Well, I've got a bunch of J-frames, all centennials and exposed hammer models, in various barrel lengths. Most recent addition to the collection is a 60-3 3" factory DAO # 102320. But I don't really have the in-betweener bodyguard frame style.

Perhaps someone can convince me why I need one. It will be an older gun for sure. Maybe a 649. Maybe an M38...or?

Thanks in advance...

Because you don’t have one. And another gun is always a good thing. ;-)

__________________
Keep Up The Fire!!

Get the M-649. Stainless, and more durable than a M-38 with light alloy frame.

I MUCH prefer the Bodyguard to the DA-only Centennial. I want the option of carefully aimed SA fire. Think snake head at 10 or more yards. Think rabbit or hare at 20 yards. Think opponent behind cover, exposing himself only marginally.

I totally agree with Texas Star. The M-649 is my most favorite J-Frame and my most carried. It usually travels in my pocket but I have a variety of holsters for different conditions and clothing choices.

I EDC a 49 (no dash). IF I have pant or shorts on, I"M carrying! I own a LCR 38, it has slightly more bulk. I owned a 638, the rubber grips, lock and lessor workmanship made it feel like a toy in my hand.

But Texas Star's point about precision aimed single action fire is absolutely true. IN my farm house, I waged a 32 year war with raccoons, I trapped, shot, bow and arrowed, and speared hundreds! Like all real life situations, nothing waits while you go get you handgun! I had raccoons look down on me from the third story gutters, from the crotch of over hanging branches, and out barn windows! This is the only snub nose that I trust for those critical shots! You don't want to miss an almost straight up shot, You'll punch a hole in your house or have a bullet come down exactly where you don't want it!

I've moved to town now, and bicycle about 40-50 miles a week for exercise. Dogs that want to taste my blood abound! I haven't had to shoot any, but almost twice! Also bicycling, the difference in the weight is unnoticeable when going from the 49 to a lighter gun!

After 6 years of constant carry, I never notice the gun being there, just when it isn't!

Ivan

The finest pocket pistol ever made is the M38, followed closely by the M49 IMHO.

I much prefer the older guns (eg M38) to the newer (eg: M638).

The newer guns are built on the slightly larger frame, which makes them clunky compared to the svelte older guns.

A Tyler t grip with original magnas on a M38 or 49 make these guns manageable without wrecking their concealability the way most rubber/oversized grips do.

My EDC is a Model 38-0 and a Model 638-1. My winter coat pocket carry is a Model 649-0. Yeah, I'm a humpback junkie. I carry standard velocity ammo in mine, and the Model 38-0 and 638-0 wear CT LG-405 laser grips while the Model 649-0 wears CT LG-105 grips.

Good luck,

Dave

Attached Images

Model 649 & 638.jpg (2.0 KB, 185 views)

i carry a 638...carries good...shoots good...reasonable price now. Easy to operate in S/A. Recommend one.

Some people are big fans of the Bodyguard. Personally I am not. However, I do love my J-frames
If I am going to carry in a manner that snagging is a concern I carry a Centennial.
If I am going to holster carry where snagging is a non-issue, I carry a Chief's Special or preferably a Chief's Special Target .
I have numerous examples of each design. Blue steel, stainless, alloy, etc.

However, I do consider myself a collector so I do own one but only one Bodyguard.

Originally I had a 357 Magnum version. Then I fell into a deal for this pretty one and sold off the 357 version
If you consider yourself a collector, that should be reason enough to own one.

__________________
Only difference Fool/Mule-ears

I carried a Model 38 for years but needed something lighter so I picked up a no lock 340PD. Not much fun on the range (hand still sore from shooting yesterday) but very easy to carry.

__________________
Old Cop
LEO (Ret.)

If it's good enough for General Loan it ought to be good enough for you. It is for me.

Saigon execution: Murder of a Vietcong by Saigon Police Chief, 1968

__________________
Forum consigliere

Just never have been comfortable with giving up
the option for SA.

638, and Lobo leather, this one now wears Crimson Trace
grips, they are the answer to old eye's and keeping the speed.

Attached Images

	001.JPG (83.4 KB, 28 views)
	002.JPG (84.6 KB, 36 views)

Don't buy one.
If you don't there will be more left for me.

All my snubbies get Speer Gold Dot Short Barrel 135gr +P for SD and target loads for practice.

This is my wife's. She classifies it as "cute".

Attached Images

IMG_0222.jpg (116.8 KB, 24 views)

You need one. It may become your best friend. Mine goes with me almost everywhere.....
A Mika pocket holster makes that possible.
The 49 below got an early retirement when the 649 followed me home.

DSCF3830.jpg

Well, I am going to have to check with the management of this forum. Purchasing any firearm beyond the first one based on need alone is probably grounds for some form of major infraction.

It is obvious you need guidance here. I am sure the level heads associated with this site will offer the necessary help.

Remember need is not a consideration. Pride of ownership is!

Just Kidding of course

__________________
Pete
I ain't no fortunate son