Smith & Wesson Model 638-3 Bodyguard Airweight .38 Special +P, 1.875 in J-Frame, Matte Silver, 5-Shot Revolver
This Smith & Wesson Model 638-3 Bodyguard Airweight is a J-frame variant with an aluminum alloy frame and a 1.875-inch steel barrel, factory-marked for .38 Special +P. It features the Bodyguard humpback frame with a shrouded hammer and accessible spur, fixed sights, and a five-shot fluted cylinder. This example is in very good condition with an excellent bore and comes fitted with aftermarket smooth hardwood boot-style grips.
Condition
Overall Condition: Very good condition, showing only light, superficial signs of prior handling or use.
Bore Overall Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Bore Rifling: Excellent Rifling - Sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: This revolver appears very well maintained.
What’s Included
- Smith & Wesson Safety & Instruction Manual - Revolvers (modern-style, J/K/L/N frames)
- Smith & Wesson factory cardboard box
The Model 638-3 is a Bodyguard Airweight marked as a J-frame variant in the yoke cut. It combines a lightweight aluminum alloy frame with steel barrel and cylinder components, all finished in matte silver for a uniform appearance.
The revolver uses a Bodyguard humpback frame with an integral shroud and a shrouded hammer that retains an accessible spur. This design allows double-action and single-action operation, with the option to thumb-cock while keeping the hammer largely protected.
Barrel length is 1.875 inches, and the five-shot fluted cylinder is chambered in .38 Special and is rated for +P as indicated by the barrel marking. Sights are fixed, with an integral serrated ramp front sight and a fixed trench rear.
Additional features include an internal key lock located above the cylinder latch and a knurled-tip ejector rod. The revolver is currently fitted with aftermarket smooth hardwood boot-style grips that provide a compact profile.