642 or 442

[Frank1991]

I can get them both for the same price. I am going to wear it in a bullet proof vest holster as a backup gun. Which one would you reccommend and why? Thanks

 

[DR]

642. I prefer stainless for carry, especially in a location that will see some sweat.

 

[Dollar An Hour]

Are these two the same gun, with different finish?

I can't figure out why the 442 seems to run $50 to $80 more than the 642.

 

[WT]

Blue nice! Stainless, boring.

At the end of the day wipe down the 442 with a silicone cloth.

 

[DR]

Are these two the same gun, with different finish?

I can't figure out why the 442 seems to run $50 to $80 more than the 642.

The 442 has a steel cylinder; the 642 has a stainless cylinder. They're both alloy frames finished in black and silver respectively.

I have no idea why a 442 sells for more.

 

[Ala Dan]

Att: Frank1991

I have a S&W 642, stainless/alloy. I think this combination sees more of a
demand (and need) in this hot and humid climate of the southeast USA.

 

[EddieCoyle]

What color is the vest?

 

[P. Plainsman]

S&W has decided to push the 642 especially hard; lots of sales, special offers, etc. -- for a while there last year you were routinely seeing them for $330 or so, brand new. Even in normal times they are "sale" priced compared to the 442. Maybe S&W just thinks the stainless cylinder and barrel make the 642 the more practical carry gun.

 

[popeye]

I looked at a 442 that was some kind of new economy line the other day. Same gun sans some etching, with wood no logo boot grips, price $399. Shop down the street had a 637 for $389. I found a Like new no box made in about '90 638 the other day for $275. My new carry gun.

 

[Frank1991]

So should the fact that the 642 has a stainless cylinder really make that much difference? I really like the blue look, but want to get what is most durable. If the 642 would be that much more durable then I guess I need to get that cause it is going to be hidden in my vest anyways.

 

[popeye]

My personal uninformed, non-substantiated. pessimistic, opinion is when S&W discovered some 637 and 642's had a finish problem they discounted them to dump them. I "think" they've gone back to the older finish. I saw a new 637 the other day and it didn't look clear.

Frank1991: I carried a 442 w/lock in my front pocket for 6 months (I did change my pants a couple times) and never saw rust. But given your specs. for carry I think I'd go with 642. The barrel's stainless too.