Smith & Wesson Forum

Go Back   Smith & Wesson Forum > Smith & Wesson Semi-Automatic Pistols > Smith & Wesson M&P Pistols
o

Notices

Smith & Wesson M&P Pistols All Variants of the Smith & Wesson M&P Auto Pistols


Reply
 
Thread Tools Display Modes
  #1  
Old 07-18-2017, 12:14 AM
dixie-cup-dan dixie-cup-dan is offline
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Jul 2017
Posts: 17
Likes: 9
Liked 22 Times in 10 Posts
Default M&P bodyguard light striking.

So, I purchased an M&P bodyguard 380 a few months ago. Overall, I like the pistol, but the trigger pull was just too long even for me, and I like double action triggers. I decided to install a short action santiago trigger kit on it, which has shortened the pull enough for a passing grade from me. The only problem is that now the gun light strikes when shooting cheap target ammo. While this may fly with some shooters, I simply won't own a gun that won't shoot garbage ammo. The funny thing is that this gun has never given me any problems before the trigger job or after, and all the brands of cheap ammo (Tula, Fiocchi, Perfecta) all worked just fine until today. I've don some research and have read that this gun has a reputation for light striking. My questions are as follows

Is there any solution to this?

Is it the new short stroke trigger?

What brands are notorious for hard primers if I decide to keep the gun? It did cycle my Hornady critical defense carry ammo flawlessly, And I do like the gun.


Also, how on earth could a reputable company like S&W not have a problem like this completely resolved at this point? My ****** $200 kel-tec that I purchased this gun to replace would still go bang if I stuffed a ham sandwich in the action. I thought that having a little pistol with real sights that doesn't feel like it's made out of recycled milk jugs was a step up. Should I just stick with my p3at and call it a day? I mean, what is the deal S&W? Do you guys got simple jack engineering your new designs these days?

Last edited by dixie-cup-dan; 07-18-2017 at 12:19 AM.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #2  
Old 07-18-2017, 03:43 AM
gonerydin gonerydin is offline
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Dec 2015
Posts: 679
Likes: 371
Liked 859 Times in 372 Posts
Default

So let me get this straight. You installed a modified trigger and now the gun doesn't work correctly? Doesn't sound like Smith & Wesson's problem to me. My 3 year old M&P 380 Bodyguard has always worked fine. It has a double action trigger. Deal with it.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Reply With Quote
The Following 6 Users Like Post:
  #3  
Old 07-18-2017, 06:04 AM
coachray coachray is offline
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Jan 2016
Location: Cincinnati,Ohio
Posts: 2,226
Likes: 919
Liked 768 Times in 513 Posts
Default

I agree the trigger on the BG380 is long, but I got used to it and so far mine hasn't had any failures.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #4  
Old 07-18-2017, 06:33 AM
OLDSTER's Avatar
OLDSTER OLDSTER is online now
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Aug 2012
Location: North Dakota
Posts: 10,146
Likes: 14,187
Liked 12,739 Times in 3,480 Posts
Default

Light strikes occur in pocket pistols with certain ammo ( usually related to mostly foreign brands having hard primers or slightly thinner cartridge base ). We bought a BG and an LCP at the same time, and with both it took several different factory brands and loads to find what both the S&W and the Ruger liked best. They both eat up Hornady American Gunner 100% reliably, nearly 500 rounds since.
__________________
John

Last edited by OLDSTER; 07-18-2017 at 06:34 AM.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #5  
Old 07-18-2017, 07:44 AM
Old cop Old cop is offline
US Veteran
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Oct 2010
Posts: 7,785
Likes: 4,208
Liked 15,134 Times in 4,143 Posts
Default

I had the BG .380 for a couple of years and the trigger, similar to the J frame I've carried for over 40 years, was no problem. It developed the light strike problem after 800 trouble free rounds down range so I went back to my roots, 340PD.
__________________
Old Cop
LEO (Ret.)

Last edited by Old cop; 07-18-2017 at 02:37 PM.
Reply With Quote
The Following 3 Users Like Post:
  #6  
Old 07-18-2017, 09:15 AM
KSDeputy's Avatar
KSDeputy KSDeputy is offline
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Mar 2014
Posts: 1,504
Likes: 465
Liked 1,574 Times in 700 Posts
Default

