I've had a 642 for years, it's a great gun, no problems. It's my warm weather concealed carry. Safe, reliable, and surprisingly accurate and easy to shoot.
I bought a 642 last spring because I wanted a lightweight, reliable, carry gun to conceal under summer weight shirts. It rides in a snug, pancake-style leather OWB from 1791 Holsters. Now that I’ve carried it for a few months and practiced with it consistently I’ll probably just stick with it as my EDC even when the weather cools off.
I have a 642 S&W without the Hillary hole. I measured the distance from my recliner to the front door, 14 feet, then went to the range and shot 5 rounds from that distance. Facing forward, with the gun in both hands, pointed down, I raised it up and let the front sight settle into the back sight and fired. You have to give it a bit of time for the cylinder to rotate between shots. I like the gun. Good review. Thanks.
I just purchased two S&W Performance Center tuned action 642’s for my wife and me. I saw two different one’s available thinking only the grips were different plus one didn’t seem to have the internal lock which I liked. One had all wood grips with the internal lock (Model 642-2) that my wife liked because of it’s all wood grips. The other one has the two-tone synthetic /wood grips Model (642-1) and was cut for the use of using Moon Clips for faster loading. Also, the cylinder flutes and thumbpiece are highly polished along with a polished chrome trigger. Both of the 642’s have a super smooth trigger pull. My wife does have a problem pushing in the thumbpiece because of the stout spring. I have a 686 and 29 that seem to push in easier. I’m hoping to find a way to lighten up the spring pressure for her without making something not work right. I’m not a real fan of the Moon Clip idea on the 642-1 but it looks like the cartridge will still headspace on the edge of the cylinder without using the clips. We haven’t been able to shoot them yet due to the lack of .38 Special ammo, but I do have everything to load hundreds of rounds as soon as I receive the carbide dies that are on the way. I did notice the one with all wood grips seam to roll down more making a better fit in my hand as the two-tone grip feel a bit short. These 642’s make a great lightweight pocket gun and right now I’m reluctant to buy a bigger grip until I shoot several rounds through it. I sure don’t want a big grip getting caught in my pocket if needed quickly.
Bought mine in 2003 when I opened my first restaurant. Mine has a factory laser grip . It is accurate and never ever misfires. My buddy who is ex military and a police officer told me to get it. Said it’s idiot proof. He’s right. I love it.
Good video and a nice overview of the 642. I carried one for many years as my BUG on my body armor (under a uniform shirt) and it is so light I never felt it was there. They are outstanding "get off of me" guns. Scott
No matter how advanced or small the semi-autos get, there will always be a place in our hearts for wheel guns. Especially little guns like this one. You may be interested in checking out the trigger job we did on these, did not turn it into a hair trigger but moved it into the "really nice" territory.
My 642's trigger smoothed up nicely after 18+ years of trigger pulls. lol I own a bunch of revolvers and only a couple of semiautos. Semiautos for work and revolvers for pretty much everything else. I handgun hunt and I am getting older so I like wheelguns for my personal time. Scott
Just became the owner of one of these last month, inheritance from my father's passing. Perfect gun to conceal carry, only thing I dont love about it is the inconsistent trigger. Regardless, it's perfect for the intended purpose of self protection.
when i was in conceal carry class, the instructor recommended selecting a single weapon for conceal carry and practicing dry firing with just that gun and using only just that gun for all carry situations. tactically that makes sense, but practically, it doesn't work. some guns are bulkier and less concealable than others. some offer specific safety features that are better for certain circumstances than others. i would rather sacrifice the muscle memory in exchange for being able to carry under all circumstances and all social situations. for example, I'd rather carry the lcp II given its incredibly small size when i absolutely don't want anybody to know i am carrying. Anyway my point is that the 642 is imo a fine addition to a conceal carry collection to expand the range of options available. also it's useful for an ankle holster/backup gun.
This is a perfect example of somebody "teaching to the least common denominator". Making an assumption that the students cannot or will not train with more than one gun and get skilled with them. I am happy that you are not falling for that, and are going do to what you need to in order to carry always.
@@HammerStriker well i don't really know tbh. i mean the instructor's point was that in a crisis situation you are going to lose fine motor skills so it's better to build muscle memory with just one weapon. does it work to build muscle memory with two or more and have the forethought to remember what i'm reaching for, or will my fight-or-flight default response be to anticipate the gun for whom my muscle memory is dominant? I'm not sure, but what I do know is that I'd rather take my chances and fumble reaching for the "wrong" gun than to not have any gun at all because it didn't fit the social or tactical situation I was going into. After all, I'm CCing to live, not living to CC. For example, if I need to make a trip to the grocery store, it's easy to holster an IWB-holstered LCP II; it's lightweight, deep concealment. I could throw that holster onto a pair of cargo shorts. Similarly in winter I could drop that 642 into a coat pocket holster. But the Shield 9mm or XDS .45? Too bulky. I'd prefer to carry those if, for example, i were hiking through the woods or something.
The Performance Center Pro Series Model 642 is listed at 44 dollars more, and as Smith and Wesson states on it’s website: NO INTERNAL LOCK. It is also cut for moon clips for quicker reloads.
Got me this gun yesterday! Been dry firing it here and there to get comfortable with the trigger...think I prefer it this way! Either way, love the review and love the gun! Will be an excellent BUG.
@@shadowwolf8872 - I take it out every other day and dry fire it with caps to get used to the trigger, study and feel the clicks. Makes me appreciate the trigger more every time I use it!
