637 good or bad?

[chiefinspector]

I have been kicking around the idea that I need snub nose 38 in my collection. I really like the looks of the model 637 with the exposed hammer. I have looked through the 12 pages here and find very little other than a couple of comments reference the finish on the 637s. Are they any good and built like a brick and that is why I don't find anything or are they no good and everyone but me knows that and no one comments on them.
Your thoughts would be appreciated.

 

[Jimmyjones]

I have 2, they're cool, a Model 36 airweight. If you don't mind or prefer the exposed hammer it's the way to go.

I seem to shoot one of my 637's better than any of the other airweights I own.


If you use the 'Google' forum search function and search for 637, you'll get an eye full. Other than a few finish complaints, mostly glowing reviews.

 

[Pef]

I've carried this one going on four years:

It's great for carry. Very light. Finish has held up fine. Probably about 1200+ rounds through it, majority +P, and it's still tight as a tick.

 

[629shooter]

If you want the "exposed" hammer, there is nothing wrong with the 637. Most people (myself included) seem to prefer the "centennial" Js, with no hammer spur to snag. It comes down to personal preference.

 

[Biggfoot44]

The "hammerless" models get more press these days , but the traditional exposed hammer guns are just as good as ever.

Back in the day , I had my M37 hard chrome and nickled , the M637 is the same effect with stainless.

 

[Old cop]

Great guns. If you plan to pocket carry this model practice placing your thumb over the hammer as the gun comes out of your pocket.

 

[mr-mom]

There has been a Model 637 in my carry rotation for several years. An older flat-latch Model 36 in the winter months, and the 637 when things warm up. I just happen to appreciate guns with exposed hammers. I practice regularly with both, shoot both relatively well, and appreciate each for what it is. In my opinion, you would not go wrong with the Model 637.
Dave
SWCA #2778

 

[chiefinspector]

Thank you everyone for your input and advise. Looks like I just might have to pay a visit to LGS. Thank you Jimmyjones, used the Google search and found more posts for the 637. Great forum, knew I could find answers here.

 

[XAVMECH]

637 et al

I've had one of these fine snubs for about three years now. It's one of six or seven J-frames in the safe. At this point, I've moved away from Centennial models and all of my current J's have hammers that I can get to. (I didn't say exposed, because I didn't want to offend my 39-humpback). I carry the 637 and 36 most frequently when I have a J. The 637 is a fine BUG. You know it's an alloy framed piece when you shoot it, but it's not so stout as to be uncomfortable - and there's plenty of choices for ammo. What I like most is its light weight, and amazing accuracy. The IL has never been a problem. I'd give it a big "thumbs-up"

 

[Wheeler57]

Nothing wrong with them but i can tell you those alloy guns JUMP when you shoot them. To me practice with them is not fun. I have a 638 myself.

 

[TeaDub]

If you want the "exposed" hammer, there is nothing wrong with the 637. Most people (myself included) seem to prefer the "centennial" Js, with no hammer spur to snag. It comes down to personal preference.

I can never seem to decide which I prefer, exposed or concealed hammer. The obvious answer is to buy both.

I love my J-frames!

 

[adwjc]

Funny how preferences go. In the mid '70s you couldn't give away a Centennial and S&W discontinued production of them.

I bought a 42 and the dealer told me afterward that he thought that thing was going to sit in the showcase forever! I wanted it for pocket carry anyway and you couldn't find any holsters for them; everything on the market was made with a retention strap that used the hammer.

Fast forward - it looks like I was ahead of my time, now the preference is DAO and the Centennial is one of the best sellers for S&W.

So chiefinspector, get what YOU want, if you like the exposed hammer, get one, next thing you know, they'll be discontinuing them.

 

[629shooter]

The obvious answer is to buy both.

Yup. Don't forget about the "Bodyguards."

 

[David R]

I had a bg38 with the laser. It wore out on me too fast, so I bought the 637 and liked it. I put the ct laser grips on it because I liked the lasere on the BG 38. been carrying it for about a year with no problems. I shoot it a LOT.

Finish is still good. Ankle holster, IWB or in a pocket with a pocket holster. Never a problem

David

 

[475OKH]

Love my 637 and with a Galco ankle one forgets it is even on.