I do not like this pistol. I sold the one I bought after dry firing it a few times. I think it is junk. I bought a Ruger Custom LCP for pocket carry around the farm, good trigger pull, no problems with the magazine insertion, and it shoots well. I still carry my .45 off of my property.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #7  
Old 07-18-2017, 11:23 AM
dixie-cup-dan dixie-cup-dan is offline
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Jul 2017
Posts: 17
Likes: 9
Liked 22 Times in 10 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by gonerydin View Post
So let me get this straight. You installed a modified trigger and now the gun doesn't work correctly? Doesn't sound like Smith & Wesson's problem to me. My 3 year old M&P 380 Bodyguard has always worked fine. It has a double action trigger. Deal with it.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
No genius, I purchased the gun and it worked fine with all ammo. I installed a trigger kit, and it still worked fine with all ammo. Then about 250 rounds later (yesterday) it started giving me problems with light strikes. It COULD be the new trigger, but there is no way to know for sure if it's the new trigger since it worked fine the last few trips to the range. Yesterday, the gun couldn't make it through a magazine without a light strike with 3 different brands of ammo that all worked fine in my other 380, which ironically has the same trigger kit. I posted here to see if anyone else has had problems with said trigger kit. It has been established that this model has issues with light strikes right out of the box without having anything done, so if nobody has had a problem with said trigger kit, I'm going to assume it's just the gun and not the trigger kit. Do you understand now, or does it need to be broken down more in a way that you can?

Last edited by dixie-cup-dan; 07-18-2017 at 11:34 AM.
Reply With Quote
The Following 3 Users Like Post:
  #8  
Old 07-18-2017, 11:30 AM
dixie-cup-dan dixie-cup-dan is offline
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Jul 2017
Posts: 17
Likes: 9
Liked 22 Times in 10 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by OLDSTER View Post
Light strikes occur in pocket pistols with certain ammo ( usually related to mostly foreign brands having hard primers or slightly thinner cartridge base ). We bought a BG and an LCP at the same time, and with both it took several different factory brands and loads to find what both the S&W and the Ruger liked best. They both eat up Hornady American Gunner 100% reliably, nearly 500 rounds since.
Have you ever used federal or Winchester white box in your Bodyguard? That's the only domestic 380 ammo I can buy locally without going for a drive or ordering online.
Reply With Quote
  #9  
Old 07-18-2017, 11:31 AM
gonerydin gonerydin is offline
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Dec 2015
Posts: 679
Likes: 371
Liked 859 Times in 372 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by dixie-cup-dan View Post
No genius, I purchased the gun and it worked fine with all ammo. I installed a trigger kit, and it still worked fine with all ammo. Then about 250 rounds later (yesterday) it started giving me problems with light strikes. It COULD be the knew trigger, but there is no way to know for sure it's the new trigger since it worked fine the last few trips to the range. Yesterday, the gun couldn't make it through a magazine without a light strike with 3 different brands of ammo that all worked fine in my other 380, which ironically has the same trigger kit. I posted here to see if anyone else has had problems with said trigger kit. It has been established that this model has issues with light strikes right out of the box without anything done to them, so if nobody has had a problem with said trigger kit, I'm going to assume it's just the gun and not the trigger kit. Do you understand now, or does it need to be broken down more in a way that you can?


Good luck to you


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Reply With Quote
  #10  
Old 07-18-2017, 11:57 AM
Muss Muggins's Avatar
Muss Muggins Muss Muggins is offline
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Mar 2014
Location: bootheel of Missouri
Posts: 16,855
Likes: 6,981
Liked 28,085 Times in 8,897 Posts
Default

Perhaps the after market trigger is broken . . .
__________________
Wisdom comes thru fear . . .
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #11  
Old 07-18-2017, 12:23 PM
ChattanoogaPhil's Avatar
ChattanoogaPhil ChattanoogaPhil is offline
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Oct 2009
Posts: 14,661
Likes: 7,937
Liked 20,623 Times in 5,958 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by dixie-cup-dan View Post
Is there any solution to this?

Is it the new short stroke trigger?
I'd reinstall the factory trigger parts to see if the light strikes continue or not.
If the light strikes stop... that answers that.
If the light strikes continue I'd consider sending it back to S&W.

Last edited by ChattanoogaPhil; 07-18-2017 at 12:27 PM.
Reply With Quote
The Following 3 Users Like Post:
  #12  
Old 07-18-2017, 01:23 PM
oldiegoldie oldiegoldie is offline
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Oct 2015
Posts: 583
Likes: 2,762
Liked 579 Times in 293 Posts
Default

the only ammo that gave me light strike problems was Fiocchi. Others have had no problem with the brand.

Why a company with as much experience as Smith cannot produce a consistent pistol is perplexing. I've never had a problem except the Fiocchi hard primers. Hopefully they will solve the problems when version 2 comes out.
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #13  
Old 07-18-2017, 02:52 PM
dixie-cup-dan dixie-cup-dan is offline
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Jul 2017
Posts: 17
Likes: 9
Liked 22 Times in 10 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by oldiegoldie View Post
the only ammo that gave me light strike problems was Fiocchi. Others have had no problem with the brand.

Why a company with as much experience as Smith cannot produce a consistent pistol is perplexing. I've never had a problem except the Fiocchi hard primers. Hopefully they will solve the problems when version 2 comes out.
You would think that they make an aftermarket firing pin to solve the problem. All of the springs in that gun are pretty stout for a pocket pistol. I think it whacks the primer plenty hard, but the pin either isn't getting there all the way or is shaped poorly.

