Smith & Wesson 638 vs Glock 26

[Whiskey89]

I know all of the pros and cons but I'm still torn on this decision for my next purchase. They're so similar in price that it just makes the decision harder. Original intention was to purchase a "pocket pistol."


Calguns, please settle this little debacle for me.

[NtensiTy]

I went with a 642 for my pocket gun and don't regret it a bit. I think the g26 is pretty big for that purpose, but for iwb I think it is a great fit.

[trob]

EDIT: I just read your post again. If you're looking for a pocket pistol, it's the 638, no question. The g26 is way too clunky to be a pocket pistol.


I have both. I carry both for different reasons, so to compare them isn't really fair.

The 638 is light weight, skinny, and is just "something to stick in my pocket" right before walking out the door.... I don't have to have an IWB or something that takes a minute to put on.

The g26 is a more conventional carry option with a belt loop holster, etc.

Like I said, they're used differently, so to compare them is useless for me. I like both for different reasons

[californa]

I have a G26 its great for iwb but I would not recommend it for pocket carry to bulky.

[snubbyfan]

The 9mm G26 is a good gun for concealed carry as is the 638. I agree with the others in saying that each has it's own purpose. If you want a "grab it and go" gun to tuck into a pocket holster then it's the 638 all the way. That along with a couple of 5 shot quickstrips in another pocket. The g26 in blockier and doesn't go well in a pocket. However with a iwb or owb holster and a cover garment it can make an ideal concealed carry piece. Personally I'd prefer the 638. it would give me the option of either pocket carry for the hot summer months when I'm wearing either a tank top or no shirt at all and belt carry under an untucked shirt for when the weather cools off a bit. If ya can only get one, I'd get the 638.

[jkody]

Id go with the 26. 10 rounds vs 5 any day.

[P5Ret]

I don't know if my experience counts, but a few years ago I bought a Glock 27 for a grab and go pocket gun. I don't work, it is just too big and heavy. I'm in the market (once I get approval from my boss) for a Smith 442 or 642. So my vote is to go with the J Frame, it is better suited for that purpose.

[snubbyfan]

A G26 isn't a pocket gun. It's a holster on a belt gun. The J frame is a pocket gun.

To those who say 10 of 9mm is better than 5 38s, 5 38s in your pocket is better than 10 9mms left at home.

And get a 642. There's no reason for the single action capability of the 638.

I agree, I personally carry a 442 in a custom leather pocket holster.

[trob]

And get a 642. There's no reason for the single action capability of the 638.

Unless you need better accuracy and have time to cock the hammer. It's a lot easier to be accurate with a SA trigger than it is with a DA.

I'd rather have it and not need it, than need it and not have it. That's why I got the 638, there's no downside, only positives.

[den888]

Both fine weapons, but it would depend on a couple of factors for concealment. The G26 can be a bit bulky.

[johnny_boy02]

How do the S&W "pocket" guns compare size wise to a ruger LCP? I couldn't handle anything larger in my pocket and I would love to get rid of the ruger.

[ECVMatt]

I had a 642 for a while and it was not that much fun to shoot. That meant I did not shoot it much. I just put 100 rounds through my 26 today and it was a blast. It feels like shooting a .22, is accurate, decently powerful and much easier to reload. The 26 wins hands down in my book.

[JTROKS]

I have a 640 and a G27, hands down the 640 is a better pocket pistol. The 638 being lightweight is even better.

[fremont lapua]

Rent them and go with the one that feels better in your hands and you can shoot better.

[aatruong]

The 638 is meant for the pocket...the g26 is a great lil pistol but unless it's going in any other pocket than the front pocket, it's not a viable option. Chances are you will have them both one point or another while being a member here. I've owned a 442, 642 x2, g26, g27 and have sold them all...the 638 is currently on my short list