The Smith & Wesson Model 42 is a lightweight .38 Special revolver introduced in 1952 as S&W’s centennial commemorative offering. You’ll find it features an innovative aluminum alloy frame weighing just 21 ounces, paired with a 1 7/8-inch barrel and 5-round capacity. Its pioneering design includes serrated ramp sights, a grip safety deactivation pin, and distinctive horned grips with S&W medallions. This groundbreaking defensive handgun’s influence on modern concealed carry extends far beyond its commemorative origins.
Key Takeaways
- Introduced in 1952 as Smith & Wesson’s centennial commemorative model featuring an aluminum alloy frame weighing 21 ounces.
- Five-shot .38 Special revolver with a 2-inch barrel designed for concealed carry and self-defense applications.
- Features distinctive smooth horned grips with S&W medallions, serrated ramp sights, and a grip safety deactivation pin.
- Considered a milestone in lightweight defensive handgun design, being 4 ounces lighter than its steel-framed counterpart.
- Current market value ranges from $489 to $1,025, reflecting its historical significance and collectible status.
Description
Introduced in 1952 as Smith & Wesson’s centennial commemorative offering, the Model 42 revolver represents a significant milestone in lightweight defensive handgun design.
You’ll find the Model 42 Centennial Airweight features an aluminum alloy frame weighing just 21 ounces, complemented by a 1 7/8-inch barrel. The revolver’s distinctive features include serrated ramp sights, a grip safety deactivation pin, and smooth horned grips with S&W medallions.
Price Range
The market value of a Smith & Wesson Model 42 reflects its historical significance and enduring appeal among collectors. You’ll find this Centennial Model’s pricing varies based on condition and authenticity of parts numbered to the gun.
| Condition | Price Range | Value Type |
|---|---|---|
| Used (80%) | $478.83 | Base Value |
| Trade-In | $736.67 | Dealer Value |
| Private Sale | $489-$1,025 | Market Range |
Specifications
The Model 42 Centennial Airweight combines lightweight portability at just 13.5 ounces with robust .38 Special performance. You’ll find this compact revolver features an aluminum alloy frame paired with a 2-inch barrel, delivering a balance of concealment and control. The five-round cylinder capacity fits the defensive role, while the fixed sights provide a clean sight picture with a serrated ramp front and frame groove rear configuration.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Weight | 13.5 ounces |
| Barrel Length | 2 inches |
| Capacity | 5 rounds |
Weight
Weighing just 21 ounces unloaded, Smith & Wesson’s Model 42 Centennial Airweight achieves its lightweight profile through an aluminum alloy frame construction.
You’ll find it’s approximately 4 ounces lighter than its steel-framed counterpart, the Model 40. The Double Action Revolver’s reduced mass makes it ideal for concealed carry while helping to minimize felt recoil when firing .38 Special ammunition.
Barrel Length
When examining the Model 42’s barrel specifications, you’ll find that Smith & Wesson primarily manufactured this Centennial Airweight revolver with a 2-inch barrel, though some variants featured a slightly shorter 1-7/8-inch configuration.
The compact barrel lengths were deliberately chosen to optimize pocket size and weight considerations. You won’t find any 3-inch barrel versions, as S&W maintained the revolver’s focus on concealed carry despite potential trade-offs in ballistic performance.
Material Made Out Of
Primary construction of the Model 42 centers on its aluminum alloy frame, which dramatically reduced weight while maintaining structural integrity.
You’ll find this lightweight design weighs just 21 ounces when empty, making it notably easier to carry than its steel counterparts. The revolver’s aluminum construction pairs perfectly with its smooth “horned” style grips, featuring Smith & Wesson medallions for a comfortable grip and refined appearance.
Chambered In
The Model 42 Centennial Airweight revolver chambers the proven .38 Special cartridge, holding 5 rounds in its compact cylinder. Unlike some other S&W revolvers of the era that offered multiple caliber options, the Model 42 was produced exclusively in .38 Special.