@@mrenigma6683 I went out yesterday to get a 642. I've had several J frames over the years and like them alot. But I've traded them all off. I used to get trading fever in my younger days. I've got an all steel Rossi 38 snub, but have been wanting one even smaller and lighter. My local shop had several J frames in stock yesterday. One was a 642 Lady Smith with rosewood boot grips. It was only $30 more than the regular model. I'm a big 240 lb guy, but I've always wanted the Lady Smith. They have an action job from the factory and look good too! I've been messing with the darn thing since I got it. It has a very slick action. Best I've ever seen on a J frame. I put some Sig Sauer+ P 125 grain HP's in it. I already had a Nice, new pocket holster put up that is for a J frame. It carries great. Even in my sweat pants pocket. I believe I'll get a hip holster for it. I was in a bad wreck awhile back, and I'm getting older. It might replace my Glock40 as my everyday carry. Darn Glock is nice,but getting heavier everyday.
@@erich.2550 I carry Sig Elite Performance JHP .38+P in my 642 airweight In all my other carry guns I also use that same ammunition as it is excellent in ballistics and most gun stores stock it . I carry .38 , 9mm , 10mm and .357Mag and have no problem finding this brand for each of my CCW calibers . My other choice for the .38+P is the Hornandy Critical Defense 90 grain , its fast! 1,200 ft second and penetrates well , expands well . Lots of good videos on both here on TH-cam, search out Paul Harrell 😁✌️🇺🇸
Just got mine I love it I have a 9 mm I got this one for open carry I feel way more comfortable with that I have tiny hands and arthritis and it is way easier than a 9 mm I have trouble getting the safety off of the 9 mm this one I can pick right up and shoot if I need to I keep it in a fingerprint safe when it’s not on me that’s all definitely not Accidentally go off I would recommend this for a single mother or a woman who has kids just make sure you keep this locked up at all times if you do have children place guns don’t kill irresponsible people that leave their guns out do
I bought a new 642-2 7 months ago and shot to date about 600 rounds thru it and I had to send it back to S&W last week due to pitting/cracking inside the frame next to the firing pin bushing. That and the ejector was wearing out a groove from opening and closing the cylinder. The gun looked like it was 30 yrs old.... Not a fan of aluminum framed pistols any more.
@@qigongkylar944 it’s about preferences. Both are fine guns. For pocket carry I don’t want to have something with a short trigger pull, yet I don’t want a safety. Plus, the revolver is lighter
Hint .. Federal HST + p 38 special 130 grain.. Federal achieve plus p velocity by seating so wide hollow point deep in the case.. flush with the case rim like a wad cutter this builds up the plus p velocity without adding more powder the result is a wide expanding hollow point that goes 13 in denim covered ballistic gel and The recoil is like shooting a 22 magnum very light
You dont have a 1000 rounds but it also doesnt pull ur pants down if it's in ur pocket....if you are practiced with it, 5 38 rounds are plenty for everything and with some speed strips and quick hands multiple problems would be no problem
I've mentioned before that I've got one& love it, though it does at times pinch my trigger finger, since the pulled trigger rests against the back of the trigger guard. Orange paint on my front sight is one of my "go to" moves.
I have a Smith & Wesson .38 S & W SPL + P not touched for years. I can't budge the safety but am also not positive how to change on/off. I wanted to see you show how.
I carry this in my pocket, and a glock 19 with 407c on my waist. Perfect combo. Also this is a very accurate gun (for what it is). At 20 yards I can shoot about a 4 inch group. Just kinda stings a little after a couple cylinders. I'll shoot 10 from this" 50 to 100 from the 19, then 10 from this till I'm done for the day. Anyways I love this gun.
I bought an Airweight a couple of weeks ago and the trigger pull was unbearable. TH-cam reviews said it would get easier with more pulls, so I bought snap caps and dry fired it a hundred times with no improvement. I had to rest my finger every ten pulls because it became so painful. And in aiming with the Crimson Trace laser, the hard pull made the gun wiggle. I then ordered the Apex trigger spring kit and had a gunsmith install it, at a cost of about $35 for the kit and $65 for labor. Now the trigger feels OK, like S&W should have made it to begin with.
I found that by pulling the trigger with the second/middle pad of my finger I was able to stay on target, evidenced by the Crimson Trave, and ours did smooth out after several hundred dry-fires.
Great reivew, thank you! Am considering this gun for myself. Where's the video with the apex trigger kit?? It didn't go on into that one, & I'm not seeing it in your videos. That interests me, as I'm 67 & not as strong as I once was.
I carry this gun in my pocket all of the time, even when I skate. Definitely don't want a lighter trigger. The whole point of this gun is to keep it in your pants pocket or jacket pocket and blast a mother fucker right through the pocket. Great gun for when you don't feel like carrying a gun.
David, I put Hogue grips on mine and these are thicker at the back where the recoil is felt in your hand. I can shoot a box of 50 rounds at the range with no problem now. The factory grips just weren't very good. So get some good grips on there and the recoil with either standard or +P isn't that bad. You feel it, but it's not debilitating.
ps I have one of these and love it get good grips and it is a shooter ...if the finesh flakes of ( like mine did ) polish it to a shine that will dazzle the bad guy so bad he will run away
Kay Bee .32H&R magnum, good power, not bad recoil. Maybe a gun range will let you try before you buy. .38spl recoil bothers some folks but some don't mind it, another possible choice. .22mag Ruger LCR
Kay Bee, The greatest diversity of choice will be found in .38 spcl. Small, light revolvers will be snappier. A couple of companies make 9mm revolvers which work well.
@@kaybee46 just go to a rental gun shop and shot different ones to realize how hard some are to handle. Small gun can be hard to shoot. 38sp snob nose for me 5 shots will do, cause in my 70s i can still run.:-) oops see you already went to the range what did you select.
