Yeah my son gets it he’s 22 just got out of the army,, he knows all the story’s and history that go’s with each one. I’ll tell him if you ever let 1 get away money can’t buy that back.
I bought mine in 1971 for a back up (Mod 48) and carried it as a backup. Even when we went to auto loaders (Glock) in 1984, I still carried it for my backup. Put in an ankle holster, light weight enough not to be noticed. Now retired in 2008, I still carry it for a back up.
Carried one of these for years in Watts. Going through the parking lot at night with keys in one hand and this in a jacket pocket in the other. Ruined 2 jackets and lived to tell about it. Highly recommend.
I love my J frames! For 36 years as an LEO I carried a J frame as my backup/off duty handgun. Though I preferred the concealed hammer model. I bought my first one in 1974 (a Model 40 Centennial), added a Model 640 when they became available, and now, retired, I frequently carry a Model 642. I still have all three. The Model 49 is a GREAT revolver, especially if you're not sure DA is here to stay. And they were very popular as backup/off duty/detective handgun...along with the Model 40. I just preferred the Model 40/640. BTW,I never considered them "ugly" at all...rather a very purposeful design. Form follows function! FWIW, I have carried a handgun every day for 51 years and 5 shots has ALWAYS been enough for personal self defense.
@@TheGrenadier97glocks and ARs used to be rare back in the day like in the 80s and 90s therefore sought after and exciting , but today those two are nearly all I see at the gun shops and ranges. It’s like how parking lots all full of Hondas and Toyotas, nothing wrong with them but boring.
Thank you-companies adopting a new manufacturing process that they hadn’t quite mastered lead to the bad rap. In many applications, MIM produces a vastly superior part. It’s all about application, the process, and quality control. People seriously need to do themselves a favor and look into the subject a bit more, rather than just repeating the nonsense they’ve heard. When consistent hardness and structure throughout the part is desired, MIM is the* way to go. If you’re wanting a part with a softer inner and harder surface, traditional forging is probably the better choice.
I've got the 638 Airweight and love it for pocket carry. Many think it's ugly but I actually find it elegant. One day I might pick up the 649 which is an all stainless model in .357 Magnum!
I've been carrying a Chief since 1990 and my hammer has never caught on anything. Also, I qualified with my Chief hitting all center mass out to 50 yards. They're accurate.
the S&W Model 49 Bodyguard. It's like holding a piece of history in your hands. The shrouded hammer design makes it perfect for discreet carry without sacrificing reliability. From its inception in '59 to its retirement in '96, this revolver has stood the test of time. Thanks to the support of our Patreon members, we can continue to celebrate and preserve these iconic pieces of firearm craftsmanship.
I’ve carried a m38/638 since the mid eighties. I have found that with this frame style you can have a much higher grip which helps greatly with control.
Had a Command Sergeant Major in law enforcement who carried one of these in an updown shoulder rig. It was a nickel version. He used it off duty and as a pocket backup on duty.
I tried ankle carry on duty for a backup gun. I had it get spotted a few times, and once had it pop out of the holster while running down some stairs and race me to the bottom. I started carrying my BUG in my left front pants pocket, and still do to this day.
Jager, I'm curious to know why Smith & Wesson missed the mark and didn't make a 327 magnum like their competitors for more versatility...your thoughts and stay safe, brother.
@@giovanniascensione18they did but don't know why they stopped. 327 jframes are very rare and expensive on gunbroker. Glad the h&r magnums are coming out
the 327 might be a little too much power for a small gun. so I think 32 HR mag is better. but I would like if they brought back the steel J frames in this caliber. it is a good round. anyone wanting a real magnum hand beater can always get Buffalo Bore ammo or Underwood.
I have a nickel model 49 made in 1973. Sadly, Smith and Wesson customer service said the revolver is too old for them to service them. Revolver still is tight. I wanted the action worked on by the Performance Center. Ricardo Tubs carried the S&W model 49 Bodyguard on Miami Vice!
My dad was a Philadelphia police detective for 12 years. He carried one of these model 49 for about 10 years! Reason when you carry a revolver every day the hammer would start by making a rough patch on the belt line on the dress shirt! And eventually would wear a hole in the side part of his dress shirts. So detectives would carry this model in their holsters to prevent the wear to their dress shirts!
