Would it be accurate to say

[SoonerSP101]

that the

637
http://www.smith-wesson.com/webapp/...selected=tech&isFirearm=Y&parent_category_rn=


638
http://www.smith-wesson.com/webapp/...selected=tech&isFirearm=Y&parent_category_rn=


642
http://www.smith-wesson.com/webapp/...selected=tech&isFirearm=Y&parent_category_rn=


Are all the same gun with the hammer style being the difference? Small Chiefs Special Style, Bodyguard Style, and Centennial Style respectively?

 

[22-rimfire]

They are all J-frames, hence other than materials and perhaps some embellishment, they are the same guns. They are all light weight frames. For a change, you would look at the same sized gun with a steel frame which would make it heavier and probably more comfortable to shoot.

 

[SoonerSP101]

So one could get a 642 in the exposed hammer to have SA/DA?

It seams they all have the same weight, same materials, same price, overall length, same barrel length, etc. Seems the hammer style is the only difference. Am I missing something?

 

[don95sml]

If there is an exposed hammer (even a very small one), it will be DA/SA. The all steel version is the model 60.

 

[PennsyPlinker]

I think so. I have owned versions of all three. To be specific, I had a Taurus CIA (carry it anywhere) in DAO. Then I had a Taurus Totally Titanium with a fully exposed hammer. I finally settled on the S&W 638-2 as the best of both worlds. I can shoot it DA or SA, and it covers enough of the hammer that snagging it while pulling it from my pocket holster is a non issue.

 

[jt1]

SoonerSP101 - The three in your OP are the are the same gun with different hammer configurations. If you are planing to use as a CCW the 642 is the way to go IMO.

 

[ArchAngelCD]

Yes, basically they are the same guns but on different frames as you pointed out.

So one could get a 642 in the exposed hammer to have SA/DA?

A M642 with an exposed hammer is a M637.

BUT..... A M638 is a thing of beauty!! (IMO of course) No matter what shoes it's wearing...

 

[PennsyPlinker]

Yeah, I forgot to add that our oldest daughter settled on a 638 for her 21st birthday earlier this year, after shooting it (and a bunch of my other guns growing up).

 

[Ala Dan]

Don't forget about the re-introduction of the all steel model 36 from S&W.
Its in their "classic" series, with color case hardened frame, blued barrel,
and laser etched diamond wooden grips, and has a smooth "combat type
trigger". Beware, its kind'a pricey; but very nice- and probably would be
much easier to shoot comfortably~!

 

[SoonerSP101]

Thanks all. That does clear things up for me. I appreciate it. I like the M637 then I suppose because I want the exposed hammer.

I HAVE been looking at that M36 that's been reintroduced in the "Classics" and it's rated for +P now so the FBI Load would be fine in it. YES! But $529 versus $711 is .........

 

[jt1]

YES! But $529 versus $711 is .........

SoonerSP101 - You don't pay the list price. I just bought a 442 (a black 642) for $350.00 OTD. They had the 637/638/642 all listed at $399.00 and the new M36 listed at 559.00. They wanted $399.00 for the 442 as well, but a little dealing resulted in the $350.00 OTD price.

 

[SDG]

I may be willing to part with my 637-2 it is LNIB - perfect condition and original everything.

I'm in Tulsa.

Send me a PM if interested.

 

[still442]

The 642 in all-steel is the 640. And it is far more comfortable (for me) to shoot.

 

[ArchAngelCD]

Thanks all. That does clear things up for me. I appreciate it. I like the M637 then I suppose because I want the exposed hammer.

SoonerSP101,
Do you really want an exposed hammer or do you just want the ability to shoot SA? If you want the ability to shoot SA then look at the last two pictures of my M638. You will see the hammer is there and can be use yet it won't snag when drawn. IMO it's the best of both worlds.

 

[SoonerSP101]

I want the exposed hammer because I would like the one extra step to get someone's attention who's intent on killing me the option to see me cock the gun and maybe stop their intent before I had to end their life. I've made it 40 years without hurting anyone and look forward to 40 more. Don't get me wrong, I will defend my life no questions asked.

 

[Pistol Toter]

Well by looking at your handle "SoonerSP101", one would assume that you have a Ruger SP101. If that be the case, you've already got as good as it gets. While I collect S&W's, I have and continue to carry a Ruger 2.25" SP101 .357. Off course do as you wish. Just MHO. P.T.

 

[SoonerSP101]

Yes, I have the 2.25" SP101 .357 with exposed hammer SA/DA. I load it with Remington Golden Saber 125 grain hollow points. I'm getting the itch to try that Speer 135 grain "Short Barrel" Gold Dot.

I recently had a 1970 NIB Model 36 fall in my lap. Really don't want to fire it because it never has been fired. BUT, that is not me. I would never get a hammer and not drive a nail with it. Problem is it isn't rated for +P and I have a train load of Remington 158 grain LSWC-HP +P. So, I thought about joining the 642 club but want an exposed hammer like on my SP101.