Close enough.Not a Model 38, but I carried this 649 today:
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The modern guns with totally enclosed hammers ('hammerless'), the 442, 642, etc have been christened 'Centennials' by S&W, in recognition of the predecessor you mentioned.I had one for about a year, and to be honest, I could not wait to get rid of it.
First, the shroud would constantly collect lint and required frequent cleaning.
But more important, the temptation to use the weapon in single action was always there. And de-cocking that weapon is clearly more dangerous than almost any other revolver. Especially in a self defense situation where the stress levels are high.
I traded it in for a fully shrouded bodyguard. I think these were called "Centennials" and not "Bodyguards" at that time.
The modern guns with totally enclosed hammers ('hammerless'), the 442, 642, etc have been christened 'Centennials' by S&W, in recognition of the predecessor you mentioned.
Lint in the hammer channel has not been an issue when I shoot; the hammer wipes it out. Because I practice DA, I honestly forget about the SA ability!
I carried a Centennial for a while, and traded it for my Bodyguard. No doubt you have noticed this, but the trigger stages nicely as the hammer comes back to full-cock. With practice, this can be used like SA for longer shots, if you wish.
Re: the black front sight I use a dollop of white appliance touch-up paint. It really makes the front sight "pop" when looking for flash sight picture.