If it works for you , OK , to each his own. My experience with my 642 is , I have mitts like you and I can wrap my fingers completely around the grip leaving little room for movement, I really like them. The secret is a death grip on the revolver, tightens the groups right up and eliminates the tendency to pull left and low. I practice at 7 yards and shoot fist size groups rapid fire (it's more accurate than I am) using my 158gr. reloads, Fiocchi and Magtech 125gr.FP ammo when on sale, never a FTF in my experience and after a couple hundred rounds in an afternoon I have never felt any pain or fatigue, my grandkids don't have any problem either. I have painted the front sight but any good gunsmith can file a notch in the front sight and put an epoxy ramp in any color you want and Midway even sells a kit to do it on any firearm. As for cleaning, it's my EDC and a little carbon staining comes with the territory. In my experience mineral spirits is the best cleaner of all for both the frame, cylinder and barrels. I have many handguns both revolver and auto from that little J frame to to Walther and SIG auto's to a 454 SRH. I got the little Smith on a trade and it's become one of my favorite pistols next to my Ruger Speed 6 and 1911's, best part is during the summer when I'm wearing just mesh shorts and a T shirt it just disappears in my pocket and nobody knows the difference unlike my Walther PPS or SIG 365.
Used a pin punch to change grips, no problems... Use mine as my everyday carry, lots of practice, I find it really accurate. Never had any hard recoil.
I bought one for my wife and took it out shooting. It would shoot a1.5 inch group at about 20 feet. It would make a pop can jump about two feet in the air. Amazing pistol for its size. I think it is a better choice for concealed carry than my Glock and is safer.
Thanks, Doc! Great tips for a 642 owner. Thankfully, I bought mine with the Crimson Trace grips installed, which makes it have a longer, more comfortable and accurate grip. My hands are big, too, and I much prefer the larger grips over the stock boot grips.
Great tips. I'm curious about why you don't choose a handgun that's a little bigger (more powerful and/or more shootable) if you don't intend to carry concealed.
Love my 637, I installed apex spring kit reduces trigger pull by 3 lbs. That I feel is perfect, not too heavy not to light, also includes longer firing pin to give more positive primer strikes, ransom rest test prove s&w snubs are very accurate, but sight radius makes it more challenging at longer range, but like you said made for up close
I disagree. These are very accurate little weapons if you practice and the factory grips are designed for concealed carry. I have 2XL hands and have no problem with this at all.
Neither do I. I tried a set of the Hogue's and found the pistol difficult at best to conceal, that larger grip just always was sticking out or printing somewhere, went back to the stock grips, developed a stronger hold, practiced and found the speed and accuracy I needed, practiced a lot from the hip too.
Good information to know. Just remember to make it fit your needs, cleaning it, and maintain it regularly. Practice with good quality ammo when available, and possible. You take care of it, and it will take care of you as with any firearm. 🎩☯️♠️🏁
I always thought WOOD GRIPS won't HANG UP ! If you carry in your pocket pants or jacket . That rubber is very grippy. My personal view , remove the sight , I believe there are lower front sights.
I know a thing or three about carrying a 642. I once killed an advancing bear with one at about six feet. Several rabid coons, who knows how many water moccasins and timber rattlers. They are absolutely perfect for what they are intended for - being with you when they’re needed. I used to carry mine in my bib overall pocket. Bet I could surprise you on the accuracy question!
Not particularly accurate at distance.........well, I have seen plenty of videos on here with apparently accomplished shooters on here hitting accurately at 10, 25 and even 30 yards. Gotta practice i guess. I sucked with mine, relegating it to a quick carry, plan to use up close, maybe on the ground on my back gun!
Suffice it to say short barrel revolvers are not distance weapons. I am much better with mine now, but still would rather have a longer barrel at more than say 15 yards.
@@stretmantv1364 I started for $100 with a one stage press years ago. To be honest though reloading components especially primers are hard to find now.
Hey man. I’m an Uber driver and I’m thinking about picking up one of these for protection. I have two questions though: 1. Can you recommend any rigs for carrying in my car that will be out of view of the passengers but allow for a quick draw? Most of what I’ve seen are magnets I can screw into my car but I don’t think that will work with the aluminum frame. 2. If there are no mounting options for the 642, I do have a Sig p365 I would be happy to carry. However, I’m concerned that if I have to fire it in an odd way (upside down, over the shoulder, etc) I could induce some kind of failure to feed/eject. Do you know if this is even true? Thanks and great review
You first mispronounce Pachmayr. It's pronounced "Pack-meyer" not "pack ee mayer" and then you proceed to criticize the gun. clearly you haven't checked it out or test fired a sample before purchasing... shame on you sir.
Don't care much how the grip brand name is pronounced honestly. The grip works OK... a bit better than the stock grip. I am not sure what you mean about not test firing it. I use this gun every few months. I like my stainless 357 a bit better.
@@jeremybstudentpilot5315 Can also be harder to get a good firing grip on as well if you got bigger hands. Depending on how big you are having slightly bigger grips probably isn't going to impact its concealability much.
In my opinion, the 642 is perfect the way it comes from the factory. I think it's one of the most versatile ccw gun available. I have the standard 642 and also the performance center model 642. The only upgrade that I would suggest for a standard 642 is to have the cylinder machined to accept moon clips. TK Custom is excellent source to consider.
@@eddavis5938 I second that emotion, Ed…….WHY ? I have a Ruger LCR 9mm that comes with moon clips because of the auto ammo. They are NOT a requirement….and they are the first thing I got rid of…. I’d love to hear the logic behind this statement !!!
@@unclebob4964 I love auto cartridges in revolvers and using moon clips. Short cartridges in moon clips, equals positive ejection. Rimmed cartridges have very thin fragile moon clips.
