S & W Bodyguard 38 or 442?

[manthony4563]

I was seriously considering buying a new Bodyguard 38 but then I saw the 442 at lgs. I can get one used (3 years old, ILS) for about $350. How does the recoil compare between the two? This is for CC and I want something I can practice with. Any suggestions?

 

[HAM]

I recently bought a new 642 for about $350 which included a $50 rebate from S&W. (Have not yet received my rebate as of this date).

I understand the 442 and 642 are similar, the 642 being aluminum and stainless. The recoil, at least using Winchester .38 SPL 130 gr FMJ, is not a problem.

HAM

 

[Simmer down]

I've got a bodyguard, 638. I like the funky look of it and I can pull the hammer for some SA shooting. The recoil isn't bad. I took off the stock boot grips and put on a older stock set and added a T-grip. The grip is a little small and I realized it wasn't so much the recoil I sensed but just getting used to the mini grip.

The photo is the 638 sitting on top of a Charter Bulldog.

 

[JumpinJack]

Recoil is the same as both guns are just about the same weight. The older 38 has a thin front sight while the 442 has a good sight. I own and love them both.

 

[ENGINE18]

I have a 638-3 that I purchased for only a few $$ less than what you mention, so your deal sounds good. I too like the ability to shoot single action. For me it helps to determine the most accurate load. I would not turn down a 442/642 though. J-frame Airweights are a win-win!

 

[manthony4563]

S & W Bodyguard 38 or 442

I am comparing the new bodyguard 38 w/ the laser to the 442.
Not interested in the older bodyguard.

 

[Pepi4]

I can't believe the price range on these Airweights. I got my 638 for 384.00 with a military discount plus 50.00 coming back. GM wanted 550.00 for the same gun I though I got a good deal but sound like some of your guys know where to shop

 

[grege33]

I had the BG 38, and I sold it for a 442.

I liked the BG, but the trigger bit my finger between the top of the trigger and the top strap. It created a blister on my trigger finger and eventually drew blood. I could adjust the grip, but it didn't feel natural. I also didn't care for the upper cylinder release. It was reliable and accurate, but overall I decided I preffered the more traditional look, feel, and function of the 442. The laser wasn't a big factor for me either way, although the button on top isn't as easy to use as a CT grip.

I haven't shot the 442 yet, but it carries better (I mostly pocket carry) and the trigger doesn't bite me...I've dry fired it. It also locks up tighter, if that matters to you.

There are others who like the BG 38, so you may want to search "Bodyguard" on the forum to get more input.

Hope this helps...good luck.

 

[stiab]

I have both and like both, but the 442 has a couple advantages. The S&W Centennials will have better DA triggers than the DA on non-Centennials. There have been several threads on this subjet, and the better trigger is probably due to it not having a hammer block (does not need one). Also, the frame channel in which the Bodyguard hammer travels tends to pick up lint, dirt, sand (at the beach), etc.