Smith & Wesson Bodyguard .380

Published on June 6, 2017
Duration: 8:29

This review from TFB TV, presented by Patrick R., offers a candid assessment of the Smith & Wesson Bodyguard .380. While acknowledging its compact size and features like a slide lock, the review highlights significant reliability concerns, particularly with FMJ ammunition, leading to a preference for other carry options like the Glock 43. The critique extends to the ergonomics of the laser activation and the stiffness of the manual safety.

Quick Summary

The Smith & Wesson Bodyguard .380 is a compact .380 ACP pistol with a 6+1 capacity, featuring an integrated laser and a manual thumb safety. While surprisingly accurate for its size, it suffers from significant reliability issues, particularly with FMJ ammunition, leading many to prefer more dependable options like the Glock 43 for concealed carry.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Initial Shooting
  2. 00:24Model History & Laser Options
  3. 01:04Physical Features & Capacity
  4. 01:18Controls & Ergonomics
  5. 02:46Range Performance & Ammo
  6. 03:56Carry Methods & Laser Critique
  7. 05:29Reliability Concerns
  8. 06:51Final Verdict

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main reliability concerns with the Smith & Wesson Bodyguard .380?

The Smith & Wesson Bodyguard .380, particularly older versions, can experience malfunctions like failures to extract or eject, especially when using Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) ammunition, making its reliability for daily carry questionable.

What are the notable features of the Smith & Wesson Bodyguard .380?

Key features include its compact size for concealed carry, a 6+1 capacity magazine, an integrated laser (Insight or Crimson Trace options), a manual thumb safety, and a slide stop that also functions as a slide release.

How does the Smith & Wesson Bodyguard .380 compare to the Glock 43?

While the Bodyguard .380 offers features like a slide lock, the reviewer found the Glock 43 to be more reliable, especially with FMJ ammunition, making it the preferred choice for daily carry despite the Bodyguard's potential accuracy.

What are the ergonomic drawbacks of the Smith & Wesson Bodyguard .380?

The manual thumb safety is described as stiff and low-profile, and the buttons for activating the integrated laser can be difficult to press, impacting usability during practice and potential real-world scenarios.

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