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  #1  
Old 08-18-2014, 10:17 PM
Ed911 Ed911 is offline
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Default 380 bodyguard mag release issues

I don't know where else to put this, so here it is.

My BG 380's mag release is, as far as I'm concerned, way to easy to push...I pocket carry without a holster and on occasion have had the mag to self eject. Sometimes it's because I forget and put my cell phone in the same pocket, and sometimes it has just done it.

I don't know what the release pressure is supposed to be, but my wife has a Ruger LCP 380, and the mag release spring pressure is very similar to that of my Glock...much stiffer than than my BG.

If I had one suggestion for SW to improve the BG, it would be to add pressure to the mag spring release button. My son also has a BG and it has similar spring pressure on the mag release.

So, after history, comes the questions.

1. Has this historically been an issue with this weapon?

2. Is there anything that I can do to increase the spring pressure on the mag release button? I'm thinking no, but decided to ask anyway.

Responses are welcomed.
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  #2  
Old 08-18-2014, 10:34 PM
Rpg Rpg is offline
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The mag release has been a problem with these.

The mag realease shouldn't interfere with the pistol.

If it does, you have a problem.

There should never be such a problem.

I have no interest in a pistol with these issues: even if they not happen occasionally.

Sd handguns must work all the time.

A pistol that sometimes works isn't one that I am wiling to consider.
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  #3  
Old 08-18-2014, 11:55 PM
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I had that happen once in a folded leather holster while repositioning the holster while seated. I suspect a Kydex retention type holster would cover that area better with less interference.
A shorter mag release button or stiffer spring might help.
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  #4  
Old 08-31-2014, 01:42 AM
Ed911 Ed911 is offline
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Sorry about not tending to this thread after I started it. But, have had some issues at home that have precluded almost everything else. But, all is fine now.

Thanks for the replies. I would have suspected more posts. I'm finding that I like carrying the BG...every day...all day, but find that I constantly check that the mag is seated.

I think the BG is a great gun. But, have been thinking about switching to something else and selling my BG.

I can't believe that something as important as the mag release has such as weak spring.

Can you imagine pulling your BG out in an SF situation only to have the mag drop out and hit the floor. Talk about a bad SD scenario. One in the chamber and six on the ground. Not cool.

I wonder what the spec is on the spring tension.
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  #5  
Old 08-31-2014, 11:05 AM
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Best bet is if your not confident with it is to sell it or use another firearm. At least with it you have one shot not like the Ruger's with mag safety where you would have none. I luckily haven't had any problems with the early BG380 with laser.

Or you could replace the Mag Release for Bodyguard 380 Pistols with a Galloway precision for $15.00 +shipping

Or ship it back to S&W for them to repair.

Galloway Precision :: Smith & WessonŽ Performance :: Bodyguard 380 Performance Parts :: Mag Release for Bodyguard 380 Pistols
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  #6  
Old 09-01-2014, 01:57 PM
Ed911 Ed911 is offline
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Default Replacement Mag Release part

That looks like a good option...one that should be part of the original assembly.

Part of the problem with easy mag release is that the mags are loose fit and depending on where they wind up sitting, can be released with only a slight depression of the mag release button.

I was wondering if you, or anyone else has experience replacing this part. It says drop in and I'm really interested in acquiring one and doing it myself, or having my local gun smith install the part.

I mean, my CCH is a life or death kind of thing. I find that while I own more pistols, that the BG, in general, is such a good gun and easy to carry, that I have it on me all day long...even at home, and forget that it's in my pocket.

If this is a fix, then the BG is a keeper.

Thanks for the parts lookup.
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Old 09-10-2014, 08:32 PM
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Default Replacing the mag release button

Has anyone here replaced the mag release on the BG 380 with the Galloway replacement part. If so, could you explain how you did it and wether you like it or not.

