction probably about like being hit by lightning - or less.

 

[Rugskipper]

Might I suggest you check the online auctions? I've bought two no-locks that way, and never spent over $400. Rules prohibit posting links to active auctions, but if you check auctionarms.com and then find lot #9757173, you will find one that goes off at 4:04 PST today, and I'll wager it will sell for less than $375.

 

[loutent]

I bought a new 638 a few years ago before I knew much about the lock - just wanted a snub to carry. I have grown to hate the sight of the lock (probably as a result of this forum.) Never had a problem - it's just that I see it as a submission to PC on the part of SW. I will never buy another new revolver with that lock - for one thing, the resale value of the non-lock will be greater, so I don't think you are losing much. I would pay the $120 all things being equal.

 

[4inch357]

Agreed, I'd buy neither. There are better priced pre-locks out there.

 

[beltron462]

Agreed, I'd buy neither. There are better priced pre-locks out there.

I like the size and light weight of the 642. What are some of your suggestions of pre-lock models? Thanks.

 

[webley green]

If you like the weight etc of the 642 might I suggest the S&W used market. The Model 38 or 37 for example are generally available with varying degrees of blue wear. If it's a daily carry, it will show. I have a Model 38, the bodyguard, and find it to be most satisfactory. WG

 

[Rugskipper]

Might I suggest you check the online auctions? I've bought two no-locks that way, and never spent over $400. Rules prohibit posting links to active auctions, but if you check auctionarms.com and then find lot #9757173, you will find one that goes off at 4:04 PST today, and I'll wager it will sell for less than $375.

UPDATE: It went for $342.55. With $18 shipping and $25 for a transfer, you'd be into that 642-1 for the same money as the 642-2 you were thinking about after sales tax.