Great Carry Revolver's 642 & 638 Smith

Published on January 30, 2020
Duration: 9:58

This video review by 704 TACTICAL focuses on two popular Smith & Wesson J-frame revolvers for concealed carry: the hammerless 642/442 and the shrouded hammer 638. The instructor highlights their lightweight alloy frames, durability for Plus P ammunition, and simple operation. He discusses their suitability for pocket carry, trigger characteristics, and accuracy at typical concealed carry distances, offering insights for choosing between the models based on user preference for hammer type and concealability.

Quick Summary

The Smith & Wesson 642/442 and 638 are excellent lightweight J-frame revolvers for concealed carry. The 642/442 is hammerless for snag-free draws, while the 638 has a shrouded hammer allowing single-action capability. Both are reliable, can handle Plus P ammunition, and are accurate enough for self-defense at typical distances.

Chapters

  1. 01:08Intro: Concealed Carry Revolver Request
  2. 01:24Why J-Frame Smith & Wesson?
  3. 01:45Airweight Categories: Hammerless vs. Shrouded
  4. 01:54Smith & Wesson 642 / 442 (Hammerless)
  5. 02:15Smith & Wesson 638 (Shrouded Hammer)
  6. 02:30Price Comparison: MSRP vs. Street Price
  7. 03:15Where to Buy: American Pawn & Guns, Guns.com
  8. 04:07Shooting Feel & Pocket Carry
  9. 04:53Weight & Grips
  10. 05:41Shootability & Accuracy
  11. 06:49Ammunition Options: Standard, Plus P, Reduced Recoil
  12. 07:22The Shrouded Hammer of the 638: Single Action
  13. 08:39Practicing for Defense vs. Range Use
  14. 09:11Summary & Recommendation

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main differences between the Smith & Wesson 642 and 638 for concealed carry?

The primary difference lies in the hammer design. The 642 is completely hammerless, offering a snag-free draw ideal for pocket carry. The 638 features a shrouded hammer, which allows for single-action shooting but may print slightly more. Both are lightweight J-frame revolvers chambered in .38 Special.

Are Smith & Wesson J-frame revolvers like the 642 and 638 reliable for self-defense?

Yes, these revolvers are highly regarded for their reliability. The instructor notes that their cylinders have never locked up and they function consistently even with infrequent cleaning, making them dependable choices for concealed carry.

What is the typical price range for Smith & Wesson 642 and 638 revolvers?

Street prices for the Smith & Wesson 642 and 442 typically fall between $350 and $360. The Smith & Wesson 638, with its shrouded hammer, may be found for slightly more, generally ranging from $350 to $400.

Can Smith & Wesson J-frame revolvers handle Plus P ammunition?

Yes, the Airweight J-frame revolvers, featuring an alloy frame with a steel cylinder and barrel, are designed to be durable enough to handle Plus P ammunition, allowing for a wider variety of defensive loads to be used.

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