Thanks
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  #8  
Old 09-10-2014, 08:41 PM
Buckey08 Buckey08 is offline
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Same problem with my M&P40, Look at the mag release and the mag falls to the ground. Seems like S&W doesn't seem to think that your mag laying on the floor at some store is a problem?
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  #9  
Old 09-10-2014, 09:32 PM
Ed911 Ed911 is offline
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Default Shield mag release issue

When I purchased my Shield, the mag release spring wasn't tempered...so in essence, it wasn't a spring...the mag would just fall out.

Sent it back to Smith, and they replaced the gun, which took about 6 weeks. Of course, demand for the Shield was much higher then. The mag release on my new gun is okay, but if I were designing weapons for Smith, I would pay attention to mag release spring, and make sure that it had tension similar to the Ruger LCP, or Glock, both of which have adequate to adequate plus spring tension on the mag release.
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  #10  
Old 09-10-2014, 09:50 PM
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You said you carried it in your pocket WITHOUT a holster.....have you ever tried a pocket holster to see if that helps?
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  #11  
Old 09-12-2014, 07:20 AM
Ed911 Ed911 is offline
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Default pocket holster...

No, I haven't tried a pocket holster...maybe I should. However, prior discussions in other forums also voice concern about the weak mag release spring. It doesn't take much pressure to accidentally release the mag. I've found it on many occasions popped out, when I thought there was no reason for it to be unlatched.

After looking at it closely, I think it's more than a spring tension issue. I think it's a design issue. The mag fits rather loosely and therefore has marginal contact with the mag release lug. So much so, that when the mag release is only partially depressed, it ejects the mag.

It would be nice to see a metal mag release that would more positively engage the detent on the mag. I know it's cheaper to produce the plastic ones, but sometimes you just need to give up and produce a better product.

Anyways, I like the gun, it shoots well...is well manufactured, but suffers from some design flaws.

And as i've talked about before, SW could take a hint from the mag release tension on the Ruger LCP 380.

Thanks for your recommendation. I'll look into pocket holster...and replacing the mag release with the aftermarket product referenced above.

When I have the new product in place, I'll post my thoughts.

I would like to note that the Galloway replacement mag release for the BG is not compatible with the new M&P version of the BG. So, maybe S&W has responded to complaints on the old BG's and fixed the issue on the new M&P BG's. If so, then I'd like them to fix mine...since it's most likely an issue that they know about...a DEFECT.

Last edited by Ed911; 09-12-2014 at 07:26 AM.
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  #12  
Old 09-12-2014, 07:26 AM
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Another thing I have noticed is that if you have a full mag there is far more pressure against the mag catch and it may take less pressure on the release for the mag to pop out. You might want to try having only 5 in the mag and see what happens. Any sort of holster is a good idea as you never now when something might get wedged into the trigger guard, although with the weight of the trigger pull it is hard to imagine the BG380 going off unintentionally unless you are really not paying attention.

I might try that Galloway part, I have a number of other items from them and might be ordering more soon.

Last edited by Mcwsky09; 09-12-2014 at 07:27 AM.
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  #13  
Old 09-18-2014, 06:45 PM
Ed911 Ed911 is offline
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I've tried with and without bullets in the mag. It still drops with just the slightest pressure on the mag release. I'm sending it back to SW to have it fixed. It has to be a manufacturing issue. No one would design a mag release that was that weak.

I just recently retrieved my BG380 from my nightstand drawer, where it stays at night. The mag was unlatched and extended. It would have fallen on the floor, if I hadn't seen it.

BTW...having a full mag actually puts pressure on the release and should make the mag release harder to push, because of the downward pressure on the mag lug.

Thanks for the post.

Ed

Not good.
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  #14  
Old 09-19-2014, 08:18 PM
Ed911 Ed911 is offline
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Default Sent to SW for Repair

Update. (9-19-2014) I just sent my BG380 to SW for repair, after talking to Joe in customer service.

Just FYI, the gun was manufactured in March of 2013 according to a serial number lookup by Joe from SW customer service. This should give some idea of when the manufacturing issue occured.

