Refinsh and grips for S&W 638

M

MPower

New member
Hey guys,
This past weekend I found a good deal on a S&W 638 (J-frame Airweight Bodyguard w/ alloy frame) The reason it was such a great deal is that the gun has what appears to be be corrosion or oxidation on the rear strap of the grip. One guy at the shop thought it might have been in contact with a dis similar metal. It appears to be like mineral veins and are of lighter color than the frame. It can be felt with a fingernail. Anyone else have a similar experience. None of use have ever had this type of problem with an alloy frame before. The guns original date of sale was 1998 so its not old either. I was thinking of ROBARing the gun, but why spend $200 if it is not necessary? Will S&W cover this under warranty?

Also..any grip suggestions? It has rubber Spegels now, I am looking at either Eagle secret service grips or S7W Dymondwoods.

Thanks
John
 
don't know about the corrosion problem but I have the Eagle Secret Service grips on my 317 and love 'em. Mine are the smooth version. They feel great and don't snag clothing like rubber can sometimes do. Plus they add a certain amount of class to the gun IMO.
 
The finish on the aluminum alloy frame of your model 638 is anodize with a clear coat applied over it.

Unfinished aluminum is susceptable to both galvanic and environmental corrosion.

Unfinished aluminum will get a light layer of corrosion and then stop corroding as long as it is not seeing wear on the surface.

You could use a rubber grip that covers the backstrap, and then the corrosion will not be visible.

This gun is an excellent concealment revolver!
If the gun were mine, I wouldn't worry about it.

On my model 638, I like the Barami Hip Grip:

http://www.baramihipgrip.com/

and the Crimson Trace Lasergrips:

http://www.crimsontrace.com/index.htm

-Mk.IV
 
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