Smith & Wesson Bodyguard .38

Published on May 4, 2020
Duration: 3:47

Instructor Mike reviews the Smith & Wesson Bodyguard .38 Special +P, highlighting its suitability for close-quarters encounters. He demonstrates its 'deep punch' capability at short range and discusses the felt recoil associated with its 2-inch barrel, noting that it can handle +P ammunition. The review emphasizes understanding ammunition capabilities and the firearm's intended use.

Quick Summary

The Smith & Wesson Bodyguard .38 Special +P is designed for close-quarters encounters, effective from 2-5 yards. It can handle .38 Special +P ammunition, though this increases felt recoil due to its 2-inch barrel. Extensive powder residue on a target indicates a very close-range shot.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Channel Plug
  2. 00:11Firearm Identification: S&W Bodyguard .38
  3. 00:14Ammunition Capabilities (.38 Spl +P)
  4. 00:44Concept: 'Deep Punch' & Close Quarters
  5. 00:57Sights and Design for Close Range
  6. 01:05Encounter Distance Statistics
  7. 01:15Demonstration: Point and Shoot at 3 Yards
  8. 01:56Recoil Analysis
  9. 02:03Explanation of Recoil Factors (Barrel Length)
  10. 02:35Instructor Mike's Call to Action
  11. 02:46Reviewing Target Results
  12. 03:00Interpreting Powder Residue Markings
  13. 03:13Indicator of Close-Range Engagement
  14. 03:32Final Encouragement and Sign-off

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary intended use for the Smith & Wesson Bodyguard .38 Special +P?

The Smith & Wesson Bodyguard .38 Special +P is primarily designed for close-quarters encounters. Instructor Mike emphasizes its effectiveness in situations occurring between 2 and 5 yards, where quick target acquisition is crucial.

Can the Smith & Wesson Bodyguard .38 handle .38 Special +P ammunition?

Yes, the Smith & Wesson Bodyguard .38 Special +P is built to handle higher-pressured .38 Special +P ammunition. However, it's always recommended to be aware of the specific firearm's rating and to start with standard loads if unsure.

What factors contribute to the felt recoil of the S&W Bodyguard .38?

The felt recoil of the Smith & Wesson Bodyguard .38 is significantly influenced by its 2-inch barrel and the use of high-pressure ammunition like .38 Special +P. This combination results in a snappier recoil impulse common in snub-nosed revolvers.

How can you tell if a shot was fired at very close range with this revolver?

Extensive powder residue markings on the target are a strong indicator of a very close-range shot. These extra markings, ejected from the barrel, suggest the firearm was used in a 'deep punch' or point-and-shoot scenario.

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