Make: Smith & Wesson

Model: 38

Serial Number: 403J34

Year of Manufacture: 1983 ( Smith and Wesson Standard Catalog)

Caliber: .38 S&W Special

Action Type: Revolver, Double Action Only with Swing Out 5-Shot Fluted Cylinder, Enclosed Hammer

Markings: The right side of the barrel is marked “AIRWEIGHT / 38 SPL. CTG.”. The right side of the frame is marked with the four-line marcas registradas address. The left side of the barrel is marked “SMITH & WESSON”. The left side of the frame is marked with the S&W logo. The yoke cut is marked “MOD. 38”. The yoke and sides of the grip frame are marked with inspection marks. The butt is marked with the serial number.The interior of the right grip panel is stamped with a number that does not match the serial number and the letters “JRD”.

Barrel Length: 1.88” 

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a fixed serrated blade. The rear sight is a square notch integral to the top strap.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are diamond pattern, checkered Magna grips with “SW” Monogram Medallion. The checking is sharp. There are notable chips or cracks. The grips rate in about excellent overall condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright. The rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore. The bore rates a 10/10 in this writer’s opinion.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 99% of its metal finish. The balance shows little to no use whatsoever. There is surface wear from storage. The screw heads are sharp and pins are unmarred. The markings are crisp. Overall, this handgun rates in about excellent condition. 

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: A Smith and Wesson Blue Box is included. (not original)

Our Assessment: The Smith & Wesson Model 38 is a compact and reliable concealed carry revolver that's ready to shine. This snub-nose revolver is chambered in .38 Special, and it's designed for close-quarters self-defense. Its small and lightweight frame makes it easily concealable, making it an excellent option for everyday carry.

The Bodyguard series, later named the Models 38, 49, 638, and 649, offered a compromise not found in many other revolvers. Typically, you can either have a fully enclosed hammer to prevent snags, which prevents use in single-action, or you can have an exposed hammer that can snag but allows precise single-action use. These models, with aluminum, steel, and stainless steel frames respectively, allow both by having a shroud that leaves only the serrated hammer spur exposed. This prevents snagging and allows for single-action use, the best of both worlds. This Model 38 Bodyguard Airweight is a compact and lightweight, snag-free revolver that is still capable of precise shooting when necessary. This handgun retains about 99% of its metal finish. The balance shows little to no use whatsoever. There is surface wear from storage. The screw heads are sharp and pins are unmarred. The markings are crisp. Overall, this handgun rates in about excellent condition.