[GregAllCalibers]

What is the difference? Thanks.

[scbair]

Well, I think the 642-2 has the integral lock, and my 642-1 definitely does not. I also believe the 642-2 is marked "+P" while my 642-1 (and, presumably, the 642) is not. However, the 642-1 has the "J-magnum" style cylinder stop, and I have a copy of a notice by S&W that it is OK to use +P ammo in it.

I'm not sure if that applies to the 642 "no dash".

[JoeHatley]

The 642 had some longer barrel options(up to 3"), the 642-2 has an internal lock.

642-2
http://www.iowatelecom.net/~hatley/642_2l.jpg

Joe

[g5reality]

Great question to ask over at the 642 Club thread:

http://thehighroad.org/showthread.php?t=138658

[GregAllCalibers]

Here is the one I just got.
http://tinyurl.com/y9kbng

Is it a 642-2 ?

[ArchAngelCD]

GregAllCalibers,
The M642 no dash was introduced in 1990 and in 1993 they discontinued the the Model 642.

In 1996 S&W reintroduced the Model 642-1 on the J Magnum frame.

In 2002 the Model 642-2 was introduced with the lock system. The 642-2 is the current M642 from S&W.

Have fun with your new Sunb Nose. Practice a lot and you will find it is a very accurate gun and not just a "Belly Gun."