Smith & Wesson Model 38 Bodyguard Airweight .38 Special, 1.875 in Pinned Barrel, DA/SA, Early J-prefix Production (1969–1970)
This Smith & Wesson Model 38 Bodyguard Airweight is a U.S.-made .38 Special revolver from the 1969–1970 era, notable for its shrouded-hammer design that preserves single-action capability while promoting a snag-resistant draw. It features an aluminum-alloy frame with a black anodized finish, a pinned steel barrel, blued steel cylinder, and factory walnut service stocks with S&W medallions. Early J-prefix production and color case-hardened hammer and trigger add desirable period details.
Condition
Overall Condition: Very good condition, showing only light, superficial signs of prior handling or use.
Bore Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Bore Rifling: Excellent Rifling - Sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: There are light signs of wear and handling. There are some surface scratches.
What’s Included
- Smith & Wesson Model 38 Bodyguard Airweight revolver
The Bodyguard configuration combines a shrouded hammer with an exposed spur, enabling both double-action and single-action operation. This layout supports a smooth, snag-resistant draw while retaining precise single-action control when desired.
Construction pairs a black anodized aluminum-alloy frame with a blued steel cylinder and a pinned steel barrel measuring 1.875 inches. The hammer and trigger display color case-hardening, underscoring period-correct finishes from this production window.
Fixed sights consist of a serrated integral ramp front and a square-notch rear cut into the topstrap, providing a durable and clean sight picture appropriate to the model’s design.
Factory round-butt walnut service stocks with checkered panels and S&W medallions complete the classic look and offer a secure hold. Capacity is 5 rounds of .38 Special.
Produced in the USA during 1969–1970, this example falls into early J-prefix production, among the first years of the J-series serial system for this model family.