This revolver is an excellent discreet carry gun. I would certainly consider purchasing another.

Very nice little carry revolver.

Great gun wish they still need it

I carry this weapon every day of my life. And trust it completely The dark finish is easier to clean than the stainless I have both. This one has an all around “slicker” feeling and functioning to it.

Second purchase from buds. Very fast and easy. Buds was very quick getting my order shipped out. Received it at my ffl dealer 3 days after I ordered it. Very nice handgun just what I would expect from S&W. Thanks Buds

This gun is slick. I am kind of a research nut when it comes to buying guns and this time was no different. I spent weeks figuring out what kind of gun I wanted to conceal carry and this is the one that I finally settled on. I LOVE the all black finish and think that it looks really nice. This is my first Smith and Wesson and won't be my last. Thanks Buds!

Best type of J frame Smith I've ever owned, and I've owned or own all three versions.

I own several other J frames, but this is my new favorite! I like the fact that it does not snag out of a pocket holster and does not dig into the side when carried on the hip. The double action trigger feels the same as my S&W 442 and the single action is VERY crisp… which leads to more accurate shooting should that need ever present itself in a self defense situation. The humpback style seems to allow it to stay positioned properly in the pocket. The weight, balance, etc. are perfect. The transaction with Bud’s to my FFL went smoothly. I might buy another in case something happens to this gun because it has been discontinued by S&W and only a few “new” ones remain.

Bought this guy about ten months ago and finally getting around to a review. It's a Smith and Wesson airweight revolver, so that translates to a 5 shot 38spc P rated piece with alloy frame and stainless barrel and cylinder. In my opinion, the bodyguard series revolvers are the best option when it comes to J Frame revolvers because you get the typical DA trigger but also the option for firing in SA mode without having to worry about snagging an exposed hammer. This is arguably the best option for a pocket pistol there is due to its combination of size, weight, reliability , and proven round. That being said, it also carries quite well IWB, OWB, or ankle, and I bought a set of Pachmayr compact grips specifically for this purpose, for a better grip when pocket carry is not required. In terms of performance, it's stone cold reliable, the only problem I've ever had was cylinder binding after firing a ton of dirty reloads in one sitting. I usually fire at least 100 rounds through it at a time, recoil is noticeable but not terrible, however my trigger finger tends to get slapped by the trigger guard with the stock boot grips. Accuracy is about as good as you are, this piece is obviously intended for close work but acceptable groups can be reached at even 50 yards with focus and SA firing. It has become my EDC piece with Altamont walnut grips and t-grip adapter for pocket carry or Pachmayr Compac-C grip for any other situation. If you've been thinking about a snub revolver, especially for conceal carry, I would definitely give the 438 a look. One note about the 438 vs 638, the 438 is the exact same thing as the 638, but instead of the painted silver finish on the 638, which is prone to wear and speckling, the 438 has an actual surface finish that seems to emulate the Melonite on their M&P series (though I cannot say if it is exactly the same), so therefore the finish is much more durable and better looking than the 638- if you're looking between the two, you should spend the extra $5-$10 to get the 438 over the 638.

I purchased the 438 revolver from Buds recently. The firearm was in new condition as advertised. It really is a sweet working gun. It is also shooting to point of aim and has a great trigger setup. This was my first online purchase from Buds and I appreciate the service. Thanks