It is an internal locking mechanism you can use a key to lock and disable the gun. Most people totally hate them as there are better ways to secure the firearm without risk of it failing to work at a time of need. It is often derisively called the "Hillary Hole".
Hammer Striker I just picked one up in my hand today that trigger pull is tough and the barrel sight is not aligned with channel of the rear sight. I know this is a common with these s&w revolvers with fixed sights. Do you notice this with your 642s? I found one for 300 with a crimson trace Thanks in advance.
Are modern 642's drop safe? It looks like the hammer rests on the firing pin when the trigger is at rest? Is that safe? Alos, what is the longer grip on the top gun? Thanks.
Yes, there is a bar connected to the trigger mechanism that prevents the hammer from actually connecting with the firing pin until the trigger is fully pulled.
@@buddybbuddyb3687 The lock can interfere with action. My 686 would lock up on the 4th or 5th round if shooting 357's - always shot fine with 38 and 38+p's. Not willing to take that chance with any revolver and especially if its an edc or home protection firearm.
@@seerstone8982 had to send mines back to Smith n wesson it was rusted so bad. Brought it home put it on the shelf never fired had it less than a year.
@@kermitalexander6655 That's unfortunate! I'm 63, and sadly over the year's iv seen quality decline on most of the respectated, and iconic American made product's.
I need a gun with a soft pull due to an hand injury from years ago, my hand it a little week and I am having an awful time with my accuracy with the .38 I have. Is this gun good for that or any suggestions?
Depending upon the nature of the issue with your hand, you are likely to have a problem with any double-action revolver regardless of the trigger tuning. Because you have to cock the hammer and fire all with the trigger pull, they are all heavier. DA/SA will allow you to separate those functions by manually cocking the hammer, but if you have issues with your hand that can be a challenge. For most people in your situation, I tend to recommend going to a semi-auto like the S&W Shield EZ as a lot of the work is handled by the cycling of the slide.
Steve F's reason is one of the important reasons.. Another important reason is that you never carry a gun that the trigger is accessible, even a long and heavy DAO. In a fight-flight situation your reasoning and motor skills will be compromised. It is very easy to get your finger, or something else that should not be in the pocket with the gun but is, on the trigger. In the mad rush to pull the gun it is very easy to pull the trigger. If the gun hangs up, you will use the entire strength of your arm to get the gun into the fight, which exceeds the pull weight of even the heaviest trigger. The holster will also generally keep the gun upright and in a consistent position so that when you go to pull it, it will be where you expect it to be and much easier to reliably draw.
Best practice is to always cover the trigger with a holster. It would be difficult to accidentally fire one of these guns, but it could happen in a stressful situation. A handgun accidentally fired in a pants pocket is VERY dangerous. Too close to the femoral artery to be playing around. Be safe! FWIW, I have carried this type gun for decades, IMO they are not very good for PANTS pocket carry. I have carried them many times in a COAT pocket, for which they are excellent. For PANTS pocket carry, I use one of the very light and very FLAT .380 autos (S&W Bodyguard .380 is my favorite). I usually carry a small revolver in an OWB "pancake" type holster. Very comfortable. They are so short, and there is so little of the gun below your belt line that there is no real advantage to an IWB holster which I find to be much less comfortable. For the minimalist, check out one of the "micro" holsters like the BORAII. Kydex "holsters" that just snap over the trigger guard. Attach a thong to them, looped around a belt loop, and they will be left behind when you remove them from your pocket, or can be pushed off by your trigger finger.
I had an M&P 9mm for about 2 years and had to give it up because of a little nerve damage in my arm/neck. It was getting harder for me to cock the gun so I traded my son for his Taurus 38 special revolver. Used it at the range and hate it ... missed the target 7 times out of 10, so damn frustrating. Idk why I had such a hard time ... maybe because I never used a revolver? Anyway, I saw these at the range and held it, pulled the trigger ... it is very light weight I loved it. Not sure how I will do at the range with it, but I like this little thing. What is your opinion between this one and the Taurus? I am a woman btw
The owner of the 642 in the video is an older lady with limited strength and she actually shoots it quite well. You will find that Double-Action revolvers can take some practice as the longer (usually heavy) trigger pull will result in you moving off target. We did a video on this one where we upgrade the trigger pull to make it lighter and smoother but did not turn it into a hair-trigger. I have not personally tried the Taurus but I have fired this one and liked it a lot, though personally I tend to lean more towards autos (Glock in particular).
The other way around. Almost all .357s can safely shoot .38 spcl ammo, the .357 is more powerful and has a slightly longer case to prevent it from being inserted in a .38 spcl only gun. A gun labeled for .38 spcl and not marked for .357 can only shoot .38 spcl. Many really small .38 spcl only guns are that way to remain lighter and smaller as .357 requires more robust components which adds weight.
Can you convert the S&W sd40 into a 9 mm? The man in me wanted the 40 at the time but I'd rather have a 9 mm now. Or a 357 Sig conversion if one ever became available or the sd40ve. I turn it into a carbine style gun with
Have you tried the Hornady flex tips 38 special rounds for your moonclips? I have the 442 pro series and with the Hornady ammo I can reload faster than my semi auto Shield. The pointed tips index into the charge holes almost by themselves.
@@johnkizziah108 Yeah. The Hornady rounds are carry ammo. The difference is the pointed shape. They literally fall into the cylinder compared to standard hollow points. Right now I have the 90 grain Hornady lites loaded. They come out of that short barrel fast. Pick some up if you come across some I think you'll be glad you did for moonclips.
