Smith 642 question

[gunsmith]

My sw 642 has a crimson trace grip.
I just realized,  the screw that is supposed to hold it on the frame isn't there.
It seems really secure but I want to have it buttoned up 100 percent.
Any idea what size screw? What kind?
I don't want to fumble around in home depot with  my gun out.

[Kingcreek]

I would make a call to crimson trace if I were me.

[dogmush]

I checked Numrich, but none were in stock.

Then I asked AI:

The grip screw size for a Smith & Wesson Model 642, which is a J-Frame revolver, typically uses a 5-40 thread screw. This is a common size for J-Frame grip screws, though the exact length can vary slightly depending on the specific grip design (e.g., stock rubber grips vs. aftermarket options). For the standard factory grips, the screw is usually around 1 inch in length, but it’s often customized to fit the grip thickness snugly.
For removal or replacement, the screw generally has a hex head (often requiring a 3/32" Allen wrench) rather than a slotted or Phillips head, though this can depend on the production era or any aftermarket modifications. If you’re replacing the screw or grips, it’s a good idea to confirm the fit with your specific revolver, as slight variations exist across models and grip styles. Hardware stores or gun parts suppliers like Brownells or MidwayUSA often carry compatible screws if you need a replacement.

Which led me (with some more googling) to:
https://www.midwestgunworks.com/page/mgwi/prod/glswrgscr

https://www.ebay.com/itm/324538346687

Failing that maybe take just the grip into Lowe's?  Doesn't the screw go through one side and thread into the other side of the grip on a J-Frame?

[lee n. field]

I checked Numrich, but none were in stock.

Then I asked AI:
Which led me (with some more googling) to:
https://www.midwestgunworks.com/page/mgwi/prod/glswrgscr

https://www.ebay.com/itm/324538346687

Failing that maybe take just the grip into Lowe's?  Doesn't the screw go through one side and thread into the other side of the grip on a J-Frame?

The CT lasergrips I have/had (one for j-frame, two for taurus small frame) use 3 screws to hold the two halves together.  And they're slotted, not hex head.

I'd contact Crimson Trace.

[gunsmith]

Thank you everyone.

[230RN]

Glad you got some solid answers !

I've got a 442-2 Airweight with a Crimson Trace grip and it's annoying because the recoil from the first shot rotates the button out from under my middle finger to between the middle finger and the ring finger, which requires adjusting one's grip for the second shot.  I got used to it and can re-position quickly, but I wish CT had made that button bigger.  I tried a silicone rubber glob on the button, which works, but the glob does not seem to stay on the button.  Yes, acetone degreased before applying the silicone.

Kind of a dealable-with problem; don't know if CT has corrected this or even recognized it as a problem.

Terry, 230RN

[lee n. field]

Glad you got some solid answers !

I've got a 442-2 Airweight with a Crimson Trace grip and it's annoying because the recoil from the first shot rotates the button out from under my middle finger to between the middle finger and the ring finger, which requires adjusting one's grip for the second shot.  I got used to it and can re-position quickly, but I wish CT had made that button bigger.  I tried a silicone rubber glob on the button, which works, but the glob does not seem to stay on the button.  Yes, acetone degreased before applying the silicone.

Kind of a dealable-with problem; don't know if CT has corrected this or even recognized it as a problem.

Terry, 230RN

On one of mine I rubber cemented a small square of bicycle inner tube over the button to build it up.  That has held up.  This was on a Hogue LCR lasergrip (which they don't sell anymore).  This might work better with the rubber Hogue uses.

[230RN]

On one of mine I rubber cemented a small square of bicycle inner tube over the button to build it up.  That has held up.  This was on a Hogue LCR lasergrip (which they don't sell anymore).  This might work better with the rubber Hogue uses.

Good idea.  Don't have any bicycle stuff around any more, might try another material.  I have the problem half assedly solved by using a two handed grip but that means I have to do something with my cane.  Not bad at the range, where Im shooting from a bench, but "in the willd" that's not a good idea.

[gunsmith]

YIKES!

 SO the screw was easy, a local gun store Mark And Fore Strike had a spare in the back, 7 bucks.
    I have been carrying speed loaders, and found out they do not work with the CT grip!
I am so glad I didn't find out that during an emergency shooting .
  I might end up switching to some other kind of grips

[lee n. field]

YIKES!

 SO the screw was easy, a local gun store Mark And Fore Strike had a spare in the back, 7 bucks.
    I have been carrying speed loaders, and found out they do not work with the CT grip!
I am so glad I didn't find out that during an emergency shooting .
  I might end up switching to some other kind of grips

The CT grips I've used have all cleared speedloaders nicely.  (LG-385 for Taurus small frame and LG-350 for S&W J.)  What are you using?

[gunsmith]

I don't even recall.
I never had an issue before.
The label said it was compatible with sw 642

[tokugawa]

speed strips should work, and they fit in a pocket nicely.

[K Frame]

When I do carry a reload for my 042 Smith Centennial Airweight, it's generally always speed strips.

I got a multipack of 6-round speed strips a few years ago. When I'm using them for the 042 I simply load 5 rounds.