New M649-2 in .38 Spl - Ammo question

[clawgrass1]

I found this nice M649-2 in.38 Spl (only) and it is in really nice shape.
It has a 1 7/8" barrel, two screws, chrome flashed trigger, internal hammer and firing pin. All Stainless Steel.
Question 1: can this revolver handle +P ammunition
Question 2: the serial number BPH07XX...... 1996?
Question 3: how unusual is this revolver?

Of course any info you guys can shed on the origins and ammo capabilities would be greatly appreciated.
Nathan
,

 

[Cal44]

I just got a 649 no dash. It's was manufactured in 1985.

Heading to the range on Thursday to try it out for the first time.

I believe a moderate number of 38 Special +p won't hurt a steel j frame.

These guns aren't rare, but don't come along very often.

Congrats.

 

[D Brown]

The 649-2 will handle +P ammunition in whatever quantities you care to put through it. The manual that came with my gun shows it is rated for use with +P ammunition but there is also the standard S&W warning that +P will accelerate wear.

My 649-2 shipped from the factory on May 1 1996 and was purchased new by me on May 25 of that same year.

 

[38SPL HV]

Suggest a non +P load as the Remington 38 Spl 158 gr SWC standard velocity. Great all round load in the snub nose.

If you want +P velocity without +P pressures, suggest Buffalo Bore or Underwood standard velocity 38 Special 158 gr lead hollow points. Buffalo Bore also makes a standard pressure 110 gr jhp which gets approx 1,000 FPS from the 1 7/8 in barrel j frame

Enjoy your S&W Bodyguard!

 

[murphydog]

By the prefix, 1991 looks more likely for its production year. If you have the box with end label as in post #3 the date it was packed for shipping is in the "Spec. Ord." code.

It has a 3 screw frame; take off the right stock panel to find the third.

The + P question comes up often. Safe in the gun, practice with and carry if you like, but heavy use will be harder on the gun and your wallet. Enjoy!

 

[clawgrass1]

Gentleman, thank you. Your responses are full of good information that I can use to better understand this model 649-2.
The photos on the correct leather are also great!
Nathan

 

[DeafSmith]

Yes they can handle +P, but I suggest instead Bullfalo Bore 158gr LSWHP NON PLUS P!! You get a 158gr lead hollow point at an honest 850 fps from a 2 inch barrel!!!! That is almost the FBI .38 load from a 3 inch!

That load is made just for 2 inch snubs... even aluminum frame guns!

I have the whole set... and I love 'em!

 

[roo_ster]

I always keep my eye out for a 649 deal. I prefer the humpbacks and "need" to fill the space between my 638 and my 64 snubby.

 

[Boogsawaste]

I also have a 649-2. I LOVE that little gun. You reminded me, I should get another...just because!