I really like my 438, it's pretty much the perfect handgun in my opinion. I removed the lock and plugged it, and it looks and functions fine, but...

I've been wondering if S&W ever produced a 438 w/o an internal lock? If so, I'll be on the hunt for one.

i have a 638 without the lock

No, I don't think they ever did.

But it wouldn't be that hard to put one together. Get a no-lock M38-3 and fit a blackened stainless cylinder to it. The -3 was built on the J-magnum frame and is +P rated.

Or just get a M38-3 and leave it alone. Not many -3's were made because S&W ceased production of all standard production blued guns in the '90's. Not long after the -3 came out.

What's the attraction of a blackened stainless cylinder? Carbon steel is the stronger metal.

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~ S&W aficionado in training ~

Yup they sure did, regrettably I got rid of mine years ago!! It was Matte blue, just recently bought a current 438 with a stupid lock. However it has sweet trigger which is somewhat redeeming.

What was the Product Code?

The current Model 438, with the lock, is a no-dash. Meaning there was no version before it. No version made without the lock.

There never was a no-lock Model 438.

__________________
~ S&W aficionado in training ~

I wasn't aware of the 38-3 - that would work for me if it was +P rated. I see a few Model 38s on GB, but haven't seen a -3. I'll keep an eye out for one now.

The SCoSW says they exist, but I've never seen one either. The window in time between the introduction of the J-magnum frame and the phase out of blued guns was only a year or two. Good luck in your search.

You could find a M638-2 and have it coated with a high tech black finish. Probably cheaper when you consider your time, gas, and wear & tear looking for that elusive -3.

Anything on the J-magnum frame is good for +P. However, extensive use of it in any small revolver is going to accelerate wear.

__________________
~ S&W aficionado in training ~

Yeah, I could have a lockless 638 coated... but searching for a Model 38-3 gives me something to look for. Knowing they're rare will make it all the better if/when I come across one. Thanks for the info.