S&W Model 642. Any feedback on this hammerless 38?

self ^ | 4/9/2020 | Self

[know.your.why]

I'm seriously looking at this little five shot revolver and would appreciate any insight into its reputation. Thank you.

[know.your.why]

[Magnum44]

Hammerless revolver is great purse gun. Has its limits but its simple and safe to carry.

[rrrod]

Love mine. Fits comfy in khaki pockets...light weight and safe to carry.

[niteowl77]

One of the best small revolvers for concealed carry. Would be even better without the internal lock (the little round dealio just above the cylinder latch thumbpiece).

[FrogHawk]

Great little gun. Be forewarned that it does kick like a rented mule.

[Vermont Lt]

I’ve seen them. I know they are light and work. If what you are shooting is close, they will put holes where you aim.

My family has worked for SW since the early 1940s. They make good firearms.

[Gay State Conservative]

later

[Robert DeLong]

Gun Review: Smith & Wesson Model 642

[T-Bird45]

No specific knowledge here beyond having a hammerless on the list of desirable future acquisitions. If the price is anywhere around $400 or less, that would increase my interest in it. One small cautionary note - see if you can meet at a range for a test shoot where you can check for any slop in the lock-up of the cylinder.

[Chickensoup]

Problem with it? Cannot find decent holsters esp under jacket holster.

All the holsters rely on the hammer to help hold it.

Laser is nice.

[Garvin]

Good gun. My 90 year old FIL has the similar Taurus.

[redcatcherb412]

sharp bark and a bit of a kick at the junction of thumb/forefinger. Put a little laser sight on it to save your eyes trying to sight down the short barrel and it's a winner. Load it up with hydra-shock. grip laser

[volunbeer]

I carried one for many years as a patrol officer as a backup. I liked it and it is 100% reliable. However, I eventually tired of the weight on my vest under my off-hand arm and switched to a titanium Taurus Model 85 (I think) that had a ported snub-nosed barrel to help mitigate recoil. I never had an issue with either of them, but appreciated the decreased weight.

I would have no issues carrying it as a primary if I wanted a revolver.

I always advise people to try a few handguns to include revolvers/semi-autos out before they make such an important purchase/decision. It is well worth the money! What I carry is different from what other instructors that I respect carry and ultimately what “fits” you is what you need.

My current concealed carry is a Glock 43X and it is my favorite now having carried about a dozen for at least a few months if not years. However, that does not mean it would be your favorite!

[Magnum44]

I have an S&W340, though i notice its a lot pricier today than when I got it. Its .357 but Ms Magnum loads it with 38SPL.

[know.your.why]

Any comments on the laser model?

[know.your.why]

sorry. i didnt see the laser comments.

[Afterguard]

If you are only going to have one gun for personal protection carrying the S&W 642 may be the best. .38 Special defense loads are readily available and very affordable. They are pretty snappy and not much fun for a long day at the range but when you need a gun it will work every time

[Magnum44]

If you are only going to have one gun for personal protection

THAT is definitely not my problem...LOL

[Disambiguator]

Check out Simply Rugged holsters.