@@eddavis5938 Greetings, Ed….Yes, I’m familiar with the reason for the moon clips. They’re just such a pain…… Something I’ve found with my 9mm Ruger LCR is that the expended casings will eject about 90% of the time WITHOUT moon clips by placing my thumb on the open cylinder ( so it won’t spin ) AND lightly put a twist on the ejection rod as you push it to eject the spent casings. Give it a try and tell me what you think……
The gun is actually pretty accurate. Was shooting it at 40yards the other day hitting steel all day. Not the easiest gun to do so with but its accurate... And im pretty sure hickock45 hits his gong at 80yards
john russo It is not inaccurate for what it is... a short barrel revolver. One inch groups at distance are not common except in the best hands. Mine does best with lead swchp handloads. :)
Doctor, I'm a bit puzzled. I have had at least one J frame .38 Special revolver (one with three inch barrel and I liked that one best) for the last forty years or so. It wasn't particularly my primary defense gun, but I did carry it for defense. Here's my puzzlement: Why attempt to change a satisfactory defense device into a range toy? Sights: Yes, they are fixed sights. They usually are rather close (that is, the fired bullet impacts where the sights predict) as from the factory. My assumption is they are designed to fire the 'standard' 158 grain RNL bullet. Most folks tend to use a different round these days, usually something a bit peppier. The sights can be 'adjusted' using a small Swiss file. The 'adjustments' are permanent. Takes patience. At typical defense ranges, the sights hit 'pretty close' with a multitude of different ballistics. Colors on front sight. I have traditionally fingernail polish in a color known (to me at least) as "Hooker Red". I have a dear friend who's experience is not to be ignored prefers green. You like yellow. Most eyes have a personal preference. Much like types of wine or whiskey. Inherent accuracy is NOT at all dependent on barrel length. If one were to reduce the sight radius (distance between front and rear sights) while leaving the barrel untouched on a longer arm, the accuracy would be reduced. Accuracy of most any pistol is limited by the shooter more than anything else.
@@surgeonwithagun6793 Glad it worked for you. Note the last sentence in my rant. If the modifications add to the shooter's ability to fire accurately, that's a good thing. (Before they were collector items, I routinely changed grips and filed sights.) Cosmetic changes (finish, engraving) do not add to accuracy or overall usefulness, but neither subtract from usefulness. My handguns are built and configured to serve as defensive items. Not that I'm opposed to a nice finish and wood grips, but the overall function and portability must be retained.
The 642 needs nothing. It’s better to select a weapon that suits the purpose than to modify it. It’s a carry gun. It’ll do what it’s made to do. If you want something to shoot, buy a Beretta.
The 642 is perfect as is for what it is designed to do. Any modification could change its effectiveness for close-quarters last-resort self defense to a greater or lesser agree. I would only suggest it be ordered without the key lock.
Just seen that yesterday and I have a charter arms undercover so when I seen hickock hit the gong I was done with all the it's a belly gun 7yrds nope she'll make 80 I can vouch
Sure, but who is going to justify a self-defense shooting at 80 yards? I mean you have to be careful, or you could end up in prison, especially with today's media climate.
I worked private security as a medical transport agent for the state prison system and carried inmates to and from their appointments. I used a sw642 as my duty sidearm. We were allowed to qualify with 9mm, 40cal or .38/357. I chose this weapon because of its weight, 15 Oz, and due to my age ,at the time 60 years old and my personal disability . It was amazing to carry all day.. Toward the end of my employment I did let the other guards learn I was a member of the prison state pistol team for 3years.
@@surgeonwithagun6793 holster wear is a bitch .but have a friend who helps with cleaning . But you are right aluminum is easy to scratch,. I have had mine since June 2012,,it is now in an uncle Mike pocket holster and gets shot 25-50 shots per month . I am looking for a j frames with 3 inch barrel,square grip , not concerned about new or used ,it will be my kit gun for the woods. Then the 642 can rest in the safe haha
@@surgeonwithagun6793 Just came across this video Great choice on both of those revolvers, the S&W 60 and the Kimber K6S. Great content and optics on your video.
The little factory boot grip only allows you to get two fingers on it. Pain to shoot. I have a 637...installed a Hogue grip on mine. No need to remove the pin.
I have one for cc and practice with it on a regular basis mostly at shorter personal protection distances. However I do occasionally practice at longer distances and the gun itself does fine as long as the operator has the skill. Meaning I can hit an 18 inch target consistently from 60 yards with a wide grouping. Point is the effectiveness is not the gun, it's the shooter.
A Short Barrel revolver is not really a choice weapon for defense at 60 yards though. Yes this particular weapon takes practice to become reasonably accurate with it. I have a couple of choice hand loads with which I can hit a 3-4 inch spot at 7 yards. I consider that adequate.
Yes, and by no means did I mean to imply that I would use it for self defense at that distance. But just meant it's fun to occasionally plink with it at distances to improve my sight acquisition and also simply improve muzzle control.
Hogue grips are a nice addition. Yes, they are snappy…….and they’ll continue to “snap” every single time you pull the trigger. You can bet your life on it…….
This lil puppy is just that, it's small and short for a reason. It needs no sights or bigger grips and isn't a range/target piece. It is also as accurate as you point it... See Hickok 45... I did install the Crimson Trace LG-405 Lasergrips, no real increase in size except for a little cushion on the back strap, which really helps with recoil sting. Still pretty snappy w/+P ! Practice with 38 spl. light loads at 5-7 yards.
First, my 642, both, my 638, and my M36 flat latch all love Magtech ammo. Never a misfire. Did you change your springs? Second, when still in LE my last four (2 per year) were done with a 642. The last 10 rounds out of 50 were shot from 25 yards. All 10 were in kill zone. It just takes practice.
Did you lighten the hammer spring? I have a 30+ years old all-steel Taurus J-frame that would not ignite some rounds (though they did fire on the second go around). It only happened with certain loads. I'm not quite sure but it could have been Magtech loads. Turned out that the previous owner shortened the hammer spring and it probably got weaker over the years. The front sight was already painted orange. I blackend the rear sight (was orange too). As you mentioned, this helped a lot. The revolver has a Pachmayr grip with only recessed pinky groove. It fits my hand very well.
These oversize grips are great for long range sessions but compromise the gun’s concealment. I pocket carry and larger grips tend to stick out of the pocket. As to painting the front sight I found using a toothpick w/a hairdryer does a nice job.
I love the 442/642 I also pain the front sight red just as my 586 no dash service revolver was. I have 2XL hands and use the stock grips. I pocket carry it regularly. You need to practice with the weapon. Very accurate.
There is some type of coating, but it's not varnish. Varnish is what's in your table. I have a 642 no dash on layaway right now which is the only dash that didn't have the coating on it. Going to get some pearl magna stocks for it.
To help with light primer strikes, a J-frame extended firing pin, from Power Custom, could be purchased and then correctly fitted by a competent pistolsmith to eliminate that issue. Just an FYI.
