Craft Holsters - Holsters - Smith & Wesson Holsters - Smith & Wesson 642 Holsters
Holsters for Smith & Wesson 642
How to choose the best holster for your Smith & Wesson 642
This revolver’s small, light, and built for carry, so your holster needs to do its part. First thing: don’t guess on fit. A Smith and Wesson 642 holster should match the gun exactly. If it’s too loose or wasn’t made for a snub-nose revolver, you’ll feel it shift, and that throws everything off. Next, think about how you dress and move through your day. Jeans and a belt? You’ve got solid IWB or OWB options. More time in a car or wearing lighter clothes? You might lean toward pocket, ankle, or purse carry. The goal’s simple: keep the gun secure, covered, and easy to reach, without it bugging you every time you sit, bend, or walk.
Best Smith and Wesson 642 IWB Holster
IWB Holster w Steel Clip – $89. This leather holster can be carried both IWB and appendix style, offering flexibility in how you choose to carry your Smith and Wesson 642. The steel clip design is perfect for those who dislike removing their belt when attaching or detaching the holster. It also features a reinforced thumb break strap, adding extra durability and increasing the holster’s natural retention, making it a highly secure option.
Best Smith and Wesson 642 OWB Holster
Open Top Belt Holster – $89. The Open Top Belt Holster is an excellent choice for those seeking easy access and a quick draw. Its pancake design provides a slim, low-profile fit, ensuring that your Smith and Wesson 642 remains concealed even in an OWB carry position. This holster is not only practical but also extremely comfortable for daily wear.
Best Smith and Wesson 642 Shoulder Holster
Shoulder Holster System – $215. For shoulder holster fans, the Shoulder Holster System is the best option for the Smith and Wesson 642. This leather shoulder system allows you to carry your gun in a horizontal position, secured with a thumb break strap for added safety. The system includes a double ammo holder and tie-down straps that attach to your belt, offering excellent balance and security. As a bonus, the holster can also be used as a regular belt holster, giving you two carry options in one.
Carry Options for Smith & Wesson 642 holsters
Concealed Carry
The 642’s size makes it ideal for discreet carry, if the holster fits right. A Smith and Wesson 642 concealed carry holster should ride close to the body, stay hidden under light layers, and keep steady as you move. Slim builds and low-profile clips help it disappear, while good retention makes sure the draw stays clean when it counts.
IWB Holsters
IWB is one of the easiest ways to carry this revolver. A good Smith and Wesson 642 IWB holster tucks it in close and keeps it low-profile under a shirt. Look for one that rides just right, not too deep, not too high, and has some kind of sweat barrier so it doesn’t rub raw. If you carry all day or spend a lot of time driving, this setup won’t get in your way.
OWB Holsters
OWB works if you want easier access or carry under layers. A snug-fitting OWB holster for the Smith & Wesson 642 won’t stick out much if you’ve got a jacket or overshirt on. It’s a solid choice for cold weather, range days, or if you just like having the grip right there when you need it. Just make sure the holster holds firm and angles how you want it to draw.
Shoulder Holsters
Shoulder carry isn’t for everyone, but it can be a lifesaver in winter or long drives. A Smith and Wesson 642 shoulder holster shifts weight off your belt and spreads it across your upper body. It’s easier on your lower back and keeps the gun accessible even while sitting. Great for jackets or when belt space is tight.
Pocket Holsters
The 642 was made for this. A solid Smith and Wesson 642 pocket holster keeps the gun upright and hides the outline. You don’t want it tipping over or catching on the draw. Works best with pants that have decent pocket depth, cargo pants, jackets, or anything not skin-tight. Simple, quick, and no belt needed.
Ankle Holsters
An ankle setup works well if you’re sitting most of the day or want a backup. A Smith and Wesson 642 ankle holster should hug your leg tight so it doesn’t bounce or slide. Padding helps, especially if you’re moving around. It takes a bit to get used to the draw, but once you do, it’s a quiet way to stay armed.
Purse Holsters
If you carry off-body, the holster still matters. A Smith and Wesson 642 purse holster keeps the gun locked in one spot, no digging, no shifting. Whether it clips into a dedicated carry purse or just has strong retention, the key is having the grip where you expect it, every time. Loose in a bag isn’t an option.
Appendix Holsters
Appendix works for folks who want fast access and don’t mind some upfront adjustment. A good Smith and Wesson 642 appendix holster rides low and stays out of the way when you sit or move. You’ll want one with a bit of give, or something you can angle, so it doesn’t jab. It’s a clean, central option once it’s dialed in.
