S&W 637/638 vs 437/438 finishes?

**philadelphia patriot** · August 24th, 2016, 09:06 PM

Are there any pros or cons regarding the finish on the S&W 637/638 vs the 437/438? I'm thinking of picking up one of these as a BUG for my ankle. Thanks!

**Tmygun** · August 25th, 2016, 12:14 AM

Originally Posted by philadelphia patriot

Are there any pros or cons regarding the finish on the S&W 637/638 vs the 437/438? I'm thinking of picking up one of these as a BUG for my ankle. Thanks!

Not the guns you're referring to, but I believe it has the same finish, my S&W 442's finish has held up very well for the 5 years I've had it. I carry it fairly frequently in a front pocket holster. It looks about as good now as when I purchased it new. Of course I don't put a ton of rounds through it, but it is reliable and has kept it's looks well. I was never a SS fan, especially on revolvers, but I would guess a SS cylinder would ward off rust better in humid conditions. But I must say that my 442 has held up very well with very modest maintenance.

**22 Rimfire** · August 25th, 2016, 12:56 PM

I had a 637 for about 5 years and replaced it with a 642 without the lock when they were first offered in 2008. Both have fairly high round counts, been carried extensively and have held up well. I would highly recommend one.
I will let someone else chime in on the 438 as I don't own one.