S&W says they'll have it back to me in two or three weeks.

He confirmed that the mag release issue is a known manufacturing problem, and that they have a fix for it. He told me that when I get the gun back, that the mag release would be much stiffer...much stiffer and that I would no longer have a problem with the mags unlatching.

I will post as soon as I get the gun back and let you guys know what I think about the fix, relative to its previous state.

So, look for something around the first week of October, if I'm lucky.

Until then...

Ed
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  #15  
Old 11-06-2014, 10:36 PM
Ed911 Ed911 is offline
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Default Gun is back

Well, S&W supposedly fixed my mag release spring issue...NOT. The mag release was replaced and maybe the mag spring. However, the spring tension on the mag release is about the same as it was when I sent it in for repair.

I'm guessing that the customer service rep was speaking about other mag release spring problems.

The factory obviously thinks that the spring tension on my gun is satisfactory. But, I'm here to tell you, it's not.

No gun owner should have to worry about dropping a mag if he pocket carries w/o a holster.

I look at it this way...no gun should require that you use a crutch in order for it to work properly. My wife's LCP-380 does not have this issue. If you have to buy an accessory in order to ensure you weapon won't drop the mag, then that is a defective weapon.

Just my two cents.

Anyone out there own both the older Bodyguard and the newer M&P version and can comment on whether there's a difference in the pressure required to release the mags between the older and newer guns?

Anyways, just following up as promissed.
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  #16  
Old 11-06-2014, 11:52 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Ed911 View Post
I've tried with and without bullets in the mag. It still drops with just the slightest pressure on the mag release. I'm sending it back to SW to have it fixed. It has to be a manufacturing issue. No one would design a mag release that was that weak.

I just recently retrieved my BG380 from my nightstand drawer, where it stays at night. The mag was unlatched and extended. It would have fallen on the floor, if I hadn't seen it.

BTW...having a full mag actually puts pressure on the release and should make the mag release harder to push, because of the downward pressure on the mag lug.

Thanks for the post.

Ed

Not good.
The added pressure on the catch resulting from the mag being loaders seems negligible. What I was talking about what that with 6 rounds in the mag anything that causes the catch and the mag to disengage will result in the mag being forcibly ejected from the frame while less than 6 rounds has far less pressure so a momentary accidental press of the release is less likely to have the mag shoot out but rather just pop out half an inch or so.
Either way it sounds like something is not right with one that releases too easily.
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  #17  
Old 04-16-2015, 02:39 PM
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Default body guard 380 mag release

I have noticed that when firing my BG, the recoil makes my thumb inadvertently hit and release the magazine every second or third round. I have also noticed when carrying in my pocket, the magazine is often times is ejected. Does anyone know of a fix for this problem?
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  #18  
Old 04-17-2015, 07:32 PM
heltsley heltsley is offline
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Angry

Today I called Smith and Wesson, and I told them the problem I'm having with magazine release. they claim to know nothing about the problem and said to fix it I'd have to pay $45 diagnosis fee and whatever cost for parts and repair, because I'm not the original owner. This is the last S&W I will be buying. There are better guns by Ruger, Walther and Sig Sauer. Anyone want to buy a S&W bodyguard 380 with laser sight?
They should be willing to fix it once they see it's a defect and not due to tampering or modification, even if I'm not the original purchaser. I have other S&Ws I purchased new. Good guns after some trigger work is done. Original trigger on M&Ps are ****.
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Old 05-30-2015, 09:42 PM
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Default I have the same issue. Has anyone tried...