Material Options for Smith & Wesson 642 Holsters
Smith and Wesson 642 Leather Holsters
Leather holsters provide superior comfort and gradually mold to both your gun and body for a personalized fit. Their premium Italian or full-grain leather construction offers a timeless look and natural retention.
Smith and Wesson 642 Kydex Holsters
Kydex holsters offer a rigid structure that provides excellent retention and quick, consistent draws. They're molded specifically to each gun model and resist wear, moisture, and deformation.
Smith and Wesson 642 Nylon Holsters
Nylon holsters are lightweight, flexible, and great for casual carry or use with multiple firearms. They provide solid comfort without sacrificing accessibility.
See Our Holsters in Action
This short video highlights the versatility of our Smith & Wesson 642 holsters. Watch as we demonstrate the ease of draw, stability during movement, and the comfortable fit that supports all-day concealed carry.
Summary
The right Smith and Wesson 642 holster won’t make you think about it all day. That’s the goal, secure, comfortable, and out of the way until you need it. Whether you carry inside the waistband, in your pocket, on your ankle, or off-body, the holster has to match both the gun and your daily rhythm. Fit is everything. If it shifts, pinches, or slows your draw, it’s not doing its job. A good holster for the 642 should hold firm, feel natural when you move, and make access easy without advertising that you're carrying. Start with how you dress, where you spend your time, and how you want to draw. From there, you’ll find the Smith and Wesson 642 holster that actually makes carrying feel like second nature.
Check favorite holster carry styles
About Smith & Wesson Model 642 - 2"
Gun Facts
Barrel length: | 1.875" |
Caliber: | 38 |
Width: | 1.4" |
Height: | 5" |
Length: | 6.3" |
Holsters for Smith & Wesson Model 642 - 2" reviews
Latest reviews
Lenny
Very nice. Extremely comfortable and keeps the grip pulled in nicely. I like it.
Greg I
Awesome holster Compact and lightweight. No blemishes in the leather like some of my other brands. I would recommend this holster for OWB to anyone
Michael PanicPrankster
Excellent fit and craftsmanship! The best part and the reason I choose this holster,is the belt attachment strap. More secure than a clip and looks better as well. It also sits nice on my waistline,doesn't slip or rise. Don't sweat the shipping time,it's worth it.
Need a Holster for Another Smith & Wesson?
- Smith & Wesson SW1911 - 5"
- Smith & Wesson E-Series - 5"
- Smith & Wesson Pro Series - 3"
- Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0 NTS
- Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 380
- Smith & Wesson CSX - 3.1"
- Smith & Wesson Equalizer TS
- Smith & Wesson M&P - 4.25"
- Smith & Wesson M&P (cal .45) - 4.5"
- Smith & Wesson M&P (cal 5.7) - 5"
- Smith & Wesson M&P Compact - 3.5"
- Smith & Wesson M&P Compact (cal. 22) - 3.6"
- Smith & Wesson M&P 22 Magnum - 4.35"
- Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 - 4.25"
- Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 (cal .45) - 4.6"
- Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 (cal 10mm) - 4"
- Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 Compact - 4"
- Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 Metal (cal. 9) - 4.25"
- Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 Performance Center, COMPACT CARRY COMP - 4.22"
- Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 SubCompact - 3.6"
- Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 Tactical - 5"
- Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 Pro Series - 5"
- Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 CORE Pro Series - 5"
- Smith & Wesson M&P Shield - 3.1"
- Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9 EZ - 3.675"
- Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 380 EZ - 3.675"
- Smith & Wesson M&P Shield EZ 30 Super Carry - 3.83"
- Smith & Wesson M&P Shield EZ M2.0 380- 3.675"
- Smith & Wesson M&P Shield EZ M2.0 9 - 3.8"
- Smith & Wesson M&P Shield M2.0 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9 Plus - 3.1"
- Smith & Wesson Performance Center M&P 9 Shield Plus Thumb Safety - 3.1"
- Smith & Wesson 22A
- Smith & Wesson 39
- Smith & Wesson 52
- Smith & Wesson 59
- Smith & Wesson 411
- Smith & Wesson 457
- Smith & Wesson 645
- Smith & Wesson 908
- Smith & Wesson 909
- Smith & Wesson 910
- Smith & Wesson 915
- Smith & Wesson 1006
- Smith & Wesson 1076
- Smith & Wesson 3904
- Smith & Wesson 3913
- Smith & Wesson 3914
- Smith & Wesson 4006 TSW (Round Trigger Guard)
- Smith & Wesson 4053
- Smith & Wesson 4506 Round Trigger Guard
- Smith & Wesson 4566TSW
- Smith & Wesson 5906 Square Trigger Guard
- Smith & Wesson 5943
- Smith & Wesson 6904 Square Trigger Guard
