Bodyguard vs Centennial

[TipBledsoe]

I see a new S&W J-frame 38 or 357 in my future for concealed carry. I’ve never been much of a DAO fan but I don’t want a hammer catching on clothing.

I really like the idea of the Bodyguard design (e.g. model 638) having a protected hammer yet accessible for single-action, but I wonder if the DAO Centennial (e.g. 642 model) having a bit better form-factor would just make more sense.

Your thoughts?

 

[zackmars]

SA on a defensive revolver is a vestigial tail. You aren't going to use it.

I'm a big fan of the 442. Are 642's available without the lock?

 

[Enigma57]

I have both and I like both, but as you said I do like the Bodyguard due to having the single action option. Not that it's used as target gun. But I do like it when I'm testing different ammunition for grouping using a rested shooting position.

 

[studenygreg]

I only use single action at the range at long targets.

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[wakosama]

SA seems better for aimed shots with shotshells

 

[Armybrat]

Bought my Airweight from a Texas LEO about 20 years ago.
I like the SA feature.

 

[Tnhawk]

I've had a 442 for over ten years and it has been a dependable pistol. Not a target pistol by any means but the 15 oz weight makes it easy to carry.

 

[TipBledsoe]

SA on a defensive revolver is a vestigial tail. You aren't going to use it.

I'm a big fan of the 442. Are 642's available without the lock?

Yes, you make a logical point.

I think it used to be that one had to pay the extra $ for a PC model to avoid the lock, but now the standard model 642 is also available without the lock.

https://www.smith-wesson.com/product/j-frame-103810

 

[Txhighlander]

I would go with a pre-lock centennial myself of the choices you ask.

 

[zackmars]

Yes, you make a logical point.

I think it used to be that one had to pay the extra $ for a PC model to avoid the lock, but now the standard model 642 is also available without the lock.

https://www.smith-wesson.com/product/j-frame-103810

I might have to get me one. I had a 442-2 that i stupidly sold.

 

[baboon]

I bought my S&W model 49 just from watching this on the evening news as a little kid. Iconic photo with an iconic pistol IMHO.

 

[Geezer]

I have an old Model 36, a Model 38 and, a 442. I always shoot DA revolvers in DA. A J frame 38 revolver is a comforting thing to have in your pocket.

 

[Tex62]

Had a 642, gave it to my daughter. Have a 640-1 that I carry now. I like something that weighs a bit more and can load some 357 if I want. Also have a bobbed model 36.


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[Txhighlander]

Had a 642, gave it to my daughter. Have a 640-1 that I carry now. I like something that weighs a bit more and can load some 357 if I want. Also have a bobbed model 36.


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I had a 640 no dash years ago in 357, dumb move to sell it. I have looked for years to find another one in good shape without success. My 36 isn't bobbed but maybe one day. Love a J-frame S&W.

 

[Enigma57]

Like I mentioned earlier, I enjoy them all rather it be the enclosed internal hammer, factory bobbed hammer, or a shrouded hammer. Here's my little sample.

 

[studenygreg]

If you find the DA trigger weight too much, I recommend the Wilson combat trigger kit. I use them in all of my s&w revolvers j, k, l and n frame, except rimfire.

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[TipBledsoe]

I have an old Model 36, a Model 38 and, a 442. I always shoot DA revolvers in DA. A J frame 38 revolver is a comforting thing to have in your pocket.

Between the model 38 and the 442, which is your favorite?

 

[Geezer]

Had a 642, gave it to my daughter. Have a 640-1 that I carry now. I like something that weighs a bit more and can load some 357 if I want. Also have a bobbed model 36.


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My old flat latch Model 36 has been bobbed, trigger face polished, innards polished and, Wolff springs installed.

 

[Geezer]

Between the model 38 and the 442, which is your favorite?

My Model 38 has never been fired. It was an old lady's nightstand gun. I saw no need to fire it.

Between the Model 36 and the 442, I like the 36 better but, the 442 is lighter.

The Model 38.

 

[baboon]

My Model 38 has never been fired. It was an old lady's nightstand gun. I saw no need to fire it.

Between the Model 36 and the 442, I like the 36 better but, the 442 is lighter.

The Model 38.

View attachment 406000

That a model 49, model 38 is just a snub nosed