This caliber choice provided reliable shooting performance and consistent ballistic characteristics from the revolver’s short 1 7/8-inch barrel.
Capacity
Sporting a streamlined five-round cylinder, the Model 42 Centennial Airweight maintained Smith & Wesson’s commitment to compact defensive revolvers. At just 21 ounces unloaded weight, this concealed carry revolver’s capacity struck an optimal balance between size and functionality.
Complementing its five-shot cylinder, you’ll find an additional safety feature in its grip safety, making it a reliable choice for defensive applications from 1952 to 1974.
Trigger Pull
Featuring a well-balanced double-action trigger mechanism, the Model 42’s pull weight ranges between 10-12 pounds, while its single-action pull measures a lighter 4-6 pounds. You’ll find the trigger pull smooth yet consistent throughout its travel, with minimal take-up.
The short yet precise trigger reach accommodates smaller hands, while delivering a crisp yet clean break that enhances your shooting accuracy.
Safety?
One notable safety feature on the Model 42 Centennial Airweight is its integrated grip safety mechanism, which requires deliberate depression before firing. You’ll find that this safety design can present difficulty operating, particularly if you have larger hands.
Due to the practicality of feature concerns, some owners have opted for third party modifications, installing deactivation pins under the grips to bypass this mechanism.
Action
The Model 42’s double-action mechanism operates with a smooth, consistent trigger pull through its complete arc of rotation. You’ll find the trigger mechanism effectively integrates with both the standard trigger safety and grip safety features, enhancing control during firing.
The revolver’s aluminum alloy construction aids in recoil management while maintaining the reliable double action operation that Smith & Wesson revolvers were known for during this era.
Optic Ready?
While the Model 42’s action system focused on reliability, its sighting options remained traditional for its time period. You won’t find customizable sights, rail mounting options, or integrated laser sights on this classic revolver.
The Model 42 wasn’t designed as an optics-ready platform, reflecting its 1950s origins when optical sights weren’t common on defensive handguns. Instead, it featured fixed iron sights.
Review
The Model 42’s aluminum alloy frame makes it an exceptionally lightweight carry option, though you’ll notice the grip safety can be cumbersome to operate, especially if you’ve got larger hands.
You’ll find the revolver’s 5-round .38 Special capacity and snub-nose design strike an effective balance between concealability and defensive capability, contributing to its reputation as an excellent pocket gun.
Your experience with the Model 42 will likely reflect its proven reliability from 1952 to 1974, as evidenced by its steady demand and strong resale values ranging from $489 to $1,025 in today’s market.
Pros
Based on historical market data and technical specifications, Smith & Wesson’s Model 42 Centennial Airweight offers compelling advantages for concealed carry and personal defense.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Aluminum Frame | 21 oz lightweight design |
| Horned Grips | Enhanced control & comfort |
| Concealed Hammer | Snag-free draw from holster |
You’ll find the compact size and easily concealable profile particularly advantageous, while maintaining reasonable value retention in the collector’s market.
Cons
Despite its innovative design, Smith & Wesson’s Model 42 presents several operational challenges that deserve careful consideration. You’ll find the small grip size particularly problematic with the safety lever manipulation, while the lightweight frame impacts trigger control.
| Challenge | Impact |
|---|---|
| Safety Lever | Difficult operation with large hands |
| Frame Material | Challenging trigger control due to light weight |
| Stock Design | Limited grip options affect handling |
The aluminum alloy construction, while beneficial for concealment, creates distinct shooting difficulties that may affect your accuracy and control.
Reliability
Many firearms experts consider the Model 42 Centennial Airweight a benchmark for revolver reliability, particularly in its class of lightweight defensive handguns. You’ll find consistent accuracy through its smooth double-action trigger pull, while the aluminum alloy frame provides effective self defense without compromising durability.
User satisfaction stems from the revolver’s straightforward operation and proven dependability when properly maintained through regular cleaning and lubrication.
