Smith GEN 1 Bodyguard OK?

[mike56]

Well, wasn't really looking for a compact 380, but all the hype about the SW bodyguard 2.0 got me curious. Was able to handle the 2.0 at a gun show and really liked the feel.
BUT, looks like its got some bugs to work out.
Been looking at the Ruger LCP max (10 rounds) AND the original bodyguard.

They are giving these away now. Less than 250.

Any issues with the Gen 1 that I missed??

 

[Jeppo]

Well, wasn't really looking for a compact 380, but all the hype about the SW bodyguard 2.0 got me curious. Was able to handle the 2.0 at a gun show and really liked the feel.
BUT, looks like its got some bugs to work out.
Been looking at the Ruger LCP max (10 rounds) AND the original bodyguard.

They are giving these away now. Less than 250.

Any issues with the Gen 1 that I missed??

It seems there are tons of mixed reviews on the original BG 380. Some people love them, others…not so much. Mine went back three times before it stayed in Springfield.

 

[Bob512]

I have two of the original version. One has been flawless, the other had to go back to the factory for the soft strike issue. They fixed it and it has been perfect since…..that was about 4 years ago.

Honestly, my BG 2.0 has been great and is such an upgrade over the original version that I would definitely recommend the 2.0

 

[garddogg56]

Love my BG.380 once you adapt to the trigger it has run flawlessly for nine years of EDC

 

[Model 15-4ever]

I have had numerous BG380 and M&P380 pistols. Plus a couple of LCP Max. Finally handled the Bodyguard 2.0 today.

Have had no problems with original BG380 or M&P380 pistols. It is a little smaller than the 2.0. I prefer the original DAO hammer fired system for an AIWB and pocket gun. It's plenty accurate, I can qualify on a LE course out to 25 yards easily. Frankly if I felt the need for more than seven rounds of .380, I go get a bigger gun.

The LCP Max, my first early one was not good, like many others... so many issues. Ruger must have listened and corrected them, as the one I bought earlier this year is great. No problems at all and in fact it is also accurate enough to shoot out to 25 yards. I did change the sights to Tru-Glo orange dot tritiums (same sight dimensions as the original Bodyguard uses) for a more useful sight picture. This is also hammer-fired gun but it is essentially SAO, as the hammer is at full cock or nearly so... with no thumb safety! The trigger pull is very smooth, and reasonably short and light. Although it has a trigger blade safety. I won't carry this in a pocket, but IWB is fine.

The Bodyguard 2.0 I handled today - two specimens. The triggers were inconsistent, as is typical of S&W striker guns: one was nice, the other was horrible (clicky and gritty). The size of the 2.0 pistol is thinner than the LCP Max, and only slightly wider in the grip than the BG380. The 2.0 is longer in slide and grip than both guns.

The length of the 2.0 grip is fairly ridiculous with the 12-round magazine in the gun - why not just carry a 9mm micro pistol? With the 10-round flush magazine it's just right for a .380.

2.0 grip feel is very good, but the pistol points high for me, and I shoot Glocks and revolvers so that says something. The 2.0 is reminiscent of the Steyr M pistol, which has a really odd and extreme grip angle.

The sights on the 2.0 are designed for the lowest common denominator, or maybe people with incredibly poor eyesight. The rear notch width is beyond massive, and the front sight is short with a little orange dot. Any kind of precision beyond 15 feet is going be a lot of work.

I'm happy with the original M&P Bodyguard for all-around pocket and IWB. Also pleased with the LCP Max for IWB carry. Both point similarly. I'm going to pass on the Bodyguard 2.0.

 

[Beju]

The Gen 1 BG 380 were known for trouble igniting hard primers, most typically in foreign produced ammunition. Winchester lead-free primers may also prove problematic.

 

[wachuko]

I always wanted to add one, but with so many mixed reviews, I never did.

Now I am waiting for the BG 2.0 to be out for at least a year, before I get one of those... seems to be better than the original.

 

[mauser9]

October issue of Guns&Ammo has a review on the new BodyGuard 2.0. Gives and M.S.R.P. of $449 for anyone interested.

 

[LVSteve]

If you have long fingers, the trigger on the original Bodyguard 380 will likely give you fits. I have to break my grip to complete the trigger stroke. I don't have this issue with a Sig 290RS 380.

 

[Lucnic]

I've had one for a long time. Had to go back for light primer strikes right after I bought it. It's been fine since. It has a trigger like a double action revolver with double strike capability. I still carry it sometimes. Great little pocket pistol. For $250 it's a pretty good buy. I believe I paid almost double that for mine.

 

[seldon14]

If you have long fingers, the trigger on the original Bodyguard 380 will likely give you fits. I have to break my grip to complete the trigger stroke. I don't have this issue with a Sig 290RS 380.

I was actually going to compare those 2 as those, SCCY, and the Beretta Pico all have what I call a "staple gun" trigger. They are a far cry from a good, smooth double action trigger that you would find on something like a K frame.

 

[kbm6893]

I have the M&P Bodyguard .380. Just shot it last week. I'd say 500 rounds since I bought the gun. Not one malfunction.