Interest in an early Bodyguard M38

Artyldr01 · Mar 12, 2017

Good afternoon,

I am looking at two Bodyguards. One made around 1988, non pinned non-diamond grips, BBA41##. I am awaiting more photos.

The second, I have less info in but from what I can see it is pinned and had diamond grips, which I understand ended in 1968. Can anyone point me to a good list of the features, changes and dates throughout the life of the Bodyguard/M38/M49 family of gun?

The earlier one is listed at $350, the later $375. I'm thinking both prices seem really good these days so I may try to swing both, though I believe neither has the box or any accessories.

If you had to choose which would you and why? I am a collector and a shooter and just acquired my first j-frame, a beautiful 640 from around 1990, but I really want a Bodyguard. I don't need both but I am rapidly seeing how addictive they can be!

I am awaiting photos or information from the sellers and will post as soon as I get them.

Thank you for any information, recommendations, pointers or warnings.

AZretired · Mar 12, 2017

Both seem like a good deal and both should be shot with non +P ammo, but I would prefer the pinned model.

Artyldr01 · Mar 12, 2017

AZretired said:
Both seem like a good deal and both should be shot with non +P ammo, but I would prefer the pinned model.

I appreciate the info. I hadn't thought about the +P question. So, even the newer one isn't recommended for +P? Is this due to age or the "airweight" nature and age?

Artyldr01 · Mar 12, 2017

Here are photos of the two Bodyguards I am looking at. The red background is the earlier pinned gun, the decking background is the later model.

UNCLE PAULY · Mar 12, 2017

I own a 1957 model 38 no dash and a modern model 649.

One important thing to look for in the M38 is cracks in the frame below the barrel around the joke.

I only shoot target load 38 spl out of the M38 to be safe, but could handle self defense ammo (not +p).

The 649 is a great CCW, handling any load.

Artyldr01 · Mar 12, 2017

I just picked up a beautiful 640 Centennial but it is a bit heavy, and i do like the shrouded hammer and SA/DA option, so I figure the 38 is the best way to go. I would look at also getting a new 638 but have decided I just don't like the internal lock, whether it is warranted or not. I don't carry anything in my pocket with any pocket carry so I'm not worried about anything interfering with the operation.

I'll definitely look at the 649 as well!

UNCLE PAULY · Mar 13, 2017

Artyldr01 said:
I just picked up a beautiful 640 Centennial but it is a bit heavy, and i do like the shrouded hammer and SA/DA option, so I figure the 38 is the best way to go. I would look at also getting a new 638 but have decided I just don't like the internal lock, whether it is warranted or not. I don't carry anything in my pocket with any pocket carry so I'm not worried about anything interfering with the operation.

I'll definitely look at the 649 as well!

I dislike the internal lock also and have removed it from my 649 and 686 revolvers. Replaced lock with "the Plug" although there is no functional reason to use the plug, especially in the 638 / 649. Could just remove the entire internal lock and leave the hole open. My other revolvers are pre-lock guns.

two-bit cowboy · Mar 13, 2017

Here's my pair o' 38s from 1976. Their serial numbers are less than 1,200 numbers apart. They're ANIB with perfect boxes, tools, and factory paper. $403 each, out the door, recently.

Best of luck with your decision.

Bob

Engine49guy · Mar 13, 2017

From the pics posted it appears that the newer Model 38 is in slightly better cosmetic shape which would suggest it has slightly less "Mileage".

That being said the older one has the neat "High Horn" diamond Magnas that are unique to the 50's / 60's era Bodyguard, While the picture doesnt show it Im guessing it also has the 3rd style flat latch like the one posted by Uncle Pauly.

In reality if its going to see daily carry use they are IMO equals mechanically unless the newer one has the new Yoke retention screw which although I cant quite make it out in your pics was introduced in 1988 in the 38-1 revision so you might wanna check if its a 38-1 in which case it gets the slight mechanical advantage.

At those prices you really cant go wrong with either but the older gun with diamonds would be my choice if I had to pick....unless the other is a 38-1 and you dont care about its vintage .....then again....DOH Just get them both and problem solved !

Artyldr01 · Mar 14, 2017

Well, the newer gun sold locally and I haven't heard from the second seller...The Hunt continues.

charlie sherrill · Mar 14, 2017

I've got one I acquired over 40 years ago. It was previously owned by an old school detective and got him out of a bad situation back in 1971. I've had it sionce 72. It was loaded with reverse wadcutters at the time and the guy on the receiving end has not been with us for a long time. It's got a Tyler T grip and a trigger shoe. I left it as I got it. It still shoots very well with the softer 158 grain lead cartridges. I occasionally carry it with reverse wadcutters just for old times sake.

Interest in an early Bodyguard M38

Artyldr01

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UNCLE PAULY

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two-bit cowboy

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