I have the same premature slide release issue with my bodyguard. I pocket cary 24/7. Otherwise great gun for me. But SW should step up and own this issue. It can't just be us. I think the mag release button sticks out too much - making it easy to inadvertently press. I've thought of simply sanding/grinding the button down to make it more recessed. Has anyone else tried this? I'm less hesitant to give it a shot if I know a replacement part is available if I screw it up.
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Old 07-06-2015, 08:05 PM
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I'm sure some of you have figured this out by now, but if you remove the slide and look down in the handle from the top side in the correct lighting, you can see that the magazine catch is likely worn. I haven't shot mine a whole lot, but I've done a lot of dry runs and magazine removal/ replacement. I like to be familiar with my tools. My magazine will actually break free if I wiggle on it and pull slightly. This is with and without any ammo in the mag. The catch is plastic.... metal on plastic with repeated abrasion can only end one way. I noticed this after having the mag drop out while shooting. It had came out in my pocket while holstered a couple times and I just assumed that it was my fault. This will be fixed or not trusted anymore.
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Old 07-06-2015, 08:54 PM
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I sent mine back to smith they had to replace whole frame because nut for laser hold down screw broke out. So with this new one i have to push mag release buttoni in a little to get mag to go all the way in, wit seems to hold mag really good. Maybe its a mod? I shot 100 rounds through it the other daya and i had to tighten up the laser screw again. Thats something they got to figure out
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  #22  
Old 10-29-2015, 12:11 AM
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I had the same issue with the magazine ejecting from the gun without being released and it got to the point where it won't even stay in. The plastic release latch got worn off from just inserting and ejecting the magazines from two visits to the range. I sent mine back under warranty for repair and they replaced the latch. Now it's getting to the point where it's popping out by just touching the bottom of the magazine. It needs to be made of metal because the magazines will wear a new plastic one down in no time imho.
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Old 12-01-2015, 08:52 PM
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I had my Bodyguard for a year and the mag release button broke on me while I was at the range. It would not catch any of my mags at all. I called Smith & Wesson and they emailed me me a shipping label and I shipped it out. I had it back within 2 weeks and it worked fine for another year but I noticed my mags would pop out while carrying it in my ankle holster. I actually had a mag drop to the floor once while walking. It has gotten so bad that now my mags won't stay in at all, they won't seat at all and immediately pop out. I guess I have to send it out again. I only fire the gun twice a year to qualify but wear it religiously. It is unfortunate that I will have to go back to carrying my Glock 26 which feels like carrying around a brick after carrying the BG until I get it back. I recently purchased an MP15 Sport in .556 and haven't fired it yet, I hope I don't have any problems with it.
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Old 02-21-2016, 06:20 PM
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Default Same problems

I've been carrying the BG380 for about 2 years now. I usually have it in my waistband in a DeSantis IWB holster. My mags frequently come out and was thinking about shaving the mag release button when I decided I would do some research first and found this forum. After reading some of the threads, I jiggled my magazine and it popped out without even touching the release!!!! I find I'm always checking the mag to see if it's seated and half the time it's not. I've only put about 75 rounds through the thing. S&W needs to step up and address this problem. I've been a Ruger man and only opted for this gun because of its size and features but if I wanted a single shot pistol I would have bought a single shot pistol!
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Old 03-10-2016, 01:27 AM
Germanshorthair Germanshorthair is offline
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Angry Mag issues

Quote:
Originally Posted by Ed911 View Post
No, I haven't tried a pocket holster...maybe I should. However, prior discussions in other forums also voice concern about the weak mag release spring. It doesn't take much pressure to accidentally release the mag. I've found it on many occasions popped out, when I thought there was no reason for it to be unlatched.

After looking at it closely, I think it's more than a spring tension issue. I think it's a design issue. The mag fits rather loosely and therefore has marginal contact with the mag release lug. So much so, that when the mag release is only partially depressed, it ejects the mag.

It would be nice to see a metal mag release that would more positively engage the detent on the mag. I know it's cheaper to produce the plastic ones, but sometimes you just need to give up and produce a better product.

Anyways, I like the gun, it shoots well...is well manufactured, but suffers from some design flaws.

And as i've talked about before, SW could take a hint from the mag release tension on the Ruger LCP 380.

Thanks for your recommendation. I'll look into pocket holster...and replacing the mag release with the aftermarket product referenced above.

