Which (-) dash model 649

[mckenney99]

Carried a model 649 for 16 years as a duty backup weapon. In a moment of stupidity, I sold the gun as I normally didn't carry the gun any longer and am now looking to replace it with a similar model. I know I could get the airweight 638, but prefer the weight of the steel 649 and I really don't care for the newer 357 mag model. Can anyone advise which (-) dash model it would have been? Purchased around 1985, serial number would have been AHT5xxx. I believe it had a tool steel hammer/trigger, 38 special model, no lock, 1 7/8 in barrel with thinner front sight and rear notch, that came with standard "J" frame small wooden grips.

 

[L-2]

1985 649 would be a "no-dash" model and the year the 649 was first sold. A 649-1 didn't come out until 1988.

In 1996 the .38 Special version was discontinued. By then, the 649 was a "-2" (649-2). Therefore, a 649, 649-1, or a 649-2 would all be .38 Special versions.

 

[mckenney99]

Thank You for the information. Your time line kind of jogs my memory that I believe I traded in a model 49 for the SS model 649 since my primary carry at that time was in an ankle holster.

 

[sodacan]

The dash two had the special heat treatment to handle +P ammo. At that time it was the only "J" frame that S&W specifically said was +P rated. The information was printed in the ammo guide that came with the gun. I have one, and it's the only "J" frame I own. Personally, I'm no fan of small frame guns in 357 magnum, and IMO, the 649-2 is the best of the breed.

 

[bluetopper]

I have a no dash and just recently sold a -1 to fund a 3" model 65 purchase. The 38 Spl. 649 is an awesome carry piece.

 

[shouldazagged]

The dash two had the special heat treatment to handle +P ammo. At that time it was the only "J" frame that S&W specifically said was +P rated. The information was printed in the ammo guide that came with the gun...

My 1990 640 is factory-etched "TESTED FOR +P+".

In the past, I believe S&W has said that any model-marked revolver can safely be fired with +P ammunition.

I have no interest in shooting +P+ from my 640, but I doubt that it received any different heat treatment than any other stainless steel snubby. I always carry +P or its equivalent.

But the 649 is a very nice little gun.

 

[white cloud]

I consider the 649 "no dash" revolvers to be the best pocket revolvers ever produced. I am fortunate to own two of them. With some thoughtful holster selections, they are guns that are always there for me.