S&W Bodyguard .38 reviews..

[NikeBauer21]

What do you guys know about the finish of the S&W 642 vs. the finish of the 442? Will the black finish show noticeable wear mark over time especially the cylinder drag line? Would I be better off getting the 642? I am thinking about getting a Hogue wood grip and I think the 642 looks better with the wood.
How does the gun shoot with a wood grip or is it just for show?

It's really all personal preference. As long as you take care of it properly, you will have a nice gun either way. However, the 442 will(most likely) eventually show more wear than the stainless. Eventually, as with any matte finish, it will begin to rub through at some spots and start showing bare metal (I'm going through this problem with my XDm right now). You're not really "better off" with either, as it all depends on what you want...

As far as the grips, I haven't felt the wood grips, but I know the Hogue rubber J-frame grip feels great. I ordered one right away since the stock grip offers nothing for grippage.. (yea, I said grippage! )

I ordered the 642's due to the wear and tear of the finish. I love the black, but I know eventually it will start to wear through, so I decided on the 642.

[manthony4563]

Did you get the Hogue Bantam or Monogrip?

[NikeBauer21]

Did you get the Hogue Bantam or Monogrip?

Pretty sure it was the monogrip. I honestly can't remember for sure... my dealer handed it to me, it felt perfect, so I had him order two. I'll have to check though to be certain.