So the smith I bought is now going to my mom. Apex kit going in. Probably going with the Hornady light recoil ammo.

What are some good grips to make the gun more comfortable without adding too much bulk?

Crimson Trace?

Probably a Hogue or Pachmayer rubber grip would be your best bet. They have a couple of models to choose from.

The Crimson Trace LG-405 lasergrips don't add much bulk and have extra rubber cushioning at the top of the backstrap under the web of your hand. Outside of lasergrips or oversize grips that completely cover the backstrap, I like the old Uncle Mike's rubber grips the best followed by the current OEM factory rubber boot grips.

Crimson Trace LG-405



Uncle Mike's

I like the original Uncle Mike's rubber boot grips that came on my 638 in ~2002.

I have tried Eagle Secret Service grips, but could not get and maintain a good grip on them when firing.

A 442 is quite a snappy gun, are you sure she can handle something like that?

It’s not something you normally give someone who is new to guns.

I don’t know if Hogue makes their Tamer grip for the 442 but they come standard on the Ruger LCR and it’s clearly more comfortable to shoot than the 442 with its stock grip. I’ve owned a 442 and fired the LCR several times and noted this.

ETA: it does look like Hogue makes one for the 442

Uncle Mike's 59007 J-Frame Grip. No longer made, but sought after by folks preferring function to form. They're relatively easy to find used in excellent condition for ~$30. They are a full hand grip though, so they add a little size from the concealment standpoint.

I have Tamer grips on my 340. Helps a lot.

Pachmayr came out with this, this year. it's hard plastic, however it's got an auto deploying pinky grip that I understand does great to tame the gun.

I will second the Crimson Trace suggestion. I have a set on my 642 and it does make a difference.

I know it's an additional expense, but it might be a better idea to go with a larger revolver. Get a full sized 38 or even 357 and load it with 38's. My 686 with 38's feels like I'm shooting a 22.

Does your mom shoot a lot?

The 442 is not an easy gun for a novice to shoot.

Pachmayr Compacs (the kind that cover the backstrap) would be where I would start.

A S&W 60-15 is a much easier gun for a mom to handle.

Skip the "low recoil" ammo and use Winchester 148gr full wadcutters. Lighter on recoil and have enough penetration to actually do the job.

Have owned alot of the little J frames over the years. Each 4-5 oz. makes a big difference in these little guns.

A grip that covers the backstrap is best. The Hogue Tamer grip above is the absolute best with respect to control, comfort and recoil absorption. Second choice is the Pachmayr compact grip that cover the backstrap as it will add about 3 oz to the gun.

Lastly your ammo choice. The absolute mildest is Fiocchi 148 Gr wadcutter. I think it in about 700 FPS or less even.

Good luck, let us know how it goes!

Dave

I'll third the Crimson Trace LG-405 suggestion.

The pocket on top of the backstrap makes it a bit more comfortable to shoot.
The laser is an added bonus.