Understanding the Bodyguard M&P 380: A Quick Glance
The world of personal defense is filled with options, and for those seeking a discreet and reliable firearm for concealed carry, the Smith & Wesson Bodyguard M&P 380 has long been a popular choice. This review aims to provide a comprehensive look at the Bodyguard M&P 380, delving into its features, performance, pros and cons, and its suitability for everyday carry. Whether you’re new to firearms or an experienced shooter considering your next carry weapon, this article is designed to offer valuable insights.
Before we dive deep, let’s establish the basic premise. The Smith & Wesson Bodyguard M&P 380 is a compact, semi-automatic pistol chambered in .380 ACP. This cartridge is known for its manageable recoil, making it a viable option for those new to firearms. Its primary design focus is on concealment, making it ideal for individuals who need a firearm that is easy to carry discreetly throughout the day. This pistol is not about raw power; it’s about a balance of portability, ease of use, and the ability to provide a means of self-defense when needed.
Unpacking the Specifications and Features
Let’s delve into the core components that define the Bodyguard M&P 380. This information is crucial for potential buyers and those interested in understanding the firearm’s design.
The Bodyguard M&P 380 utilizes the .380 ACP cartridge, a caliber known for its balance of power and manageable recoil, particularly in compact firearms. It typically holds a magazine capacity of six rounds, plus one in the chamber, totaling seven rounds of available firepower. This capacity is common for pistols of this size and intended use.
The barrel length is typically around 2.75 inches, contributing to the overall compact profile of the pistol. This shorter barrel makes the Bodyguard M&P 380 exceptionally easy to conceal. The overall length of the pistol is also quite short, often measuring less than six inches.
Its unloaded weight is also a major selling point, often around 12 ounces or less. This minimal weight makes it very comfortable to carry for extended periods. The sights are low-profile, fixed sights that are integrated into the slide. They typically consist of a simple front dot and a rear notch. While effective at closer ranges, they can present a challenge for rapid target acquisition at extended distances.
The trigger system employs a double-action-only (DAO) mechanism. The trigger pull tends to be long and somewhat heavy, which some find a deterrent while others appreciate the added safety it provides. Trigger pull weight typically falls within the range of nine to eleven pounds.
The Bodyguard M&P 380 also incorporates several safety features, including a manual safety, a firing pin block, and a magazine disconnect. The manual safety, located on the left side of the frame, offers an extra layer of protection, preventing unintentional discharge.
The pistol has some notable features. The slide is constructed from stainless steel and usually features a black Melonite finish. The frame is made from a durable polymer, helping to keep the weight down. The grip features a textured surface, which enhances the shooter’s control and grip in various conditions. The magazines are typically made of stainless steel.
The presence or absence of a laser sight is a key feature to consider. Many Bodyguard M&P 380 models come with an integrated laser sight, offering the shooter a rapid aiming solution in low-light situations. The laser is usually a red laser, easily visible in most conditions.
Getting a Feel for the Bodyguard M&P 380: Ergonomics and Handling
The ergonomics of a firearm directly impact its handling and how well a shooter can control it. Let’s examine how the Bodyguard M&P 380 performs in this critical area.
The pistol’s compact size makes it well-suited to shooters with smaller hands, although even those with larger hands can generally achieve a secure grip. The overall feel is comfortable, with the rounded edges and lightweight design contributing to ease of handling.
The grip’s texture is a key aspect of the ergonomics. While the grip isn’t overly aggressive, it is designed to provide enough friction to prevent slippage, especially when hands are wet or sweaty. This texture aids in maintaining control during recoil.
Racking the slide, a necessary action to chamber a round, is manageable. The slide’s serrations provide a decent grip, and the relatively light recoil spring assists in the process.
The trigger has already been mentioned; its double-action-only design requires a long and deliberate pull. This can take some getting used to, but it also offers an extra layer of safety, as it reduces the likelihood of accidental discharge. The trigger reset is also relatively long.
The slide release is accessible, located on the left side of the frame. The magazine release button is easy to reach and operate.
Putting the Bodyguard M&P 380 to the Test: Performance and Accuracy
Ultimately, a firearm’s performance is judged on the range. Let’s explore the Bodyguard M&P 380’s behavior in the hands of a shooter.
The .380 ACP cartridge is known for its relatively mild recoil. The Bodyguard M&P 380, being a lightweight pistol, amplifies this recoil. This means that there is a notable muzzle rise. The lightweight design of the Bodyguard M&P 380 makes for a snappy shooting experience, which may require some practice to control.
