SMITH & WESSON M&P BODYGUARD 380
Posted May 26, 2023
Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 380
When it comes to pistols boasting personal protection and self-defense, the Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 380 is an exceptional choice. Designed as a lightweight, everyday carry gun, the Bodyguard 380 is an ideal gun for anyone looking for dependable Semi-Automatic performance in a package that is both compact and comfortable to use. As part of the M&P line of pistols from Smith & Wesson, the Bodyguard 380 is backed by the manufacturers award-winning reputation for quality and reliability. The easy-to-handle and highly accurate Bodyguard 380 has been gaining in popularity due to its well-rounded design that provides optimum performance in a wide range of shooting applications.
The Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 380 is constructed with a lightweight yet durable polymer frame. This allows the pistol to maintain its sleek lines and handle very well during use. Its overall dimensions measure 5.3 inches in length and 4.0 inches in height, allowing for easy concealment and maneuverability. To add to its user-friendly design, the Bodyguard 380 has integrated grip and manual thumb safety features for improved handling and more control during shooting. Weighing in at just 12.3 ounces, this lightweight option is an especially attractive option for those looking for a carry gun with unprecedented shootability.
Performance wise, the Bodyguard 380 offers an excellent experience for the shooter. Its high performing 2.75 inch stainless steel barrel works in tandem with its Browning-style, linkless barrel mechanism. Not only does this ensure optimal accuracy, but it also aid in fast target acquisition. When it comes to classic pistol performance, the Bodyguard 380 easily surpasses expectations with its 6+1 capacity magazine and the ability to fire off 6 rounds of .380 ACP in just a few seconds. In this regard, the Bodyguard 380 more than lives up to its title of an effective personal protection and self-defense firearm.
The M&P Bodyguard 380 also comes with features to enhance the shooting experience and make the gun even more user friendly. A white-dot front sight as well as an adjustable two-dot rear sight are fixed to the slide, making target acquisition controllable and consistent. An ambidextrous magazine release is also included, allowing both right-handed and left-handed shooters to quickly reload the gun if needed. With all these features, the Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 380 makes an exceptional pistol for a wide variety of shooting applications.
When considering the purchase of a personal defense or carry gun, the Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 380 should definitely be at the top of the list. As one of the leading names in pistols, Smith & Wesson has once again come through to offer exceptional performance and designs in this highly reliable and much sought after firearm. The lightweight design of the Bodyguard 380 and its impressive accuracy, power, and user-friendly features make it an ideal option for anyone looking for a dependable pistol in a concealed carry package. Whether for self-defense, target practice, or shooting sports, the Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 380 is an exceptional choice for all types of shooters.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Lightweight and compact design makes it easy to carry concealed.
- Integral accessory rail for attaching lights or laser sights.
- Ambidextrous operation for left or right-handed shooters.
- Safety features such as an internal lock, magazine disconnect, and trigger safety.
- Available in blued or stainless-steel construction for improved durability.
Cons:
- Trigger pull can be stiff for some users.
- Limited aftermarket support compared to other handguns.
- Magazines can be expensive and hard to find.
- Short sight radius makes target acquisition difficult at distances.
- Light recoil spring can lead to inconsistent operation.
Who Should Buy
The Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 380 is a reliable and lightweight pistol designed for concealed carry. It is a great choice for shooters of all experience levels who want an easy to use, reliable pistol for personal defense. Those with smaller hands may find the Bodyguard 380 easier to handle than other pistols of similar size. It is also well suited for those who want a pistol for use in public spaces or other tight areas.
Those who envision needing to shoot long distances or engage targets from a greater distance should look into other models, since the Bodyguard 380 is not well suited for this type of activity. Additionally, those who hide carry in extremely hot weather may not find the 380 to be the ideal choice, as the polymer grip is not as heat resistant as other materials.
Comparisons
| Product | Magazine Capacity | Safety Features | Grip Enhancement | Length (in) | Weight (oz) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S&W M&P BODYGUARD 380 | 6 Rounds | Thumb Safety | Textured Grip | 5.25” | 12.3 |
| Ruger LCP II | 6 Rounds | Manual Safety | Textured Grip | 5.17” | 10.6 |
| Beretta Pico | 6 Rounds | Manual Safety | Textured Grip | 5.1” | 11.5 |
| Glock 42 | 6 Rounds | Safe Action | Textured Grip | 5.94” | 13.76 |
| Taurus 738 TCP | 6 Rounds | Manual Safety | Textured Grip | 5.2” | 10.2 |
| Product | Magazine Capacity | Safety Features | Grip Enhancement | Length (in) | Weight (oz) |
| ---------------------- | ----------------- | ---------------- | --------------- | ------------ | ----------- |
| S&W M&P BODYGUARD 380 | 6 Rounds | Thumb Safety | Textured Grip | 5.25” | 12.3 |
| Ruger LCP II | 6 Rounds | Manual Safety | Textured Grip | 5.17” | 10.6 |
| Beretta Pico | 6 Rounds | Manual Safety | Textured Grip | 5.1” | 11.5 |
| Glock 42 | 6 Rounds | Safe Action | Textured Grip | 5.94” | 13.76 |
| Taurus 738 TCP | 6 Rounds | Manual Safety | Textured Grip | 5.2” | 10.2 |
Features / Specs
•Caliber: .380 Auto (ACP)
•Capacity: 6+1 Rounds
•Barrel Length: 2.75"
•Overall Length: 5.3"
•Front Sight: Steel Ramp Wood Front
•Rear Sight: Steel Notch
•Action: Striker Fire Action
•Grip: Polymer
•Weight: 12.3 oz
•Frame: Polymer
•Finish: Matte Black
Popular Accessories
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- Extended Magazine
- Laser Sight
- Magazine Sleeve
- Flashlight/Laser Combo
- Trigger Guard
- Grip Extension
- Extended Slide Release
- Slings
- Extended Magazine Release
- Extra Magazines and Ammo
Accuracy
The Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 380 is renowned for its accuracy. It features a 2.75-inch barrel and short overall length, making it ideal for concealed carry. Additionally, it has fixed sights and a crisp trigger pull that produces a consistent break. Out of the box, shooters can expect excellent accuracy. In terms of the accuracy of the gun, users report consistent tight groupings at 25 yards or closer. For a gun of this size, many shooters are surprised at its accuracy potential. Overall, the Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 380 is an excellent gun for personal defense and for target shooting.
