The Smith & Wesson Airweight .38 Special holds a legendary status among concealed carry firearms. Its lightweight design and potent cartridge have made it a favorite for decades, but is it the right choice for you? This in-depth review will explore the pros and cons, examining its performance, features, and overall suitability for various users.
What Makes the Airweight Special?
The "Airweight" designation refers to the revolver's construction using lightweight alloys, primarily aluminum. This significantly reduces the gun's overall weight, making it incredibly comfortable for concealed carry. This reduction in weight, however, comes with trade-offs we'll discuss below. The .38 Special cartridge itself offers a potent balance of stopping power and manageable recoil, particularly important in a lightweight frame.
Key Features:
- Lightweight Design: The primary selling point. The reduced weight enhances concealability and comfort during extended carry.
- .38 Special Caliber: A proven and effective cartridge offering a good balance of stopping power and manageable recoil for self-defense.
- Five-Shot Capacity: Standard for a .38 Special revolver of this size.
- Double-Action/Single-Action (DA/SA): Allows for both double-action (cocking and firing with one trigger pull) and single-action (cocking the hammer manually for a lighter trigger pull) firing modes.
- Small Frame: Designed for concealed carry, its compact size makes it easy to hide.
Performance and Handling:
The Airweight's lightweight design, while beneficial for concealability, also contributes to a snappier recoil than heavier .38 Special revolvers. This can affect accuracy, especially for less experienced shooters. Experienced shooters may find the recoil manageable, but novices might find it challenging to control, impacting shot placement.
The trigger pull, particularly in double-action mode, can be relatively heavy and gritty, requiring practice and familiarity to master. The single-action trigger pull, however, is noticeably lighter and smoother.
Accuracy: Accuracy is naturally influenced by the shooter's skill and the recoil. While the Airweight isn't known for exceptional accuracy compared to larger-framed revolvers, it's certainly capable of accurate shots at close to medium ranges, crucial for self-defense scenarios.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Excellent Concealability: Its lightweight and compact design makes it ideal for discreet carry.
- Powerful Cartridge: The .38 Special offers sufficient stopping power for self-defense.
- Reliable Operation: Smith & Wesson revolvers are generally known for their robust reliability.
Cons:
- Snappy Recoil: The lightweight frame contributes to noticeable recoil, which can affect accuracy and comfort, especially for new shooters.
- Heavy DA Trigger Pull: The double-action trigger pull requires practice and might be challenging for some.
- Potential for Wear and Tear: The lightweight aluminum frame might be more susceptible to wear and tear compared to steel-framed revolvers.
Is the Airweight Right for You?
The Smith & Wesson Airweight .38 Special is a powerful and concealable revolver, but its suitability depends on individual needs and experience. It excels as a concealed carry option for experienced shooters who prioritize ease of concealment and are comfortable managing the recoil. However, beginners might find the recoil and trigger pull challenging. Consider renting one at a range before purchasing to assess its suitability for your skill level. Those prioritizing accuracy and reduced recoil might be better served by a heavier, steel-framed revolver in the same caliber. Ultimately, responsible gun ownership requires careful consideration of your individual needs and skill set.
