An S&W concealed-hammer J-frame revolver, know collectively as the Centennial models, and the Model 642 in particular, is the best pocket handgun in the world, in my opinion. I have a S&W J from a special Performance Center run, actually designated the M460, no kidding, that was based on a 642. The 642 has a stainless steel frame and an aluminum alloy frame, the perfect match, in my opinion, when all factors/variables are considered.
The 442 is a comparable model, with, I believe, a carbon steel cylinder and barrel. I have a 342 Airlite on layaway, but I owned one before, and it was torture to shoot with serious ammo. I consider the Airlite models, which have titanium cylinders and aluminum alloy frames, to be niche guns, not all-around pocket guns. I decided that niche does exist for me, after all, so I am replacing the 342 I sold.
I also have an all-steel Model 40, the ancestor of the whole Centennial line. Of course, it weighs more than the others, but in the pockets of sturdy pants, that is not a problem. In actuality, I am more likely to use the substantially heavier Ruger SP101 as a pocket gun, but then, over time, I have accumulated some sturdy pants, with deep pockets. Most folks find the SP101 far too heavy and bulky for pocket carry.
As I almost always mention when discussing pocket guns, keep in mind that while pocket carry excels in some circumstances, if you find yourself in a fight at contact distance, before you can get your hand in your pocket, it can be VERY difficult to get the hand into that pocket, and if bent at the waist or hips, VERY difficult to get that hand, with the gun in it, back out of that pocket. Bad guys don't normally broadcast their intentions from a distance, and they will not be likely to willingly let you reach into your pocket. I use pocket carry as a means to tote one of multiple weapons. At the very least, train to use empty-hand methods to create the distance you will need to access your pocket gun.
