A little background: I've been shooting and carrying a G17 for quite some time. I've become quite proficient with it, malfunctions clearing, reloads, the works, all happen without a hitch. I'm not the fastest in the world, but I am confident in my ability to run the gun.

I've recently taken a job where I will have a lot of trouble concealing such a large firearm, as I have to dress in issued shirts. IWB carry is possible, but with our issued polo shirts, probably not the most concealable option. Due to this, I picked up a Smith 642 Airweight for pocket and belly-band carry. It blends into my dress admirably and is invisible. I want to have something on me, and the Airweight is about as small as I was willing to go, and I figured a small revolver would be more reliable than a tiny automatic.

My trouble comes in when trying to shoot the Airweight to the same level of proficiency that I previously shot my G17. The long DAO trigger is reeking havoc on my accuracy and speed. The different shape leaves me awkwardly searching for a place to rest my support hand. I've taken to shooting a thumbs down grip, but I haven't done it enough to get consistent with it.

Any tips from more experienced shooters, maybe links to videos, would be highly appreciated. I plan on getting an instructor I know to show me some things but any information I can gather here would be very much appreciated.

Yes.

THUMBS DOWN!

Keeping thumb away from front of cylinder is a must. This is a self correcting error, as in you will only do it once. Learn to stage the trigger - take up the travel quickly, stage the last bit then break the shot. I learned to do this by pulling the trigger with the crease of the first knuckle. When the tip of my finger contacts the rear area of the trigger guard/grip I know I am fully staged and ready to press the shot. Sorry I can't explain it better. I guess it needs a video. It is the same way I learned to shoot the M92/M9 and Sig DA/SA.

Practice your trigger pull, it will come.
Good luck.