I do love these revolvers. If I were an American I’d be sure to have a couple even if there was no need for EDC. They’re just beautiful and remind me of all the good gun smithing in my 1894.
This is my EDC. I really enjoy it. the one thing that old revolvers got right is the handle. This thing completely disappears on my body and it's because the handle is so slim. The way the handle is configured also allows me to get a really good grip on the gun. Newer revolvers like the centennial have a chunky handle that forces you to hold the revolver further down meaning a higher bore access.
When reloading, you transition the gun to you left hand while opening the cylinder, turning the gun upside down and use your left thumb to empty the cylinder. While emptying the gun you grab your speed loader or strip with your right hand and load up using your right hand. Also, the speed strip you load 2 rounds at the same time. When transitioning back you your right hand, you're closing the cylinder with your left hand.
@@darrelldunlap7249 I agree, but this way you are doing two different functions at the same time with both hands. I don't think there's a faster way to reload. Plus, I almost ALWAYS see RUclipsrs load the S&W (and Rugers) revolvers counter-clockwise instead of clockwise.
I don't do that. I just use the left hand to rap the ejector rod . I have my trigger finger on a flute to keep the cylinder steady and I put in the speed loader. then left hand closes the cylinder.
I carry j frames everyday. It’s my primary CCW. I have many other options but after 30 years of concealed carry I’ve downsized to a platform I will carry daily and one I feel comfortable with to do the job I need. I don’t feel in anyway under gunned or vulnerable.
good review! glad mentioned the old tyler t grop as my grandfather( a retired tx dps officer) used one on a old smith 32long revolver as his back up for years.
Best gun review channel there is. Been watching for years. Love your channel. I think the first video of yours I watched was your ruger Blackhawk video you did years ago. God bless.
Back in the early 70's my barbers dad (also a barber) carried a Mod 49. I thought it was ugly but showed me how it was fast and snag free pulling out of his pocket. I totally got it but I still thought it was ugly. lol I have a mod 636 that I put a mod 642 hammer in to make it snag free, I wanted to keep the original hammer stock in case I ever wanted to change it back. I put a Pachmayr, Diamond Pro grip on it and still conceals well and gives me a little more grip on it.
I have the new version of this. I have the 638 with a crimson trace grip. I carry it when I have my swooshy shorts on because its do light and my other CCW are too heavy. Also, I got it because of that picture in Vietnam. For long range I wouldn’t want it but for everyday taking the dog for a walk or running to the corner store, this is perfect.
The Italian journalist and writer Oriana Fallaci knew personally the vietnamese officer and the photographer who took this picture. All the major media said immeditely that this was a harmless vietnamese farmer killed by evil soldiers. Wrong. Oriana proved and wrote that this was a commando that ten minutes earlier had shot in the back many men of this officer. He took them by surprise, treacherously disguised in civilian clothes. What upset the officer was that his men wore uniforms at the check point in the street, clearly showing themselves and taking their risks as soldiers do. At the contrary the vc terrorists didn't. The consequent execution, thus shocking, was in line with the treatment Internationally reserved to spies. A single frame is not a video explaining a more complex situation. Never fully trust them, always use your judgement.
Pre-co v 1d, you could find them under 500 on GB all day long (and that’s for almost pristine condition). If you’re patient, a good quality shooter can be found under 400. Just look every couple of days.
Great video Sootch. I agree that these are great little revolvers, I have a nickel model 38 that I don’t carry anymore as it’s become a safe queen. Again, really enjoyed the video!
Enjoyed the video!!! Prompted me to get my deceased father’s nickel-plated 17:08 model 38 out of the safe and research it a little more. Dad wouldn’t own anything except a J-frame S&W!
Had one of each, several years ago but had to sell them..l was building a House 🏠 and construction material deliveries were forthcoming 😢. Had my 1960s COLT Detective Special installed with a Hammer Shroud,so now,l have the Best of Both Worlds 😊👍
I always love seeing a vintage S&W wheelgun without that ugly lock hole they're putting into the new ones. Nothing quite as lovely as blued steel and wood grips! Thanks for showing this Bodyguard off.
I recall that detectives would often carry the model 10 snubbie in a sholder or OWB holster and have the 5 shot model 49 in an ankle holster.That was a great combination using the same 38 ammo.
