SMITH & WESSON PERFORMANCE CENTER 642 - 38 SPL - 1.875" - 5 RD
Smith & WessonThe Smith & Wesson Performance Center 642 elevates the classic J-Frame revolver with hand-fitted craftsmanship and premium finishes, delivering a conceal-carry powerhouse built to perform when it matters most.
- Performance Center tuned action for a smoother, more consistent trigger pull
- Lightweight aluminum alloy frame with a refined matte silver finish
- High bright, polished cylinder flutes and chrome-plated thumbpiece for durability
- Custom synthetic grip with elegant wood inserts for a secure, comfortable hold
- Cylinder cut for full moon clips, enabling faster reloads under pressure
- Compact 1.875" barrel and 5-round capacity ideal for everyday concealed carry
Who This Is For
The Performance Center 642 is purpose-built for concealed carry enthusiasts, personal defense shooters, and S&W aficionados who demand more than a stock revolver. Whether you're a seasoned shooter looking for a refined carry piece or a responsible gun owner who wants the reliability of a J-Frame with enhanced fit and finish, this revolver delivers an exceptional upgrade over standard production models.
Specifications
| Brand | Smith & Wesson |
|---|---|
| Model | Performance Center 642 |
| Caliber | .38 Special |
| Action | Double-Action Only (DAO) |
| Barrel Length | 1.875" |
| Capacity | 5 Rounds |
| Frame Material | Aluminum Alloy |
| Frame Finish | Matte Silver |
| Cylinder | Stainless Steel, Polished Flutes |
| Grip | Custom Synthetic with Wood Inserts |
| Moon Clip Compatible | Yes (Full Moon Clips) |
| Overall Length | 6.31" |
| Weight (Unloaded) | 14.4 oz |
| Sights | Fixed Front, Integral Rear |
| SKU / Part No. | 10186 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Performance Center 642 fire .38 Special +P ammunition?
Yes. The Smith & Wesson Performance Center 642 is rated for .38 Special +P ammunition, making it compatible with higher-pressure defensive loads. However, S&W recommends limiting sustained +P use to preserve the longevity of the lightweight aluminum frame. For range training, standard .38 Special loads are perfectly adequate, while +P rounds are best reserved for carry duty.
What is the advantage of the Performance Center tuned action over the standard Model 642?
The Performance Center version features a hand-fitted and polished action that results in a noticeably smoother, lighter double-action trigger pull compared to the standard factory Model 642. Smith & Wesson's Performance Center gunsmiths also polish internal components and fine-tune timing, which translates to improved shot-to-shot consistency and better control — especially beneficial in a compact revolver where trigger management is critical.
How do full moon clips work with the 642, and do they come included?
The Performance Center 642's cylinder has been machined to accept full moon clips, which hold all five .38 Special rounds in a single flat retainer. This allows you to load and eject all five rounds simultaneously, dramatically speeding up reloads compared to loading rounds individually or using a speedloader. Full moon clips are typically sold separately — check with Goodland Guns for compatible clip options to pair with your new revolver.
- Caliber:
- 38 SPL
- Capacity:
- 5 RD
- Night Sights:
- No
- Barrel Length:
- 1.875"
- Action Type:
- Revolver
- Optics Ready:
- No
- Frame Material:
- Steel
- Slide Color:
- Silver
- Frame Color:
- Silver