S&W Model 638-3 Airweight

[TJm15.38]

Here's a couple of photos of my carry gun; a S&W Model 638-3 that I purchased about five years ago. These are great little guns, but the Airweight is a real bear with +P .38 Specials. I'm thinking that .38 wadcutters would be much better in a revolver like this. Right now I load it up with Sellier & Bellot 140 grain Cowboy loads which have proven reliable and fairly easy to shoot double action. I've always liked the old S&W Bodyguard humpback style with the shrouded hammer. I guess this is the modern version. Thanks for looking.

 

[rockquarry]

Recoil is a relative thing; I think there is little difference in felt recoil between mild loads and stout ones in the 638. To me, they all kick. I have a number of older J-frames, some I've had more than forty years. The 638 is more accurate than any of the older ones (maybe it's the lock). I generally shoot at 25 yards using single-action.

 

[Ameshawki]

That was my first carry gun. Sold for reasons I no longer remember. Which I tend to do with J frames for some reason. Never seem to keep them very long.

 

[Rpg]

Using target, wad cutter ammo is a great idea.

Not only does it encourage practice while not beating you up: it’s great self defense ammo. Creates a great wound canal and it’s easy to develop great accuracy.

 

[haywood]

I put softer grips on mine. It’s easier to practice with and still fits my pockets. I practice with standard 130 GR. And carry the street proven Speer Gold Dot 135gr. +P 38

 

[Pointblank2U]

Hornady makes a Lite version of Critical Defense for light revolvers like the 638.

[ame="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=po3i02gI6PA"]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=po3i02gI6PA[/ame]

 

[NCBeagle]

The 638-3 is a great carry gun. I have several of these modern production J frames, lock, MIM parts, etc. No problems at all. In fact, they've been super reliable. Thousands of rounds down range with a 442-2 and many hundreds with the others. The finish is durable (enough) and wear and tear is only cosmetic. No rust. Good stuff.

For carry ammo, I like the Speer Golt Dot 135 gr HP or any of the 158 gr. LSWCHP rounds, e.g. Remington, Buffalo Bore, etc.