Regarding accuracy, the Bodyguard M&P 380 performs adequately at typical self-defense distances. Grouping at seven yards is generally acceptable, allowing for controlled shot placement. However, due to the short sight radius and trigger pull, achieving tight groupings at extended ranges (e.g., 15 yards or more) can prove more challenging.
Reliability is a critical factor for any self-defense firearm. During testing, it’s essential to use a variety of ammunition types. The Bodyguard M&P 380 has gained a reputation for reliability, although issues can occur. Any malfunctions are essential to report and address immediately.
Concealed Carry Considerations: Is the Bodyguard M&P 380 Right for You?
The Bodyguard M&P 380’s primary purpose is concealed carry. Let’s examine how well it suits this role.
Its compact size and light weight are its biggest advantages. It can be easily concealed in various ways, including inside-the-waistband (IWB) holsters, pocket holsters, and ankle holsters. The small profile allows it to be worn with minimal printing.
The slimness of the pistol also contributes to its ease of concealment. The ability to conceal the firearm under light clothing is a significant advantage for everyday carry.
Holster selection is essential. Various holster options are available, ranging from minimalist pocket holsters to more substantial IWB holsters. The right holster is critical for comfort and effective concealment.
One potential drawback of the Bodyguard M&P 380 for concealed carry is its limited capacity. The standard magazine holds six rounds, plus one in the chamber. While this is a decent number for a pocket pistol, some shooters might prefer more rounds.
Weighing the Options: Pros and Cons of the Bodyguard M&P 380
To make an informed decision, let’s summarize the key advantages and disadvantages of this pistol.
Pros:
- Compact Size: This is a major selling point for concealed carry, allowing for easy concealment under various clothing options.
- Lightweight: The pistol is comfortable to carry for extended periods.
- Ease of Concealment: The combination of small size and weight contributes to effortless concealment.
- Reliability: The pistol generally has a good reputation for reliable performance with various ammunition types. (Though individual experiences may vary).
- Price Point: Often, the Bodyguard M&P 380 is competitively priced, making it an accessible option for many shooters.
Cons:
- Trigger Pull: The long and heavy trigger pull can be a hurdle for some shooters.
- Limited Sight Options: The standard sights are basic. Upgrading these is not necessarily straightforward.
- Recoil: The .380 ACP round, combined with the light weight, can result in noticeable recoil and muzzle rise.
- Magazine Capacity: The standard capacity of seven rounds might be a disadvantage for some shooters.
Comparing Choices: The Bodyguard M&P 380 in the Competitive Landscape
The world of compact concealed carry pistols is crowded. How does the Bodyguard M&P 380 stack up against its rivals? Let’s look at the alternatives.
The Ruger LCP (and the LCP II) is one of the closest competitors in terms of size and price. The LCP is even smaller and lighter, but its sights and trigger are typically considered inferior.
The Sig Sauer P365, a popular option, offers a significantly larger magazine capacity and generally better ergonomics and trigger. The P365 is slightly larger, however.
The Glock 42 is another contender, offering Glock reliability in a small package. It is slightly larger than the Bodyguard M&P 380.
The Bodyguard M&P 380 differentiates itself by its integrated laser sight option (in some models) and its balance of size, weight, and price.
The Verdict: Final Thoughts and Recommendations
The Smith & Wesson Bodyguard M&P 380 is a capable concealed carry pistol that offers a compelling combination of portability, reliability, and affordability. It shines in its ability to be easily concealed and carried throughout the day.
The pistol is a solid choice for those looking for a discreet and reliable firearm for self-defense. The long trigger pull can be considered a safety feature by some, whereas others may find it difficult to adjust to. The limited sight options may require users to modify the sights for optimal performance.
This gun can be suitable for new and experienced shooters looking for a simple, easy-to-conceal carry option.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a compact and lightweight .380 ACP pistol that is easy to conceal, the Bodyguard M&P 380 is a solid contender. Its reliability, combined with its compact size, makes it a worthy choice for concealed carry. However, it’s always recommended to handle one at a gun store before purchasing, to get a real feel for the weapon. If you decide to get it, remember to practice regularly to become familiar with the trigger pull. Consider various holster options and practice drawing from concealment. Consider the Bodyguard M&P 380 as a great option.