Did you do a trigger job? That will reduce primmer impact power, usually making the firing pin more pointed will improve this failure to ignite issue, look at apex trigger kit
I have a 642 Performance Center. My Father has a 637. He has been shooting Magtech for almost a year, and no issues. My old Model 36 has no problems with Magtech either. My 642 had a 10% failure rate but none with Federal or Hornady. I think you are right, the 642 just does not like Magtech. Only difference for me was every single Magtech round that mis-fired in my 642 went off fine the second try.
I believe it is the primers. In reloading Winchester small pistol primers have been the best for me in the 642. Occasional CCIs need a second or third pass to fire. I have stayed away from Magtech primers. In my Smith model 60, there are far fewer issues with failures to fire overall. I think the hammer is stronger on that revolver.
@@LA_Commander The website has the details...and fluff. As I remember: it is a nicer trigger and grips. I tried them both at a gun show prior, there was a small difference in the trigger but for me the bit thing was I was not keeping the stock grips anyway and it was on "discount"... and I loved the grips I got. YMMV and if cost is a big issue I would stick with the standard model unless you can find it on sale as I did.
@@GrumblingGrognard i got the standard 642 on sale for $299 over two years ago so I just couldn't pass that up. Put some Hogue grips on it and love it now. So I guess the cherry on top would be a good spring kit.
Ultimately, this and the other Airweights are meant to be close up, couple shot confrontations OR to show and scare the average meth head loser shitbag to turn and run! I had a 637 and loved how it carried...comfy and forgot it was there....but it's not a gun to put even 25 or 50 or a hundred rounds through to practice cuz it SUCKED to shoot a lot!
The shorter barrel doesn’t directly hurt the accuracy....it’s the short sight radius. You just need to get used to a near perfect sight picture and a long heavy double action pull....
SurgeonWithAGun : like I said...,rifles have a longer sight radius. You can put a snub nose revolver in a Ransom pistol rest and you would be surprised just how good the pistol will group at 25 yards. Snubbies are not know for super accuracy,but it’s because of the short sight radius....I.e. the human element.
I practice with finger control, at staging the trigger when trying to make an accurate shot. With good practice this weapon can be easier than the 637 single action. Instead of using thumb to pull on the 637 hammer, with the 642 you can prepare the single action shot with out using your thumb but rather set up the single action trigger pull with good control on staging the trigger. You can hear two clicks on the trigger pull, the second click is when the trigger is set at a single action pull.
With the smaller grips, mine fits in the bib pocket of my overalls. I have the performance center version, I replaced the grips with the wooden inserts.
Magtech has Europe made primers and they are very hard , I’ve had misfires even in my gp100 .357mag when I dropped a one lbs lighter spring kit in it , so I put the OEM spring back in and shoots magtech fine , no way am I gonna put my OEM springs back into my 642 as the factory spring is stupid hard like 13+ lbs at trigger
You only self-improvement You are telling us about his new grips put on what is the time. How are you did you put advice I’ve got to finish that I am grateful for.
I have sat on the couch for 5 years pulling the trigger on the gun so I can smooth everything out. I breakdown and spend the $25 on the apex trigger, not much lighter! Took me about 20 minutes to instal. Glad I did, just wish I did years ago
Bought mine with a Hogue grip with laser. Shoots great. I reload and don't use +P. This gun don't wear out with shooting. What are you talking about? Bought it for my wife and we've put a ton of ammo through it. Apex trigger job helps if you need it. Man you don't help.
The laminate comes off the aluminum finish with cleaning. I like mine with Sile boot grips. Plus p is ok with light bullets. Critical defense or soft lead hollowpoint reloads shoot best for me.
The pachmayr grip is a requirement imo. Not because it is more comfortable, but because the stock grips block speed loaders while the pacs let you use whatever speed loaders you want. I'm partial to safariland ones myself.
What do you mean if you are going to use it for concealment? If you want it for something else, buy a bigger gun, hahaha. But seriously, you don't need to change the grips. I have a bodyguard 38 and I just had to learn to hold it the right way. I can shoot 200 rounds of +p with no pain. But it wasn't like that at the beginning. I also shoot it very accurately. Don't even get to hung up on grabbing it as high as you can't. I don't. You may need to our may not. Keep trying different things.
It doesn't like the Magtech because you most likely have a "California" spec firing pin. If you took the firing pin out and miced it, it'll probably come out to .483 or less if it's a California pin, and the shape is pointier than a non-Cali pin. The original S&W pins were about .495 and more domed in shape. Quick upgrade is an Apex Tactical firing pin kit, which will give you close to a .500 pin and virtually eliminate light strikes.
Yep I agree. Bought the 637 version with the exposed trigger. Incredibly smooth and easy to shoot double action. Single action is light as a feather. Installed a crimson trace 305 grip and it mitigated almost all the recoil with its rubber cushion. I can shoot this little gem very accurately.
@@Mike-up6go Fast forward.....one year later. Ended up getting rid of the Performance Center 642. Why? Even though the trigger was incredibly nice and it could quickly be reloaded with moon clips it STILL wasn't fun to shoot with wooden grips. Putting the larger rubber Hogue grips on it made it comfortable to shoot but largely defeated the primary selling point of the gun, CONCEALABILITY. What to do? So I swapped it out for a gorgeous blued carbon steel model 36 Classic (Chiefs Special) rate for +P ammo. Yeah I know, the 642 was +P rated too but very uncomfortable to shoot them. The difference is that the 642 is 15 ounces and the model 36 is 19.5 ounces. Believe it or not, that increase of only 4.5 ounces DOES make the gun more shootable. And I can use the old-fashioned looking stock wooden grips. Blued carbon steel firearms require more TLC than other materials but they look great and they are a throwback to a bygone era. I love it! 👍
The only issue I've ever had in the four years I've been carrying my Smith and Wesson 442 was ammo-caused. Remington UMC (green and white box). One of the primers was apparently not full seated in the casing, and blocked the cylinder from rotating. That and several failures to fire the first time, but they did the second time the cylinder came around. I also replaced the grip. I installed a set of the classic wooden service stocks, and found I shoot better, even though they're actually smaller.