I own a 649 it takes 357 and 38 it’s my favorite hand gun I even put the classic bodyguard grips on it she’s pretty stout I carry it more than any other weapon I own
Beautiful gun in its own right. Cool design. My brother used to carry chief special but hammer snag is a real issue. Great shooters for as short as the barrel/sight radius is.
Hi, my friend. well done.♥♥ I bought one used German 38 spcial with 6 shots $120 and the barrel and rib was loose. The grep plastic was broken am the rear sight was gone. I painted. It,s perfect now in size of me S&W 65-7 357 magnum.
I've always wanted one because of that infamous photograph. However, on a more practical front, I wouldn't mind pocket carrying one if I had the chance.
I had an old 1984 nickel plated ultra light one. I believe the gun had a lot of rounds through it and one day after doing some target practice I discovered the frame had split under the barrel. I still have the vintage grips and uncle mikes boot grips live on my current new model 36. while I like the 36 I feel new S&W lacks quality the 1984 had. Lets just say my new gun was missing pieces and spent five months at the factory until it was repaired. I wish they would bring this model back in a steel frame. I loved that gun.
First of all, I LOVE J Frames. Yes I have other guns, but I LOVE J Frames. If I may make a couple of suggestions. Regarding grips and I've tried them all, the Pachmayr grips you showed are the best if you want rubber. Currently, I've become an Altamont guy. Their round butt J Frame grips, smooth or textured, depending on your preference, are terrific. They will never hang up in a pocket and are beautiful. And the palm swell fits that empty spot in your hand. They actually make the grips for Smith & Wesson that come with their 351PD. That's how I got hooked on them. They run about $65. They're on all 5 of my J Frames. Another point many people don't know is that in close quarters, where the gun might actually touch the bad guy, the revolver will work even if pressed into the bad guy. A Semi won't. Another plus for the J Frame. Regarding ammo, Buffalo Bore is my choice. They make a lead free 110 grain in both Standard Pressure and +P. I use the Standard Pressure whether in my steel, alloy or Scandium Frames. Believe it or not, the Standard Pressure performs as good as the +P with less recoil. I have a nickel 49, Electroless Nickel 442, 640 (38 0nly), 340PD & 351C (22mag). Same grips on all & same ammo in all the 38's. I use the +P version in 4 inch & 2 &3/4 inch Rugers. Yes I have the 125 & 158 +P Buffalo Bores too, but at the range I might need a J Frame, the ability to shoot faster due to less recoil, is more important to me than a little more power. I practice at 6 feet & don't look at the sights. For me, if I need the gun, there won't be time to line up sights. The guy who says, give me your money, won't be standing across the street. Sorry for the long post, but once I started typing, there were more things I wanted to say. Thanks for another very informative video.
My Stepdad packed one in the 70s in Chicago. He told me it saved his ass A few times, he’s pass on now but I got it and pack it every day .
That's an awesome story, you gonna pass it on to your son/daughter?
Yeah my son gets it he’s 22 just got out of the army,, he knows all the story’s and history that go’s with each one. I’ll tell him if you ever let 1 get away money can’t buy that back.
My dad has his dad's.....he's planning on giving it to me, and I'm planning on giving it to my daughter......not anytime soon I hope
@@falconcowboy9995 nice 👍
@@falconcowboy9995 NICE !
I bought mine in 1971 for a back up (Mod 48) and carried it as a backup. Even when we went to auto loaders (Glock) in 1984, I still carried it for my backup. Put in an ankle holster, light weight enough not to be noticed. Now retired in 2008, I still carry it for a back up.
👍
We called them HUMPBACKS back in the day.
Carried one of these for years in Watts. Going through the parking lot at night with keys in one hand and this in a jacket pocket in the other.
Ruined 2 jackets and lived to tell about it.
Highly recommend.
The S&W Model 49 was a favorite with agency detectives, loaded with 110 grain standard pressure JHP ammo.
I pocket carry the 642 as a primary. I bought a couple sticky holsters & stitched them into the pocket. It goes great with my buck 110 & leather man
I have a very similar set up too. I primarily carry a j frame too. I either carry in a IWB or Fanny pack.
