Internal Locking Mechanism
Most Smith & Wesson revolvers have been equipped with an internal locking mechanism since the acquisition by Saf-T-Hammer. The mechanism is relatively unobtrusive, is activated with a special key, and renders the firearm inoperable. While the lock can simply be left disengaged, some gun enthusiasts prefer "pre-lock" guns. Smith & Wesson has repeatedly stated that the locking mechanism does not affect reliability, although several cases have been documented.
Smith & Wesson announced in March, 2009, that it would begin phasing the internal lock out of its revolver lineup. Smith and Wesson is now producing the original model 442 and 642 without the internal lock.
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