Three minor things I don’t like about the S&W Bodyguard 2.0 - it’s still really good!

Published on March 21, 2026
Duration: 7:35

This guide details a specific technique for loading the S&W Bodyguard 2.0 magazine, addressing the common issue of stiff springs and a potentially injurious magazine tab. It emphasizes caution and offers advice for a smoother, safer loading process, drawing from the insights of an experienced reviewer.

Quick Summary

The S&W Bodyguard 2.0 has three minor drawbacks: stiff magazine springs and a sharp feed lip tab causing loading difficulty and potential thumb injury, a strong recoil spring making slide racking challenging and rear sights prone to scraping hands, and binding issues during recoil spring assembly reassembly. Despite these, it's considered a reliable carry pistol.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Overall Impression
  2. 00:29Grievance 1: Magazine Loading Hook
  3. 02:35Grievance 2: Difficult Slide Racking
  4. 03:59Grievance 3: Recoil Spring Reassembly
  5. 05:08Summary & Carry Method
  6. 06:16Final Thoughts & Call to Action

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main complaints about the S&W Bodyguard 2.0?

The primary complaints are the difficulty and potential for thumb injury when loading the 12-round magazines due to stiff springs and a sharp feed lip tab, challenges in racking the slide due to a strong recoil spring and tall sights, and binding issues during reassembly of the two-piece recoil spring assembly.

Is the S&W Bodyguard 2.0 good for concealed carry?

Yes, despite minor issues, the S&W Bodyguard 2.0 is considered a good carry pistol. It's noted as being slightly large for pocket carry but suitable for appendix inside-the-waistband (AIWB) carry, especially with compatible holsters like those from Eclipse Holsters.

How difficult is it to load the S&W Bodyguard 2.0 magazines?

Loading the magazines can be difficult, especially when new, due to stiff springs. A significant concern is a small, sharp tab on the magazine's feed lips that has caused cuts to the thumb during loading, requiring caution.

What are the challenges with racking the slide on the S&W Bodyguard 2.0?

Racking the slide can be difficult due to a very strong recoil spring. Additionally, the tall, sharp rear sights can scrape the user's hand when using the 'slingshot' method to release the slide forward, prompting a recommendation to rack from the rear instead.

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