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Smith & Wesson

Smith & Wesson 442-2 SKU 162810B

.38 Special Revolver 1.875" barrel ✅ CA DOJ Certified
Caliber .38 Special
Type Revolver
Size Compact Revolver
Barrel 1.875"
Capacity 5
Weight 15.3 oz
Action Double Action Revolver
🛡️ Certified for Sale in California — CA DOJ Handgun Roster
View this model on the official DOJ roster ↗

Smith & Wesson 442-2 SKU 162810B Overview & Reviews

Overview
The Smith & Wesson 442-2 is a compact, lightweight revolver manufactured by Smith & Wesson, one of America's oldest and most trusted firearms makers. This model has earned a reputation as a reliable, affordable concealed carry and backup weapon since its introduction. The 442-2 fires the .38 S&W Special round, a proven defensive cartridge with manageable recoil and adequate stopping power for personal protection.

Key Features

  • 5-shot cylinder in .38 S&W Special
  • Lightweight aluminum alloy frame (approximately 15 oz unloaded)
  • Fixed sights for quick target acquisition
  • Double-action-only trigger mechanism
  • 1.875-inch barrel for compact carry
  • Matte black finish resists corrosion

Pros & Cons

  • ✅ California DOJ Handgun Roster certified for legal purchase
  • ✅ Extremely lightweight and compact for deep concealment
  • ✅ Simple, reliable double-action-only operation requires no safety manipulation
  • ✅ Affordable price point for a trusted defensive revolver
  • ❌ Limited 5-round capacity versus modern semi-automatics
  • ❌ Smaller frame may cause discomfort during extended practice sessions
  • ❌ Fixed sights limit accuracy at distance

Best For: Concealed carry, backup weapons, and shooters seeking a simple, reliable revolver with minimal maintenance and an easy learning curve.

🏪 Where to Buy the Smith & Wesson 442-2 SKU 162810B in California

You can buy the Smith & Wesson 442-2 SKU 162810B online and have it shipped to a California-licensed FFL dealer, or buy it at a local gun store. Every handgun purchase in California requires a Firearm Safety Certificate, a DROS background check and a 10-day waiting period. Find a California FFL near you →

Online dealers ship to a California FFL. You pick up at your local gun store after the 10-day waiting period.

PURVEYORS OF FREEDOM™CA Compliant · Ships to your FFL · Price MatchShop CA-compliant →
GunBroker — Live Listings
Real-time CA auction & fixed-price listings
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GrabAGun
Ships to CA FFL · Large inventory
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Brownells
Ships to CA FFL · Largest selection
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Palmetto State Armory
Ships to CA FFL · Competitive pricing
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Sportsman's Warehouse
CA retail locations + online
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Searching retailers for Smith & Wesson Model 442. Prices and stock vary; confirm the exact California-compliant model before you buy. Some links are affiliate links that help support this site.

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