@@williamryan7403 ill look at them William. Im a old guy when i carry a 38 i usually carry with the old FBI wad cutter load..with a new york reload lol.
@@johnkizziah108 You may think 90 grains are a tad light. They make heavier if you want. But it's that reload time and ease of loading that is remarkable. Im sure you will be surprised over the FBI loads just how much faster you can reload without fumbling with the round heads or wadcutter type.
I've had similar problems with mine but only with certain brands. 38 +P no problems. SP101 is pretty easy to shoot but getting one of these for deep concealment.
Personally, for the "bad breath" distance these are designed for I would go with the .38spcl. Likely just as effective and a lot less unpleasant to shoot. .357 in these little pocket guns is unpleasant at best.
@@HammerStriker in a life or death situation i figured a 357 magnum will better stop a threat up close with a snub nose. Any thoughts appreciated. Thanks.
Surprisingly manageable for as light as this gun is. The owner is a lady with very small hands and wrists, yet she has no trouble with firing this comfortably at the range with standard .38 spcl.
Turon Womack I’ve seen some complaints on recoil but after shooting mine I find it very manageable.now having said that it’s not an all day range gun I usually put 50-100 down range and it’s ok
I've had a 642 for years, it's a great gun, no problems. It's my warm weather concealed carry. Safe, reliable, and surprisingly accurate and easy to shoot.
Mine too. I am in love with it. No excuse not to carry
Carried one of these for over 30yrs. Tried many others but came back to this.Best close quarters combat gun to bet your life on if the SHTF.
Mine is pre-lock. With CTC laser grips. It's my home EDC, backed-up by a couple 870s, strategically placed.
Since the 642 airweight has only been around since the early 1990s how have you carried one for thirty years??????
justin thyme I’m guessing they mean a J frame.
It always amazes me to hear folks telling stories of conceal carrying nearly as long as I've been alive. You sure getting your money's worth
ray hanes Not sure how old you are but I’ve been carrying a J frame since my 1968 rookie year (retired in ‘97).
Just bought this gun today. Perfect conceal carry. So light. Not much bigger than my cellphone with case. Slim fits in the palm of my hand.
I just ordered a new one. Happy to say NO LOCK. I hope S&W takes locks off all their guns. Thanks for sharing!
always carry my 642 but never add a larger grip.. it defeats the whole purpose of a SMALL handgun.
I bought a 642 last spring because I wanted a lightweight, reliable, carry gun to conceal under summer weight shirts. It rides in a snug, pancake-style leather OWB from 1791 Holsters. Now that I’ve carried it for a few months and practiced with it consistently I’ll probably just stick with it as my EDC even when the weather cools off.
I’ve always liked those guns. They’re so pointable. And if you can manage the recoil, they can be fairly accurate for more than just close range.
At around 20 yards I can get all 5 in about a 4 inch group. Id say it's accurate enough
I just bought a new model that doesn't have the trigger lock and got a great price on it. Excellent little pistol.
This is my EDC. I love it!!! Great CC option.
I have a 642 S&W without the Hillary hole. I measured the distance from my recliner to the front door, 14 feet, then went to the range and shot 5 rounds from that distance. Facing forward, with the gun in both hands, pointed down, I raised it up and let the front sight settle into the back sight and fired. You have to give it a bit of time for the cylinder to rotate between shots. I like the gun. Good review. Thanks.
don't move the recliner or you will need to get a glock 19
I just purchased two S&W Performance Center tuned action 642’s for my wife and me. I saw two different one’s available thinking only the grips were different plus one didn’t seem to have the internal lock which I liked. One had all wood grips with the internal lock (Model 642-2) that my wife liked because of it’s all wood grips. The other one has the two-tone synthetic /wood grips Model (642-1) and was cut for the use of using Moon Clips for faster loading. Also, the cylinder flutes and thumbpiece are highly polished along with a polished chrome trigger. Both of the 642’s have a super smooth trigger pull.
My wife does have a problem pushing in the thumbpiece because of the stout spring. I have a 686 and 29 that seem to push in easier. I’m hoping to find a way to lighten up the spring pressure for her without making something not work right. I’m not a real fan of the Moon Clip idea on the 642-1 but it looks like the cartridge will still headspace on the edge of the cylinder without using the clips. We haven’t been able to shoot them yet due to the lack of .38 Special ammo, but I do have everything to load hundreds of rounds as soon as I receive the carbide dies that are on the way. I did notice the one with all wood grips seam to roll down more making a better fit in my hand as the two-tone grip feel a bit short. These 642’s make a great lightweight pocket gun and right now I’m reluctant to buy a bigger grip until I shoot several rounds through it. I sure don’t want a big grip getting caught in my pocket if needed quickly.
I have this same exact revolver as my off duty conceal carry pistol I really love this gun alot!
I bought the 642 bout 6 months ago so far so good 👍 shoots well no problem with finish yet. Hopefully won't be. Great video 📹
Bought mine in 2003 when I opened my first restaurant. Mine has a factory laser grip . It is accurate and never ever misfires. My buddy who is ex military and a police officer told me to get it. Said it’s idiot proof. He’s right. I love it.
Good video, clear, concise, no bs; thanks. I like the snubnose for edc. Also, wife & daughter, even grandson understand them & use them confidently.
I have owned one for years and never had an issue.
Good video and a nice overview of the 642. I carried one for many years as my BUG on my body armor (under a uniform shirt) and it is so light I never felt it was there. They are outstanding "get off of me" guns. Scott
Thank you. The owner of this one actually carried it as her EDC until she moved to a Glock 42.
