Smith & Wesson Model 638-3 Airweight .38 Special +P, 1.875 in Barrel, DA/SA, 5-Shot, Matte Silver
This Smith & Wesson Model 638-3 Airweight is a Bodyguard-style J-frame revolver configured for .38 Special and rated for +P. It combines an aluminum alloy frame with stainless steel barrel and cylinder, a shrouded hammer that still allows single-action cocking, and a compact 1.875 in barrel. This example is California-compliant per the provided data and wears laminated wood, full-length, three-finger combat/target grips.
Condition
Overall Condition: Very good condition, showing only light, superficial signs of prior handling or use.
Bore Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling - Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: Minor surface scratches and small blemishes are present. There is light brass fouling visible in the rifling consistent with normal use.
What’s Included
- Soft zippered handgun case (black)
- Laminated wood, full-length, three-finger combat/target grips (installed)
The Model 638-3 Airweight follows the Bodyguard-style J-frame format with a shrouded hammer and a short exposed spur. This double-action/single-action setup enables a snag-resistant profile while still allowing the hammer to be thumb-cocked for single-action fire.
Its construction pairs a matte silver aluminum alloy frame with a matte stainless steel barrel and cylinder. At approximately 14.6 oz empty, it maintains the light carry weight associated with the Airweight series while retaining stainless components where it matters.
The revolver is chambered in .38 Special and rated for +P, carries five rounds, and uses a 1.875 in barrel for compact dimensions. Sights are fixed, with a serrated ramped front and a rear top-strap groove for a simple, durable sight picture.
This example includes laminated wood, full-length, three-finger combat/target grips, installed. Additional features include an internal key lock safety and a shrouded hammer with short exposed spur. Per the provided data, a 638-3 variant appears on the California DOJ roster, and this item is listed as compliant for California.