S&W makes the best revolver made IMO, so they won't ever lose me as a customer, but I'll think twice and do more research before I ever buy anything magazine fed from them again.
Reply With Quote
  #14  
Old 07-18-2017, 03:17 PM
Funflyer's Avatar
Funflyer Funflyer is offline
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Sep 2016
Location: Central Arizona
Posts: 1,031
Likes: 1,096
Liked 1,742 Times in 585 Posts
Default

Did you scratch your head and wonder why there was an extra washer left over after the trigger kit install, or did you install the washer in it's proper location along with the hammer spring?

I'm not trying to be a SA but, I've watched a few videos where these gun experts (use term lightly) didn't know where the washer belonged so they left it out. The short stroke kit will not compress the hammer spring as far as the original trigger assembly does so the washer is required. It might not be required initially, but with use, when the spring settles to a lower pressure, it will be required.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #15  
Old 07-18-2017, 04:02 PM
dixie-cup-dan dixie-cup-dan is offline
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Jul 2017
Posts: 17
Likes: 9
Liked 22 Times in 10 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Funflyer View Post
Did you scratch your head and wonder why there was an extra washer left over after the trigger kit install, or did you install the washer in it's proper location along with the hammer spring?

I'm not trying to be a SA but, I've watched a few videos where these gun experts (use term lightly) didn't know where the washer belonged so they left it out. The short stroke kit will not compress the hammer spring as far as the original trigger assembly does so the washer is required. It might not be required initially, but with use, when the spring settles to a lower pressure, it will be required.
Yes, I included the washer in the install.


I just got done testing the gun out back with the original trigger and springs. It still light strikes the Tula and Fiocchi about 50% of the time, but the perfecta was 10 for 10.

I'm going to try a 1/8 inch aluminum spacer with the hammer spring and see if it fixes the problem.

(UPDATE)tried the 1/8 " spacer and the trigger pull was probably 15 lbs. I didn't even attempt to fire the gun. I'm going to file the spacer down to 1/16" and see if I can get the trigger down to around 12 pounds. I'll take a 12lb short stroke trigger over the standard 10lb mile long stock trigger any day.

Last edited by dixie-cup-dan; 07-18-2017 at 04:49 PM.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #16  
Old 07-18-2017, 05:50 PM
Funflyer's Avatar
Funflyer Funflyer is offline
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Sep 2016
Location: Central Arizona
Posts: 1,031
Likes: 1,096
Liked 1,742 Times in 585 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by dixie-cup-dan View Post
Yes, I included the washer in the install.


I just got done testing the gun out back with the original trigger and springs. It still light strikes the Tula and Fiocchi about 50% of the time, but the perfecta was 10 for 10.

I'm going to try a 1/8 inch aluminum spacer with the hammer spring and see if it fixes the problem.

(UPDATE)tried the 1/8 " spacer and the trigger pull was probably 15 lbs. I didn't even attempt to fire the gun. I'm going to file the spacer down to 1/16" and see if I can get the trigger down to around 12 pounds. I'll take a 12lb short stroke trigger over the standard 10lb mile long stock trigger any day.
You might want to de-burr the spring guide while you're at it. File/polish the corners so the spring has less chance of binding. Every bit of friction loss will improve things as well.
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #17  
Old 07-18-2017, 06:46 PM
dixie-cup-dan dixie-cup-dan is offline
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Jul 2017
Posts: 17
Likes: 9
Liked 22 Times in 10 Posts
Default

PROBLEM FIXED!

The 1/16" spacer at the top of the spring guide with the washer worked, but there was some grit in the trigger, so I took the thing apart again. I ended up using the washer at the top of the trigger spring guide and a 1/16" plastic spacer at the bottom of the spring guide, which sits in the frame just perfect while still leaving a enough of a hole to hold the trigger spring in place. I also pollished the spring guide as well. The trigger is short and smooth. It consistently breaks at just under 13lbs.

Accuracy is still far better than with the stock trigger, but she's no range gun if you know what I mean. I ran two magazines full of both Tula and Fiocchi without a light strike. Since my carry ammo (Hornady critical defense) ran flawlessly even before this fix, and the gun has double strike capability, I'm feeling a lot more confident in carrying this gun. With that being said, this gun will still be replaced at some point. I'm not going to deal with this again 500 rounds from now.

Last edited by dixie-cup-dan; 07-18-2017 at 06:48 PM.
Reply With Quote
The Following 5 Users Like Post:
  #18  
Old 07-18-2017, 08:09 PM
Dirtengineer Dirtengineer is offline
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Jul 2016
Posts: 8
Likes: 0
Liked 4 Times in 1 Post
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by ChattanoogaPhil View Post
I'd reinstall the factory trigger parts to see if the light strikes continue or not.
If the light strikes stop... that answers that.
If the light strikes continue I'd consider sending it back to S&W.
This would be my vote.
Reply With Quote
  #19  
Old 07-18-2017, 09:31 PM
comiskeybum's Avatar
comiskeybum comiskeybum is online now
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Jul 2015
Posts: 359
Likes: 12
Liked 277 Times in 139 Posts
Default

You got a ****** trigger replacement for it. Everyone knows you go to APEX to replace S&W triggers.

