Smith & Wesson Model 642 Airweight .38 Special DAO J-Frame Revolver, 1.875 in Barrel, Stainless/Alloy, 5-Shot, Pachmayr Grips
This Smith & Wesson Model 642 Airweight is a lightweight, double-action-only J-frame chambered in .38 Special with a 1.875 in barrel. It pairs an aluminum alloy frame with a stainless steel barrel and cylinder, and features an internal hammer and fixed sights. This example wears Pachmayr Presentation/Compac wraparound grips and comes with a Galco horsehide pocket holster (PH122), making it a practical, ready-to-carry setup with notable factory markings and post-lock configuration.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Overall Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling - Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: There is marring on the cylinder, and the frame shows blemishes and scratches.
What’s Included
- Galco horsehide pocket holster (model PH122)
- Pachmayr Presentation/Compac rubber grips (installed)
The Model 642 Airweight is a five-shot J-frame with a round-butt profile, built for compact carry. Its aluminum alloy frame has a matte silver anodized finish, matched to a stainless steel barrel and stainless cylinder. The 1.875 in barrel length and enclosed hammer support snag-free draw and consistent double-action-only operation.
Controls and features are straightforward: a smooth DAO trigger face, internal (enclosed) hammer, and the internal key-lock safety. Fixed sights consist of an integral serrated front ramp and a top-strap gutter rear. The ejector rod has a knurled tip with a partial underlug for positive extraction in a compact format.
Factory markings include the yoke cut marked "MOD. 642" (dash suffix not visible), barrel rollmarks "AIRWEIGHT .38 SPL. CTG." and "SMITH & WESSON," and the S&W circular trademark on the left sideplate. The visible key-lock port indicates post-lock production.
This revolver is fitted with black Pachmayr Presentation/Compac wraparound synthetic grips featuring molded checkering. The wraparound profile and tactile surface provide a solid grasp on the J-frame format.