I love my J frames! For 36 years as an LEO I carried a J frame as my backup/off duty handgun. Though I preferred the concealed hammer model. I bought my first one in 1974 (a Model 40 Centennial), added a Model 640 when they became available, and now, retired, I frequently carry a Model 642. I still have all three.
The Model 49 is a GREAT revolver, especially if you're not sure DA is here to stay. And they were very popular as backup/off duty/detective handgun...along with the Model 40. I just preferred the Model 40/640.
BTW,I never considered them "ugly" at all...rather a very purposeful design. Form follows function!
FWIW, I have carried a handgun every day for 51 years and 5 shots has ALWAYS been enough for personal self defense.
Ain't nuthin more badass than a wheel gun
Thank you for the review of a classic revolver. Youre right its nice not to see another soulless striker fire lump of polymer.
Thanks John! The workmanship alone is a thing of beauty!
Everything is Glock or some AR nowadays. They work, but sometimes it gets too boring to bear.
@@TheGrenadier97glocks and ARs used to be rare back in the day like in the 80s and 90s therefore sought after and exciting , but today those two are nearly all I see at the gun shops and ranges. It’s like how parking lots all full of Hondas and Toyotas, nothing wrong with them but boring.
Ive been a machinist 50.yrs
Mim parts are in aircraft engine and gas turbines, the problems are a myth
Thank you-companies adopting a new manufacturing process that they hadn’t quite mastered lead to the bad rap. In many applications, MIM produces a vastly superior part. It’s all about application, the process, and quality control. People seriously need to do themselves a favor and look into the subject a bit more, rather than just repeating the nonsense they’ve heard.
When consistent hardness and structure throughout the part is desired, MIM is the* way to go. If you’re wanting a part with a softer inner and harder surface, traditional forging is probably the better choice.
I have one in stainless steel, the m649. It save my ass from kidnappers.
I've got the 638 Airweight and love it for pocket carry. Many think it's ugly but I actually find it elegant. One day I might pick up the 649 which is an all stainless model in .357 Magnum!
I've been carrying a Chief since 1990 and my hammer has never caught on anything. Also, I qualified with my Chief hitting all center mass out to 50 yards. They're accurate.
Wow!!😮
the S&W Model 49 Bodyguard. It's like holding a piece of history in your hands. The shrouded hammer design makes it perfect for discreet carry without sacrificing reliability. From its inception in '59 to its retirement in '96, this revolver has stood the test of time. Thanks to the support of our Patreon members, we can continue to celebrate and preserve these iconic pieces of firearm craftsmanship.
Ive wanted one of these for a while. This might be the sign to finally get it
Good afternoon from Brazil. She spoke about a revolver, applauding standing up 👏👏👏👏👏👏 God bless the Americas 🇧🇷🤝🇺🇲🙏
Você botou no Google tradutor né kkkk ficou meio estranho o que você escreveu
@@jonasschmitz506 sim, 😂. Meu inglês é inexistente
I’ve carried a m38/638 since the mid eighties. I have found that with this frame style you can have a much higher grip which helps greatly with control.
I have one but it's chrome finished. I took the wood grips off and threw on some hogue grips. Also put a spring kit in it for a little lighter pull.
Had a Command Sergeant Major in law enforcement who carried one of these in an updown shoulder rig. It was a nickel version. He used it off duty and as a pocket backup on duty.
sootch00 you missed the most important fact. This is the model that Ricardo Tubbs carries in Miami Vice most of the time. 😂
Great video
👉👍👈🖖
I'm glad someone else remembered that.
My favorite revolver.
Two fingers Hogue Bantam Monogrips are the way to go with these little revolvers.
I tried ankle carry on duty for a backup gun. I had it get spotted a few times, and once had it pop out of the holster while running down some stairs and race me to the bottom. I started carrying my BUG in my left front pants pocket, and still do to this day.
Hopefully Don, you can get ahold of the new Lipsey's J-Frames. Interested if you can get the 32 H&R Magnum version.
Jager, I'm curious to know why Smith & Wesson missed the mark and didn't make a 327 magnum like their competitors for more versatility...your thoughts and stay safe, brother.
I prefer a traditional Model 10, but in the snub nose version, good enough for me.
I tried out both the Lipseys 38 Special ad 32 H&R Mag at a S&W event. I'm definitely excited about the 32 H&R Mag, Thanks Jager!
