S&W Model 37 vs 442

[Ex-MA Hole]

I was looking at a old S&W model 37 airweight last weekend. http://www.gunbroker.com/auction/ViewItem.asp?Item=19780546 is the same style gun. The place wanted $350 for it. It was used. It was exactly what I had in mind (well, I actually wanted a .357, but the size was perfect!). I just found out that my car needs $1,500 worth of repairs in order to get an inspection sticker, so I put the idea of a "new" (to me) gun on hold.

In the meantime, I saw a S&W 442 for sale for less money. It seems like a great deal-

Question is-

I'm looking for something LIGHT and SMALL to fit in my pocket. I have a PPK/S which I thought would do that, but it's too heavy. Is the 442 as light as the 37? Is the size similar? Can I just "flip it in my pocket? I don't want to waste the guy's time if it is not.

This will be my 1st carry revolver, and am lost...

Edited to add:
The 442 I can get for under 300. Is it worth upsetting the PREGNANT and HORMONAL wife? Should I just wait? Are old 37s a dime a dozen? Is the 442 to good a deal to pass up?

 

[BigG]

I think $350 is too much for a used 37. The only difference is the hammer on the 37 vs the no hammer on the 442. Once you get used to double action, the 442 will become your favorite. IMHO thumb cocking a snub is irrelevant. YMMV but I love my hammerless snubs.

 

[Ex-MA Hole]

How do you carry yours? I want something that I can put in my pocket. Will this fit the bill? Is under 300 for the 442 a good price, great price, etc?

Will I kick myself in a few months when I have the extra cash for passing up on this deal, or is it no big deal?

 

[BigG]

Pocket in a holster that looks something like an eyeglass case by Uncle Mikes. The aluminum snubs are doable but when you go to a full steel it is like a small brick in your side pocket. It's a good price for the 442, imho.

 

[rappa]

How do you carry yours? I want something that I can put in my pocket. Will this fit the bill? Is under 300 for the 442 a good price, great price, etc?

I have a 642 (the satin nickel brother of the 442).

I carry IWB or pocket.
The 442 is perfect for pocket (at only 15oz).
Yes it'll fit the bill.
A 442 for <$300 is IMHO a STEAL depending on condition (got my 642 for $300, and it's pretty used but shoots great).

DAO, hammerless is the way to go if you're considering pocket carry.

I've been an auto guy since I turned legal (12 years ago). The 642 is my first JFrame snubbie. I don't know why I didn't buy one sooner! Another JFrame is in my future!

 

[grey9551]

get 442

Ex-MA Hole,

Get the 442 you will not regret it. Most importantly is get it when you can afford it so you can truly appreciate it. If you have a major bill in the near future the revolver can wait a few weeks. It has waited this long right??

When you do get the 442 then get a pocket holster. The absolute best pocket holster you will find is the one made by Robert Mika. Cost is 15.95 shipped and it is the best money I have ever spent. Look at the threads about pocket holsters and you will see I am not the only one who feels this way. His URL is:

http://www.frontiernet.net/~akim/

Look at the round bottom pocket holster you won't be sorry. Tell him Gary Morris sent ya.

Gary

 

[JohnBT]

I thought I stole a like-new 442-1 a couple of years ago and I paid $310. The 442-1 guns can shoot +P ammo according to the S&W reps I asked. I've been very happy with mine. JT

 

[magsnubby]

My vote goes to the 442 also. I have it's cousin,the 642. It carries easy in a pocket.

$350 sounds a little high for a used 37. One of the local shops had a like new 442 for $300.