Making a 638 look good...

[drumminor2nd]

I know the Bodyguard isn't everyone's cup of tea. It wasn't really mine, either, but I found a used 638-3 for relatively cheap late last year while on the prowl for whatever modern J-frame crossed my path for less than pandemic overpricing.

However, I didn't like the three-finger rubber grips that came with this, so I finally switched them out for some '70s-era Magnas off eBay and a Robertson Trading Post T-grip.

Somehow, I think I found how to make a 638 look good in the process...

 

[Tadeus67]

I like bodyguards! I have a late 80?s era model 49. Whats not to love about them?

 

[COFFEEMUG]

really like those grips

 

[Duckfood]

I love the humpbacks!!! You simply made a beautiful firearm even more beautiful...

 

[dmthomp32]

Yeah I'm in the pro-humpback camp for sure on my j frames. I've got a 649 that I shoot and carry periodically. While the shape isn't for everyone, I appreciate its curves and purpose built design.


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[John Patrick]

I have a 638. I appreciate the purpose-built look too.

I do think the blue 38 and 49 look better. And they look different too, which is odd and must be the result of the coloring since the shape is the same.

I like the magnas and adapter OP.

ETA: I have a Colt Agent with the factory installed hammer shroud and like the looks of that revolver too.

 

[CH4]

You can also plug the IL.

 

[Mustang51]

This one has been with me every day for 15 years or so.

 

[Truckman]

I've always liked the humpback......Ben

 

[Eagle1*]

Somehow, I think I found how to make a 638 look good in the process...

Yes you did, very nostalgic sir. I love my 638 too.

 

[krsmith58]

humpback

since being infected with the smith flu i have lusted after one.

so far it alludes me but i'm still breathing so one day. i like the looks of all posted pics. thanks for sharing. Kray

 

[AppStFan]

Very well done. That's a fine revolver you have there.

 

[Old cop]

I loved the old Bodyguard & have been searching for one @ a somewhat reasonable price for quite awhile now.

 

[Model46]

I never leave home without my M49.

 

[dubshooter]

Very nice. I'm a fan of mine. My "yin and Yang" pair.

 

[326MOD10]

I have a thing for the Humpback ever since Miami Vice.

I have changed up some of the grips but no new photos, except for the Model 38.

The 38-2 now wears similar grips and the 638-2 sports Spegel's.

 

[SS336]

I am fond of the "humpback" myself. My only J-frame is a 649 and until I got a Sig 365xl is was my summer carry gun.
Great little revolver, a person could do a lot worse. You can drop it your pocket or put in a holster.
It's just one of the things that makes me smile every time I pick it up.
Long live Quasimodo!

 

[max503]

Somebody was thinking when they designed the humpback J frame. The checkering gives me plenty firm grip.

 

[Tellicomoto]

My EDC, 649 J-Comp with real sights I can see!

 

[SmithNut]

Bodyguards rock.... !!

I had a problem many years ago, just couldn't say no.....

All but one were sold during the great SmithNut purge a few years back, still have my trusty M38 carried in a Kramer pocket holster.

The M38 was/is the king of the Airweight Smiths.....

 

[max503]

I know this thread isn't about carrying, but I switch my 638 between pocket carry (90% of the time) and OWB carry in a Fobus paddle holster. The Fobus is handy for when I have an outer garment, like when I'm fishing or hiking.

 

[ptrk626]

Nice for old eyes! Do you have another picture angle of the rear sight cut/ ledge??

 

[BeAnalog]

What great Snubbies! I thought I would add my first snub nose S&W 637 Performance Center and my EDC. I do like it a lot.

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[Tellicomoto]

Rear sight is Bowen. Front sight is custom made by C&S, regulated, taken off and shipped to Trijicon for a tritium tube installed, and then C&S re-installed it on the gun. Cylinder and Slide also installed the barrel, did an action job, chamfered charge holes, and polished the face of the trigger. The gun shoots extremely well and is dead on with a 6-o'clock hold. With the factory barrel and sights, the gun was shooting 8" right and 18" low at 15 yards.

Ex-chicken killer:

 

[kaaskop49]

This one has been with me every day for 15 years or so.

I never leave home without my M49.

These 2 posters admirably demonstrate the term "carry piece." In fact, the whole thread does so. Nice to see the Bodyguard design getting some attention. Would absolutely LOVE to see a .357 version of the 638, a la the 340s, but that will prolly never happen. It would be (with steel cylinder to handle 110gr magnum JHPs ), the perfect carry piece, IMO.

Kaaskop49
Shield #5103

 

[CMudrock]

I loved the old Bodyguard & have been searching for one @ a somewhat reasonable price for quite awhile now.

I understand that you want an S&W & why. I am usually financially challenged - but bought a beautiful Mint 2" TAURUS copy in .357 magnum caliber from my local pawn shop. It is like new, the rounded smooth rosewood grips & black blued finish are spectacular - the action is buttery smooth. The trigger is case hardened. I have fired it with both .38 spl &.357 magnum & the wood grips feel just fine to me.
I bought when I saw it could be cocked by hand - as a single action + its super low price that - I couldn't pass up (under $200.). It is a keeper - I cant imagine anyone not being happy with one. I believe it was made while S&W & Taurus were owned by the same company - sure looks like they cooperated closely.
You might find one of these Taurus clones if a S&W doesn't materialize for you.

 

[yugolovr]

I've wanted a bodyguard since I was a little kid. I have never had the money to purchase one when I find one available. Once again you guys aren't helping my Smith addiction. Everyone that has been posted are great looking revolvers.