Not the gun's fault, its yours. Mine has 600 rounds through it and ive had 3 light strikes all in the same box of cheap as dirt steel ammo. All other ammo has been perfect.
__________________
Smith all the things
Reply With Quote
  #20  
Old 07-19-2017, 01:31 AM
dixie-cup-dan dixie-cup-dan is offline
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Jul 2017
Posts: 17
Likes: 9
Liked 22 Times in 10 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by comiskeybum View Post
You got a ****** trigger replacement for it. Everyone knows you go to APEX to replace S&W triggers.

Not the gun's fault, its yours. Mine has 600 rounds through it and ive had 3 light strikes all in the same box of cheap as dirt steel ammo. All other ammo has been perfect.
1. They don't make an Apex trigger for the bodyguard.

2. The gun light strikes with the stock trigger (reading comprehension)

3. Why do people that know squat bark the loudest on gun forums? You know nothing (people like me fix your guns)

That is all......
Reply With Quote
The Following 3 Users Like Post:
  #21  
Old 07-19-2017, 06:47 AM
martybee's Avatar
martybee martybee is offline
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Nov 2013
Location: STL Area: Belleville, IL
Posts: 1,135
Likes: 2,446
Liked 777 Times in 407 Posts
Default

Something....just does not smell right! Either the firing Pin is poorly designed, or sub-standard MIM! S&W needs to research the problem and come up with a viable solution! (As dixie-cup-dan said, "The hammer spring seems to be stout enough...")
__________________
It's The Carbonaro Effect!

Last edited by martybee; 07-19-2017 at 08:34 AM.
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #22  
Old 07-19-2017, 07:43 AM
leadhead2's Avatar
leadhead2 leadhead2 is offline
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Oct 2016
Location: Western Pa.
Posts: 95
Likes: 22
Liked 48 Times in 29 Posts
Default

I have also had light strikes with Fiocchi ammo in my Ruger LC9s.
I've heard they have very hard primers.
Denny
Reply With Quote
  #23  
Old 07-19-2017, 09:20 AM
jim46ok jim46ok is offline
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Jun 2016
Location: Idaho
Posts: 415
Likes: 34
Liked 156 Times in 103 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by comiskeybum View Post
You got a ****** trigger replacement for it. Everyone knows you go to APEX to replace S&W triggers.

Not the gun's fault, its yours. Mine has 600 rounds through it and ive had 3 light strikes all in the same box of cheap as dirt steel ammo. All other ammo has been perfect.
Guess you missed it.....the part where he said he returned all OEM parts and it still malfunctioned.....
__________________
CERAKOTE Svcs.
Class 01 FFL
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #24  
Old 07-19-2017, 11:48 AM
dixie-cup-dan dixie-cup-dan is offline
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Jul 2017
Posts: 17
Likes: 9
Liked 22 Times in 10 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by martybee View Post
Something....just does not smell right! Either the firing Pin is poorly designed, or sub-standard MIM! S&W needs to research the problem and come up with a viable solution! (As dixie-cup-dan said, "The hammer spring seems to be stout enough...")
I've noticed that pistol designs where the hammer spring is stretched as apposed to being compressed like the bodyguard seem to never have issues with light strikes. While I do think the problem with the bodyguard lies more in the firing pin design or operation, that is something to think about.

My Kel-tecs are cheap pieces of junk compared to the bodyguard, but they are known for going bang with any ammo you feed them despite having a hammer spring that feels like it came out of a toy gun. The way that whole system fits together and operates in those guns is almost comical because it's so cheap looking and feeling. They literally look like they're assembled by 10 year olds in Pakistan, but what do I know? They work well for what they're designed for.
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #25  
Old 07-19-2017, 08:38 PM
oldiegoldie oldiegoldie is offline
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Oct 2015
Posts: 583
Likes: 2,762
Liked 579 Times in 293 Posts
Default

I think the tiny [and light] hammer is part of the problem. A heavier hammer wouldn't add significantly to the weight. I have several other small double action hammer fired pistols and the hammers on them have more mass and weight.

I really like the idea of smoothing up the hammer spring guide rod.
and using a very fine stone or very fine sandpaper on the rails will help it cycle better. No impact on the light strike issue by smoothing up the rails
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #26  
Old 07-19-2017, 09:48 PM
martybee's Avatar
martybee martybee is offline
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Nov 2013
Location: STL Area: Belleville, IL
Posts: 1,135
Likes: 2,446
Liked 777 Times in 407 Posts
Default

I like the idea of a spacer at the base of the hammer spring to aid in compression.
__________________
It's The Carbonaro Effect!
Reply With Quote
  #27  
Old 07-25-2017, 02:26 AM
dixie-cup-dan dixie-cup-dan is offline
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Jul 2017
Posts: 17
Likes: 9
Liked 22 Times in 10 Posts
Default

it's light striking again!
I put about 40 rounds through it today and had 4 light strikes with CCI blazer ammo, but that wasn't the bad part about today's shooting experience.

