S&W Model 442 Centennial Airweight .38 Special DAO Revolver
The S&W Model 442 Centennial Airweight .38 Special DAO Revolver is a .38 Special double action revolvers from Smith & Wesson. It is available from 4 vendors at $449.99 to $508.99.

Product Information
Name: S&W Model 442 Centennial Airweight .38 Special DAO Revolver
Brand: Smith & Wesson
Category: Double Action Revolvers
Caliber: .38 Special
Barrel Length: 2"
Capacity: 5 rounds
UPC: 022188628104
SKU: UCODdDmS
Description
The Smith & Wesson Model 442 Centennial Airweight is a double-action-only revolver in .38 Special +P. It has a 1.875-inch barrel, an aluminum alloy frame, and a carbon steel cylinder. Overall length is 6.31 inches and weight is 15 oz. The cylinder holds 5 rounds. Matte black finish. Fixed sights. The enclosed hammer design is snag-free for pocket or appendix carry.
Key Specifications
- SKU: 162810
- UPC: 022188628104
- Brand: Smith & Wesson
- Model Name: Model 442 - Centennial Airweight
- Caliber: .38 Special +P
- Action: Double Action Only
- Capacity: 5 Rounds
- Barrel Length: 1.875 inches
- Overall Length: 6.31 inches
- Weight: 15 oz.
- Frame Material: Aluminum Alloy
- Cylinder Material: Carbon Steel
- Finish Color: Matte Black
Features
The 15 oz weight is the primary practical advantage of this revolver. It carries easily in a pocket holster, IWB rig, or ankle holster without dragging. The enclosed hammer eliminates snag on the draw from concealment, which matters for pocket carry in particular.
The aluminum alloy frame is rated for standard .38 Special and +P loads. The carbon steel cylinder handles the higher pressure of +P ammunition for shooters who want that option for defensive carry. The DAO trigger requires a deliberate, full pull for each shot, which reduces the chance of unintentional discharge. Fixed sights are low-profile and consistent with the snag-free design philosophy.
Complete Specifications
| Caliber | .38 Special |
| Model | 442 |
| Capacity | 5 rounds |
| Magazines included | 0 |
| Barrel length | 2" |
| Overall length | 6.31" |
| Weight | 15 oz |
| Action | Double Action |
| Finish | Black |
| Color | Blue |
| Stock material | Uncle Mikes Boot |
| Sights | Fixed |
| Safety | Internal Lock |
Frequently Asked Questions
What caliber is the S&W Model 442?
The Smith & Wesson Model 442 is chambered in .38 Special +P.
What is the barrel length of the Model 442?
It has a 1.875-inch barrel.
How many rounds does the Model 442 hold?
The cylinder holds 5 rounds.
Who makes the Model 442?
The Model 442 is made by Smith & Wesson.
What type of firearm is the Model 442?
It is a double-action-only revolver with an aluminum alloy frame and a carbon steel cylinder.
Does the Model 442 have an exposed hammer?
No. The Model 442 has an enclosed hammer design, which makes it snag-free.
Where can I buy the Model 442?
Compare current vendor offers on this page.
What Reviewers Say
Quoted verbatim from YouTube reviews. Each link opens the video at the moment quoted.
I don't know that I would. I'm not sure I'm a big fan of that to tell you the truth.
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.
These guns are such quality you can't go wrong with a Smith and& Wesson snubby revolver.
It's just another great Evolution to the Smith and Wesson J frame 38 Special five shot.
You may look at the Smith triggers. They look dirty. They're not dirty. It's actually a case hardened trigger.
Customers Say
AI-generated insights derived from customer reviews and discussions on popular gun-enthusiast forums.
Owners of the S&W Model 442 Centennial Airweight discuss it primarily as a dedicated pocket or backup carry revolver. The light weight and snag-free profile are the consistent draws, with many users describing all-day carry as unnoticeable.
The DAO-only trigger comes up frequently. Most users acknowledge that the heavier pull requires deliberate practice to shoot accurately, and groupings at distance suffer until the trigger becomes familiar. This is a common trade-off with DAO revolvers in this size class.
Recoil with .38 Special +P is more noticeable in the lightweight aluminum frame than in heavier steel revolvers. This is expected given the weight, but some new shooters find it more than anticipated. Five-round capacity versus semi-auto alternatives comes up regularly as a comparison point. Overall the gun is well regarded for its intended purpose when the user trains with it appropriately.
Where to Buy - 4 Offers Available
Price Range: $449.99 - $508.99
| Vendor | Price | Condition | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gunbuyer Com | $449.99 | New | Buy Now |
| Brownells | $469.99 | New | Buy Now |
| Guns Com | $499.99 | New | Buy Now |
| Kygunco Com | $508.99 | New | Buy Now |






















