Description
Smith & Wesson Model 638 .38 Special Revolver
The Smith & Wesson Model 638 combines classic J-Frame dimensions with a distinctive shrouded-hammer design. Part of Smith & Wesson’s long-running family of compact revolvers, the Model 638 provides the snag-resistant characteristics of a partially enclosed hammer while retaining the ability to manually cock the revolver for single-action fire.
Chambered in .38 Special +P, the Model 638 features a 1.88-inch stainless steel barrel, 5-round cylinder, fixed sights and lightweight aluminum alloy frame.
Compact 1.88-Inch Barrel
The Smith & Wesson Model 638 features a compact 1.88-inch barrel that maintains the classic proportions associated with Smith & Wesson’s snub-nose J-Frame revolvers.
The short barrel contributes to the Model 638’s compact overall dimensions and makes it well suited to customers looking for a highly portable revolver.
.38 Special +P Chambering
The Model 638 is chambered for .38 Special and is rated for +P ammunition, providing compatibility with a broad selection of ammunition within the caliber.
The combination of .38 Special chambering and compact J-Frame construction is one of Smith & Wesson’s most established revolver configurations.
Five-Round J-Frame Cylinder
The Smith & Wesson Model 638 uses a traditional 5-round cylinder that helps maintain the revolver’s compact width and overall dimensions.
This five-shot configuration is characteristic of Smith & Wesson’s small-frame .38 Special revolvers.
Shrouded Hammer Design
One of the Model 638’s defining features is its shrouded hammer. Unlike a completely enclosed hammer, the design leaves enough of the hammer accessible for manual cocking while protecting much of it within the frame.
This gives the Model 638 the ability to operate in either double-action or single-action mode while maintaining a streamlined profile.
Double-Action and Single-Action Operation
The accessible hammer allows the Smith & Wesson Model 638 to provide traditional double-action and single-action operation.
It can be fired using a double-action trigger pull or manually cocked for a lighter single-action trigger pull, distinguishing it from fully enclosed-hammer DAO J-Frame models.
Lightweight Aluminum Alloy Frame
The Model 638 uses a lightweight aluminum alloy frame paired with stainless steel components.
This Airweight construction helps reduce overall weight while retaining the strength necessary for its .38 Special +P chambering.
Stainless Steel Barrel and Cylinder
The stainless steel barrel and cylinder provide corrosion resistance and give the Model 638 its recognizable silver appearance.
Combined with the aluminum alloy frame, the stainless components create the classic two-material construction associated with Smith & Wesson Airweight revolvers.
Fixed Sights
The Model 638 features a straightforward fixed sight system appropriate for a compact J-Frame revolver.
The fixed configuration maintains a simple exterior profile without adding the bulk of adjustable target-style sights.
Classic Smith & Wesson Airweight
The Smith & Wesson Model 638 combines several established J-Frame characteristics in one distinctive revolver: lightweight construction, .38 Special +P capability, a five-shot cylinder and compact dimensions.
Its shrouded hammer is what truly separates the Model 638 from other J-Frame configurations, providing access to single-action operation while maintaining a streamlined Bodyguard-style profile.
Smith & Wesson Model 638 Features
- Manufacturer: Smith & Wesson
- Model: Model 638
- Frame: J-Frame Airweight
- Caliber: .38 Special +P
- Action: Double-action / single-action
- Barrel Length: 1.88 inches
- Capacity: 5 rounds
- Hammer: Shrouded
- Frame Material: Aluminum alloy
- Barrel Material: Stainless steel
- Cylinder Material: Stainless steel
- Sights: Fixed
- Finish: Stainless / Silver
- Platform: J-Frame revolver
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