Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 380

About the Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 380

The Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 380 is a micro-compact, double-action-only, internal hammer-fired semi-automatic pistol chambered in .380 ACP, introduced as the M&P-branded update to the original Bodyguard 380 line. This model refined the original 2010 Bodyguard with the M&P designation and improved ergonomics while retaining the core pocket-pistol DNA that made the platform one of America's best-selling concealed carry handguns. The pistol features a high-strength polymer frame with a matte-coated stainless steel slide and barrel, weighing just 12.3 ounces (349g) unloaded. The 2.75-inch (70mm) barrel feeds from a flush-fit six-round single-stack magazine, giving a 6+1 total capacity. The double-action-only fire control provides second-strike capability, allowing the trigger to be pulled again on a round that fails to fire. A manual thumb safety on the left side of the frame and drift-adjustable stainless steel sights are standard. At just 0.75 inches (19mm) wide and 5.25 inches (134mm) long, the M&P Bodyguard was purpose-built for pocket carry and deep concealment. The pistol uses a simple blowback operating system typical of .380 ACP pocket pistols.

The M&P Bodyguard 380 carried forward the storied 'Bodyguard' name that Smith & Wesson originally applied to the Model 49 revolver in 1959. Adding the 'M&P' (Military & Police) designation to the Bodyguard line signaled Smith & Wesson's intent to position the micro .380 alongside its larger M&P pistols as a serious defensive tool rather than just a backup gun. Despite the heavy DAO trigger drawing constant criticism from reviewers, the M&P Bodyguard 380 sold in enormous numbers, proving that extreme concealability and a trusted brand name outweighed trigger feel for the pocket-pistol market segment.

Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 380 specifications

The M&P Bodyguard 380 was available in multiple configurations including models with and without an integrated Crimson Trace laser sight. Unlike the original 2010 Bodyguard 380 which featured an Insight Technology laser, the M&P-branded version offered a Crimson Trace unit or no laser at all. The heavy double-action-only trigger pull of approximately 9 pounds (40 N) was widely criticized for making accurate shooting difficult, though proponents argued the heavy pull served as an additional safety feature for pocket carry. The pistol's simple blowback action, while reliable, contributed to snappy felt recoil that some shooters found uncomfortable for extended practice sessions. The M&P Bodyguard 380 was discontinued around 2023 when Smith & Wesson released the completely redesigned Bodyguard 2.0, which switched to a striker-fired action with nearly double the magazine capacity. Rifling twist is 1:16 inches (406mm) with 6 grooves, right-hand twist. MSRP at discontinuation was approximately $379.