What is the difference between the 642 and the 442?

What is the difference between the 442 and the 442 Pro Series?

642. Stainless cylinder silver alloy frame

442 Pro Series. Uses Moon Clips black finish

442
Black finish

All are .38 special all hammer less. Only the 642 is a stainless cylinder

442 pro doesn't have the lock.

FYI, the 640 Pro is 357, accepts moon clips and is available as no lock from the factory.

642 and 442 are essentially the same gun. 642 has stainless cylinder and barrel with a clear coat aluminum frame. 442 uses a steel cylinder/barrel and aluminum frame thats all coated black

At one time, the 442 was also made in a nickel finish.  Both on the older .38 Spl. frame & the newer Magnum J frame (still in .38 spl., but should handle +P).

I've owned a few of the moon clip version J frames.  I like the concept, but it prevents the "topping off" of cartridges if using the moon clip.  So, I've always been a little undecided if it something I really need in a J frame.

Lipsey's also just released a 642UC & 442UC.  These have a few features enhancements the standard models don't have (better sights, grips, trigger).  Obviously, these are more expensive and difficult to find right now, as they were just released.  They are also offered in a 6 shot .32 S&W Long/.32 H&R Magnum as the 632 or 432.

Smith & Wesson Ultimate Carry J-Frame

If your looking for a 442, I have one for sale in the EE.  I removed the lock and added the plug.

S&W Model 442-2 Airweight .38 Spl. +P 5 Shot Revolver

Did someone say something about Centennial J-frames?

Attached File


Left column, top to bottom: Model 40, Model 42

Middle: a pair of satin nickel 442, black 442

Right: 642, 640

I really need to find a 042 to add to the collection.

Excellent replies - thanks to all of you.

On the current 442 and 642s models, Dash 1 models stans the internal lock.  Dash 2 guns have the lock.

Had an 91' 442 (no dash) no lock and not +P rated.

My Jun 11' 442-1 Pro has no lock and +P rated (first run, ordered directly from Smith).  I carry the cylinder with the moon clip but speed strips in the pocket for its flatness.  Moon clip in gun gives more positive extraction of those first fired cartridge cases.  Modified my gun by painting the front sight white then hi viz orange so I can see it.  Also added CTC grips.  Note I ordered in Dec 10' it was listed as having a blackened stainless cylinder.  Smith had a US service member program that you could order from and I was in Astan at the time.  IIRC it was $340

My youngest son has a 442-2.  +P rated but has the ILS.



CD

Just to really confuse you, this is a 442 Performance Center.  
Attached File

Thats a stunning gun!

Thank you.  

That’s a fine piece. Who made the grips?

I think I’m in lust.

Thank you.  The grips are Hoague Bantams.