442 / 642 Durability

[USBP1969]

Howdy,

I have owned both, but never put many rounds through them. I carry a 442 daily and would really like to get in some diligent practice, but have been wondering if one can take a steady diet of factory Federal / Remington/ Winchester 130 grain FMJ .38 Specials.

I'd really appreciate hearing from those who have had a chance to shoot them enough to get a feel for their durability.

Thanks,
Kent

 

[ArchAngelCD]

I have shot well over 1000 rounds through my M638, at least 500 rounds through my M642 and a few hundred rounds through my newer M442 and none of the revolvers are worse for it. The more I shoot them the smoother the triggers are.

Current factory ammo for the .38 Special is on the anemic side so I wouldn't worry about shooting all you want in your J frame.

 

[Gato Montés]

In the official Catalog of Smith & Wesson or whatever it's called, it stated that the 642/442 was put through a 5,000 rd +P test without any signs of malfunction or unsuitable wear. With wimpy practice ammo I think you have a long time before you have to worry about anything.

 

[USBP1969]

Thanks much gentlemen. That is encouraging indeed.

Nasser, was that durability statement on the Internet or in some other type of catalog?

Thanks,
Kent

 

[9mmepiphany]

Apex Taxtical just came out with their drop-in kit for the S&W J-frame. As their Beta test, they fired 1000 rounds of .38 spl through a M340.

I wouldn't think you should have any problems with the 442 or 642

 

[Evergreen]

I have kept that thing in my pocket for years and still goes boom each time.. NOt saying I am a good source here, but it seems reliable.. Shoots even when my 442 is clogged with lint. I think the fact that it has the internal hammer is a major help if you are doing pocket carry. Obviously, a gun like this isn't a plinker and I just don't know why anyone would put 1000s of rounds through it in any short period of time; but, to each their own!

 

[sixgunner455]

I think that the average human hand will wear out before their 642 will. Just my take on it.

 

[Photoman]

Thousands and thousands of rounds with no problems in many different Airweights. If you want to get good and stay good with one, you have to shoot it a lot and often.

 

[USBP1969]

Sixgunner - Yep they do kick a mite.

Photoman - I agree. I am limited by being a 24/7/365 caregiver for spouse, but try to get to the range when I can. I do dry fire daily (It is often the high point of my day), but need to put some rounds down range.

KW

 

[Girodin]

Obviously, a gun like this isn't a plinker and I just don't know why anyone would put 1000s of rounds through it in any short period of time

Some people actually like to develop proficiency with their carry weapons.

 

[USBP1969]

Amen to that!