The Smith & Wesson Model 642 Airweight is a double-action-only .38 SPL +P revolver with a 1.88-inch barrel, 5-round capacity, and a weight of 14.4 oz. The aluminum alloy frame keeps it light for daily carry. The stainless steel barrel and cylinder handle +P loads continuously. The enclosed hammerless design eliminates snag points on the draw -- there is no exposed hammer to catch on clothing or holster material. Matte silver stainless finish. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Brand: Smith & Wesson 
• Model Name: 642 Airweight 
• Caliber: .38 SPL +P 
• Action: Double Action Only (DAO) 
• Capacity: 5 Rounds 
• Barrel Length: 1.88 inches 
• Finish: Matte Silver Stainless Steel 
• Weight: 14.4 oz (0.9 lbs) 
   

Detailed Features 

The aluminum alloy frame is the primary weight reduction -- it drops the revolver to 14.4 oz while the stainless barrel and cylinder maintain durability and +P compatibility. The enclosed hammer is the defining feature for pocket carry: no external hammer means a clean, snag-free draw from a pocket holster or waistband. Double-action-only operation keeps the manual of arms simple. Rated for continuous +P use, which matters for defensive loads.

The 642 Airweight is one of the most-discussed carry revolvers and opinions are well established. Daily carry practitioners consistently cite the 14.4 oz weight and compact dimensions as the primary reasons to own one -- it disappears in a pocket holster or on a belt clip in a way that most semi-autos cannot match.

The enclosed hammer gets near-universal praise from carry users. A snag on the draw from a pocket is a meaningful problem, and the hammerless design eliminates it. Simplicity and mechanical reliability are also recurring positives -- a double-action-only revolver with no external controls is difficult to operate incorrectly under stress.

The five-round capacity is the most-cited limitation and generates the most debate. Against semi-autos with double-digit capacity, five rounds feels thin to some owners. The DAO trigger pull is heavier than most semi-auto carry pistols, which requires deliberate practice to shoot accurately at speed. +P loads generate noticeable recoil for the weight -- manageable for a cylinder or two, but tiring for long practice sessions, which leads some owners to practice with standard-pressure .38 and carry +P. Sights are minimal and not suited to low-light use without a weapon light, which the frame does not accommodate.