@@giovanniascensione18they did but don't know why they stopped. 327 jframes are very rare and expensive on gunbroker. Glad the h&r magnums are coming out
the 327 might be a little too much power for a small gun. so I think 32 HR mag is better. but I would like if they brought back the steel J frames in this caliber. it is a good round. anyone wanting a real magnum hand beater can always get Buffalo Bore ammo or Underwood.
I have a nickel model 49 made in 1973. Sadly, Smith and Wesson customer service said the revolver is too old for them to service them. Revolver still is tight. I wanted the action worked on by the Performance Center.
Ricardo Tubs carried the S&W model 49 Bodyguard on Miami Vice!
Send it to the renowned gunsmith Teddy Jacobson "Actions by T" he will work his magic on the trigger to be as smooth as glass
I love the old model thirty six.
Everybody ought to have a few j-frames. They are remarkably comfortable to carry.
I had one of these 30 years ago, I wish I kept it
I still have mine from 1974.
I love this gun
I had one as a backup gun when I was a sheriff's deputy. Wish I still had it.🙁
I love hump back revolvers, got a S&W 638 and taurus 651 in 357 mag. Love em.
My dad was a Philadelphia police detective for 12 years. He carried one of these model 49 for about 10 years! Reason when you carry a revolver every day the hammer would start by making a rough patch on the belt line on the dress shirt! And eventually would wear a hole in the side part of his dress shirts. So detectives would carry this model in their holsters to prevent the wear to their dress shirts!
Love the J frame....I have a few and my 442 still finds its way into my pocket from time to time
Had a nicker one in the early 80’s. Wish I still had it. Now a days I have a 640.
this is the Gun I learned How to shoot a pistol, a box of wad cutters ! Good time's !!
The old S&W J frame guns are the best you could buy if you could find one buy it they are hard to find 💯 👍
I love my 638, I really hope they'll someday make a Performance Center version with some better dovetailed-in sights and an action tune.
I have a pre number airweight bodyguard , it's my edc .
A timeless classic and a still excellent EDC handgun
I do love these revolvers. If I were an American I’d be sure to have a couple even if there was no need for EDC. They’re just beautiful and remind me of all the good gun smithing in my 1894.
This is my EDC. I really enjoy it. the one thing that old revolvers got right is the handle. This thing completely disappears on my body and it's because the handle is so slim. The way the handle is configured also allows me to get a really good grip on the gun. Newer revolvers like the centennial have a chunky handle that forces you to hold the revolver further down meaning a higher bore access.
When reloading, you transition the gun to you left hand while opening the cylinder, turning the gun upside down and use your left thumb to empty the cylinder. While emptying the gun you grab your speed loader or strip with your right hand and load up using your right hand. Also, the speed strip you load 2 rounds at the same time. When transitioning back you your right hand, you're closing the cylinder with your left hand.
That is the way I was trained and practice.
There are other ways to get you to the same place.
@@darrelldunlap7249 I agree, but this way you are doing two different functions at the same time with both hands. I don't think there's a faster way to reload. Plus, I almost ALWAYS see RUclipsrs load the S&W (and Rugers) revolvers counter-clockwise instead of clockwise.
Bottom line.
Get the casings out and new bullets in and next!
I don't do that. I just use the left hand to rap the ejector rod . I have my trigger finger on a flute to keep the cylinder steady and I put in the speed loader. then left hand closes the cylinder.
Bottom line.
Get the casings out and new bullets in and next!
Thanks for making content that's more than just "the latest and greatest". 👍
THATS MY GUN HELL YEEAH!!!!!!!
I've carried a model 38 many many miles.
Fabulous video, Sootch. Thanks.
i have one that was my dads ... mfg. in 1957....it has airweight on the right side of the barrel..nice little weapon
Nice video Don👍 I love the old S&W revolvers. That one is in great condition.
Thanks for watching Ray!
I carry j frames everyday. It’s my primary CCW. I have many other options but after 30 years of concealed carry I’ve downsized to a platform I will carry daily and one I feel comfortable with to do the job I need. I don’t feel in anyway under gunned or vulnerable.
They made a stainless version, the 649. Fine revolver.
have one. wish I had 2. LOVE IT. sneaks itself into my pocket alot.
good review! glad mentioned the old tyler t grop as my grandfather( a retired tx dps officer) used one on a old smith 32long revolver as his back up for years.