This is a great comment about the stocks. I try to tell people they actually are the best for J frames and most Smiths, but on the J frames, if you hold the gun properly, they don't hurt and they are easier to shoot with. Most people assume they're going to hurt (because they are holding it wrong most likely) but they don't. I also try to tell people there's a reason why for so many decades that the company put those stocks on all their J frames.
I am really happy to come across your evaluation of magtech ammo. I had 4 rounds not fire out of 50 at range two days ago and it bummed me out thinking there might be something wrong with my 642, I love my 642 and the idea the weapon is 100 % reliable. Thanks for the vid. Dave
@@surgeonwithagun6793 Thanks for the info on the Magtechs. I was thinking about buying a box or 2 of them for my New 642 Lady Smith. I looked at them the other day but I just had a feeling they were not good ammo.
@@surgeonwithagun6793 I believe I'll pass on them. At $23 a box, I can get reliable ammo- like the American Eagle 130 gr FMJ round nose I picked up the other day. My local gun shop has a skid of the Magtech 158 gr FMJ flat nose. But all the boxes are mashed and damaged. Of course, when I mentioned that to the clerk, he opened up a box and said "It looks okay". I bought some ammo a few years ago that was in damaged boxes. I got it home and noticed some of the bullets had been pushed up into the brass. I took it back and had a hell of a time getting my $ back. The store said all ammo sales are final. Didn't want to give me a refund. I finally went to the top manager and showed her the damaged rounds. I said "If you don't take these back, I'm going home and am firing these through my gun. When it blows up, I'm sueing your ass!". She finally agreed they were not safe to fire and gave me a refund. Since then, I always open the box and inspect the ammo before I buy it. I think I did have some Magtech ammo once I got with a gun trade. It fired okay. I think it was 38. I normally stick with name brand ammo. Federal American Eagle is my favorite brand. I've had great luck with it.
If it works for you , OK , to each his own. My experience with my 642 is , I have mitts like you and I can wrap my fingers completely around the grip leaving little room for movement, I really like them. The secret is a death grip on the revolver, tightens the groups right up and eliminates the tendency to pull left and low. I practice at 7 yards and shoot fist size groups rapid fire (it's more accurate than I am) using my 158gr. reloads, Fiocchi and Magtech 125gr.FP ammo when on sale, never a FTF in my experience and after a couple hundred rounds in an afternoon I have never felt any pain or fatigue, my grandkids don't have any problem either. I have painted the front sight but any good gunsmith can file a notch in the front sight and put an epoxy ramp in any color you want and Midway even sells a kit to do it on any firearm. As for cleaning, it's my EDC and a little carbon staining comes with the territory. In my experience mineral spirits is the best cleaner of all for both the frame, cylinder and barrels. I have many handguns both revolver and auto from that little J frame to to Walther and SIG auto's to a 454 SRH. I got the little Smith on a trade and it's become one of my favorite pistols next to my Ruger Speed 6 and 1911's, best part is during the summer when I'm wearing just mesh shorts and a T shirt it just disappears in my pocket and nobody knows the difference unlike my Walther PPS or SIG 365.
Used a pin punch to change grips, no problems...
Use mine as my everyday carry, lots of practice, I find it really accurate.
Never had any hard recoil.
Pack -a-myer. Lol
I bought one for my wife and took it out shooting. It would shoot a1.5 inch group at about 20 feet. It would make a pop can jump about two feet in the air. Amazing pistol for its size. I think it is a better choice for concealed carry than my Glock and is safer.
Not as powerful as 9mm but I feel definitely safer.
Ditto
Thanks, Doc! Great tips for a 642 owner. Thankfully, I bought mine with the Crimson Trace grips installed, which makes it have a longer, more comfortable and accurate grip. My hands are big, too, and I much prefer the larger grips over the stock boot grips.
which gip is on yours? boot grip or other. Still want it for pocket carry. Big mitred brother also. Thank you.
Great tips. I'm curious about why you don't choose a handgun that's a little bigger (more powerful and/or more shootable) if you don't intend to carry concealed.
All guns are last resort but this gun is a great self-defense gun it is a great choice for personal protection
I have to disagree with you on most points. This is an accurate firearm for what it is, it seems like the "issues" are more like inconveniences.
Love my 637, I installed apex spring kit reduces trigger pull by 3 lbs. That I feel is perfect, not too heavy not to light, also includes longer firing pin to give more positive primer strikes, ransom rest test prove s&w snubs are very accurate, but sight radius makes it more challenging at longer range, but like you said made for up close
I like revolver's also. Had my PPK jam on the range, Never has my 649.
Pachmayr Compacs work just as well and you don't need to remove the grip pin and risk losing it.
I disagree. These are very accurate little weapons if you practice and the factory grips are designed for concealed carry. I have 2XL hands and have no problem with this at all.
I don't think we disagree. :) I do think the gun is better once tweaked though.
Neither do I. I tried a set of the Hogue's and found the pistol difficult at best to conceal, that larger grip just always was sticking out or printing somewhere, went back to the stock grips, developed a stronger hold, practiced and found the speed and accuracy I needed, practiced a lot from the hip too.
I own this gun, without a different grip the gun sucks the sights suck- accurate to 8-10 yards. I love the gun for what it’s used for-5-7 yards
Good information to know. Just remember to make it fit your needs, cleaning it, and maintain it regularly. Practice with good quality ammo when available, and possible. You take care of it, and it will take care of you as with any firearm. 🎩☯️♠️🏁
A Big Dot sight can be fitted to it and it makes point shooting feasible.
This can be done but it requires a gunsmith drilling out the old sight. Not DIY.
I always thought WOOD GRIPS won't HANG UP ! If you carry in your pocket pants or jacket . That rubber is very grippy. My personal view , remove the sight , I believe there are lower front sights.
While not probably for the faint at heart, the installation of an Apex trigger kit would help as well.
I bought my 642 used and it has a pretty smooth trigger. Maybe it had had a trigger job already. :)
Hear! Hear! I just replaced my trigger with the APEX spring kit and changed my grip to a Houge, differences are night and day
I know a thing or three about carrying a 642. I once killed an advancing bear with one at about six feet. Several rabid coons, who knows how many water moccasins and timber rattlers. They are absolutely perfect for what they are intended for - being with you when they’re needed. I used to carry mine in my bib overall pocket. Bet I could surprise you on the accuracy question!
Magtech works well with mine.
