Need some Gun ID help (S&W)

[Hazcat]

Friend emailed me these photos and question:

Hey dave, I got a 38 special hammerless gun for a little of nothing and a guy at the gunshow offered me 850.00 on the spot. Can you tell me anything about this particular gun. I did not sell it. Lol
Airweight 38 spl. Ctg.
Wooden handle, this is on bottom of handle: 793j64 and smith & wesson. Let me know if you find our anything about it. Its pretty old I can tell by tge appearance but in perfect shape.





Thanks, Guys and Gals.

[tombogan03884]

Best I could do quick.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smith_%26_Wesson

J-Frame (small) Models

    * Smith & Wesson Model 36—known as the "Chiefs Special"; first J-frame (1950), 5-shot revolver[14]
    * Smith & Wesson Model 37—known as the "Chiefs Special Airweight";
    * Smith & Wesson Model 60—first regular production all stainless steel revolver (1965); the stainless Chief's Special[14]
    * Smith & Wesson Model 340PD—first revolver made of scandium alloy, very light, possibly the final evolution of the classic J-frame Chief's Special introduced over 60 years earlier, weighs 12 ounces (340 g).[14]
    * Smith & Wesson Centennial—standard and "Airweight" (Models 40, 42, 442, 640, 642) (at one time available in 9x19mm caliber as the Model 940)[14]


http://www.snubnose.info/docs/m10.htm

[Majer]

That should be a Model 49  I can't tell from the photo but there should be a shrouded hammer that allows you to cock and fire it single action

[rat31465]

Check out this link to the S&W Model 49 Bodyguard....I believe you identified yours as an Airweight?
Model number should be on the frame under the cylinder crane.  Open it up and take a look.
http://www.snubnose.info/docs/bodyguard.htm

Shrouded Hammer was designed to allow the gun to fire inside a pocket and reduce snagging when drawing from a pocket or deep concealment.

[m25operator]

Haz if it is not marked, then it is a pre model 38, the model 38 came out in 1957, the Bodyguard Air weight came out in 1955, if it is the pre model, it would have some good value.

[Sponsor]

[Bic]

I have a Model 38 in nickel( 95% too! but white Baramii grips & Tyler Tgrip) that I couldn't get a bite at $450 at a show here yesterday = tell him to sell it. It doesn't look like it has early grips to make it anything too special............but what do I know......or these effin Rangers either right now 

MP

[Hazcat]

Thanks, guys.  I sent your answers on to the owner.  I'll let ya know if I hear back.

[DDMac]

Looks as comfortable as an old friend. Well shot, well carried and still ready to serve. Love those J frame Smiths.
Mac.