Newbie here. I am also new to handguns, but got the urge a few weeks ago, researched what the best CCW weapon would be, and came to the conclusion that the S&W 642 would be the best CCW weapon to buy.
So I went to my friendly neighborhood gun shop, and tried the 642, but was very unhappy with the small grip. I wasn't going to buy it, but then I noticed that they had one with a Crimson Trace grip and it was perfect, with the added bonus of a laser!!
So I bought it and became a member of the 642 Club before I even knew there was such a club.
Anyway, I love it. I also like the heavy trigger pull. Seeing as it has no safety, I like the thought of it being somewhat difficult to pull the trigger. The recoil doesn't bother me either. I actually kind of like it. I also bought a Kimber Ultra Crimson Carry II 45 cal. and that gun has a bigger kick than the 642.
Anyway, I love the gun and have found it to be surprisingly accurate, as the laser sight works great. I'll post pictures of the first target I shot when I get home from work tonight. I just found this forum, and it's awesome. And it's making me feel very intelligent, since I figured out the 642 was a great gun before I found this place.