Similar Models
Several similar revolvers share design elements with the Model 42, including its siblings in Smith & Wesson’s compact defensive line. You’ll find comparable concealability in the Model 40’s snub-nose design, while the Model 442 and 642 feature similar aluminum frame construction for reduced recoil.
The Model 640’s firing mechanism mirrors the basic operation, though in stainless steel, and the Model 940 adapts the platform for 9mm using moon clips.
Similar Models From Other Manufacturers
While Smith & Wesson’s Model 42 established a benchmark for concealable revolvers, other manufacturers developed comparable offerings with distinct features. You’ll find the Colt Cobra’s alloy frame enhanced concealability, while the Ruger LCR’s polymer construction aids recoil management.
The Taurus 85 Ultralite offers budget-friendly trigger customization, and Kimber’s K6s DASA provides magnum power in a compact package. The Beretta Pico represents a semi-automatic alternative.
Maintenance
Maintaining the Smith & Wesson Model 42 Centennial Airweight requires strict adherence to established cleaning protocols and inspection procedures. You’ll need to perform proper cleaning and lubrication procedures regularly to ensure reliable operation.
Inspect internal components like the hammer, trigger, and lockwork periodically. Store your Model 42 in a secure location away from sunlight, and only use standard .38 Special ammunition, avoiding +P or +P+ loads.
History
Launched in 1952 to mark Smith & Wesson’s centennial anniversary, the Model 42 Centennial Airweight represented a significant advancement in lightweight revolver design. The anniversary commemoration featured an aluminum alloy construction, achieving optimal weight distribution in a compact design.
Originally dubbed the Centennial model, it was renamed Model 40 in 1957, chambered in .38 Special with a 1 7/8-inch barrel, and remained in production until 1974.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Revolver Did Dirty Harry Carry?
You’ll recognize Dirty Harry’s iconic Smith & Wesson Model 29 in .44 Magnum, not to be confused with smaller concealed carry recommendations. While today’s caliber performance comparisons might suggest more practical options, the Model 29’s powerful cartridge became legendary through the films.
The large-frame revolver requires specific holster compatibility considerations due to its size. Clint Eastwood’s character made this double-action revolver famous with his memorable “Do you feel lucky?” speech.
What Is the Difference Between a Smith and Wesson 642 and 442?
Like identical twins with different personalities, the S&W 642 and 442 share the same trigger pull weight, overall size, and 1.875″ barrel length, but they’re dressed differently.
The main distinction you’ll notice is in their cylinders – the 642 sports a stainless steel cylinder while the 442 features a blued carbon steel one. Both revolvers have aluminum frames, though the 642 did come in a special satin nickel finish from 1993-1996.
Do Smith and Wesson Revolvers Hold Value?
Yes, you’ll find that Smith & Wesson revolvers generally hold their value exceptionally well. Their strong Smith & Wesson revolver pricing stability is due to consistent demand, quality craftsmanship, and historical significance.
When you’re considering Smith & Wesson revolver collectibility, many models appreciate over time, especially vintage and limited editions. For Smith & Wesson revolver investment potential, you’ll notice they often maintain or increase in value, with some models selling for significantly more than their original purchase price.
Does Smith and Wesson Still Make 422?
Quick as a flash, you’ll need to know that Smith & Wesson doesn’t make the Model 422 anymore. It’s been discontinued, though you can still find them through collectors and secondary markets.
While customer service availability remains for parts and support, the model changes over the years have led to newer alternatives. If you’re interested in firearm collector circles, these discontinued models often generate significant interest, especially when they’re in good condition.
Conclusion
You’ll find the Smith & Wesson Model 42 represents a significant piece of firearms engineering, combining the reliability of 1950s manufacturing with pocket-carry convenience. While you won’t be using it to play Fortnite, this .38 Special centerfire revolver serves admirably for personal defense. When you’re maintaining your Model 42, remember it’s essentially a scaled-down Model 10, sharing many internal components and service requirements.
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