I still have the 642 even though I am issued and use a G27 for off duty carry. The 642 is such a light weapon. Scott
No matter how advanced or small the semi-autos get, there will always be a place in our hearts for wheel guns. Especially little guns like this one. You may be interested in checking out the trigger job we did on these, did not turn it into a hair trigger but moved it into the "really nice" territory.
My 642's trigger smoothed up nicely after 18+ years of trigger pulls. lol I own a bunch of revolvers and only a couple of semiautos. Semiautos for work and revolvers for pretty much everything else. I handgun hunt and I am getting older so I like wheelguns for my personal time. Scott
+Gorilla HD 217 I have a Ruger Super Redhawk Alaskan in .454 that I carry when hunting, though it tends to be a backup to my Tavor rifle.
Just became the owner of one of these last month, inheritance from my father's passing. Perfect gun to conceal carry, only thing I dont love about it is the inconsistent trigger. Regardless, it's perfect for the intended purpose of self protection.
@jeff lockaby yes, the pull doesn't feel the same time after time. The guy in the video describes it much better. Minor complaint.
Awesome video! You gave a perfect amount of detail on each area of the firearm
Thank you.
Fun fact: in the tv show gotham the riddler used this gun at the scene where he shoots penguin at the docks.
I I am
Cant wait to save up to ankle carry this , just used all my guns budget for this year.
That older no lock is in great shape nice 642!
I think this is the one i need. +P IS just fine. 20 years ago i magnum only now I'm older and put +P in my 357 cause the old bones like thar better.
when i was in conceal carry class, the instructor recommended selecting a single weapon for conceal carry and practicing dry firing with just that gun and using only just that gun for all carry situations. tactically that makes sense, but practically, it doesn't work. some guns are bulkier and less concealable than others. some offer specific safety features that are better for certain circumstances than others. i would rather sacrifice the muscle memory in exchange for being able to carry under all circumstances and all social situations. for example, I'd rather carry the lcp II given its incredibly small size when i absolutely don't want anybody to know i am carrying. Anyway my point is that the 642 is imo a fine addition to a conceal carry collection to expand the range of options available. also it's useful for an ankle holster/backup gun.
This is a perfect example of somebody "teaching to the least common denominator". Making an assumption that the students cannot or will not train with more than one gun and get skilled with them. I am happy that you are not falling for that, and are going do to what you need to in order to carry always.
@@HammerStriker well i don't really know tbh. i mean the instructor's point was that in a crisis situation you are going to lose fine motor skills so it's better to build muscle memory with just one weapon. does it work to build muscle memory with two or more and have the forethought to remember what i'm reaching for, or will my fight-or-flight default response be to anticipate the gun for whom my muscle memory is dominant? I'm not sure, but what I do know is that I'd rather take my chances and fumble reaching for the "wrong" gun than to not have any gun at all because it didn't fit the social or tactical situation I was going into. After all, I'm CCing to live, not living to CC. For example, if I need to make a trip to the grocery store, it's easy to holster an IWB-holstered LCP II; it's lightweight, deep concealment. I could throw that holster onto a pair of cargo shorts. Similarly in winter I could drop that 642 into a coat pocket holster. But the Shield 9mm or XDS .45? Too bulky. I'd prefer to carry those if, for example, i were hiking through the woods or something.
excellent as always, very professional as always
Thank you.
The Performance Center Pro Series Model 642 is listed at 44 dollars more, and as Smith and Wesson states on it’s website: NO INTERNAL LOCK. It is also cut for moon clips for quicker reloads.
Got me this gun yesterday! Been dry firing it here and there to get comfortable with the trigger...think I prefer it this way! Either way, love the review and love the gun! Will be an excellent BUG.
Same here!
@@shadowwolf8872 - I take it out every other day and dry fire it with caps to get used to the trigger, study and feel the clicks. Makes me appreciate the trigger more every time I use it!
@@mrenigma6683 I went out yesterday to get a 642. I've had several J frames over the years and like them alot. But I've traded them all off. I used to get trading fever in my younger days. I've got an all steel Rossi 38 snub, but have been wanting one even smaller and lighter. My local shop had several J frames in stock yesterday. One was a 642 Lady Smith with rosewood boot grips. It was only $30 more than the regular model. I'm a big 240 lb guy, but I've always wanted the Lady Smith. They have an action job from the factory and look good too! I've been messing with the darn thing since I got it. It has a very slick action. Best I've ever seen on a J frame. I put some Sig Sauer+ P 125 grain HP's in it. I already had a Nice, new pocket holster put up that is for a J frame. It carries great. Even in my sweat pants pocket. I believe I'll get a hip holster for it. I was in a bad wreck awhile back, and I'm getting older. It might replace my Glock40 as my everyday carry. Darn Glock is nice,but getting heavier everyday.
Love my 642 ! I CCW pocket carry it everyday 😁🇺🇸
What load do you carry most ?
@@erich.2550 I carry Sig Elite Performance JHP .38+P in my 642 airweight
In all my other carry guns I also use that same ammunition as it is excellent in ballistics and most gun stores stock it . I carry .38 , 9mm , 10mm and .357Mag and have no problem finding this brand for each of my CCW calibers . My other choice for the .38+P is the Hornandy Critical Defense 90 grain , its fast! 1,200 ft second and penetrates well , expands well . Lots of good videos on both here on TH-cam, search out Paul Harrell 😁✌️🇺🇸
I just bought this gun today! I love it
Ol' Sarge Just bought one yesterday!