When I have the new product in place, I'll post my thoughts.

I would like to note that the Galloway replacement mag release for the BG is not compatible with the new M&P version of the BG. So, maybe S&W has responded to complaints on the old BG's and fixed the issue on the new M&P BG's. If so, then I'd like them to fix mine...since it's most likely an issue that they know about...a DEFECT.
The Galloway link is no longer viable.
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Old 03-10-2016, 01:31 AM
Germanshorthair Germanshorthair is offline
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I am having the same issue with my Body Guard, mags just pop out if pulled on , they come right out. I bought both of my sons Body Guards also. Will find out tomorrow if they are having problems also. If so S&W should not hesitate to repair for free. I just bought a M&P full size 45. I pray that doesnt have a magazine problem.
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Old 03-10-2016, 01:48 AM
Germanshorthair Germanshorthair is offline
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Default Same Mag issue with my 380 Body Guard

I just bought a extended mag 10 rounds and it is even worse then with the 6 round mag. I have tried carrying only 5 in the magazine and it still pops out. Empty and it will come out, If you pull on the empty it come right out, There is no where on the internet you can get a replacement spring or release, so S&W will have to fix this.

How would you like to have to use your weapon and pull it only to see you mag crash to the floor or ground? This is beyond belief.I bet since I have owned this gun I have only shot maybe 150 rounds thru it. I like the feel, I like how it carries, I like the thickness of this gun it is only 3/4 of a inch wide, I like the laser.

I don't like the magazine falling out????? I will call S&W, I hope I can stay nice.

Oh by the way has S&W contacted any owners of the BODY GUARD about THEIR Problem?

Seems to me they would have had a RECALL on this weapon!

Anyone else been successful dealing with S&W about THEIR DESIGN FLAW?

Last edited by Germanshorthair; 03-10-2016 at 01:55 AM. Reason: Needed to add a few thoughts
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Old 03-10-2016, 02:01 AM
Germanshorthair Germanshorthair is offline
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Angry S&W Body Guard Magazine issue

Quote:
Originally Posted by Sam Porter View Post
I've been carrying the BG380 for about 2 years now. I usually have it in my waistband in a DeSantis IWB holster. My mags frequently come out and was thinking about shaving the mag release button when I decided I would do some research first and found this forum. After reading some of the threads, I jiggled my magazine and it popped out without even touching the release!!!! I find I'm always checking the mag to see if it's seated and half the time it's not. I've only put about 75 rounds through the thing. S&W needs to step up and address this problem. I've been a Ruger man and only opted for this gun because of its size and features but if I wanted a single shot pistol I would have bought a single shot pistol!
Sam I will post what goes down from S&W about my Body Guard tomorrow.

You are MORE THEN RIGHT SIR! They S&W need to step up dealing with this serious problem!

WHERES the RECALL?

I have been a S&W buyer and believer?

7 weapons I have bought from them. And holsters and many accessories.

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  #29  
Old 03-10-2016, 08:43 AM
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I have the no-laser model BG purchased a year ago and have over 700 trouble free rounds of FMJ & HP absent any problems. My mag seats firmly and has never popped out w/o me hitting the button. From what I've read either I'm just lucky or S&W made design changes on the newer model.
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Old 03-10-2016, 06:56 PM
Germanshorthair Germanshorthair is offline
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Thumbs up Yes a design flaw on the laser models

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Originally Posted by Old cop View Post
I have the no-laser model BG purchased a year ago and have over 700 trouble free rounds of FMJ & HP absent any problems. My mag seats firmly and has never popped out w/o me hitting the button. From what I've read either I'm just lucky or S&W made design changes on the newer model.
Yes Old cop they must have changed the design after yours was made, I called S&W this morning explained my problem they knew they had a problem. Asked for my serial #. S&W didn't hesitate a second took my information emailed me a FEDX return postage label, Gave me the required information to send my Body Guard to them for repair! I unloaded my pistol wrapped it good, packed it good, boxed it up applied the FEDX Return labels they emailed to me, that I had printed, Took it to the local FEDX shop and shipped it for repair. The email had a FULL explanation every step to ship the pistol for repair! S&W paid the postage! So far so good!