Yours must have a stronger hammer than mine :-)
I've gone through 5 boxes of Magtech in mine with zero trouble.
Keep your booger hook off the boom switch
?
@@surgeonwithagun6793 touching the trigger to much
Not particularly accurate at distance.........well, I have seen plenty of videos on here with apparently accomplished shooters on here hitting accurately at 10, 25 and even 30 yards. Gotta practice i guess. I sucked with mine, relegating it to a quick carry, plan to use up close, maybe on the ground on my back gun!
Suffice it to say short barrel revolvers are not distance weapons. I am much better with mine now, but still would rather have a longer barrel at more than say 15 yards.
I'm running low on 38 special ammunition and I'm living on a cheap budget
Yet another reason to reload :)
@@surgeonwithagun6793 how much does a starter kit run for?
@@stretmantv1364 I started for $100 with a one stage press years ago. To be honest though reloading components especially primers are hard to find now.
@@surgeonwithagun6793 I'll keep a eye out for them 👍
I'm used to painting front sights& had the trigger lightened a bit, left the grip as it came.
I later did a spring exchange which made the pull smoother....
SurgeonWithAGun I've often said that I can't decide which is my favorite between the 642& the LCR, luckily I have both😄
Hey man. I’m an Uber driver and I’m thinking about picking up one of these for protection. I have two questions though:
1. Can you recommend any rigs for carrying in my car that will be out of view of the passengers but allow for a quick draw? Most of what I’ve seen are magnets I can screw into my car but I don’t think that will work with the aluminum frame.
2. If there are no mounting options for the 642, I do have a Sig p365 I would be happy to carry. However, I’m concerned that if I have to fire it in an odd way (upside down, over the shoulder, etc) I could induce some kind of failure to feed/eject. Do you know if this is even true?
Thanks and great review
If I were carrying a 642 in a car I'd probably use a shoulder holster. SIGs can be a little finicky with ammunition I've heard but I don't own one.
Doc, I can't take completely seriously anybody who calls the rear sight the back sight and mis-pronounces Pachmayr so awfully.
Lol...such a sin.
The TruLo steel case shoots great however it ejects like shit
Pack a Myer???🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
you look like mr bean
You first mispronounce Pachmayr. It's pronounced "Pack-meyer" not "pack ee mayer" and then you proceed to criticize the gun. clearly you haven't checked it out or test fired a sample before purchasing... shame on you sir.
Don't care much how the grip brand name is pronounced honestly. The grip works OK... a bit better than the stock grip. I am not sure what you mean about not test firing it. I use this gun every few months. I like my stainless 357 a bit better.
Magtech and ultramax is the worst ammo
BLAH BLAH BLAH, you tell us what we already know.
It pachmayr not pachamayr
if your adding larger grips you're only defeating the 'SMALL' carry size of this perfect handgun as is.
I put a hogue grip on my 642 and it still conceals fine.
The stock grip is too smal and hurts when I fire it.😊
@@jeremybstudentpilot5315 Can also be harder to get a good firing grip on as well if you got bigger hands. Depending on how big you are having slightly bigger grips probably isn't going to impact its concealability much.
It is still consealable with these grips.
He’s using it for home defense for some reason completely defeating the design of this gun.
Hickock 45 shoots the gong at 80 yrds. with this gun
The magic of video :)
sorry, sir. that's the magic of skill that is hickock 45. not the former
Maybe but my point is most people won't use a short barrel revolver to defend themselves versus a target that's 80 yards away :-)
I 100% agree!
james davidson 😂😂dudes a trip
In my opinion, the 642 is perfect the way it comes from the factory. I think it's one of the most versatile ccw gun available. I have the standard 642 and also the performance center model 642. The only upgrade that I would suggest for a standard 642 is to have the cylinder machined to accept moon clips. TK Custom is excellent source to consider.
Why?
@@eddavis5938 I second that emotion, Ed…….WHY ?
I have a Ruger LCR 9mm that comes with moon clips because of the auto ammo. They are NOT a requirement….and they are the first thing I got rid of….
I’d love to hear the logic behind this statement !!!
@@unclebob4964 I love auto cartridges in revolvers and using moon clips. Short cartridges in moon clips, equals positive ejection. Rimmed cartridges have very thin fragile moon clips.
@@eddavis5938 Greetings, Ed….Yes, I’m familiar with the reason for the moon clips.
They’re just such a pain……
Something I’ve found with my 9mm Ruger LCR is that the expended casings will eject about 90% of the time WITHOUT moon clips by placing my thumb on the open cylinder ( so it won’t spin ) AND lightly put a twist on the ejection rod as you push it to eject the spent casings.
Give it a try and tell me what you think……
What upgrades does the performance center version have over the standard?
The gun is actually pretty accurate. Was shooting it at 40yards the other day hitting steel all day. Not the easiest gun to do so with but its accurate... And im pretty sure hickock45 hits his gong at 80yards
john russo It is not inaccurate for what it is...
a short barrel revolver. One inch groups at distance are not common except in the best hands. Mine does best with lead swchp handloads. :)
He definitely has lol
Doctor, I'm a bit puzzled. I have had at least one J frame .38 Special revolver (one with three inch barrel and I liked that one best) for the last forty years or so. It wasn't particularly my primary defense gun, but I did carry it for defense. Here's my puzzlement: Why attempt to change a satisfactory defense device into a range toy?
Sights: Yes, they are fixed sights. They usually are rather close (that is, the fired bullet impacts where the sights predict) as from the factory. My assumption is they are designed to fire the 'standard' 158 grain RNL bullet. Most folks tend to use a different round these days, usually something a bit peppier. The sights can be 'adjusted' using a small Swiss file. The 'adjustments' are permanent. Takes patience. At typical defense ranges, the sights hit 'pretty close' with a multitude of different ballistics.
Colors on front sight. I have traditionally fingernail polish in a color known (to me at least) as "Hooker Red". I have a dear friend who's experience is not to be ignored prefers green. You like yellow. Most eyes have a personal preference. Much like types of wine or whiskey.
Inherent accuracy is NOT at all dependent on barrel length. If one were to reduce the sight radius (distance between front and rear sights) while leaving the barrel untouched on a longer arm, the accuracy would be reduced. Accuracy of most any pistol is limited by the shooter more than anything else.
I wanted to modify my gun and I got more accurate with it. Simple.
