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Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard .380 Review
Price Range:
$350 - $450
Specification
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Smith & Wesson |
| Country of Origin | United States |
| First Build Date | 2010 |
| Type | Semi-Automatic |
| Caliber | .380 ACP |
| Magazine Capacity | 6+1 |
| Barrel Length | 2.75 inches |
| Weight | 12.3 ounces (unloaded) |
| Price Range | $350 – $450 |
Overview
The Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard .380 is a lightweight, compact, and reliable semi-automatic pistol specifically designed for concealed carry. Since its introduction in 2010, the Bodyguard series has been one of the most popular options for personal defense due to its easy-to-conceal nature and smooth operation. The .380 caliber provides a balance between manageable recoil and defensive stopping power, making it an excellent choice for individuals looking for a personal protection firearm.
Weighing only 12.3 ounces, the Bodyguard .380 is easy to carry for extended periods, whether it’s in a pocket, ankle holster, or belt holster. Its 2.75-inch barrel ensures it’s compact enough to fit in small carry positions while still maintaining reasonable accuracy. The 6+1 magazine capacity is ideal for self-defense situations, though it might feel limiting to some users who are accustomed to larger calibers or higher magazine capacities.
Strength and Quality
Smith & Wesson’s M&P Bodyguard .380 is a well-built firearm. Its polymer frame helps keep weight low, while the steel slide ensures strength and durability. The pistol’s fit and finish are excellent, with tight tolerances that prevent rattling or unwanted movement during use. The sights are simple but functional, and the integrated laser adds a significant advantage for quick target acquisition in emergency situations. The overall craftsmanship is solid, and it feels reliable in the hand, particularly for everyday carry use.
Safety Features
The Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard .380 includes several key safety features to ensure that the weapon is safely carried and operated:
- Manual Safety: The manual thumb safety prevents the gun from firing unless intentionally disengaged.
- Integrated Laser Safety: The laser is activated via a pressure switch on the front of the grip, making it easy to engage in self-defense situations without fumbling.
- Internal Safety Lock: The Bodyguard includes a key-activated internal lock, ensuring the firearm cannot be used without the proper key.
- Trigger Safety: The trigger guard safety ensures that the pistol won’t fire unless the trigger is fully engaged.
Test Results
Accuracy
During testing, the Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard .380 performed admirably at typical self-defense distances. At 7 yards, the pistol was able to maintain a grouping within 2 inches. However, at 15 yards, groupings expanded to around 4 inches, which is expected for a short-barrel .380 pistol. While not a precision weapon, it’s more than capable of performing well in close-range encounters, which is where the Bodyguard .380 is meant to excel.
Durability
The Bodyguard .380 is built to withstand the rigors of everyday carry. After running over 300 rounds through the pistol, including hollow points and full-metal jackets, there were no malfunctions or failures to feed. The finish held up well, showing minimal wear after consistent use. The recoil spring and trigger mechanisms are robust, adding to its long-term reliability.
Recoil and Control
Despite being a .380 ACP, which is a lower-caliber round, the recoil in the Bodyguard is still noticeable but manageable, especially given the small frame. The recoil is snappy but not punishing, which allows for follow-up shots to be relatively easy. The ergonomic grip, though small, provides adequate control, and the recoil spring is stiff enough to allow for smooth cycling without excessive muzzle rise.
Also Read: Smith & Wesson M&P9 M2.0 Review
Merits
- Compact and lightweight design, ideal for concealed carry.
- Reliable performance with no malfunctions during testing.
- Integrated laser sight provides enhanced targeting in low light.
- Easy to disassemble and maintain.
- Comfortable recoil, making it suitable for new shooters and those sensitive to recoil.
Demerits
- Limited magazine capacity (6+1) compared to other subcompact pistols.
- Accuracy drops off at longer ranges due to the short barrel and low velocity of the .380 ACP round.
- Small grip may be uncomfortable for individuals with larger hands.
Maintenance
Routine maintenance for the Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard .380 is straightforward. Disassembly is simple and requires no tools. Regular cleaning involves wiping down the barrel, slide, and frame, ensuring that all moving parts are lubricated. Smith & Wesson recommends cleaning after each range session and replacing the recoil spring after 3,000 rounds. The stainless-steel slide and polymer frame help resist corrosion, and with proper care, the Bodyguard .380 should provide years of reliable service.
Comparison with Other Guns
| Feature | Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard .380 | Glock 43 | Sig Sauer P365 | Springfield Hellcat | Ruger LC9s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .380 ACP | 9mm | 9mm | 9mm | 9mm |
| Magazine Capacity | 6+1 | 6+1 | 10+1 | 11+1 | 7+1 |
| Barrel Length | 2.75 inches | 3.39 inches | 3.1 inches | 3.0 inches | 3.12 inches |
| Weight | 12.3 ounces | 16.69 ounces | 17.8 ounces | 17.9 ounces | 17.2 ounces |
| Price Range | $350 – $450 | $500 – $600 | $500 – $600 | $500 – $600 | $400 – $500 |
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Yes, the M&P Bodyguard .380 is ideal for concealed carry due to its small size, lightweight design, and ability to fit comfortably in various holsters.
The Bodyguard .380 stands out with its integrated laser sight, which aids in faster target acquisition. Additionally, its ergonomic design and lightweight construction make it easier to carry and control.
Yes, the M&P Bodyguard .380 is an excellent option for personal defense, particularly in situations where you need a lightweight, easy-to-carry firearm with reasonable stopping power.
The recoil in the Bodyguard .380 is relatively light compared to other subcompacts, especially those chambered in 9mm. However, it still provides a good amount of stopping power for personal defense.
The Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard .380 comes with a limited lifetime warranty, covering defects in materials and workmanship under normal use.