I have to say I was impressed at the speed of the customer service person that helped me!

We will see when my pistol returns.

Until then friends stay armed and dangerous!


Sam I hoped this post helps you out! Call them ! Get your Body Guard fixed.
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  #31  
Old 03-11-2016, 06:51 PM
Mobile1 Mobile1 is offline
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Howdy , same issue with mag release. I love the look and feel of my Bodyguard as well as the heavy trigger for pocket & ankle carry. It has been a great shooter and I love it as a back up. The mag release is just toast though-after my last trip to the range I notice I can just pull the mags right out without depressing the release. Fail, can't use it now. I am willing to just buy any upgrade to fix this issue. Please do keep us updated on any upgrades other than a replacement with the same part that will fail again. I wonder if the newer release button will fit the older original and if that would fix the issue? Thanks
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  #32  
Old 06-25-2016, 01:59 AM
wilbranka wilbranka is offline
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Same issue with the mag release on the BG380. I spent today at Talon Training in Tallahassee utilizing one of their wallet holsters. Every time I went to draw, the mag would release. The first shot got off: however, the mag fell out every time I tried to fire the weapon. I tried another BG380 holster, but had the same results. Seems when trying to draw, my fingers would release the mag all the time. I have had past experiences using pocket holster with the same results with this particular firearm.
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  #33  
Old 07-01-2016, 04:00 AM
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ChadLRyan ChadLRyan is offline
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I have the similar issues with mine, & my Sister has A BG380 also (my reason for purchasing one myself, after accurately firing hers impressed me). My mag will drop during firing even with a thumbs up hold (which helps my accuracy). My serial is slightly newer of the two, and starts with; EAT10xx.
I would like to know;
a) if anyone notices any construction differences of 'repaired' ones?
b) knows of a metal replacement part?
c) should I mill my own from steel?
Thank you!
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  #34  
Old 08-20-2016, 02:26 PM
prestonhadley prestonhadley is offline
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Would anyone be interested in a metal Mag Release?

I made my own, and it works really well! But I just find it hard to believe a mag release would continue to be made from polymer. At least one that small. Wears out everytime.

Anyway, Hope to learn many new things about my favorite firearm company here!
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  #35  
Old 08-27-2016, 04:18 PM
edeal2632 edeal2632 is offline
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Default Spontaneous mag release

I have noticed that the mag will pop out at the most inconvenient times. Like getting out of the car while carrying it in an IWB rig. I have contacted S&W and hoping for a good response like the ones I have seen here. Like the gun and enjoy shooting it. I use it for backup so I would like to be able to rely on the mechanics of this piece.
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  #36  
Old 10-03-2016, 08:52 PM
m.a.c. m.a.c. is offline
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Hi, Same problem as reported by others with their M&P BG380. I find it very disconcerting when I get home only to find that my mag has been disengaged and about ready to fall out after carrying it around all day. Mine is fairly new has only had about 100 rounds through it. I carry it in a full Kydex IWB holster at 4:30. The release button seems way too sensitive and I don't think that it should disengage while it's holstered. Anybody know of a fix? Seems like this should be a known issue. Is S&W recognizing it as such? Have not called them about it yet.

Edit: S&W sent me a shipping label to return it to them for inspection.

Last edited by m.a.c.; 10-05-2016 at 02:38 PM.
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  #37  
Old 12-16-2016, 12:40 AM
wilbranka wilbranka is offline
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Agreed with the previous threads. I sent my 380 back to Springfield about 6 months ago for the mag release issue. After the repair (and many parts replaced), I still have mag drops when using a wallet holster. As others have mentioned, a design flaw for using the BG380 with the wallet holsters seems to exist when trying to retrieve the firearm. I have tried several wallet holsters with the same outcome. Nice firearm, but not for wallet holster use.
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  #38  
Old 02-06-2017, 07:15 PM
A2Wing A2Wing is offline
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Quote:
Originally Posted by prestonhadley View Post
Would anyone be interested in a metal Mag Release?