Best gun review channel there is. Been watching for years. Love your channel. I think the first video of yours I watched was your ruger Blackhawk video you did years ago. God bless.
Works well with an ankle holster or a vest pocket.
49 and Compacs for the win! Nice find Sootch00!
The REAL Bodyguard! Be still, my heart. This was my regular carry for years. With a Tyler T-Grip, it is amazingly comfortable to shoot.
Luv that classic blued steel and walnut grips.
This is the only J frame I’d want. I love the K frames but this one I would carry anyday too.
As always great review. Classic fighting iron
Awesome video nice 38 smith and Wesson thanks for sharing sootch00
That flat latch chief special is a gem 🇺🇸💎
It is nice to see videos on something other than striker fired nines.
Back in the early 70's my barbers dad (also a barber) carried a Mod 49. I thought it was ugly but showed me how it was fast and snag free pulling out of his pocket. I totally got it but I still thought it was ugly. lol I have a mod 636 that I put a mod 642 hammer in to make it snag free, I wanted to keep the original hammer stock in case I ever wanted to change it back. I put a Pachmayr, Diamond Pro grip on it and still conceals well and gives me a little more grip on it.
Thank for good review
Just perfection...
I have the new version of this. I have the 638 with a crimson trace grip. I carry it when I have my swooshy shorts on because its do light and my other CCW are too heavy. Also, I got it because of that picture in Vietnam. For long range I wouldn’t want it but for everyday taking the dog for a walk or running to the corner store, this is perfect.
I love my model 49 !
The Italian journalist and writer Oriana Fallaci knew personally the vietnamese officer and the photographer who took this picture.
All the major media said immeditely that this was a harmless vietnamese farmer killed by evil soldiers.
Wrong.
Oriana proved and wrote that this was a commando that ten minutes earlier had shot in the back many men of this officer.
He took them by surprise, treacherously disguised in civilian clothes.
What upset the officer was that his men wore uniforms at the check point in the street, clearly showing themselves and taking their risks as soldiers do.
At the contrary the vc terrorists didn't.
The consequent execution, thus shocking, was in line with the treatment Internationally reserved to spies.
A single frame is not a video explaining a more complex situation.
Never fully trust them, always use your judgement.
Maaan, I've been looking for one of these for years! So cool
GunBroker has a few ,,But they are over the top on the pricing.
You aint kiddin @@notnowchief.3089
Pre-co v 1d, you could find them under 500 on GB all day long (and that’s for almost pristine condition). If you’re patient, a good quality shooter can be found under 400. Just look every couple of days.
inherited mine from my grandmother, she only had to use it twice, what a lady.
Another worth reviewing is the Bodyguard 38, both laser and non-laser versions. Fairly affordable for a polymer framed snub.
Got some g10 scale grips coming for my 36. Keeping the wood, though. Too nice to get rid of
I’m a young person, but I played Resident Evil 2 Remake as Claire and now want this revolver, which looks like Claire’s SLS60.
my favorite weapon 😍 like ricardo tubbs in miami vice 😎 thank you for this video 🙏🏻greetings from switzerland 🇨🇭
Great video Sootch. I agree that these are great little revolvers, I have a nickel model 38 that I don’t carry anymore as it’s become a safe queen. Again, really enjoyed the video!
Thanks Jeffery! A Chrome Plated Model 38 would be sweet.
Really like otis brushes for cleaning 👍👍
Enjoyed the video!!! Prompted me to get my deceased father’s nickel-plated 17:08 model 38 out of the safe and research it a little more. Dad wouldn’t own anything except a J-frame S&W!
Had one of each, several years ago but had to sell them..l was building a House 🏠 and construction material deliveries were forthcoming 😢.
Had my 1960s COLT Detective Special installed with a Hammer Shroud,so now,l have the Best of Both Worlds 😊👍
I always love seeing a vintage S&W wheelgun without that ugly lock hole they're putting into the new ones. Nothing quite as lovely as blued steel and wood grips! Thanks for showing this Bodyguard off.
These J frames are pretty handy. I carry a 642 often. Great summer carry.
Man I just bought one two days ago
I now have the mod 36 in 2” and 3”
Model 10 and now this beauty. All bleed all 99% condition.
