SMITH & WESSON M&P BODYGUARD BG38-1
Posted May 25, 2023
Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard BG38-1 is a small, lightweight, and easily concealable handgun for self-defense. It is a great option for those who are looking for a budget-friendly way to protect themselves but do not want to compromise on quality or performance.
The Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard BG38-1 is a double-action only (DAO) semi-automatic pistol chambered in .380 Auto. This handgun is offered in a black, stainless steel slide and polymer frame. It features a stainless steel 6-round magazine with an extending baseplate for more grip and greater capacity. The pistol also has a low-profile rear sight to ensure accuracy in low light conditions, and a simple blade front sight for quickly acquiring targets. Additionally, the BG38-1 is equipped with a red-dot laser integrated into the frame, designed for faster target acquisition and greater accuracy.The combination of these features makes the M&P Bodyguard BG38-1 an ideal choice for those looking for a concealed carry option.
When it comes to quality of construction, the M&P Bodyguard BG38-1 performs well. The frame is made from a high-strength polymer, while the slide is stainless steel. The steel slide components, such as the barrel and extractor, are made from stainless steel and coated with a durable black finish. The M&P Bodyguard also features an internal locking system, designed to prevent accidental discharges.
When it comes to performance, the M&P Bodyguard BG38-1 is a reliable self defense handgun. The pistol has a crisp trigger pull, and the lock-up is tight and smooth. The DAO operation provides a consistent trigger pull with every shot, eliminating the worry of a light strike or failure to fire. It is also equipped with a red-dot laser, which allows for fast and accurate target acquisition in any light condition.
The Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard BG38-1 is an affordable and reliable self-defense handgun. For those looking for a no-frills, budget-friendly self-defense option, this is a great choice. While it does not have feature or performance of the more expensive models, it provides an adequate level of protection and is easy to carry and use.
The Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard BG38-1 carries well, especially for smaller individuals, and is easy to conceal thanks to its lightweight frame and compact size. The trigger pull is consistent and the internal safety releases quickly for a quick draw. The integrated laser sight is also a useful feature, and the durability of the components ensures a long life service.
Overall, the Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard BG38-1 is an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable concealed carry handgun on a budget. It provides a level of quality and performance that would be hard to match on any other gun in this price range. This reliable, lightweight, and easily concealable handgun is a great tool for self-defense and is sure to provide years of use.
Pros & Cons
PROS:
• Lightweight and comfortable: The Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard BG38-1 is a lightweight, compact revolver that weighs in at just over 12oz (unloaded). It features a short 1.875 inch barrel and a textured grip that make it comfortable and easy to handle.
• Low Recoil: The Bodyguard’s five-shot cylinder is designed to help make recoil virtually non-existent with either .38 Special +P or standard ammo.
• Convenient Reloads: The innovative cylinder release system allows quick reloads and makes the revolver easy to use for all shooters.
• Safety: The revolver includes an integrated Jimenez-type manual safety which must be manually engaged and disengaged manually for added safety.
CONS:
• Small Ammo Capacity: With only 5 rounds available, the Bodyguard’s ammo capacity is limited compared to larger revolvers.
• Short Barrel: The Bodyguard’s short 1.875-inch barrel length limits the precision of shooting at longer distances.
• Limited Caliber Options: The Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard BG38-1 is available exclusively in .38 Special +P, limiting its versatility for shooters who prefer other calibers.
Who Should Buy
The Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard BG38-1 is a small concealable .380 auto pistol designed for personal protection. Given its size, power, and concealability, it is suitable for many different types of buyers. Those who are looking for a light-weight, compact, and easy to conceal handgun should seriously consider the M&P Bodyguard BG38-1. It is also ideal for shooters who are new to firearms and are looking for a reliable and easy to use personal defense weapon.
However, the BG38-1 is not recommended for buyers who are looking for a full-sized semi-automatic pistol or a highly customizable handgun. It also may not be conducive to those who have small hands, because it has a somewhat small size that may be difficult to operatively handle.
Comparisons
| Revolver | Smith & Wesson M & P Bodyguard BG38-1 | Ruger LCR-38 | Taurus 802 | Colt Detective Special |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .38 Special | .38 Special | .38 Special | .38 Special |
| Barrel length | 1.9 in | 1.87 in | 2 in | 2 in |
| Height | 4 in | 4.5 in | 3.5 in | 4.25 in |
| Weight | 12.3 oz | 13.5 oz | 13 oz | 22 oz |
| Capacity | 5-round cylinder | 5-round cylinder | 5-round cylinder | 6-round cylinder |
Features / Specs
• Semi-Automatic
• Caliber: .380 Auto
• Capacity: 6 Rounds
• Barrel Length: 2.75"
• Overall Length: 5.25"
• Weight Unloaded: 11.85 oz
• Front Sight:Integrated Insight Red Laser
• Rear Sight: Fixed
• Frame: Polymer
• Slide: Stainless Steel
• Action: Double Action Only
• Grip: Thin and Textured
• Finish:Armornite® (Durable Corrosion Resistant)
Popular Accessories
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- Holster: A quality holster is essential for securely and safely carrying the M&P Bodyguard BG38-1.
- Replacement Magazine: Replacement magazines give you the option of carrying additional ammunition for your M&P Bodyguard BG38-1.
- Laser Sight: A laser sight helps improve accuracy and enhances target acquisition at medium and close range distances.
- Mag Sleeve: A mag sleeve is a great accessory for helping to protect your spare magazines from dirt and debris.
- Grips: Advanced grips make it easier to acquire and maintain a secure and comfortable grip on the M&P Bodyguard BG38-1.
- Cleaning Kit: An essential accessory for maintaining your M&P Bodyguard BG38-1 in top condition.
Accuracy
The Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard BG38-1 is an accurate and reliable handgun. Out of the box it offers superior accuracy within its personal protection class of handguns. The great design and craftsmanship make it perfect for self-defense situations. This gun produces virtually no recoil, making it easy to shoot and handle. The gun is designed to provide maximum accuracy and precision, and can deliver tight groupings even at close distances. With proper practice and training, you can easily learn how to shoot accurately with the Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard BG38-1.