How much
Did yours cost you $700 like mines did😭😭😭...Can't help but wonder if I was OVER charged...lol
@@anon7950 It was 650 before tax fren
@@jordanorta2085 650 before tax
Just got mine I love it I have a 9 mm I got this one for open carry I feel way more comfortable with that I have tiny hands and arthritis and it is way easier than a 9 mm I have trouble getting the safety off of the 9 mm this one I can pick right up and shoot if I need to I keep it in a fingerprint safe when it’s not on me that’s all definitely not Accidentally go off I would recommend this for a single mother or a woman who has kids just make sure you keep this locked up at all times if you do have children place guns don’t kill irresponsible people that leave their guns out do
Perfect review from a woman standpoint!! I agree with all of this. I prefer this as my EDC over my 9mm too.
I bought a new 642-2 7 months ago and shot to date about 600 rounds thru it and I had to send it back to S&W last week due to pitting/cracking inside the frame next to the firing pin bushing. That and the ejector was wearing out a groove from opening and closing the cylinder. The gun looked like it was 30 yrs old.... Not a fan of aluminum framed pistols any more.
Awesome video I just purchased mine and couldn't be happier.
Thank you.
You can use a sight paint in the front, nice gun 38SP P+ is good enough
Going to buy one tomorrow for summer athletic short carry.
This or p365? I can get one right now..
@@qigongkylar944 it’s about preferences. Both are fine guns. For pocket carry I don’t want to have something with a short trigger pull, yet I don’t want a safety. Plus, the revolver is lighter
I'm 79 and carry on my diaper.
Hint .. Federal HST + p 38 special 130 grain.. Federal achieve plus p velocity by seating so wide hollow point deep in the case.. flush with the case rim like a wad cutter this builds up the plus p velocity without adding more powder the result is a wide expanding hollow point that goes 13 in denim covered ballistic gel and The recoil is like shooting a 22 magnum very light
Very awesome round. They sound like a 40 Caliber almost. The .40 is seated low in the casing to generate substantial velocity.
If you grip it higher on the frame you will notice the kick less. Much more controllable.
Arlen Norby I totally agree
I'll have to try that.
Watching the cylinder as you shoot shows that you aren't capable of good shooting. Herby jerky
You dont have a 1000 rounds but it also doesnt pull ur pants down if it's in ur pocket....if you are practiced with it, 5 38 rounds are plenty for everything and with some speed strips and quick hands multiple problems would be no problem
yup, what you said 👍
I've mentioned before that I've got one& love it, though it does at times pinch my trigger finger, since the pulled trigger rests against the back of the trigger guard. Orange paint on my front sight is one of my "go to" moves.
Excellent presentation.
Thank you.
I have a Smith & Wesson .38 S & W SPL + P not touched for years.
I can't budge the safety but am also not positive how to change on/off.
I wanted to see you show how.
I carry this in my pocket, and a glock 19 with 407c on my waist. Perfect combo. Also this is a very accurate gun (for what it is). At 20 yards I can shoot about a 4 inch group. Just kinda stings a little after a couple cylinders. I'll shoot 10 from this" 50 to 100 from the 19, then 10 from this till I'm done for the day. Anyways I love this gun.
I bought an Airweight a couple of weeks ago and the trigger pull was unbearable. TH-cam reviews said it would get easier with more pulls, so I bought snap caps and dry fired it a hundred times with no improvement. I had to rest my finger every ten pulls because it became so painful. And in aiming with the Crimson Trace laser, the hard pull made the gun wiggle. I then ordered the Apex trigger spring kit and had a gunsmith install it, at a cost of about $35 for the kit and $65 for labor. Now the trigger feels OK, like S&W should have made it to begin with.
I found that by pulling the trigger with the second/middle pad of my finger I was able to stay on target, evidenced by the Crimson Trave, and ours did smooth out after several hundred dry-fires.
Go to the jym and work on the finger
my wife's model 642-1 has all the hallmarks of the 642-2 without the trigger lock??? great video!
I bought this gun yesterday!
Me too! I got the Lady Smith model 642.
How much price ?
hall of fame gun !
Great reivew, thank you! Am considering this gun for myself. Where's the video with the apex trigger kit?? It didn't go on into that one, & I'm not seeing it in your videos. That interests me, as I'm 67 & not as strong as I once was.
Very thorough review. I far prefer the Ruger LCR over the 642 though. Beats it in every category imo.
I have a 642 and am seriously looking at a 43 c in 22lr.
just bought one today ...!
where? did you shop it and get a good deal?
Nice job.
Thank you.
I carry this gun in my pocket all of the time, even when I skate. Definitely don't want a lighter trigger. The whole point of this gun is to keep it in your pants pocket or jacket pocket and blast a mother fucker right through the pocket. Great gun for when you don't feel like carrying a gun.
Yep...lighter trigger defeats the entire purpose of this gun
🤘
If you fire through your pocket you will be going to the emergency room.
@@lutherheggs how's that?
How’s the recoil with standard pressure 38s? I’m used to a double action trigger but in a bigger revolver
A bit snappy, this thing is small and light. However, the owner of this one has relatively weak hands/wrists and has no trouble controlling it.
David, I put Hogue grips on mine and these are thicker at the back where the recoil is felt in your hand. I can shoot a box of 50 rounds at the range with no problem now. The factory grips just weren't very good. So get some good grips on there and the recoil with either standard or +P isn't that bad. You feel it, but it's not debilitating.
Great review
Ladies do not carry in your purse. that is the first an aslant wants. if he finds your pistol they might turn it on you
ps I have one of these and love it
get good grips and it is a shooter ...if the finesh flakes of ( like mine did ) polish it to a shine that will dazzle the bad guy so bad he will run away
Kay Bee .32H&R magnum, good power, not bad recoil. Maybe a gun range will let you try before you buy. .38spl recoil bothers some folks but some don't mind it, another possible choice. .22mag Ruger LCR
Kay Bee, The greatest diversity of choice will be found in .38 spcl. Small, light revolvers will be snappier. A couple of companies make 9mm revolvers which work well.
