S&W 442 Pro/Custom Shop?

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Pokem807

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I've been looking at the 442, and wanted opinions on whether or not it's worth it to upgrade to the Pro or Custom Shop models. Bud's has the Custom Shop model for $410 w/ free shipping, which seems like a pretty good deal.

I'll probably swap grips regardless of what I get, so that's not really a deciding factor. Also, I know that Wilson Combat and some others offer trigger springs that are fairly inexpensive.

I don't mind paying a little more up front if it means I don't spend that money on future upgrades.

If anybody has one of the Pro/PC models I'd like to hear your opinions.
 

LBnM

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I had one and it's a good handgun. Mine was replaced by a M&P 340, not because I wanted .357, but because I wanted the XS sight and I got a really good price on a LE 340. There are several variations of the 442, all good. If I were you I would get the regular 442 (sku:150544) because the main advantage to the pro is the use of moon clips and I never did use them. I didn't find the Pro to have a better trigger or workmanship. The deal maker for me on any S&W is that it must NOT have the internal lock. Luckily the J frames have options without the lock. Buds has the 150544 for $384 ($340 if you can qualify for their QP program.)
 

YukonGlocker

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The only thing that would be worth the extra cost is a really good trigger, and I don't know if this model has that. Most 642/442 triggers are stout when new, but not too bad...and they get nice and smooth with LOTS of practice and dry fire.
 

Pokem807

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If I don't stumble across a Model 10 pretty quick, I'll probably pick up a plain no-lock 442 and upgrade the trigger and grip. I'd prefer the Model 10, since I don't pocket carry and the extra round would be nice.
 

farmer17

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I recently bought a 442 no lock for $347 shipped which I feel is one of the best values in the whole fire arms industry. Once you shoot a J-frame a lot the action smooths out and gets a little lighter and your trigger finger gets more muscular. I used to put spring kits in my guns or cut a coil off the main spring or trigger return spring if I thought it was too heavy but I have shot Smith's so much I shoot pretty good even with a heavier than normal trigger.
 

Pokem807

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Well, I decided to go another direction. On a whim, I stopped by my local pawn shop/LGS to see what he had and maybe fondle a J-frame.

As I walked up, he asked me what I was looking for and I said ".38 special revolver that holds 6 shots". We talked for a moment about how that narrowed down my options, and then he told me to hang out while he grabbed something from the back. A minute later he walked back out holding a revolver which he hadn't gotten around to putting on display this morning. I almost cringed when he handed it to me, since it was a 1977 Colt Detective Special in pristine condition. I almost cringed because I knew how sick I was going to be when he told me the price. Trying to maintain some semblance of a poker face, I looked it over for a few minutes. Aside from what I think are not original grips, this thing is gorgeous...no holster wear, no dings and just a couple of barely discernible scratches. Doesn't look like it was ever carried, and I'd be amazed if it's had more than 50 rounds fired through it.

I handed it back and asked what he was going to ask for it. He said $500, but since I've made several purchases and transfers with him he knocked the price down to $425 + tax. I got so excited that I handed him my credit card when he asked for my driver's license.

It's been quite some time since I've been this tickled with a gun, and not just because I think I got a pretty good deal. Those old Colt revolvers are a work of art. I'll try to post some pics later.
 

Glock 'em down

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You did good. As much as I adore Smith & Wesson revolvers, I do have a Colt Cobra, cica 1979, that I tote on occassion.

The Cobra is a twin to your DS, except it sports an aluminum frame instead of all steel construction.

If you don't feed that little Dick a heapin' helpin' of +P ammo, it'll out live you.

Nice grab. :clap3:
 

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