[Pics] S&W 438 Snubby - 2009's are out

[NCBeagle]

The 2009 Smith’s are finally hitting the stores. This evening I picked up the new S&W 438 Bodyguard .38 + P. According to the paperwork…it was born on March 12, 2009. This is the 638 Bodyguard with the 442’s matte black finish. I noticed that it has a stainless barrel like the 642 and the recent run of no-lock 442s. I do not know if the cylinder is stainless, but don’t think that it is.

The 438 did not come with the Uncle Mike’s boot grip / stock which has been a J-Frame standard for the past few years. I understand that the contract ran out and another company supplies the stocks. The grip is comfortable, but requires something like an Allen wrench to remove. I need to search for an Allen wrench because I always remove rubber stocks and replace them with classic wood and a Tyler T-Grip.

The fit an finish is very good. I prefer the matte black finish to anything S&W produces these days, “Classic” models excluded. I put 50 rounds (158 gr. LSWCHP) down range to point of aim. The action is smooth. I am glad to add this bodyguard model to my collection / carry rotation. It will go in the pocket when it gets wood and T-Grip.




A sleepy beagle is awakened for her traditional new gun photo. She does not appear impressed with the 438...but beagles have no interest in non-hunting firearms.

 

[Jim E]

Nice purchase! I just picked up a new no-lock 442 yesterday. I've been looking for one for a while. I really like the new Smith grips. I have two '90s vintage 642s with the UM Boot Grip, and I like the new ones better.

I hadn't bought a new S&W revolver since they started with the lock, although I'd been tempted many times. That 438 looks great in black. Congrats!

I didn't know the barrels were stainless. Where did you learn this?

 

[NCBeagle]

If you look on the underside of the barrel....it will have an "s". Check out your no-lock 442.


Here is mine. On the bottom...

 

[ohio]

My wife just picked up a new 438 today. She ordered it last Wednesday and the Born on Date is March 5 2009. I just read some were the other night that the Hammer and Trigger are MIM parts?....

 

[ohio]

The fit and finish are very nice. The trigger is smooth for a new gun but the DA is very long and heavy. The SA is just right. I am thinking the DA, SA for practice will help my wife since this is my wifes first gun. I hope she wont get that flinch from the SA at the range. We will go to the range Friday. How is the accuracy at say 10-15 feet? I am new to revolvers and am not sure I got the DA SA down yet sorry. How do you like the holster and what do you think will work well in a purse? thx.

 

[ArchAngelCD]

My favorite J frame is the Bodyguard frame. I own a M638 but I like the Blue/Black revolvers better. I bought a M642 last year when they came out but didn't know the M442 was coming out with no lock or I would have waited for the M442. I wish I could have bought both but I just can't swing the price.

Very nice revolver, I'm sure your wife will enjoy it. S&W Airweight revolvers are very easy to carry.

 

[NCBeagle]

UPDATE: Here is the M438 with a proper wooden stocks and Tyler T-Grip. Also pictured, a nickel Model 38 and a Model 638 (no dash).









Here is the M438 with the optional "tactical" package...

 

[mbr]

Can I get a pic rail on that tactical package?

 

[NCBeagle]

Only a very small rail...