I picked up a new model 438, have had the 638 and 649 for years and wanted to complete the set, per se. Also wanted to carry a black revolver for a while (wish it was blued... oh well).

So I was going to stone the action a little, I always disassemble and clean stuff anyway, but I can't get the rear most plate screw out. The one under the grip.
I can't get it to budge, like it's welded in or something. To the point that I think I've widened the screw slot a little. Don't want to continue along those lines and totally strip it out.

Any suggestions? They're such small screws, it'd be easy to really tear one up.

Thanks in advance.

Do you have the Exact right size screwdriver?
If not, then get one first and a new screw while youre at it. PB blaster soak, overtighten it a smidge then try backing it out again or tapping on the screwdriver with a brass mallet while loosening. I’ve needed to replace a screw ir two as well to keep it factory fresh looking. No harm no foul.
Would I try this on an older SW? No way

Someone may have used lock tight at one time. Find the procedure to reverse the effects of Loctite . Just a possibility .

__________________
Two Handguns every day

Yeah, my first thought was lock tite too..... but that means someone would've been in there at some point.

I'm not sure if I have the exact size, is there one listed in the armorers book? Or does someone know it?
Just checking, thx again for all the answers.

Also, it's brand new, no one should have been in it. Hopefully...

Hollow ground screwdriver in the correct size for the slot. Always use a gunsmith's screwdriver when working on guns.

+1 on the correct hollow ground screw driver. Since you said new I don't see how it would be Lock Tite .

I hesitate to suggest this, But if all else fails including penetrating oil . If you feel it is Lock Tite,sometimes the CAREFUL use of a soldering iron on the screw head will warm it just enough to break it free.

If it damages it further you didn't hear it from me