Model 38 Bodyguard Airweight Date/Condition

[2ndAmendmentLeftist]

Hey y'all!

My grandfather passed away recently, and I'm looking to find an approximate date range for his EDC pistol. It's a Model 38 Bodyguard Airweight with what used to be nickel plating I believe It's been heavily used and I'd also like to know what y'all would classify as its condition.

Appreciate the help!

[Pine_Worker]

I would guess 1983, and I would call it fair condition. Be sure to check for a cracked frame.

[2ndAmendmentLeftist]

Originally Posted by Pine_Worker

I would guess 1983, and I would call it fair condition. Be sure to check for a cracked frame.

Much appreciated! I took it to the range and put 30 rounds through it with no issues, but do you have any tips for what I should look for/common problem areas? I'm used to rifles and semi auto pistols, this is the first revolver I've owned.

[Pine_Worker]

First I would check for a cracked frame where the barrel screws into the frame at the yoke cut-out. Check for excessive gap at the barrel to cylinder gap and the cylinder to recoil plate. Check for excessive end shake. Check to see the cylinder locks in place when cocked. I recommend you get a copy of Jerry Kuhnhausens S&W shop manual. Lot of good info there.

[kaaskop49]

I'm known on this forum for always "calling in the cavalry." I would take Grand-dad's gun to a gunsmith and have it examined professionally. The gun's condition calls for servicing and cleaning, IMO. And I enthusiastically support the above caveats. Also, whatever condition, I would restrict ammunition to standard pressure wadcutters and service-style loads. And if I may inject a personal note, I wouldn't sell this gun. So much history. And snubs often come in handy.

Kaaskop49
Shield #5103

[2ndAmendmentLeftist]

Originally Posted by kaaskop49

I'm known on this forum for always "calling in the cavalry." I would take Grand-dad's gun to a gunsmith and have it examined professionally. The gun's condition calls for servicing and cleaning, IMO. And I enthusiastically support the above caveats. Also, whatever condition, I would restrict ammunition to standard pressure wadcutters and service-style loads. And if I may inject a personal note, I wouldn't sell this gun. So much history. And snubs often come in handy.

Kaaskop49
Shield #5103

Oh I ain't selling. The idea is to use it for open carry until Northam ruins that too. It's not worth that much money anyway, and it's something to remember the old man by

I've got an appointment lined up next week to have a 30-30 with a cracked stock and a muzzleloader looked at, I'll bring it along too. Thanks!

[VictorLouis]

There's an unheralded advantage to workhorses like that.

When you've got it pointed at the perp..

. and the cop yells for YOU to DROP IT!

....you're far less likely to pause/flinch at the thought.

[Threadkiller]

That gun should have great sentimental value considering the amount of time it had to have ridden in Gramps pocket to get that much character.

For this reason alone if it were mine I would retire it and only shoot it on special occasions with mild target ammo.

You can pick up air weights on the used market cheap if you really want one for carry,personally if I am gonna open carry it’s gonna be a full size handgun.