CADRE Dispatch

S&W Expands Ultimate Carry J-Frame Lineup: CADRE NEWS

Cory Ross

The Ultimate Carry revolver is a neat firearm. At its core, it’s a small-frame revolver designed for concealed carry. Simple enough, right? But it’s more than that.

In 2024, Smith & Wesson partnered with Lipsey’s to introduce the model 432 & 632 UC. These wheel guns were chambered in .32 H&R Magnum (and later, .38 Special models were released under the Ultimate Carry banner), offering six rounds of capacity instead of the typical five. They featured XS Sights, VZ G10 grips, and a tuned action (check out this review of the 432 UC).

The popularity and demand have been so high that Smith and Lipsey teamed up again to expand the Ultimate Carry lineup.

SPECS

The new models include updated 442 and 632 chambered in .32 H&R Magnum, as well as the 442 and 642 chambered in .38 Special. Where these differ compared to their predecessor is the switch to the “newly designed Smith & Wesson enhanced J-Frame synthetic boot grip” in place of the VZ G10 grip. This is primarily to help with costs (the previous model has an MSRP of $759). The standard specs are as follows:

  • Model(s): 632 & 432, 642 & 442
  • Caliber:  32 H&R Magnum, 38 Special
  • Capacity: 6, 5
  • Sights: XS Sights Yellow Tritium front and black dovetail u-notch rear
  • Optic Cut: No
  • Barrel Length: 1.88”
  • Overall Length:
  • Width: 1.3”
  • Height: 4.3”
  • Weight: 15.6 oz., 15.3 oz.
  • Price: $679 MSRP (for all models)
Top view of Smith & Wesson 632 featuring XS sights.
You don’t often see snub-nose revolvers with actual sights. These are from XS Sights. (Photo Credit: S&W)

FEATURES

Built for everyday self-defense, these J-Frames offer a balance between lightweight carry and practical performance. The .32 H&R Magnum Models 432-UC and 632-UC have a 6-round capacity, a 1.88″ stainless steel barrel, an aluminum alloy frame, and weigh 15.6 ounces.

If 32 H&R doesn’t interest you, then choose the .38 Special versions, the 442-UC and 642-UC. These share the same barrel and frame but have a 5-round capacity and are slightly lighter at 15.3 ounces.

Finish options include all-black (432/442) or matte stainless (632/642). All four are no-lock guns featuring the enhanced Endurance Package, chamfered fluted cylinders, XS Yellow Tritium front sights, u-notch rear sights, and the new enhanced J-Frame synthetic boot grip for better recoil control and grip.

S&W 442 in 38 Special Side View.
The new 442-UC features a black finish, new synthetic boot grips, XS Sights, and an action job. (Photo Credit: S&W)

Zooming Out                 

The Ultimate Carry line showcases Smith & Wesson’s refinement of the J-Frame for modern concealed carry. Trusted calibers, upgraded sights, and improved grips provide practical performance without gimmicks. It’s a thoughtful evolution of a classic revolver, built to be carried daily and trusted when it matters most.

I already have a 632-UC, and I’m a big fan. I’m happy to see that Smith & Wesson has continued the line.

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