# S&W 642 Airweight .38 Special +P Compact Revolver

**Brand:** Smith & Wesson
**Category:** Double Action Revolvers
**Caliber:** .38 Special

## Specifications

- **Caliber:** .38 Special
- **Barrel Length:** 2"
- **Capacity:** 5 rounds
- **Finish:** Stainless
- **Weight:** 15 oz
- **Overall Length:** 6.31"
- **UPC:** 022188038101
- **SKU:** UCODakIH

## Description

The Smith & Wesson Model 642 Airweight is a .38 Special +P revolver built around a lightweight aluminum alloy frame. It weighs 14.6 oz, making it one of the lighter carry revolvers available. The double-action-only trigger and enclosed hammer keep the design simple and snag-free. There is no internal lock on this version.

### Key Specifications
- **Brand:** Smith & Wesson
- **Model Name:** 642 Airweight
- **Caliber:** .38 Special +P
- **Action Type:** Double Action Only (DAO)
- **Capacity:** 5 Rounds
- **Barrel Length:** 1.875 inches (1.88")
- **Overall Length:** 6.31 inches
- **Weight:** 14.6 ounces (0.91 lbs)
- **Frame Material:** Aluminum Alloy with Matte Silver Finish
- **Sights:** Integral Front | Fixed Rear

### Detailed Features
- **Lightweight Alloy Frame:** At 14.6 oz, it carries all day without becoming a burden.
- **Stainless Steel Cylinder and Barrel:** Corrosion-resistant and durable for a carry gun exposed to sweat and weather.
- **Enclosed Hammer:** No exposed hammer spur means nothing to snag on clothing during a draw.
- **Rated for Continuous +P Use:** The frame and cylinder handle regular +P loads without degradation.
- **No Internal Lock:** Simplifies the action and removes one potential failure point.

### Usage Scenarios
1. **Home Defense**: Compact storage with quick access; the .38 SPL +P caliber is adequate for the job.
2. **Concealed Carry**: 14.6 oz and 6.31 inches overall, easy to carry under clothing without printing.
3. **Range Practice**: Good for developing DAO trigger skills, though +P recoil in a 14.6 oz frame gets tiring over extended sessions.

## Frequently Asked Questions

**Q: What caliber is the S&W Model 642?**

A: The Model 642 Airweight is chambered in .38 Special +P.

**Q: Who makes the Model 642 Airweight?**

A: Smith & Wesson manufactures the Model 642 Airweight.

**Q: What type of firearm is the S&W Model 642?**

A: It is a double action only revolver with an aluminum alloy frame.

**Q: How many rounds does the S&W Model 642 hold?**

A: It has a 5-round cylinder capacity.

**Q: What is the barrel length of the S&W Model 642?**

A: The barrel is 1.875 inches long.

**Q: Does the S&W Model 642 have an internal lock?**

A: No, this version has no internal lock.

**Q: Where can I buy the S&W Model 642 Airweight?**

A: Compare current vendor offers on this page.

## What Reviewers Say

*Quoted verbatim from YouTube reviews. Each link opens the video at the moment quoted.*

> 10 pounds 7.1 ounces and because of the heavy trigger pull this is really not suited for those who have little experience shooting.
>
> — [sootch00](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NEAMIarPPTY&t=608s)

> Even though it's very small, it's just very shootable.
>
> — [hickok45](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oECcf0-oCF8&t=309s)

> I've carried this the last week for pocket carry while working and it's been absolutely awesome it does come with its negatives though.
>
> — [SPN Firearms](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wIwCu9x_WKA&t=4s)

> One of the big things about a small revolver is that they're very reliable with that double action trigger pull i mean when you pull that trigger it'll fire unless you have some kind of problem with the ammo.
>
> — [sootch00](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NEAMIarPPTY&t=787s)

> These grips honestly are very comfortable they're the rubberized cushiony grips and i really like these grips.
>
> — [sootch00](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NEAMIarPPTY&t=320s)

## What Customers Say

*AI-generated insights from customer reviews*

The S&W 642 Airweight draws consistent praise for its carry-friendly weight and reliable operation. Owners regularly note that it's comfortable enough to carry all day, which is the main reason most people buy it.

The DAO trigger gets positive marks for simplicity: no manual safety, no hammer to cock, just a consistent pull every time. That appeals to people who want a grab-and-go defensive revolver. Build quality is generally well-regarded.

Recoil with +P ammunition is the most common complaint. A 14.6 oz gun hits back harder than heavier revolvers with the same caliber, and some owners find it genuinely uncomfortable during extended range sessions. Five-round capacity also comes up frequently as a limitation versus semi-autos.

Fixed sights draw criticism from shooters who want precision at longer distances. Holster compatibility is a recurring practical issue. The J-frame profile is common enough that options exist, but not every holster fits the 642 well. The enclosed hammer also means no single-action option for deliberate shots.

## Pricing

**15 offers available**

| Vendor | Price |
|--------|-------|
| Brownells | $479.00 |
| Impactguns Com | $479.99 |
| Guns Com | $495.99 |
| Gunbuyer Com | $499.99 |
| Grabagun Com | $499.99 |
| Guns Com | $499.99 |
| Buds Gun Shop | $501.49 |
| Kygunco Com | $508.99 |
| Gritrsports Com | $512.99 |
| Shootingsurplus Com | $519.00 |

*...and 5 more offers*

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*Data from [GunsNation](https://gunsnation.com)*