The freaking thing basically exploded in my hand today. The take down pin blew out the side and split my thumb open. The entire upper portion of the gun was on the ground, as I held only the frame in my hand. At first I thought I had really hurt myself, but it was just a small flesh wound despite scarring the **** out of me.

Never again!. I'm done with this gun. I do like S&W, but this gun is garbage.

Last edited by dixie-cup-dan; 07-25-2017 at 02:28 AM.
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #28  
Old 07-25-2017, 01:35 PM
Funflyer's Avatar
Funflyer Funflyer is offline
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Sep 2016
Location: Central Arizona
Posts: 1,031
Likes: 1,096
Liked 1,742 Times in 585 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by dixie-cup-dan View Post
it's light striking again!
I put about 40 rounds through it today and had 4 light strikes with CCI blazer ammo, but that wasn't the bad part about today's shooting experience.

The freaking thing basically exploded in my hand today. The take down pin blew out the side and split my thumb open. The entire upper portion of the gun was on the ground, as I held only the frame in my hand. At first I thought I had really hurt myself, but it was just a small flesh wound despite scarring the **** out of me.
Never again!. I'm done with this gun. I do like S&W, but this gun is garbage.

Glad you're okay, could've been worse. Was it a kaboom, or just the TD pin breaking allowing the slide to come off? Some people have reported having problems inserting the TD pin. They don't get it seated properly or hooked on the spring all the way which could cause it to bind and break. Pictures?
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #29  
Old 07-25-2017, 01:38 PM
Jeppo's Avatar
Jeppo Jeppo is offline
SWCA Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Feb 2017
Location: Davidson County, NC
Posts: 2,114
Likes: 7,781
Liked 4,123 Times in 1,411 Posts
Default

I guess S&W would like to examine that gun.
Reply With Quote
  #30  
Old 07-25-2017, 02:48 PM
oldiegoldie oldiegoldie is offline
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Oct 2015
Posts: 583
Likes: 2,762
Liked 579 Times in 293 Posts
Default

certainly glad you weren't injured....don't blame you at all for losing faith in the pistol. make sure Smith hears about this. enough is enough.

thinking of ordering a pair of these when taking my BG to the range. sarc off.
Attached Images
File Type: jpg armor71raNURWrJL._SY355_.jpg (27.2 KB, 8 views)
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #31  
Old 07-25-2017, 03:08 PM
gonerydin gonerydin is offline
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Dec 2015
Posts: 679
Likes: 371
Liked 859 Times in 372 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by dixie-cup-dan View Post
it's light striking again!
I put about 40 rounds through it today and had 4 light strikes with CCI blazer ammo, but that wasn't the bad part about today's shooting experience.

The freaking thing basically exploded in my hand today. The take down pin blew out the side and split my thumb open. The entire upper portion of the gun was on the ground, as I held only the frame in my hand. At first I thought I had really hurt myself, but it was just a small flesh wound despite scarring the **** out of me.

Never again!. I'm done with this gun. I do like S&W, but this gun is garbage.


Can I have it?M&P bodyguard light striking.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Reply With Quote
  #32  
Old 07-25-2017, 04:02 PM
dixie-cup-dan dixie-cup-dan is offline
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Jul 2017
Posts: 17
Likes: 9
Liked 22 Times in 10 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Funflyer View Post
Glad you're okay, could've been worse. Was it a kaboom, or just the TD pin breaking allowing the slide to come off? Some people have reported having problems inserting the TD pin. They don't get it seated properly or hooked on the spring all the way which could cause it to bind and break. Pictures?
Just the TD pin blowing out. I'm not sure if the pin broke, as I couldn't find it. A pic wouldn't really show anything other than you can see that the spring that the TD pin fastens to is bent out a bit and the polly looks a little bulged around the slot that the pin fits into.

The injury is just a small cut and some bruising, but when it first happened I thought it was worse because of all the blood.
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #33  
Old 07-28-2017, 08:16 AM
martybee's Avatar
martybee martybee is offline
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Nov 2013
Location: STL Area: Belleville, IL
Posts: 1,135
Likes: 2,446
Liked 777 Times in 407 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by dixie-cup-dan View Post
Just the TD pin blowing out. I'm not sure if the pin broke, as I couldn't find it. A pic wouldn't really show anything other than you can see that the spring that the TD pin fastens to is bent out a bit and the polly looks a little bulged around the slot that the pin fits into.

