S&W Model 042?

The 042 predates the production 442. The parts for these were intended for early production 642, but were rejected for cosmetic reasons. One of the big gripes was that the color of the clear-coat annodized aluminum frames did not match up suitably to the stainless steel parts. (Clearly, S&W backed off of this in later production lots of the 642.) Someone got the bright idea to refinish the surplus aluminum frames and stainless parts in black, and voila, the 042 was born.
 
Yep, pretty much what Dan said.

The 042 is apparently the only Airweight S&W not so marked.

It also has the serial number laser etched underneath the backstrap.

I took mine with me this evening when walking the dogs.
 
Are the steel parts actually stainless? I picked up one of these not long ago that is a real beauty. High polished finish like they used to make 'em and a sweet action.
 
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