@@kaybee46 just go to a rental gun shop and shot different ones to realize how hard some are to handle. Small gun can be hard to shoot. 38sp snob nose for me 5 shots will do, cause in my 70s i can still run.:-) oops see you already went to the range what did you select.
Newer one says Springfield, MA, USA
What’s the small black dot above the release button for the chamber
It is an internal locking mechanism you can use a key to lock and disable the gun. Most people totally hate them as there are better ways to secure the firearm without risk of it failing to work at a time of need. It is often derisively called the "Hillary Hole".
Mine should be here today...hopefully
Are you very accurate when shooting a lil more rapid? I’m looking into a new j frame but can’t seem to let go of the exposed hammer.
The faster you try to go with a DAO revolver, the more your group opens up. It is more noticeable with DAO revolvers than striker or DA/SA pistols.
Hammer Striker I just picked one up in my hand today that trigger pull is tough and the barrel sight is not aligned with channel of the rear sight. I know this is a common with these s&w revolvers with fixed sights. Do you notice this with your 642s? I found one for 300 with a crimson trace Thanks in advance.
Got one yesterday
MINE!!!! WANT THE TRIGGER JOB LADY HAD. .... THANK YOU FOR REVIEW🙏🙏🙏🙏👍👍👍👍👍🤠
why do the stock triggers look so tarnished, even out of the box?
The trigger is that way because they do color case hardening on it.
That is FANCY tarnish, that costs EXTRA.
Why do the triggers look unfinished?
Are modern 642's drop safe? It looks like the hammer rests on the firing pin when the trigger is at rest? Is that safe? Alos, what is the longer grip on the top gun? Thanks.
Yes, there is a bar connected to the trigger mechanism that prevents the hammer from actually connecting with the firing pin until the trigger is fully pulled.
Best mod ? remove the lock and install block off kit from a number of vendors.
why?
@@buddybbuddyb3687 The lock can interfere with action. My 686 would lock up on the 4th or 5th round if shooting 357's - always shot fine with 38 and 38+p's. Not willing to take that chance with any revolver and especially if its an edc or home protection firearm.
Is the trigger rust and discoloration normal on these
Normal!
@@seerstone8982 had to send mines back to Smith n wesson it was rusted so bad. Brought it home put it on the shelf never fired had it less than a year.
@@kermitalexander6655 That's unfortunate! I'm 63, and sadly over the year's iv seen quality decline on most of the respectated, and iconic American made product's.
Where can i buy the same lazer? Oh.. Crimson tracer. Thank you.
I need a gun with a soft pull due to an hand injury from years ago, my hand it a little week and I am having an awful time with my accuracy with the .38 I have. Is this gun good for that or any suggestions?
Depending upon the nature of the issue with your hand, you are likely to have a problem with any double-action revolver regardless of the trigger tuning. Because you have to cock the hammer and fire all with the trigger pull, they are all heavier. DA/SA will allow you to separate those functions by manually cocking the hammer, but if you have issues with your hand that can be a challenge. For most people in your situation, I tend to recommend going to a semi-auto like the S&W Shield EZ as a lot of the work is handled by the cycling of the slide.
@@HammerStriker thank you!
Does it hurt to “dry fire” this gun?
Not that I am aware of, but snap caps are cheap and totally eliminate the concern.
Dry fire for a S and W revolver is ok, not an issue
I use snap caps for dry fire practice. They’re also very handy for practicing reloading quickly from a strip or speed loader.
Question, would it be acceptable to call 38+P "38 magnum" ?
I have one. Mine has an Ergogrip Delta grip.
I’m just wondering what’s the little black dot above the release button on the newer version of the revolver he’s showing on the video
I'm thinking about getting one. I need to save for my dream gun 686+ performance
exposed hammer with airweight 642 discussed. I prefer the exposed hammer that I carried carried for years with a under shoulder inverse holster
Smith & Wesson M642 .38 Spc STAINLESS
well done. thanks
Thank you.
How much are they worth
You recommend a holster to cover the trigger, the trigger has a long pull on it so why need a holster?
Steve K wear and tear on your pocket and to disguise the shape of the gun.
Steve F's reason is one of the important reasons..
Another important reason is that you never carry a gun that the trigger is accessible, even a long and heavy DAO. In a fight-flight situation your reasoning and motor skills will be compromised. It is very easy to get your finger, or something else that should not be in the pocket with the gun but is, on the trigger. In the mad rush to pull the gun it is very easy to pull the trigger. If the gun hangs up, you will use the entire strength of your arm to get the gun into the fight, which exceeds the pull weight of even the heaviest trigger.
The holster will also generally keep the gun upright and in a consistent position so that when you go to pull it, it will be where you expect it to be and much easier to reliably draw.
Steve f... good idea..
You should NEVER carry unholstered! If you are carrying without a holster you need to go through some more training!
Best practice is to always cover the trigger with a holster. It would be difficult to accidentally fire one of these guns, but it could happen in a stressful situation. A handgun accidentally fired in a pants pocket is VERY dangerous. Too close to the femoral artery to be playing around. Be safe!
FWIW, I have carried this type gun for decades, IMO they are not very good for PANTS pocket carry. I have carried them many times in a COAT pocket, for which they are excellent. For PANTS pocket carry, I use one of the very light and very FLAT .380 autos (S&W Bodyguard .380 is my favorite). I usually carry a small revolver in an OWB "pancake" type holster. Very comfortable. They are so short, and there is so little of the gun below your belt line that there is no real advantage to an IWB holster which I find to be much less comfortable.
