Oldschool shooter
Member
I have a S&W 638 that I use for EDC. Can anyone tell meif it is possible to change out the MIM parts for good sterl parts fromone of the older model revolvers?
I'm old enough that when somebody says Model 19, I think of the S&W Combat Magnum.1000 trouble free rounds, I would venture your 638 is good to go!
A good point above about hand fitting. And sadly, I know, older isn't always better. My gunsmith said he has seen more forged parts fail then mim. Mim is so controlled maybe it removes some of the human error, problems in the forgings etc.
I think it just depends on the mim, the forge, the specific part and what stress it is under.
I know, I like forged too. Just sounds stronger and I picture Conan the barbarians father hammering out parts on his forge while solving the riddle of steel.
But mim gets the job done and is here to stay. I'd keep an eye out for an old Smith to turn up. They are still out there. I bet there is one being traded right now for a mim filled gen 5 glock 19 right now.
Forgot to mention, I do have a nice model 36-2, not as snag free as the 638, but a great revolver. Also have a slightly larger 57 vintage Colt Detective Special.
Beautiful 649. A friend has one and it's a great little revolver. While I wouldn't hesitate to use one for carry, the weight of the 638 is definitely an advantage for EDC.Oldschool shooter
I have both an all stainless Model 649 and an aluminum alloy framed Model 638. Biggest difference between them is that the Model 638 is lighter in weight and a little more comfortable to carry for long periods of time. The Model 638 in particular is extremely well built and has a surprisingly smooth DA trigger on it, right out of the box. I have no doubt both will provide me with many more years of dependable service without the need for any replacement of parts.
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