I made my own, and it works really well! But I just find it hard to believe a mag release would continue to be made from polymer. At least one that small. Wears out everytime.

Anyway, Hope to learn many new things about my favorite firearm company here!
Yes! I would be interested in a metal mag release. My son is the original owner, so S&W may not cover the problem for me, since it is now registerd in my name. I'm gonna call 'em and see what they say. BUT, If you have ideas on building, or if you want to sell a metal replacement, I'm all ears.
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  #39  
Old 03-03-2017, 09:27 AM
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Default Purchase new mag release

Has anyone had any luck purchasing a new mag release? I just bought a brand new Bodyguard and have problems with it. I know it's a solid well built firearm which is why this mag release is just crazy.
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  #40  
Old 04-18-2017, 06:50 AM
RodeoBoy RodeoBoy is offline
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Default I'd be interested in a metal mag release.

First post here. S&W recently replaced my worn mag release on my BG380 so I have the newest version. The magazine still randomly ejects while shooting. The mag engagement is solid so I'm guessing I'm activating the button with my thumb on recoil. My next step appears to be milling down the button a bit. I've re-contacted S&W for advice.

I'd be interested in a metal mag release button since I know this new plastic one will wear out. An alternate mag release would certainly benefit from a lower profile button.

My BG is a great shooting, completely unreliable weapon. This issue is a huge safety problem and should be a recall. I guess I could throw my bulletless gun at my attacker as a last resort.
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  #41  
Old 09-04-2017, 11:10 AM
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Default New BG with Factory Metal Mag Release

I bought my new BG in May of 2017. It has an MIM metal (magnetic) mag release (serrations on thumb side, mould line on other side).
Serial Number is KEC-19xx.
I have been carrying it in my jeans pocket with a DeSantis Nemesis holster, and have not had an issue with magazine self release... including getting in and out of my pickup... with 6+1 Hornady Critical Defense loaded.
The curved serrations are barely above flush with the frame. I do have a Hogue Handall grip sleeve that may be helping?

The release effort is similar to my 45 Shield.

I would rather have an easy, and predictable mag release, if I have time to do a mag change... rather than a finicky release, and especially one that requires shifting my grip.

Last edited by CavScout182; 09-04-2017 at 11:13 AM.
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  #42  
Old 09-22-2017, 12:25 PM
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Some time back, I asked how to change the mag release on a BG380. Never got a reply. I'll try again; how do you change out the Mag Release on a BG380?
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  #43  
Old 10-15-2017, 08:41 AM
hu4mx hu4mx is offline
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Default Greetings the Bodyguard 380 Magazine Catch Release is fix is finally out

Quote:
Originally Posted by Ed911 View Post
I don't know where else to put this, so here it is.

My BG 380's mag release is, as far as I'm concerned, way to easy to push...I pocket carry without a holster and on occasion have had the mag to self eject. Sometimes it's because I forget and put my cell phone in the same pocket, and sometimes it has just done it.

I don't know what the release pressure is supposed to be, but my wife has a Ruger LCP 380, and the mag release spring pressure is very similar to that of my Glock...much stiffer than than my BG.

If I had one suggestion for SW to improve the BG, it would be to add pressure to the mag spring release button. My son also has a BG and it has similar spring pressure on the mag release.

So, after history, comes the questions.

1. Has this historically been an issue with this weapon?

2. Is there anything that I can do to increase the spring pressure on the mag release button? I'm thinking no, but decided to ask anyway.

