# S&W 642 Matte .38 Special Compact Revolver - Night Sight Enhanced

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

## Specifications

- **Caliber:** .38 Special +P
- **Barrel Length:** 1.9"
- **Capacity:** 5 rounds
- **Finish:** MATTE STAINLESS
- **Weight:** 16 oz
- **Overall Length:** 6.3"
- **UPC:** 022188895858
- **SKU:** UCODeLR4

## Description

The Smith & Wesson Model 642 is a double-action-only revolver built on an aluminum frame and chambered in .38 Special +P / .38 Special. At 16 oz (1 lb) and a 1.875-inch barrel, it's a carry-focused gun. The matte stainless finish and VZ Black & Gray G10 UC High Horn grips set this variant apart from the standard 642, and the XS Front Night Sight paired with a black U-notch rear improves low-light target acquisition.

### Key Specifications
- **Model**: 642
- **Type**: Revolver
- **Action**: Double Action Only
- **Caliber**: .38 Special +P / .38 Special
- **Barrel Length**: 1.875 inches
- **Overall Length**: 6.3 inches
- **Capacity**: 5 rounds
- **Weight**: 16 oz (1 lb)
- **Finish**: Matte Stainless
- **Frame Material**: Aluminum
- **Grips**: VZ Black & Gray G10 UC High Horn (Synthetic)
- **Sights**: XS Front Night Sight / Black U-Notch Rear

### Detailed Features
The aluminum frame keeps weight at 16 oz, which is genuinely light for an all-day carry revolver. The chamfered charge holes and beveled cylinder edges help reduce snag risk when drawing from a holster. The XS night sight gives a usable sight picture in low-light conditions, which is relevant for a defensive revolver. The double-action-only mechanism means no external hammer to snag, and the long trigger pull is the only manual safety.

## Frequently Asked Questions

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

A: The Smith & Wesson 642 is chambered in .38 Special +P / .38 Special.

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

A: It has a 1.875-inch barrel.

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

A: It holds 5 rounds.

**Q: Who makes the 642 revolver?**

A: The 642 is made by Smith & Wesson.

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

A: It is a double-action-only revolver built on an aluminum frame.

**Q: What sights does the S&W 642 Ultimate Carry have?**

A: This variant has an XS Front Night Sight paired with a black U-notch rear sight.

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

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.*

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

> You can come up with some negatives, but there's just a lot of good to be said for a little J frame.
>
> — [hickok45](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oECcf0-oCF8&t=445s)

> That front sight as you're moving that that trigger backward and uh they're hard to beat if you like a revolver.
>
> — [hickok45](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oECcf0-oCF8&t=866s)

## What Customers Say

*AI-generated insights from customer reviews*

The S&W 642 Matte .38 Special with night sights draws straightforward feedback from carry-focused shooters.

The lightweight aluminum frame is the top selling point. Owners carry it all day without noticing the weight, which is exactly what a pocket or IWB revolver needs to do. Reliability is a common theme. Revolvers in general, and the 642 specifically, have a strong reputation for cycling without malfunction. The simplicity of the DAO mechanism appeals to shooters who want a gun that's ready to go without working through a manual safety.

The night sights get credit as a practical upgrade for a defensive gun carried into varying light conditions.

Constructive feedback focuses on a few consistent points: the DAO trigger pull is long and somewhat heavy, which takes training to manage well. Firing +P loads in a 16 oz gun produces noticeable recoil that some shooters find uncomfortable during extended practice. The 5-round capacity is a known limitation compared to semi-autos. The matte finish can show wear from clothing contact over time with regular carry.

## Pricing

**9 offers available**

| Vendor | Price |
|--------|-------|
| Shootingsurplus Com | $668.89 |
| Grabagun Com | $669.99 |
| Kygunco Com | $677.89 |
| Impactguns Com | $681.69 |
| Buds Gun Shop | $698.99 |
| Palmettostatearmory Com | $699.99 |
| Guns Com | $704.99 |
| Ar 15 Discounts Com | $759.00 |
| Dirtybirdusa Com | $759.00 |

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