The injury is just a small cut and some bruising, but when it first happened I thought it was worse because of all the blood.
dixie-cup-dan:
I feel your pain! I also have been getting light strikes with my BG380!
I have over 1500, rds. through my BG380. It is one of the original issue BG380's with the Insght Laser®. The laser has been replaced by S&W, (Crimson Trace®).
Up until now, no issues w/gun. At about 1,350 rds. the weapon began to exhibit "Light Strikes." I now get them about 8% of the time! Other then the LS, I love the way it handles and shoots, but I have no longer have confidence in the gun! It is not my CCW. (All rds. were at my LGS&R). Mostly ball ammo. The defensive rds. that I have shot, have not displayed any LS.
Needless to say, I am pondering the idea of putting it up for sale! I have the Shield 45 that I now shoot at the indoor range and it is every bit as good as the BG380! I though the Shield 45 would be difficult for me to shoot (I'm going on 86 years.) but it is as easy as the BG380! That little pocket gun is very snappy!
I'm hoping S&W comes out with a Small Shield 380 which I believe would be so much nicer than the hammer fired .380.
Until then, I will continue to shoot and enjoy my Shield 45 and 9mm.
Thanks for letting me vent!
__________________
It's The Carbonaro Effect!
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #34  
Old 07-28-2017, 08:34 AM
Old cop Old cop is offline
US Veteran
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Oct 2010
Posts: 7,785
Likes: 4,208
Liked 15,134 Times in 4,143 Posts
Default

I feel your pain matrybee b/c I really like the gun too but when I lose confidence in a carry gun that's it. I've carried a J frame for well over 40 years and never had a problem related to reliability. The newest one is a 340PD which is about the same weight as the LCP I p/u on sale just prior to the LCP II coming out. During my 30 year LEO career I had to my service revolver in the line of duty more than once and it save my butt so some of my revolver "love" may be emotional, but I know it will work when/if needed.
__________________
Old Cop
LEO (Ret.)
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #35  
Old 07-28-2017, 10:27 AM
martybee's Avatar
martybee martybee is offline
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Nov 2013
Location: STL Area: Belleville, IL
Posts: 1,135
Likes: 2,446
Liked 777 Times in 407 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Old cop View Post
I feel your pain matrybee b/c I really like the gun too but when I lose confidence in a carry gun that's it. I've carried a J frame for well over 40 years and never had a problem related to reliability. The newest one is a 340PD which is about the same weight as the LCP I p/u on sale just prior to the LCP II coming out. During my 30 year LEO career I had to my service revolver in the line of duty more than once and it save my butt so some of my revolver "love" may be emotional, but I know it will work when/if needed.
I think you have a very unique and fine piece in the 340pd! Small CCW in a 5-shot J-frame 357 magnum!
Congrats!
__________________
It's The Carbonaro Effect!
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #36  
Old 07-28-2017, 11:57 PM
jim46ok jim46ok is offline
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Jun 2016
Location: Idaho
Posts: 415
Likes: 34
Liked 156 Times in 103 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by dixie-cup-dan View Post
No genius, .........Do you understand now, or does it need to be broken down more in a way that you can?
Obviously you are no dummy, Dan.....but you may consider a little more congenial response to those more seasoned here than you or I. Welcome, let's help each other out....
__________________
CERAKOTE Svcs.
Class 01 FFL
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #37  
Old 07-29-2017, 06:46 PM
6strings 6strings is offline
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Jun 2013
Location: Eastern NC
Posts: 9
Likes: 1
Liked 4 Times in 3 Posts
Default

When the first one`s came out i bought one `cause i liked the laser design of it , but it started having LS issue`s somewhere around my 300 to 400 rounds fired mark , i couldn't figure it out and talking to S&W back then was a joke so when the M&P version came out and was getting good reviews i traded my old one in on a new one , And , at less than the same rounds fired mark as my old one had it started having LS issue`s worse than the old one ! I was getting 3 to 4 LS`s in every magazine i tried to shoot , but the funny thing is it would shoot the first 3 or 4 mags with no problem , i really was PO`d about this and got back online and seen im not the only one again with issues ! So because i really like this little excuse for a pistol i bought the Galloway trigger kit for it and installed it without the hammer spring because i could hardly pull the trigger with it installed , while i had the slide apart and the firing pin out i polished the firing pin channel and lightly deburred and polished the pin and the blocker bar (i guess its called) and reassembled , now after 150 rounds that varied of different brands i had on hand i only had 2 LS . I dont know what did it , the trigger kit or the polishing but i did notice that when watching the hammer as it is released from the trigger pull ( dry fire with a snap cap ) that it travels in a sort of right to left kind of arc ( i went and looked at a few more at a couple different gun stores and it seems a common thing ) and im wondering if the hammer is skimming on the inside of the slide somehow when things are heated up that's causing LS issues or maybe the blocker pin isnt being lifted high enough ? When you break down the pistol completely and take a good look at how the pistol is made and how it functions you`ll see that it "should" work as designed and reliably at that ,,, im just trying to understand why it doesn't and fix it . I have gotten a little closer i think , from listening to everyone else`s experiences and what they are trying. Thanks for posting your experiences !!!!
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #38  
Old 08-02-2017, 02:37 PM
lmacrichter lmacrichter is offline
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Aug 2014
Posts: 202
Likes: 68
Liked 45 Times in 34 Posts
Default