Responses are welcomed.
Aluminum Metal Bodyguard 380 Mag Release
Extended Mag Release for Bodyguard 380 and M&P 380 Pistols :: Bodyguard 380 Performance Parts :: Smith & Wesson(R) Performance :: Galloway Precision

Last edited by hu4mx; 10-15-2017 at 08:42 AM.
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  #45  
Old 10-15-2017, 08:43 AM
hu4mx hu4mx is offline
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Rpg View Post
The mag release has been a problem with these.

The mag realease shouldn't interfere with the pistol.

If it does, you have a problem.

There should never be such a problem.

I have no interest in a pistol with these issues: even if they not happen occasionally.

Sd handguns must work all the time.

A pistol that sometimes works isn't one that I am wiling to consider.
Extended Mag Release for Bodyguard 380 and M&P 380 Pistols :: Bodyguard 380 Performance Parts :: Smith & Wesson(R) Performance :: Galloway Precision
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  #46  
Old 10-15-2017, 08:45 AM
hu4mx hu4mx is offline
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Rpg View Post
The mag release has been a problem with these.

The mag realease shouldn't interfere with the pistol.

If it does, you have a problem.

There should never be such a problem.

I have no interest in a pistol with these issues: even if they not happen occasionally.

Sd handguns must work all the time.

A pistol that sometimes works isn't one that I am wiling to consider.
Aluminum Metal Bodyguard 380 Mag Release
Extended Mag Release for Bodyguard 380 and M&P 380 Pistols :: Bodyguard 380 Performance Parts :: Smith & Wesson(R) Performance :: Galloway Precision
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  #47  
Old 10-15-2017, 08:45 AM
hu4mx hu4mx is offline
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Ed911 View Post
I don't know where else to put this, so here it is.

My BG 380's mag release is, as far as I'm concerned, way to easy to push...I pocket carry without a holster and on occasion have had the mag to self eject. Sometimes it's because I forget and put my cell phone in the same pocket, and sometimes it has just done it.

I don't know what the release pressure is supposed to be, but my wife has a Ruger LCP 380, and the mag release spring pressure is very similar to that of my Glock...much stiffer than than my BG.

If I had one suggestion for SW to improve the BG, it would be to add pressure to the mag spring release button. My son also has a BG and it has similar spring pressure on the mag release.

So, after history, comes the questions.

1. Has this historically been an issue with this weapon?

2. Is there anything that I can do to increase the spring pressure on the mag release button? I'm thinking no, but decided to ask anyway.

Responses are welcomed.
Aluminum Metal Bodyguard 380 Mag Release
Extended Mag Release for Bodyguard 380 and M&P 380 Pistols :: Bodyguard 380 Performance Parts :: Smith & Wesson(R) Performance :: Galloway Precision
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  #48  
Old 10-22-2017, 08:31 PM
scarabchuck scarabchuck is offline
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Late to the game on this. The situation on mine is the mag release button seems too sensitive. The mag is held tight, but breath on the mag release button and out comes the mag. It seems like just reducing the height of the button should work. I really don't want to send the gun to S&W unless i have to. Any other solutions to this ?

Sent from my SM-G955U using Tapatalk
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  #49  
Old 11-18-2017, 06:29 PM
Doug0761 Doug0761 is offline
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Default 380 Mag Release Problem Solved

I like my 380 so much I altered the area jus above release. Using JB Weld, I built up the area in question just a tiny bit. It's enough and problem solved.
Some will not want to alter and I agree SW should have a fix but I'm keeping mine "on me".
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  #50  
Old 07-16-2019, 06:19 PM
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Szumi Szumi is offline
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I've been meaning to look into my mag dropping out issues when holstered. I looked the pistol over and I see that the polymer catch has been shaved down by mag insertions.

Galloway Precision makes an aluminum one. I saw mention of a OEM steel version so I called S&W customer service. The lady offered to send me the part, I asked if it was steel, she said it is what my pistol shipped with. She didn't even ask me what the pistol serial number is. Think about that.

I ordered a Galloway part after I hung up. I picked up one of their recoil springs so I have a spare.

Szumi
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