Model 638-3 Anybody Have One?

[Old cop]

I got mine during the $50 rebate last year, it has the dreaded lock. To date I've sent several very hot (Buffalo Bore +P 158) rounds down range and have had no problem with the lock. For some reason I shoot this better than any of my other J's. It has also handled several hundred standard pressure and miscl. +P w/o a hitch re: the IL - I really like this snubbie.

I'm VERY old school (LEO '68 - '98) and was wondering if others had this model and what their experience was. There is a lot of internet chatter about the lock, but from my limited experience it seems to be a non issue, at least on the newer guns.

To put things into perspective my daily carry is a 442 no dash with CorBon +P DPX 110 grain, but I am considering carrying the newer 638 since I shoot it a bit better. While have nothing against the new titanium Airlights I don't own one and do not plan on getting one.

Thanks in advance,

Old Cop

 

[Cowboy011]

I have one. Just got it. Fired it about 25 times and carried it on few occasions. So far I like it.

 

[djustice]

It's the only j I own and I love it. I never leave the house without it.

 

[Heifer]

Same here, it is like my American Express card, I never leave home without it. I have a 638-3 with the lock, no issues with the exception of the finish chipping off. A dab of crazy glue does the trick over the areas that the finish has flaked off.

My 638 is in my front pocket all summer when I am making hay. I blow the hay and crud out of the recessed hammer almost every day.

 

[photoman]

I remove the lock when the gun comes from the factory with one. One less thing to think about.

 

[ENGINE18]

Like you, Old cop, I have put heavy +P rounds through my 638-3 with no IL failures or malfunctions of any kind.

I practice with both 148gr wadcutters, and Federal, Remington, and Buffalo Bore (ouch!)158gr SWCHP+Ps. The +Ps are a bit stout in this light weight gun.

My carry load is 2 148s first and then 3 of the 158+Ps.

I recently purchased some Federal 158 semi-wadcutters (standard pressure) and will try them the next time I go to the range.

 

[Old cop]

Engine18: Re: Carry load try the Corbon +P 110 DPX. I found it easier to control than the 158 +P of any kind and it shoots to POA.

 

[IvanW]

My 638 was my first J-frame and is still my most frequently carried gun.
I put CT LG-405 grips on it and have been very pleased with the accuracy and slight recoil reduction the grips offer.