Triggernosis
Member
If you were going to purchase a Bodyguard (in .38 only), which one would you be looking for - current, older, airweight, etc.?
Bodyguard - which one?
- Thread starter Triggernosis
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texagun
Member
I would look for a pre-lock Model 49. This one is from 1982.
I've always been a beliver in the theory that if you define your needs (or your question) well enough, it will point to the answer. What do you want this gun to do and for whom? "Current, older" is the IL an issue for you? Can you check out a used revolver? Do you like to buy new?... "airweight" How big/healthy is the person that will be carrying it? How often/long will you carry it? What is the ratio of shooting to carrying going to be? If you look at what options that are available to you and see what the strong points are for each option you should be able to pick the right gun for you. I counted 208 different revolvers in my latest SW catalog.
Trigger, I'm not ragging on you, just looking for more info to base a recommendation on. As I look back on your OP, I see that it is asking which one I would buy. I wouldn't. I have a 637, and don't want a Bodyguard. Are you familar with the "Ben Franklin Close"?
Lop
Trigger, I'm not ragging on you, just looking for more info to base a recommendation on. As I look back on your OP, I see that it is asking which one I would buy. I wouldn't. I have a 637, and don't want a Bodyguard. Are you familar with the "Ben Franklin Close"?
Lop
i have the newer 649 stainless... and i love it..
it's the gun i carry 90% of the time... while it is a 357 i kep it loaded with 38+P
it's the gun i carry 90% of the time... while it is a 357 i kep it loaded with 38+P
MSgt G
US Veteran
I have a model 49 from the late 60's that was my fathers. I say, buy one of each type. You can't have too many Bodyguards!
Capt Steve
US Veteran
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Welcome to my world. (o; You think you love it now(?), try a set of Crimson Trace Laser Grips.
ACP230
Member
I have two M649s and an M38 and started with an M49. The stainless guns are heavier but I shoot them better. If I was to start over it would be with a 649.
jframe
Member
I've got a Model 38-2 from I guess the mid Eighties. I like the Airweights, but I wouldn't be adverse to a nice 649 of some sort to go with it. Ain't owned stainless in a LONG time.
If you carry it in your pocket,the airweight makes a great deal of difference. If you holster it, the weight usually isn't as much an issue. I have a model 38 I bought in 1970,that has served me well. It is probably my favorite pocket gun.
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For collecting - any 3" or an early 4-screw.
For carry - Airweight (Stainless?)
For frequent shooting or heavy loads - a 49 or 649. The .357 version with full loads would be impressive, for both the shooter and the target.
Why not one of each?
For carry - Airweight (Stainless?)
For frequent shooting or heavy loads - a 49 or 649. The .357 version with full loads would be impressive, for both the shooter and the target.
Why not one of each?
Larry from Bend
Member
I bought a new M38 Airweight in the mid 90s for pocket carry and I'd buy another one just like it if something happened to it. I keep 135 grain Gold Dots in it. It's no .40 cal USP but it allows me to be armed when I wouldn't be if I didn't have it. The Airweight is GREAT for pocket carry.
AZ Desertrat
Member
I also recommend a pre lock Model 49.
Black_Sheep
Member
I'm on the hunt for a 49 with a pinned barrel, finding one with a flat latch would be a nice bonus. If I come across an Airweight version for the right price, that would be fine too. I passed on a real nice Model 38 for $350 about a year ago and could still kick myself...
No locks, no mim parts just good old technology and workmanship
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Hi, and welcome! Look at Texagun's photo on page 1 and then Leonard's photo on page 2. Look at the forward upper frame where the barrel threads into it. Texagun's Bodyguard does not have the pin in this area, but Leonard's does. The pinned barrel was used until about 1980 production.
Mule88
Member
I like the 638 pre lock for carry myself.
