Smith & Wesson Model 638 Bodyguard Airweight

Smith & Wesson · Pistol · In Production · 1989

Weight (empty)414 g (14.6 oz)
Overall Length160 mm (6.30")
Barrel Length48 mm (1.89")
Height109 mm (4.29")
Width33 mm (1.30")
Magazine Capacity5 rounds
Action TypeDouble Action
Firing MechanismDouble Action Single Action
Muzzle Velocity240 m/s (787 fps)
Muzzle Energy233 J (172 ft·lbf)
Effective Range15 m (16 yd)
Frame MaterialAluminum Alloy

Primary Caliber: .38 Special

The Smith & Wesson Model 638 Bodyguard Airweight is a five-shot, double-action/single-action J-frame revolver chambered in .38 Special and rated for continuous +P use. The 638 is the stainless steel and aluminum alloy version of the classic Bodyguard design, featuring the distinctive shrouded hammer that is the hallmark of the Bodyguard series. The hammer shroud is an integral part of the frame that extends upward to enclose most of the hammer, leaving only a shortened cocking spur protruding th...

Country of Origin: United States

Designer: Carl Hellstrom