Which J-Frame?

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MarkAlt

MarkAlt

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Trading in my Glock 17 for a J-frame carry.

Already own a 642 and model 60 Pro 3" that I'm very pleased with. I'm enamored with these J-frames and would like to add another to the collection. Mostly for CC, but it will get a lot of range time and practice.

I've been thinking about these models, in this order:

442 (inexpensive, possibly best value?)
637 (Wyatt - inexpensive 'PC' tuned)
640 (fluted 2.1" barrel - more pleasant to shoot than others?)
340PD
M&P340

The 340's would be my first pick, but give me sticker shock. Even though I don't like the 'logo' on the Wyatt model, it is a PC piece at a reasonable price.

Then, there's the 442. Great piece, but it doesn't add much new to the collection above the 642.

Any stand outs (or stay aways) from that list? Thanks again for your valued opinions!
 
I would take a hard look at the 640. I had a 442 some years ago, and had some rusting issues with the barrel and cylinder because of exposure to sweat while carrying it. Stainless is painless...
 
I'd start by asking yourself what you want that you don't now have.

A heavier gun that is easier to shoot but conceals well (640)

Do you want a lighter 357 (340)

An exposed hammer and PC trigger (637)

A backup for the 642 or a NY reload (442).
 
Last edited:
How about finding an older model to add to the collection?

I've owned this model 60 (no dash) with a square-butt since the mid-80s. Fun to shoot and gets a chance at the carry rotation often.

Edmo

imagejpg1_zpse8bf646b.jpg
 
Not on your list, but the 36-1 3" HB would be the essence of your 60 Pro. I have a pair of pinned ones and when I decide which one to sell it will go to a friend, as the mechanics are superb on both-- crisp triggers, superb lockups and tight gaps. Gorgeous polish. Not expensive.

I do like the Oldies.
 
From your list, I like the 640. Small enough to carry, heavy enough to shoot well. I have a 642 PC, which I like, but I think my next J frame will be a 640. I get the same sticker shock from the 340s, tend to rust carbon steel pocket guns, and don't much care for the Wyatt graphics on the 637.
 
You know how I am, the chief J-hound. Get 'em all and take up juggling. J-frames are, IMO, the most personal guns out there, like small pocket knives. Only you can tell which model will suit you best. Handle them all and make your choice as per your reasoning. Then you can't go wrong.

Kaaskop49
J-hound extraordinaire
 
I have a couple of J frames.
I really wanted a 49 got one NIB bad news is too nice to carry.
Look for a good deal and see what comes up.
They are all nice.

You can see the aged grips of the 640. I think I have had it 22 years.
The grips are newer though.
You don't find the 640 for $225 with a box of ammo any more though. :)
111003_084101.jpg
 
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A good older 640--.38 Special, 1.875" barrel--is worth a look. I've carried one daily for over 15 years. Comfortable to shoot, easy to conceal, nearly impossible to snag, and rock-solid reliable like all the J's. It will handle +P ammo with aplomb.
 
Would love to find an old, reasonably priced humpback ...or other out there. Keeping my eye on the used list.

Of the new, I'm happy to hear that people like their 640's. It's just different enough (I think) to feel like a snubbie and still be fun after a few boxes at the range.

I like them all, so it will probably come down to price and availability. Great to get your opinions so I can go into the deal informed. Much appreciated.
 
I would go with the 640, I miss mine every day. I only say that though, since you already own a M60!
 
My favorite is the 638 with a set of Apex springs.
 
I've been carrying an older Model 38 and 442 for years, good choices for me anyway. The extra weight of the all steel models means I can't pocket carry them in a pair of dress slacks.
 
From your list I have a 37 that is my daily carry gun. It has a factory bobbed hammer and is DAO. I deal for pocket carry as is so light you hardly notice it there.

I too have an early model 49 in pristine shape. I put it up in the safe too after carrying it awhile and not wanting to muck it up any. I do like it and may put it into carry rotation as a nice gun isn't worth much if you don't use it either.
 
Either a 649 or a 3" 60 will be my next J frame. I have a 637 for frequent carry, but would like a heavier option that is more pleasant to shoot.
 
MaxS said:
My favorite is the 638 with a set of Apex springs.
Click to expand...

I just bought a 638 for my carry gun. Didn't know you could get different springs for it.

My wife has a Bodyguard 38 revolver and she really likes it.
 
If the old model 60 doesn't work for you, try this one. It is on your list and is a 640 Pro Series...

Mine took 5 months to get here. When it first showed up I had to box it up and send it back to S&W to "finish" it. Pesky things like sights falling off, crappy etching, clocked barrel... Standard stuff.

Well the FedEx man came by today and here is how it shot.

Edmo

imagejpg5_zps01182ce0.jpg
 
ibewbull said:
I have a couple of J frames.
I really wanted a 49 got one NIB bad news is too nice to carry.
Look for a good deal and see what comes up.
They are all nice.

You can see the aged grips of the 640. I think I have had it 22 years.
The grips are newer though.
You don't find the 640 for $225 with a box of ammo any more though. :)
http://i1247.photobucket.com/albums/gg633/Bull_Parrott/Smith%20a
nd%20Wesson/111003_084101.jpg
Click to expand...

+1 for the 640. Right now, I'm on the hunt for the unfluted, magnaported, RSR variant. Anyway, here's my Performance Center version of "ibewbull's" awesome photo. I had to use a PC940 and combats instead of the 640 and those cool stags:
 
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