SMITH & WESSON 642 for Sale

Quick Look

Introduced in 1996, the Smith & Wesson 642 is a lightweight, compact revolver designed for concealed carry. It features a stainless steel cylinder paired with an aluminum alloy frame, emphasizing ease of carry and reliability. This model remains popular among self-defense enthusiasts and law enforcement for its durability and simplicity.

Why It's a Top Choice

• Lightweight aluminum frame for easy concealment
• Five-shot .38 Special caliber provides manageable recoil
• Double-action-only trigger enhances safety
• Corrosion-resistant stainless steel cylinder
• Low maintenance with proven Smith & Wesson reliability

Key Variants

Smith & Wesson 642 Airweight — Ideal for concealed carry with ultra-light frame.

Smith & Wesson 642 Lady's Model — Designed for smaller hands and ease of use.

Smith & Wesson 642 Classic — Maintains original design with updated materials.

Competitor Comparison Table

Feature	Smith & Wesson 642	Ruger LCR	Colt Detective Special
MSRP	$600–$650	$700–$800	$900–$1,000
Capacity / Size	5 rounds, compact	5 rounds, compact	6 rounds, compact
Weight	15 oz (airweight frame)	13.5 oz (polymer frame)	24 oz (steel frame)
Optics-Ready	No	No	No
Trigger Type	Double-Action Only	Double-Action Only	Double-Action / Single-Action
Notable Pro	Ultra-lightweight for concealment	Smooth trigger with polymer frame	Higher capacity with classic design
Notable Con	Limited to .38 Special caliber	Higher price point	Heavier weight for carry

Best Use Cases

• Concealed carry and personal defense
• Backup duty revolver for law enforcement
• Home defense with simple operation
• Range training and practice
• Compact carry for everyday use

FAQs

Can I carry the Smith & Wesson 642 concealed daily?

Yes, the 642's lightweight aluminum frame and compact size make it ideal for daily concealed carry.

What caliber does the Smith & Wesson 642 use?

It is chambered in .38 Special, offering manageable recoil and effective self-defense performance.

How reliable is the Smith & Wesson 642?

Smith & Wesson revolvers are renowned for reliability; the 642 consistently delivers dependable function with low maintenance.