@@surgeonwithagun6793 Glad it worked for you. Note the last sentence in my rant. If the modifications add to the shooter's ability to fire accurately, that's a good thing. (Before they were collector items, I routinely changed grips and filed sights.) Cosmetic changes (finish, engraving) do not add to accuracy or overall usefulness, but neither subtract from usefulness.
My handguns are built and configured to serve as defensive items. Not that I'm opposed to a nice finish and wood grips, but the overall function and portability must be retained.
The 642 needs nothing. It’s better to select a weapon that suits the purpose than to modify it. It’s a carry gun. It’ll do what it’s made to do. If you want something to shoot, buy a Beretta.
The 642 is perfect as is for what it is designed to do. Any modification could change its effectiveness for close-quarters last-resort self defense to a greater or lesser agree. I would only suggest it be ordered without the key lock.
I installed a Wilson Combat spring kit in mine, now very smooth, can easily stage as well.
It’s not a THING!
It’s my preferred carry piece and I love it!
Oh and my 642 doesn’t have that terrible lock above the cylinder release!
Hickok can hit the gong at 80 yds with this gun.
Just seen that yesterday and I have a charter arms undercover so when I seen hickock hit the gong I was done with all the it's a belly gun 7yrds nope she'll make 80 I can vouch
Hickock is the man
Sure, but who is going to justify a self-defense shooting at 80 yards? I mean you have to be careful, or you could end up in prison, especially with today's media climate.
Only buy the larger grip if your hands are bigger. My wife shoots hers with the original grip. Dead on accurate!
Of course.....larger grips are for larger hands.
Just installed a hogue grip on my 357 Model 60. HUGE IMPROVEMENT ! My index finger was getting hammered , now, no problem
I currently have one on my 60 too. :)
Same here Jolo! I put Hogues on my 642 and it made the gun 100% better all the way around. Not just to shoot, but to draw as well.
I worked private security as a medical transport agent for the state prison system and carried inmates to and from their appointments. I used a sw642 as my duty sidearm. We were allowed to qualify with 9mm, 40cal or .38/357. I chose this weapon because of its weight, 15 Oz, and due to my age ,at the time 60 years old and my personal disability . It was amazing to carry all day.. Toward the end of my employment I did let the other guards learn I was a member of the prison state pistol team for 3years.
William Beasley Did you wear off the finish on the aluminum carrying it so much? I have done so just cleaning it. :)
@@surgeonwithagun6793 holster wear is a bitch .but have a friend who helps with cleaning . But you are right aluminum is easy to scratch,. I have had mine since June 2012,,it is now in an uncle Mike pocket holster and gets shot 25-50 shots per month . I am looking for a j frames with 3 inch barrel,square grip , not concerned about new or used ,it will be my kit gun for the woods. Then the 642 can rest in the safe haha
William Beasley I have moved on to stainless :).. a model 60 and a Kimber K6S....
@@surgeonwithagun6793 Just came across this video Great choice on both of those revolvers, the S&W 60 and the Kimber K6S. Great content and optics on your video.
The little factory boot grip only allows you to get two fingers on it. Pain to shoot. I have a 637...installed a Hogue grip on mine. No need to remove the pin.
I have one for cc and practice with it on a regular basis mostly at shorter personal protection distances. However I do occasionally practice at longer distances and the gun itself does fine as long as the operator has the skill. Meaning I can hit an 18 inch target consistently from 60 yards with a wide grouping. Point is the effectiveness is not the gun, it's the shooter.
A Short Barrel revolver is not really a choice weapon for defense at 60 yards though. Yes this particular weapon takes practice to become reasonably accurate with it. I have a couple of choice hand loads with which I can hit a 3-4 inch spot at 7 yards. I consider that adequate.
Yes, and by no means did I mean to imply that I would use it for self defense at that distance. But just meant it's fun to occasionally plink with it at distances to improve my sight acquisition and also simply improve muzzle control.
Hogue grips are a nice addition.
Yes, they are snappy…….and they’ll continue to “snap” every single time you pull the trigger.
You can bet your life on it…….
What is the smoothest fmj target ammo for this pistol?
This lil puppy is just that, it's small and short for a reason. It needs no sights or bigger grips and isn't a range/target piece. It is also as accurate as you point it... See Hickok 45... I did install the Crimson Trace LG-405 Lasergrips, no real increase in size except for a little cushion on the back strap, which really helps with recoil sting. Still pretty snappy w/+P ! Practice with 38 spl. light loads at 5-7 yards.
Try a power custom firing pin, that will solve your magtek light primer strikes.
I just reload and use Federal primers...problem solved. :)
Sir I see your video is old I bought a 686-6 at the range all I use is the Msg Tech. No problem. It's a 3INCH barrel 👍🏿🎯👍🏿
Yes,magtech..have hard primers..I try not use in revolvers..been that way for long time..1980's to now
I just put Badger Custom grips on my S&W 340PD and it made a big difference. Now I can get three fingers on the grip which spreads the recoil load.
Thanks for the video - especially liked the bug trucking across the table at 1:45!
He must have snuck in to get famous...lol.
First, my 642, both, my 638, and my M36 flat latch all love Magtech ammo. Never a misfire. Did you change your springs?
Second, when still in LE my last four (2 per year) were done with a 642. The last 10 rounds out of 50 were shot from 25 yards. All 10 were in kill zone. It just takes practice.
Did you lighten the hammer spring? I have a 30+ years old all-steel Taurus J-frame that would not ignite some rounds (though they did fire on the second go around). It only happened with certain loads. I'm not quite sure but it could have been Magtech loads. Turned out that the previous owner shortened the hammer spring and it probably got weaker over the years.
The front sight was already painted orange. I blackend the rear sight (was orange too). As you mentioned, this helped a lot.
The revolver has a Pachmayr grip with only recessed pinky groove. It fits my hand very well.
These oversize grips are great for long range sessions but compromise the gun’s concealment. I pocket carry and larger grips tend to stick out of the pocket. As to painting the front sight I found using a toothpick w/a hairdryer does a nice job.
I love the 442/642 I also pain the front sight red just as my 586 no dash service revolver was. I have 2XL hands and use the stock grips. I pocket carry it regularly. You need to practice with the weapon.
Very accurate.