- Smith & Wesson 6906 Round Trigger Guard
- Smith & Wesson SD40VE
- Smith & Wesson SD9VE
- Smith & Wesson SW40C
- Smith & Wesson SW40F
- Smith & Wesson SW40V
- Smith & Wesson SW40VE
- Smith & Wesson SW9C
- Smith & Wesson SW9E
- Smith & Wesson SW9F - 4.5"
- Smith & Wesson SW9G
- Smith & Wesson SW9VE
- Smith & Wesson SW9V
- Smith & Wesson SW99 (cal 9mm)
- Smith & Wesson SW99 Compact
- Smith & Wesson Model 342 - 1.87"
- Smith & Wesson Model 581 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 38 - 1.9"
- Smith & Wesson Chief Special - 2"
- Smith & Wesson Model 31 - 2"
- Smith & Wesson Model 33 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Model 34 - 2"
- Smith & Wesson Model 36 - 2"
- Smith & Wesson Model 37 - 2"
- Smith & Wesson Model 40 - 2"
- Smith & Wesson Model 42 - 2"
- Smith & Wesson Model 43 C - 2"
- Smith & Wesson Model 60 - 3"
- Smith & Wesson Model 63 - 3"
- Smith & Wesson Model 317 Kit Gun - 3"
- Smith & Wesson Model 340 PD - 2"
- Smith & Wesson Model 350 - 7.5"
- Smith & Wesson Model 351 PD - 2"
- Smith & Wesson Model 360 PD - 2"
- Smith & Wesson Model 432 PD - 2"
- Smith & Wesson Model 437 FDE - 2"
- Smith & Wesson Model 442 - 2"
- Smith & Wesson Model 632 - 2"
- Smith & Wesson Model 637 - 2"
- Smith & Wesson Model 640 - 2"
- Smith & Wesson Model 940 - 2"
- Smith & Wesson Model M&P340 - 2"
- Smith & Wesson Model M&P360 - 2"
- Smith & Wesson Model K-22 6"
- Smith & Wesson Model 10 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Model 11 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Model 12 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Model 13 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Model 14 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Model 15 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Model 16 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Model 17 - 6"
- Smith & Wesson Model 18 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Model 19 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Model 48 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Model 64 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Governor - 2.75"
- Smith & Wesson Model 65 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Model 66 - 4.25"
- Smith & Wesson Model 67 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Model 68 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Model 617 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Model 69 - 4.25"
- Smith & Wesson Model 386 - 2.5"
- Smith & Wesson Model 396 - 3"
- Smith & Wesson Model 586 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Model 619 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Model 620 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Model 681 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Model 686 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Model 686 Plus - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Model 986 - 5"
- Smith & Wesson Model 21 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Model 22 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Model 24 - 6.5"
- Smith & Wesson Model 25 - 6.5"
- Smith & Wesson Model 27 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Model 28 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Model 29 - 6.5"
- Smith & Wesson Model 57 - 6"
- Smith & Wesson Model 58 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Model 325 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Model 327 - 2"
- Smith & Wesson Model 327 TRR8 - 5"
- Smith & Wesson Model 329 Night Guard - 2.5"
- Smith & Wesson Model 329 PD - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Model 357 Night Guard - 2.5"
- Smith & Wesson Model 460V - 5"
- Smith & Wesson Model 610 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Model 625 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Model 627 - 2.6"
- Smith & Wesson Model 627 - 5"
- Smith & Wesson Model 629 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Model 629 - Stealth Hunter 7.5"
- Smith & Wesson Model 657 - 2.6"
- Smith & Wesson Model M&P R8 - 5"
- Smith & Wesson Model 500 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Model 585 - 6"
Best Gun Holster Accessories
Choose the right accessories below that will enhance your carry. Don't forget that a proper magazine pouch, a belt or a concealed carry bag are always good choices.

MAGAZINE
POUCHES
Get yourself a custom mag pouch or speedloader pouch. Because there is never "enough ammo" right?
See Magazine Pouches
GUN BELTS
A solid and stable gun belt is what you need to prevent your holster and the rest of your EDC from sagging.
See Gun Belts
care kits
Don't forget to get yourself a handy kit that contains everything you need to make sure your holster will last you a lifetime.
See Care Kits