# Smith & Wesson 642 .38 Special Revolver - Compact Defender Range Kit

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

## Specifications

- **Caliber:** .38 Special +P
- **Barrel Length:** 1.88"
- **Weight:** 14.4 oz
- **Overall Length:** 6.3"
- **UPC:** 022188884050
- **SKU:** UCODeIMc

## Description

The Smith & Wesson 642 is a J-Frame .38 Special revolver that has been in production since 1950. This listing includes the S&W PRO TAC single handgun case and passive hearing protection as a range kit. The 642 is double-action-only with a 1.875-inch barrel, 6.3-inch overall length, 5-round capacity, and weighs 14.4 ounces.

### Key Specifications
- **Manufacturer:** Smith & Wesson
- **Product Line:** S&W 642
- **Caliber:** .38 Special
- **Capacity:** 5 Rounds
- **Barrel Length:** 1.875"
- **Overall Length:** 6.3"
- **Action:** DAO (Double Action Only)
- **Weight:** 14.4 oz
- **Finish:** Alloy

### Features
The alloy frame keeps it at 14.4 ounces, light enough to carry daily without fatigue. The barrel and cylinder are stainless steel, which handles moisture and wear better than blued finishes. The enclosed hammer eliminates snag on draw from a pocket or inside-waistband holster. The 642 is rated for continuous +P use, so you can run hotter defensive loads without cycling concerns.

The included range kit adds the S&W PRO TAC handgun case and passive hearing protection, useful if this is a first handgun purchase.

### Who It's For
The 642 works for shooters who want a simple, low-maintenance carry revolver. No safeties to disengage, no slide to rack, point and pull. New shooters generally find that accessible; experienced shooters often carry it as a backup or off-body option where a full-size pistol isn't practical.

### Use Cases
- Concealed carry: lightweight, snag-free, and rated for +P defensive ammunition.
- Home defense: compact storage, immediate operation under stress.
- Range practice: the included kit gets you set up from day one.

## What Customers Say

*AI-generated insights from customer reviews*

Discussions of the Smith & Wesson 642 .38 Special tend to organize around consistent themes, both positive and critical.

Reliability is the most common positive. The revolver's simple mechanism and fewer moving parts give owners confidence in it for defensive use. Most report no issues through regular carry and range sessions.

Compact size and light weight come up constantly. At 14.4 ounces the 642 is easy to carry all day, and the enclosed hammer means it draws cleanly from a pocket without snagging.

Ease of operation gets mentioned favorably, especially by newer shooters. No slide to rack, no safety to manage. The DAO trigger is the entire manual of arms. That simplicity resonates with people who want a carry gun that just works under stress.

The .38 Special caliber is generally seen as a reasonable balance: manageable recoil with adequate defensive performance. Users note that +P loads are effective but produce more felt recoil, which some find uncomfortable.

On the critical side, the 5-round capacity comes up regularly. Compared to compact semi-autos with larger magazines, five shots is a constraint some users find limiting for defensive scenarios.

Sights are a recurring complaint. The fixed sights work at defensive distances but aren't adjustable, which frustrates shooters who want more precision at longer ranges.

Trigger pull draws split opinions. Some users find the DAO pull smooth and consistent; others find it heavier than expected, particularly for anyone coming from a lighter semi-auto trigger.

Price occasionally comes up. A few users feel comparable performance is available for less from other manufacturers, though most consider the S&W quality worth the cost.

## Pricing

**1 offers available**

| Vendor | Price |
|--------|-------|
| Gunbuyer Com | $415.86 |

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