Dumb J-frame questions

[Ford4x4]

Hi all,

I have a 4" 1911 that is my primary carry gun, and am wanting a J-frame for lightweight, easy to conceal/carry duty. I have been reading lots of great things on the S&W X42 and am convinced that is the route I want to take.

I've located the following two guns at budsgunshop:

http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/product_info.php/cPath/678/products_id/26306

http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/product_info.php/cPath/678/products_id/70712

Sometimes the title and description on budsgunshop is lacking. One says "S&W M442 38 1 7/8 NL BL", so does that mean its not rated for +P, and has no lock? The other says "Smith & Wesson 442 .38 Spl+P 1-7/8" Black", so am I to guess this one has the lock? Or are all the new hammerless J frames being made without the lock? They do have one on their site which definitely says in the title "No Lock 38+P" so I could get that one, I just prefer the black 442. All of the are priced very nicely, though, as far as what I can tell.

I could call them in the morning, though I doubt I'd get ahold of anyone very quickly. I just thought I'd ask tonight. Please spare the lock vs no lock vs remove it yourself and maybe get in trouble when you defend yourself with it debate, I've already done the search and read enough to make up my mind.

 

[jfh]

All modern / current manufacture J-frames are made for 38+P pressures or more. So, I would buy the first listing--that 'NL' seems to suggest No Lock.

Jim H.

 

[DrLaw]

I would get the no lock model. That said, if you are going to shoot +P's out of it, I would only use them for carry as opposed to constant practice. The pistol may be rated for +P, but I doubt that your hand will be. +P in an airweight is going to slap your hand after a cylinder or two.

Best carry bets would be to use that FBI load 158 gr. lead hollow point or 200 grain lead (Hits straight - tumbles inside).

The Doc is out now.

 

[psyshack]

I wouldn't go any smaller than a 3".

 

[jon86]

I wouldn't go any smaller than a 3".

Not to start a war, but I would go smaller. And many many others would as well. Why would you say that you wouldn't go smaller than 3 inches but you don't say why?

 

[MICHAEL T]

3" gives little more FPS and has full length ejector rod Will push empty cases all the way out. The extra inch also makes sighting a little better. its just as easy to conceal.

Todays +P are about the same power as our normal 38spl was 30+ years ago. They have been dumbing ammo down as well as people for years.

 

[Maximumbob54]

They are making a 2.5 inch barrel on the 642/637/638 that gives a few length extractor. Weight goes up, it prints worse, and I can imagine holsters will be tough to find. But if they sell, then 2.5 inch fitting holsters will start popping up. I could see getting a 637 or maybe a 638 with the longer barrel, but the 642 is as close to perfect as is right now, IMHO.

 

[ArchAngelCD]

The M442 #150544 is definitely the NO LOCK model without a doubt. It's the one I own and I'm looking at the box right now. The other has the ILS system which I don't recommend buying. The good thing is the no lock model doesn't cost more.

 

[S&Wfan]

Always go with the no lock versions. Any item that must suddenly be put into immediate action to save your life should not have a lock on it . . . whether it be a parachute's rip cord or a revolver!

Don't worry about +P either. A normal 38 Special round has put many a bad guy in a fast grave . . . it is always about shot placement with any firearm.

As far as barrel length, a concealed weapon must be small, light and completely concealable. That's exactly why S&W snubbies are so popular!!!

Accuracy? A snubbie can be plenty accurate! Mine group under 2 1/2" at 25 yards and 1" at ten, if I do my part.

 

[Guillermo]

All Smith revolvers since the late 20's are fine with "+P" ammo

If those are the two that you are choosing from I would go "no lock"

That said, I suggest getting an older revolver. The MIM era started in 1998 (If memory serves).

I would also caution you to shoot a super light revolver before you buy one.

Personally I prefer a little more weight.

That heft is one reason for the popularity of the SP101.

Many gun ranges will rent you guns so you can check them out.

Best of luck to you

Guillermo