For the minimalist, check out one of the "micro" holsters like the BORAII. Kydex "holsters" that just snap over the trigger guard. Attach a thong to them, looped around a belt loop, and they will be left behind when you remove them from your pocket, or can be pushed off by your trigger finger.
Is 460 out the door a good deal
Good Vid Thanks!
Thank you.
I had an M&P 9mm for about 2 years and had to give it up because of a little nerve damage in my arm/neck. It was getting harder for me to cock the gun so I traded my son for his Taurus 38 special revolver. Used it at the range and hate it ... missed the target 7 times out of 10, so damn frustrating. Idk why I had such a hard time ... maybe because I never used a revolver? Anyway, I saw these at the range and held it, pulled the trigger ... it is very light weight I loved it. Not sure how I will do at the range with it, but I like this little thing. What is your opinion between this one and the Taurus? I am a woman btw
The owner of the 642 in the video is an older lady with limited strength and she actually shoots it quite well. You will find that Double-Action revolvers can take some practice as the longer (usually heavy) trigger pull will result in you moving off target. We did a video on this one where we upgrade the trigger pull to make it lighter and smoother but did not turn it into a hair-trigger.
I have not personally tried the Taurus but I have fired this one and liked it a lot, though personally I tend to lean more towards autos (Glock in particular).
Hammer Striker thank you for your reply
I love the Ruger but it doesn't work in a pocket holster.
As a female this was sold to me and the trigger and recoil on it is unbearable. Is there anything I can do to lessen it?
Can you use 357 rounds in these ??
Not in these, they are only .38 spcl but are rated for +P (not +P+)
@@HammerStriker so only a 357 can shoot 38speacial ammo?
The other way around. Almost all .357s can safely shoot .38 spcl ammo, the .357 is more powerful and has a slightly longer case to prevent it from being inserted in a .38 spcl only gun. A gun labeled for .38 spcl and not marked for .357 can only shoot .38 spcl. Many really small .38 spcl only guns are that way to remain lighter and smaller as .357 requires more robust components which adds weight.
@@HammerStriker thanks for the knowledge 🙏
Can you convert the S&W sd40 into a 9 mm? The man in me wanted the 40 at the time but I'd rather have a 9 mm now. Or a 357 Sig conversion if one ever became available or the sd40ve. I turn it into a carbine style gun with
Awesome
Do you know if these can shoot +P Ammo if it's stamped 38 SPL. ?
I do believe the 642 is +P rated but not +P+
Unless it says plus -p , I would stay away . not needed at close range . jmo.
Lol at 4:46 that’s called getting somebody off ya ass
Thanx
Where do I buy that kit
I put a houghe monogrip makes it manageable- not before
442 pro is the best in this format black easy to hide. Moon clip reloads
Have you tried the Hornady flex tips 38 special rounds for your moonclips? I have the 442 pro series and with the Hornady ammo I can reload faster than my semi auto Shield. The pointed tips index into the charge holes almost by themselves.
@@williamryan7403 haven't tried them william. My family is high volume 38 shooters we generally shoot 158 round nose. Cast alot of bullets.
@@johnkizziah108 Yeah. The Hornady rounds are carry ammo. The difference is the pointed shape. They literally fall into the cylinder compared to standard hollow points. Right now I have the 90 grain Hornady lites loaded. They come out of that short barrel fast. Pick some up if you come across some I think you'll be glad you did for moonclips.
@@williamryan7403 ill look at them William. Im a old guy when i carry a 38 i usually carry with the old FBI wad cutter load..with a new york reload lol.
@@johnkizziah108 You may think 90 grains are a tad light. They make heavier if you want. But it's that reload time and ease of loading that is remarkable. Im sure you will be surprised over the FBI loads just how much faster you can reload without fumbling with the round heads or wadcutter type.
Is $399 used a good price for this?
Likely in the current market conditions it would be as long as it is in good condition overall.
@@HammerStriker thank you!
@@HammerStriker was in great condition but I went with the S&W Bodyguard 38. Same price. $399
Does the Hogue laser grip work well i only have the crimson trace on my 642 pro i was thinking of getting the hogue for my extra 442/637
The owner loves 'em. They see to work very reliably and not get in the way.
I had a sp101, and it was difficult to eject 357,s. Some stuck in the cylinder, and they didn't fully eject.
I've had similar problems with mine but only with certain brands. 38 +P no problems. SP101 is pretty easy to shoot but getting one of these for deep concealment.
What's the trigger weight in the apex trigger 642?
It came in around 9lbs - so 2.5 -> 3lb difference. It's not a huge difference on paper but it makes a big difference at the range when firing it.
You really dont want it too light because the trigger is the safety, but the spring makes just the right amount of difference in my opinion
You contradicted yourself, first you said the 642 had the trigger kit at the end the 642-2
What's that other non stock grip
This is a dope gun but rounds are hard to come by stock up
This vs lcr 357 mag?
Personally, for the "bad breath" distance these are designed for I would go with the .38spcl. Likely just as effective and a lot less unpleasant to shoot. .357 in these little pocket guns is unpleasant at best.
@@HammerStriker in a life or death situation i figured a 357 magnum will better stop a threat up close with a snub nose. Any thoughts appreciated. Thanks.
I have your right a about that it will beat your hand up
Hows the recoil?
Surprisingly manageable for as light as this gun is. The owner is a lady with very small hands and wrists, yet she has no trouble with firing this comfortably at the range with standard .38 spcl.
Turon Womack I’ve seen some complaints on recoil but after shooting mine I find it very manageable.now having said that it’s not an all day range gun I usually put 50-100 down range and it’s ok