# Smith & Wesson 442 .38 Special Compact Revolver - Blk Cherry Grip

**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 BLACK
- **Weight:** 16 oz
- **Overall Length:** 6.3"
- **UPC:** 022188895865
- **SKU:** UCODeLRB

## Description

The Smith & Wesson 442 is a double-action-only .38 Special revolver with a 1.875-inch barrel, aluminum frame, and matte black finish. At 16 oz, it's one of the lighter carry revolvers available. This variant comes with VZ Blk Cherry G10 grip panels.

### Key Specifications
- **Model**: 442
- **Type**: Revolver
- **Action**: Double Action Only
- **Caliber**: .38 Special (+P compatible)
- **Barrel Length**: 1.875 inches
- **Overall Length**: 6.3 inches
- **Capacity**: 5 rounds
- **Finish**: Matte Black
- **Weight**: 16 oz.

### Detailed Features

The aluminum frame brings the weight to 16 oz, noticeably lighter than steel-framed alternatives of similar size. Titanium pins in the trigger mechanism contribute to smooth double-action cycling. Beveled cylinder edges and chamfered charge holes make holster draws and reloading faster. The VZ Blk Cherry G10 grip panels provide a secure texture while adding a distinctive look.

+P ammunition compatibility gives the 442 a stopping power option above standard .38 Special.

### Target Audience

Shooters who prioritize lightweight concealed carry in a simple, reliable package. Double-action-only operation requires no external safety management. Experienced shooters who want a backup weapon and newer shooters looking for a straightforward first revolver.

### Usage Scenarios

1. **Home Defense**: The compact size means accessible storage, and .38 Special provides adequate stopping power at close range.
2. **Concealed Carry**: 16 oz is comfortable for all-day carry.
3. **Range Shooting**: The double-action pull rewards consistent practice.

## Frequently Asked Questions

**Q: What caliber is the Smith & Wesson 442?**

A: The 442 is chambered in .38 Special and is +P compatible.

**Q: Who makes the 442?**

A: It is made by Smith & Wesson.

**Q: What type of firearm is the 442?**

A: It is a double-action-only revolver.

**Q: What is the barrel length of the 442?**

A: The 442 has a 1.875-inch barrel.

**Q: How many rounds does the 442 hold?**

A: It has a 5-round capacity.

**Q: What grips does this 442 variant come with?**

A: This variant comes with VZ Blk Cherry G10 grip panels.

**Q: Where can I buy the Smith & Wesson 442?**

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.*

> Deliberate trigger pull on it that it's not going to go off unless you literally put your hand all the way on the gun you pull that trigger all the way back to the rear.
>
> — [Hunt Fish Shoot](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O1rEEQ9eGzg&t=70s)

> You may look at the Smith triggers. They look dirty. They're not dirty. It's actually a case hardened trigger.
>
> — [TheFirearmGuy](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p-IJXEqQPaU&t=100s)

> Lots of good stopping power the 38 special gets slept on a lot.
>
> — [Hunt Fish Shoot](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O1rEEQ9eGzg&t=95s)

> I don't recommend taking it out a distance and trying to shoot it not easy to do and it doesn't appear to be accurate.
>
> — [Hunt Fish Shoot](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O1rEEQ9eGzg&t=404s)

> Smith says 10 pounds, and I would agree with that. Maybe maybe a hair heavier.
>
> — [TheFirearmGuy](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p-IJXEqQPaU&t=109s)

## What Customers Say

*AI-generated insights from customer reviews*

The Smith & Wesson 442 with the black cherry grip generates a clear pattern of feedback across owner discussions.

Compact size and light weight are the primary positives. At 16 oz, it's genuinely easy to carry all day, and that's the main reason most buyers choose it over heavier alternatives. Reliability gets consistent praise. Owners report it functions as expected across diverse conditions. The double-action operation is appreciated for its simplicity, particularly by users who don't want to manage an external safety. The black cherry G10 grips attract specific praise for texture and appearance.

Recoil is the most discussed drawback. .38 Special in a 16 oz aluminum-frame revolver is snappy, and extended range sessions become uncomfortable for many users. This keeps the 442 in its intended role as a carry and self-defense tool rather than a range gun. The 5-round capacity draws ongoing comparison to semi-automatic alternatives, which typically carry more. Double-action trigger pull gets mixed reviews. Some find it smooth and workable, others want a lighter or cleaner pull. The fixed sights are fine for close-range defensive use but limit the revolver for precision work at distance.

Overall, the 442 holds a well-defined niche: a light, reliable revolver for daily carry with practical trade-offs that most buyers understand going in.

## Pricing

**7 offers available**

| Vendor | Price |
|--------|-------|
| Shootingsurplus Com | $668.89 |
| Grabagun Com | $669.99 |
| Impactguns Com | $681.69 |
| Buds Gun Shop | $684.49 |
| Kygunco Com | $692.99 |
| Guns Com | $720.99 |
| Palmettostatearmory Com | $731.99 |

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