Mine had every problem that you have ever read about. I sent it back to S&W and when they returned it I traded it on a Sig. Best move I ever made on the small 380s. Glad I did and never looked back. My P238 would shoot rocks if you could load them.
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #39  
Old 08-11-2017, 11:53 AM
dixie-cup-dan dixie-cup-dan is offline
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Jul 2017
Posts: 17
Likes: 9
Liked 22 Times in 10 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by lmacrichter View Post
Mine had every problem that you have ever read about. I sent it back to S&W and when they returned it I traded it on a Sig. Best move I ever made on the small 380s. Glad I did and never looked back. My P238 would shoot rocks if you could load them.
I've been looking at the P238. People complain that they're too much, but I have no problem paying that amount for a carry gun. I've never understood how someone could spend 2k on a custom over-under shotgun, but refuse to spend less than half of that on a carry gun that your life may one day depend upon.
At the end of the day, I have 5 guns that are designated as defense weapons, and I trust all of them with my life.

-My home defense guns are a plane Jane old cop style Remington 870 in the closet, and a CZ-P01 in the night stand. Both guns are as reliable as it gets.......100%

-My woods/camping gun is a S&W model 66 .357 mag. It's accurate, flawlessly reliable, and with a 6" barrel pushing 200 grain cast loads, it will stop any four legged creature in my part of the country.

-My daily carry is once again a $200 Kel-tec p3at with a crimson trace. It's ugly, but it goes bang every time and it carries easier than a wallet. The bodyguard has been retired.

-My SHTF gun is a century arms American made AK47. it's been perfect through a couple thousand rounds of garbage ammo.


The only gun on that list I wish to replace is the Kel-tec. While it's reliable, I just can't be satisfied with it, as it looks and feels like it was built by 10 year olds in Taiwan. That's why I picked up the bodyguard in the first place. Well, the BG is going byby, so these are what I'm considering to replace the Kel-tec.

S&W model 642
Sig P238
Colt Mustang
Kahr CW380

Thoughts, opinions, and experiences with these guns would be appreciated (Particularly in regards to how they pocket carry).
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #40  
Old 08-11-2017, 06:06 PM
comiskeybum's Avatar
comiskeybum comiskeybum is online now
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Jul 2015
Posts: 359
Likes: 12
Liked 277 Times in 139 Posts
Default

Don't forget The LCP2 for that list.

Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk
__________________
Smith all the things
Reply With Quote
  #41  
Old 08-11-2017, 08:31 PM
garddogg56's Avatar
garddogg56 garddogg56 is offline
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Dec 2015
Location: Maine
Posts: 1,048
Likes: 2,695
Liked 1,747 Times in 637 Posts
Default

Dan your list of in use firearms is simular to mine except I have a Savage dbl 20"10 ga home defence and a SD9VE IN NIGHT STAND,66-1 is my woods gun,no AR or AK BUT I love my Laser BG.380 over 1500 rounds without a hicupNow your want list, I didn't like the Colt,hated the G42+Remington.380,,gave my son my 642 after I trusted the BG...I do own a P238 SAS and I shoot it great flawless most accurate.380 I ever shot but I'm not confident yet with cocked and lock,she is a quality piece,you should try a Ruger LCP Gen II My wife has one shoots great and handles well with a Ruger 7 round mag..ALSO don't over look a Shield very nice shooter.Good luck with your quest.
Reply With Quote
  #42  
Old 08-12-2017, 03:20 AM
ThrowinRocks ThrowinRocks is offline
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Feb 2017
Posts: 296
Likes: 35
Liked 123 Times in 82 Posts
Default

I almost picked up a BodyGuard until I watched three videos of light primer strikes and the magazines falling out while firing. I prefer my carry gun to be capable of eating any and all ammo with no issues. My Shield 9mm has never had one issue so it stays on my hip.

They need to discontinue the BodyGuard to save a lot of embarrassment but it's really to late for that.

How can you call an unreliable gun a BodyGuard?

Last edited by ThrowinRocks; 08-12-2017 at 01:23 PM.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #43  
Old 08-12-2017, 01:39 PM
comiskeybum's Avatar
comiskeybum comiskeybum is online now
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Jul 2015
Posts: 359
Likes: 12
Liked 277 Times in 139 Posts
Default

Noting wrong with them. Relax.

Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk
__________________
Smith all the things
Reply With Quote
  #44  
Old 08-12-2017, 01:51 PM
gonerydin gonerydin is offline
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Dec 2015
Posts: 679
Likes: 371
Liked 859 Times in 372 Posts
Default

Go out and buy a gun that has no negative videos. Good luck! M&P bodyguard light striking.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #45  
Old 08-12-2017, 01:57 PM
comiskeybum's Avatar
comiskeybum comiskeybum is online now
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Jul 2015
Posts: 359
Likes: 12
Liked 277 Times in 139 Posts
Default

Mine has two light strikes and one FTE all in the same bag of ****ty steel ammo. But yeah I don't trust it. Please....

Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk
__________________
Smith all the things
Reply With Quote
  #46  
Old 08-12-2017, 03:16 PM
Coaltminer Coaltminer is offline
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: May 2011
Location: WV
Posts: 789
Likes: 9
Liked 478 Times in 233 Posts
Default Bodyguard 380 Light Strikes

Didn't have that problem, but it would never feed the last
round in either magazine. Back to S&W, came back ok for the most part, but still fails to feed once in awhile regardless of its position in the magazine. A carry gun it ain't. But I've gotten very good with it and it's a blast to shoot! IMHO, I think the recoil spring is a bit heavy and the slide isn't making it all the way back, overriding the cartridge. Thought about hacking off a coil. 1100 rds. and the thing isn't reliable. Wishing it was isn't going to make me believe it's a self defense pistol. Anyone else work on the recoil spring? I'm curious, wouldn't do it unless I had another on hand.
Reply With Quote
  #47  
Old 08-12-2017, 06:09 PM
dixie-cup-dan dixie-cup-dan is offline
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Jul 2017
Posts: 17
Likes: 9
Liked 22 Times in 10 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by ThrowinRocks View Post
I almost picked up a BodyGuard until I watched three videos of light primer strikes and the magazines falling out while firing. I prefer my carry gun to be capable of eating any and all ammo with no issues. My Shield 9mm has never had one issue so it stays on my hip.

They need to discontinue the BodyGuard to save a lot of embarrassment but it's really to late for that.

How can you call an unreliable gun a BodyGuard?
The BG is a quality piece. It's hands down the highest quality polly mouse gun on the market. The problem is that it's got a bad rep for not being reliable. S&W needs to put out a gen-2 with the light striking nonsense resolved ASAP, or they're going to get locked out of the mouse gun market for a long time because of this gun.

If S&W made a gen-2 bodyguard 380 that didn't have the light strikes in the near future I would buy another one, but considering that it is rumered that Beretta is working on a polly mouse gun that's going to be DA/SA, I got a feeling it's going to own this market if it's reliable and comparable in size and eright to the BG, LCP, or Kel-tec.
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #48  
Old 08-12-2017, 08:17 PM
ThrowinRocks ThrowinRocks is offline
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Feb 2017
Posts: 296
Likes: 35
Liked 123 Times in 82 Posts
Default

The S&W M&P Bodyguard is the 2nd gen. The original was just called the S&W Bodyguard.
Reply With Quote
  #49  
Old 08-12-2017, 08:48 PM
comiskeybum's Avatar
comiskeybum comiskeybum is online now
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Jul 2015
Posts: 359
Likes: 12
Liked 277 Times in 139 Posts
Default

There is a new version coming along with the new compacts for shot 18. No its not confirmed, but its talk among a lot of reps.
__________________
Smith all the things
Reply With Quote
  #50  
Old 08-12-2017, 11:41 PM
dixie-cup-dan dixie-cup-dan is offline
Member
M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking. M&P bodyguard light striking.  
Join Date: Jul 2017
Posts: 17
Likes: 9
Liked 22 Times in 10 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by ThrowinRocks View Post
The S&W M&P Bodyguard is the 2nd gen. The original was just called the S&W Bodyguard.
The guts are identical. The M&P Bodyguard has a different frame, and that's it.

When I say 2nd gen, I mean like a Glock or Ruger mark series where they actually make the gun functionally different besides just the look.
Reply With Quote
Reply

Thread Tools
Display Modes

Posting Rules
Forum Jump

Similar Threads
Thread Thread Starter Forum Replies Last Post
Bodyguard 380 Light Strikes bulova Smith & Wesson Semi-Auto Pistols 0 09-28-2016 10:00 PM
M&P Bodyguard - Light fires mc-heather Smith & Wesson M&P Pistols 9 03-20-2015 01:30 PM
BODYGUARD -light strikes. philevans Smith & Wesson Semi-Auto Pistols 2 12-01-2014 12:01 AM
Bodyguard light firing pin Enduropro Smith & Wesson Semi-Auto Pistols 5 04-14-2013 11:37 PM
Light striking 648 1mathom1 S&W Revolvers: 1980 to the Present 7 09-16-2012 11:17 PM

Powered by vBadvanced CMPS v3.2.3
smith-wessonforum.com tested by Norton Internet Security smith-wessonforum.com tested by McAfee Internet Security

All times are GMT -4. The time now is 11:03 AM.


Smith-WessonForum.com is not affiliated with Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation (NASDAQ Global Select: SWHC)