@@ClickOnProfile0.. spam bot accounts
Carried one while serving in CORRECTIONS, ESCAMBIA CO JAIL 1978.
I recall that detectives would often carry the model 10 snubbie in a sholder or OWB holster and have the 5 shot model 49 in an ankle holster.That was a great combination using the same 38 ammo.
My backup in the 70's was an airweight bodyguard (model 38). Still have one - c. 1969. And yes, it can be fired from a coat's side pocket.
Sootch00 got a new gun, lets go see!!
I own a 649 it takes 357 and 38 it’s my favorite hand gun I even put the classic bodyguard grips on it she’s pretty stout I carry it more than any other weapon I own
Beautiful gun in its own right. Cool design. My brother used to carry chief special but hammer snag is a real issue. Great shooters for as short as the barrel/sight radius is.
Hi, my friend. well done.♥♥
I bought one used German 38 spcial with 6 shots $120 and the barrel and rib was loose. The grep plastic was broken am the rear sight was gone. I painted. It,s perfect now in size of me S&W 65-7 357 magnum.
In the 50s the smallest revolver you could have from S&W was an i frame smaller than the j frame.
Covert operatives had these also Sig 230.. 🇪🇺Pre time’s against Soviet SPY’s.
Police had 32 pistol’s, Highway 9mm Luger’s, Mil only Fn Hi -Power’s❤
My grandfather carried one as his primary for 22 years when he was a chief.
Love the new music
I've always wanted one because of that infamous photograph. However, on a more practical front, I wouldn't mind pocket carrying one if I had the chance.
I had an old 1984 nickel plated ultra light one. I believe the gun had a lot of rounds through it and one day after doing some target practice I discovered the frame had split under the barrel. I still have the vintage grips and uncle mikes boot grips live on my current new model 36. while I like the 36 I feel new S&W lacks quality the 1984 had. Lets just say my new gun was missing pieces and spent five months at the factory until it was repaired. I wish they would bring this model back in a steel frame. I loved that gun.
TK Custom can make the extractor area fitted for moon clips. It aids in fast loading and faster unloading.
That is awesome. The Tubbs character had one on his ankle in Miami Vice series. Just don't carry it on your pocket with loose dimes.
If you want the look of the wood grips but the feel of the Packmayrs, we used to wrap rubber bands around the grips.
that is an old trick. but it worked.
I almost bought a model 36. But, wanted to shoot +p ammo. I got a 442 instead.
PlUS Ps are overated
I have two of them a 1977 and a 1996 in the blued Model 49. I have a 2002 Model 638 Airweight Bodyguard as well.
First of all, I LOVE J Frames. Yes I have other guns, but I LOVE J Frames.
If I may make a couple of suggestions. Regarding grips and I've tried them all, the Pachmayr grips you showed are the best if you want rubber.
Currently, I've become an Altamont guy. Their round butt J Frame grips, smooth or textured, depending on your preference, are terrific.
They will never hang up in a pocket and are beautiful. And the palm swell fits that empty spot in your hand.
They actually make the grips for Smith & Wesson that come with their 351PD. That's how I got hooked on them.
They run about $65. They're on all 5 of my J Frames.
Another point many people don't know is that in close quarters, where the gun might actually touch the bad guy, the revolver will work
even if pressed into the bad guy. A Semi won't. Another plus for the J Frame.
Regarding ammo, Buffalo Bore is my choice. They make a lead free 110 grain in both Standard Pressure and +P.
I use the Standard Pressure whether in my steel, alloy or Scandium Frames. Believe it or not, the Standard Pressure performs as good as the +P
with less recoil. I have a nickel 49, Electroless Nickel 442, 640 (38 0nly), 340PD & 351C (22mag). Same grips on all & same ammo in all the 38's.
I use the +P version in 4 inch & 2 &3/4 inch Rugers. Yes I have the 125 & 158 +P Buffalo Bores too, but at the range I might need a J Frame,
the ability to shoot faster due to less recoil, is more important to me than a little more power. I practice at 6 feet & don't look at the sights.
For me, if I need the gun, there won't be time to line up sights. The guy who says, give me your money, won't be standing across the street.
Sorry for the long post, but once I started typing, there were more things I wanted to say.
Thanks for another very informative video.
Not too shabby.