R. Sudduth Agree w/regular practice. I’ve been carrying/shooting J frames for over 50 years and it’s a perishable skill.
Rick I have a 642 Performace Center and they do accept moon clips.
There is some type of coating, but it's not varnish. Varnish is what's in your table. I have a 642 no dash on layaway right now which is the only dash that didn't have the coating on it. Going to get some pearl magna stocks for it.
My point was that people need to be careful to not remove such a coating with overly aggressive cleaning.
To help with light primer strikes, a J-frame extended firing pin, from Power Custom, could be purchased and then correctly fitted by a competent pistolsmith to eliminate that issue. Just an FYI.
Did you do a trigger job? That will reduce primmer impact power, usually making the firing pin more pointed will improve this failure to ignite issue, look at apex trigger kit
I bought it used. I eventually exchanged springs with a Wilson kit.
Have one hate the trigger. Will be installing the apex springs. Hope to see improvement.
Bought mine used and am becoming convinced that it had a trigger job already. Trigger is smooth as is. :)
Put in Apex trigger. Sweet trigger now comparable to my Colt. Can’t wait to shoot to confirm dependability. Happy New Year.
Mines sweet right out of the box
I did not find this video informative at all. In fact it seems to propagate too much misinformation about a fine little revolver.
Hmmm. I never said this wasn't a good gun, but rather it can easily be made into a better gun.
I have a 642 Performance Center. My Father has a 637. He has been shooting Magtech for almost a year, and no issues. My old Model 36 has no problems with Magtech either. My 642 had a 10% failure rate but none with Federal or Hornady. I think you are right, the 642 just does not like Magtech. Only difference for me was every single Magtech round that mis-fired in my 642 went off fine the second try.
I believe it is the primers. In reloading Winchester small pistol primers have been the best for me in the 642. Occasional CCIs need a second or third pass to fire. I have stayed away from Magtech primers. In my Smith model 60, there are far fewer issues with failures to fire overall. I think the hammer is stronger on that revolver.
Grumbling, what does the Performance Center model offer over the standard 642? Just curious to know.
@@LA_Commander The website has the details...and fluff. As I remember: it is a nicer trigger and grips. I tried them both at a gun show prior, there was a small difference in the trigger but for me the bit thing was I was not keeping the stock grips anyway and it was on "discount"... and I loved the grips I got.
YMMV and if cost is a big issue I would stick with the standard model unless you can find it on sale as I did.
@@GrumblingGrognard i got the standard 642 on sale for $299 over two years ago so I just couldn't pass that up. Put some Hogue grips on it and love it now. So I guess the cherry on top would be a good spring kit.
Excellent video with a good overview of the 642. Stay safe out there. Scott
Ultimately, this and the other Airweights are meant to be close up, couple shot confrontations OR to show and scare the average meth head loser shitbag to turn and run! I had a 637 and loved how it carried...comfy and forgot it was there....but it's not a gun to put even 25 or 50 or a hundred rounds through to practice cuz it SUCKED to shoot a lot!
Polishing the trigger face will give you a somewhat smoother pull as well, it's pretty much a free upgrade.
Pack a myer???😮🤣🤣🤣🤣
Yeah...changed it a few times since then...
The shorter barrel doesn’t directly hurt the accuracy....it’s the short sight radius. You just need to get used to a near perfect sight picture and a long heavy double action pull....
As the distance increases there's a difference. That's why rifles are better than pistols at longer range.
SurgeonWithAGun : like I said...,rifles have a longer sight radius. You can put a snub nose revolver in a Ransom pistol rest and you would be surprised just how good the pistol will group at 25 yards. Snubbies are not know for super accuracy,but it’s because of the short sight radius....I.e. the human element.
It is actually both but this is a circular argument.
I practice with finger control, at staging the trigger when trying to make an accurate shot. With good practice this weapon can be easier than the 637 single action. Instead of using thumb to pull on the 637 hammer, with the 642 you can prepare the single action shot with out using your thumb but rather set up the single action trigger pull with good control on staging the trigger. You can hear two clicks on the trigger pull, the second click is when the trigger is set at a single action pull.
David Mitton The Kimber K6s has a much easier trigger to stage.
With the smaller grips, mine fits in the bib pocket of my overalls. I have the performance center version, I replaced the grips with the wooden inserts.
exactly right, thats where i carry mine, front chest bib pocket. Carhart of course.
It's not made for long distance lol!
Magtech has Europe made primers and they are very hard , I’ve had misfires even in my gp100 .357mag when I dropped a one lbs lighter spring kit in it , so I put the OEM spring back in and shoots magtech fine , no way am I gonna put my OEM springs back into my 642 as the factory spring is stupid hard like 13+ lbs at trigger
Load your own and use nice soft Federal primers in the little gun...that is if you can find them :)
You only self-improvement You are telling us about his new grips put on what is the time. How are you did you put advice I’ve got to finish that I am grateful for.
Wow, there is so much factually untrue BS within the first 2 minutes of this vid. Thumbs down & ‘don’t recommend’ this channel for me.
I have sat on the couch for 5 years pulling the trigger on the gun so I can smooth everything out. I breakdown and spend the $25 on the apex trigger, not much lighter! Took me about 20 minutes to instal. Glad I did, just wish I did years ago
It was much lighter or NOT much lighter. I'm very curious.
I don't bother with the +P stuff. I just use wadcutters. and I have the older skinny grips on it.
Underwood has 38+p 158 gr that gets 1108 fps from my 642 smith hard cast keith
7+ minutes to tell us to change the grip, which I would not do, especially not to a Pachmayr as it adds a quarter of a pound to the weight.
Bought mine with a Hogue grip with laser. Shoots great. I reload and don't use +P. This gun don't wear out with shooting. What are you talking about? Bought it for my wife and we've put a ton of ammo through it.
Apex trigger job helps if you need it.
Man you don't help.
The laminate comes off the aluminum finish with cleaning. I like mine with Sile boot grips. Plus p is ok with light bullets. Critical defense or soft lead hollowpoint reloads shoot best for me.
Dude keeps a box of previously struck rounds with his other ammo.
The pachmayr grip is a requirement imo. Not because it is more comfortable, but because the stock grips block speed loaders while the pacs let you use whatever speed loaders you want. I'm partial to safariland ones myself.
The "pacs" made all the difference in the world along with dry firing and changing out the hammer spring. Smoothed her right out.
