I carry a 638 a lot. It works well for me with a jacket or cargo pants. I will balance it with a speed strip and knife on the other side. I am a larger guy so the weight is not an issue.
I have the USC and it is fun to fool around with, but its not a good gun to put into service. Also not easy to accessorize. The cost is also a bit steep.
I have not had any delays yet, but I will see what happens Friday when I should be able to pick up my birthday present to myself. (It's a S&W 29 classic)