HumpBack Model Number Help

[weblance]

I have a 638-3 that I love. I want a HumpBack Airweight in BLUE to go with it. I know the Model 38 is a blued Airweight. Is/was there a model(or dash) that is +P ?

What are my options? If I have to buy a Model 38 to get the aluminum construction, and blued finish, can I shoot +P on a limited basis? Should I buy another 638 and have it duracoated? I know that last option isnt what I really want.

 

[Big Arm]

I can't help you, but I love humpbacks? I have a customized 649 and it is a great gun. Will never part with that, at least I don't think so.

 

[Hopper]

I don't believe there is a blued humpback version of the 638. I just checked Smith's website, and only see a stainless humpback in 38, no blued model.

 

[murphydog]

Yes, the model 438; currently out of production but available on the used gun market.

 

[weblance]

Yes, the model 438; currently out of production but available on the used gun market.

Thats it !! Thank you so much. The hunt begins... I love the Humpbacks

 

[Kernel Crittenden]

J-frames beginning 1995 were made on a new "J-Magnum" frame (it's easy to spot because it has an integral cylinder stop lug on the left side of the frame). Any aluminum frame gun, as long as it's a J-Magnum, should be good with +P. Any gun with the lock is a J-Magnum. There was a period, between 1995 and 2001, were J-Magnums were made without the lock.

 

[SmithNut]

J-frames beginning 1995 were made on a new "J-Magnum" frame (it's easy to spot because it has an integral cylinder stop lug on the left side of the frame). Any aluminum frame gun, as long as it's a J-Magnum, should be good with +P. Any gun with the lock is a J-Magnum. There was a period, between 1995 and 2001, were J-Magnums were made without the lock.

Factory brochure confirming what Kernel Crittenden indicates above in this recent thread:

http://smith-wessonforum.com/s-w-re...0863-pre-lock-airweight-j-frames-p-rated.html

One could say that Bodyguards are well liked around these parts...

After-all, the Bodyguard IS the "Thinking Man's J-Frame"....

 

[ginzo]

I, also have a 638-3, and have a 649-3 on layaway.

Thats it !! Thank you so much. The hunt begins... I love the Humpbacks

 

[Double-O-Dave]

Hi Weblance:

Smith Nut's collection makes my modest Humpback herd look pretty sad...eh, here's a shortcut to a post I wrote recently that has a photo of my Humpbacks:

http://smith-wessonforum.com/s-w-re...orite-j-frame-pocket-carry.html#post138286812

My Model 38 has a nickeled cylinder from a "parts" Model 38 that was factory nickeled to make my pseudo MI State Police back-up (I could not find a stainless steel cylinder, but the nickeled cylinder has been holding up well without any scratches, nicks, etc.)

Good luck,

Dave

 

[MaxS]

I love my 638. About 6 months ago I bought a brand new (but discontinued) 438 (blue/black version of 638) on Gunbroker. Paid about $420. Brand new ones can still be found.