The 642 is perfect as is. Any modification is a downgrade.
'dowel' is actually a 'rollpin.'
Yep
642 Life
Would suck to have 5 Magtech non-fires in a row 😂
Your full size guns are more accurate? HA!
I am better with a 3-4 inch barrel than a snubbie...yep. :)
What do you mean if you are going to use it for concealment? If you want it for something else, buy a bigger gun, hahaha. But seriously, you don't need to change the grips. I have a bodyguard 38 and I just had to learn to hold it the right way. I can shoot 200 rounds of +p with no pain. But it wasn't like that at the beginning. I also shoot it very accurately. Don't even get to hung up on grabbing it as high as you can't. I don't. You may need to our may not. Keep trying different things.
fideles-ad-rationem 2013 I like mine tweaked a bit. Agreed after a little practice (and reloading) I am much better with it. :)
@faultroy yes the bodyguard 38 special +p. The hogue upgrade that I had was so much bigger, thicker and longer, and padded but unnecessary.
Have you tried apex combat trigger kit with extended firing pin
The Downtrodden Nope. With time the trigger seems to have improved. :)
@@surgeonwithagun6793 i thought the extended firing pin would help with light strikes
The Downtrodden That it might but with Fed primers they don't happen much. :)
@@surgeonwithagun6793 well great video brother good info and nice delivery ill definitely check out others
The Downtrodden You are too kind. :)
Magna grips (panel grips) are best.
I shoot ckays at 100 yards with +p.
If my target is that far out I am going for a longer barrel. :)
Ha 😀 IIf the ”target” is THAT far out, go ahead and call 911 instead!!
Are those Pachmyar Diamond Pro grips?
Chris Kaldunski They are Pachmyer but I am not sure of the model. They were modestly priced and rubber.
SurgeonWithAGun I added similar grips to my 442 & 43c as well as my 2 S&W model 69’s. Really helped with the 44’s recoil.
It doesn't like the Magtech because you most likely have a "California" spec firing pin. If you took the firing pin out and miced it, it'll probably come out to .483 or less if it's a California pin, and the shape is pointier than a non-Cali pin. The original S&W pins were about .495 and more domed in shape. Quick upgrade is an Apex Tactical firing pin kit, which will give you close to a .500 pin and virtually eliminate light strikes.
Mine will shoot but won't eject steel case ammo
I found that steel case ammo left a slight indentation on the aluminum frame where the rim contacts on the right hand side.
Just one more reason to say No to Steel case :-)
Just get the Performance Center version, problem solved.
David Branscome the gun is fine now that I tweaked it. :-)
Yep I agree. Bought the 637 version with the exposed trigger. Incredibly smooth and easy to shoot double action. Single action is light as a feather. Installed a crimson trace 305 grip and it mitigated almost all the recoil with its rubber cushion. I can shoot this little gem very accurately.
@@Mike-up6go
Fast forward.....one year later.
Ended up getting rid of the Performance Center 642. Why?
Even though the trigger was incredibly nice and it could quickly be reloaded with moon clips it STILL wasn't fun to shoot with wooden grips. Putting the larger rubber Hogue grips on it made it comfortable to shoot but largely defeated the primary selling point of the gun, CONCEALABILITY. What to do? So I swapped it out for a gorgeous blued carbon steel model 36 Classic (Chiefs Special) rate for +P ammo. Yeah I know, the 642 was +P rated too but very uncomfortable to shoot them. The difference is that the 642 is 15 ounces and the model 36 is 19.5 ounces. Believe it or not, that increase of only 4.5 ounces DOES make the gun more shootable. And I can use the old-fashioned looking stock wooden grips. Blued carbon steel firearms require more TLC than other materials but they look great and they are a throwback to a bygone era. I love it! 👍
I put a green pea on my front sight.
The only issue I've ever had in the four years I've been carrying my Smith and Wesson 442 was ammo-caused. Remington UMC (green and white box). One of the primers was apparently not full seated in the casing, and blocked the cylinder from rotating. That and several failures to fire the first time, but they did the second time the cylinder came around. I also replaced the grip. I installed a set of the classic wooden service stocks, and found I shoot better, even though they're actually smaller.
This is a great comment about the stocks. I try to tell people they actually are the best for J frames and most Smiths, but on the J frames, if you hold the gun properly, they don't hurt and they are easier to shoot with. Most people assume they're going to hurt (because they are holding it wrong most likely) but they don't. I also try to tell people there's a reason why for so many decades that the company put those stocks on all their J frames.
1:36 it's a fucking roll pin not a dowel
I am really happy to come across your evaluation of magtech ammo. I had 4 rounds not fire out of 50 at range two days ago and it bummed me out thinking there might be something wrong with my 642, I love my 642 and the idea the weapon is 100 % reliable. Thanks for the vid. Dave
David Mitton My pleasure :)
I had a few Magtech rounds not go off in my model 19. I believe those were 357 mag. I agree with those having hard primers.
@@surgeonwithagun6793 Thanks for the info on the Magtechs. I was thinking about buying a box or 2 of them for my New 642 Lady Smith. I looked at them the other day but I just had a feeling they were not good ammo.
@@shadowwolf7622 They are ok for practice but not for SD in this gun as far as I am concerned anyway.
@@surgeonwithagun6793 I believe I'll pass on them. At $23 a box, I can get reliable ammo- like the American Eagle 130 gr FMJ round nose I picked up the other day. My local gun shop has a skid of the Magtech 158 gr FMJ flat nose. But all the boxes are mashed and damaged. Of course, when I mentioned that to the clerk, he opened up a box and said "It looks okay". I bought some ammo a few years ago that was in damaged boxes. I got it home and noticed some of the bullets had been pushed up into the brass. I took it back and had a hell of a time getting my $ back. The store said all ammo sales are final. Didn't want to give me a refund. I finally went to the top manager and showed her the damaged rounds. I said "If you don't take these back, I'm going home and am firing these through my gun. When it blows up, I'm sueing your ass!". She finally agreed they were not safe to fire and gave me a refund. Since then, I always open the box and inspect the ammo before I buy it. I think I did have some Magtech ammo once I got with a gun trade. It fired okay. I think it was 38. I normally stick with name brand ammo. Federal American Eagle is my favorite brand. I've had great luck with it.
It should be able to fire the Magtech. Send the gun back to Smith for adjustment.