S&W Bodyguard 380 Review and Shooting Impressions
The Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 380 is a compact, lightweight pistol designed for concealed carry and self-defense. It’s part of the company’s Bodyguard series, which aims to provide reliable and easy-to-use firearms for personal protection. In this review, we’ll take a closer look at the S&W Bodyguard 380, its features, and our shooting impressions.
Key Features
- Caliber: 380 ACP
- Barrel Length: 2.75 inches
- Overall Length: 5.25 inches
- Weight: 11.85 ounces
- Capacity: 6+1 rounds
- Action: Double-action only
- Sights: Fixed front sight, drift-adjustable rear sight
- Frame: Polymer
- Slide: Stainless steel
- Trigger Pull: 9.5 pounds
Design and Ergonomics
The S&W Bodyguard 380 has a compact and ergonomic design, making it easy to carry and handle. The polymer frame is lightweight and durable, while the stainless steel slide provides added strength and corrosion resistance. The pistol’s grip is contoured to fit comfortably in the hand, with a subtle palm swell and textured surface for secure handling.
The Bodyguard 380 also features a thumb-operated safety, which is easy to engage and disengage. The safety lever is located on the left side of the frame, just above the trigger. While some users may find this location inconvenient, it’s designed to prevent accidental discharges when the pistol is holstered or stored.
Shooting Impressions
We had the opportunity to shoot the S&W Bodyguard 380 at a local range, and our impressions were generally positive. The pistol’s double-action only trigger pull was smooth and consistent, with a noticeable “stacking” effect as the trigger was pulled to the rear. While some shooters may find this trigger pull too heavy, it’s designed to provide a safe and deliberate shooting experience.
Recoil was manageable, thanks to the pistol’s compact size and lightweight design. We experienced some muzzle flip during rapid-fire sequences, but this was easily controlled with proper technique. The fixed front sight and drift-adjustable rear sight made it easy to acquire targets and adjust for windage.
Ammunition Performance
We tested the S&W Bodyguard 380 with a variety of 380 ACP ammunition, including FMJ and JHP loads. The pistol performed reliably with all tested ammunition, with no malfunctions or stoppages encountered.
| Ammunition | Bullet Weight | Velocity (fps) | Accuracy (in) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winchester FMJ | 95 grains | 945 | 2.5 |
| Hornady JHP | 90 grains | 950 | 2.0 |
| Federal Hydra-Shok | 90 grains | 920 | 2.2 |
🔫 Note: Accuracy testing was conducted at 10 yards, with 5-shot groups fired from a benchrest.
Accessories and Aftermarket Support
The S&W Bodyguard 380 has a range of accessories and aftermarket support available, including holsters, sights, and magazine extensions. Some popular options include:
- Holsters: DeSantis, Galco, and Blackhawk offer a range of IWB and OWB holsters designed specifically for the Bodyguard 380.
- Sights: Trijicon, Novak, and Meprolight offer high-visibility sight options for the Bodyguard 380.
- Magazine Extensions: S&W and aftermarket manufacturers offer magazine extensions to increase the pistol’s capacity.
Conclusion
The S&W Bodyguard 380 is a reliable and compact pistol designed for concealed carry and self-defense. While it may have some drawbacks, such as a heavy trigger pull and limited capacity, it’s a solid option for those seeking a simple and easy-to-use firearm. With its affordable price point and range of accessories, the Bodyguard 380 is definitely worth considering for those in the market for a compact 380 ACP pistol.
What is the difference between the S&W Bodyguard 380 and the M&P380 Shield?
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The S&W Bodyguard 380 is a more compact pistol with a shorter barrel and lighter weight, making it easier to carry. The M&P380 Shield is a larger pistol with a longer barrel and more capacity.
Can I use the S&W Bodyguard 380 for concealed carry?
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Yes, the S&W Bodyguard 380 is designed for concealed carry and is a popular choice for those seeking a compact and lightweight pistol.
What type of ammunition is recommended for the S&W Bodyguard 380?
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We recommend using high-quality 380 ACP ammunition, such as FMJ or JHP loads, to ensure reliable performance and accuracy.
Related Terms:
- Smith and wesson
- M P Bodyguard 380 with Laser
- 380 pistols
- Pistol smith and wesson
- Smith and Wesson Bodyguard 9mm
- 380 Bodyguard
