Smith & Wesson Model 442 for sale
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Smith & Wesson Performance Center Pro Series Model 442 Airweight .38 S&W Special +P Revolver - 178041
Brand:
Smith & Wesson
Action:
Double Action
Barrel Length:
1.88
Caliber:
.38 S&W Special +P
Capacity:
5
Finish Per Color:
Matte Black
Marketplace Insights
★ 5.0/5
based on 20 customer reviews across 1 variants from 15 retailers
Highly acclaimed lightweight S&W J-frame revolver praised for reliability, smooth trigger, and concealability with minor notes on stock trigger pull weight and maintenance needs.
What customers like
Lightweight & Concealable80%
Very light-weight.. It was pretty easy buying this way
Reliable & Smooth Action65%
It works perfect for what it is supposed to be able to do. No problems with mine and action is smooth.
Excellent Trigger Quality55%
The performance trigger is very smooth and easy to stage.
Moon Clips Feature45%
cut for optional use of moon clips, and smoothed action.
Great Daily Carry Gun40%
I've carried this gun IWB for a couple years now. Been very reliable and easy to carry
Common concerns
Heavy Trigger Pull20%
trigger pull could heavy for some, otherwise this is a nice choice
Ejector Rod Friction5%
The ejector rod needs to be lubricated where it meets the frame
Front Sight Visibility5%
Front sight is easy to loose when aiming in low light conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Smith & Wesson Model 442 for sale
Is the Smith & Wesson 442 a good gun?
Whether the 442 suits you depends on your needs. It's a reliable, lightweight .38 Special revolver prized for concealed carry, though reviewers note stout recoil and basic sights. Currently around $524, it offers proven simplicity—five shots, double-action only, aluminum frame. Best for backup or close-quarters defense.
What caliber is the model 442?
Smith & Wesson chambers the 442 in .38 Special. It is a five-shot, double-action-only revolver with a concealed hammer and aluminum frame, designed for concealed carry.
What's the difference between Smith and Wesson 442 and 642?
Both fire .38 Special from a five-shot aluminum frame. The 442 has a carbon steel cylinder with matte black finish, while the 642 uses stainless steel with a silver finish. Stainless resists corrosion better in humid conditions. Otherwise identical in action, capacity, and handling.
When did the S&W 442 come out?
Smith & Wesson introduced the 442 in the 1990s as part of their J-Frame line modernization. It is a compact, double-action-only revolver chambered in .38 Special with a five-shot capacity, designed for concealed carry, and remains in current production.