Can Bodyguard 380 take "+P"?

When you start running some type of ammo that is significantly hotter than ALL OTHER AMMO in a bitty semi-auto pocket pistol, you should expect problems.

You don't need a warning from the builder to figure that out.

I carry Hornady "Critical Defense" ammo in my BG380.
It works fine.
.
.
.
 
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When you start running some type of ammo that is significantly hotter than ALL OTHER AMMO in a bitty semi-auto pocket pistol, you should expect problems.
Click to expand...

Why? Because that's your (probably uninformed) opinion?

You don't need a warning from the builder to figure that out.
Click to expand...

But a warning from some know-it-all on a forum should be taken as gospel? In fact, S&W doesn't conclusively warn against +P in the BG380.

I carry Hornady "Critical Defense" ammo in my BG380.
It works fine.
Click to expand...

So? What?

It works fine at what? Exiting the end of the barrel? Congratulations on you liking your pet round. Let me guess. You've never used it in a defensive situation, so actually know absolutely nothing about how it "works". In fact, your choice of ammo suffers from some serious performance flaws in some very critical tests and reviews.

People are interested in learning about options, and your post contributes nothing.

David
 
db4570 said:
Why? Because that's your (probably uninformed) opinion?







But a warning from some know-it-all on a forum should be taken as gospel? In fact, S&W doesn't conclusively warn against +P in the BG380.







So? What?



It works fine at what? Exiting the end of the barrel? Congratulations on you liking your pet round. Let me guess. You've never used it in a defensive situation, so actually know absolutely nothing about how it "works". In fact, your choice of ammo suffers from some serious performance flaws in some very critical tests and reviews.



People are interested in learning about options, and your post contributes nothing.



David
Click to expand...


Go for it,let us know if it breaks down early lol
 
I will just throw this out there to add my 2 cents worth, you can listen or flame me I do not care.
IMHO, +p & +p+ are worthless and abusive to the firearm. These high pressure round wear you pistol and lead to breakage's and inaccuracy.
Standard pressure modern defense ammo is very effective and more controllable, leading to faster follow up shots.
Which is better, one over-pressure shot or two standard delivered quickly on target?
Bottom line (And I am parroting Jame Yeager) If you need more power then a 9mm or 45, then you needed a rifle or shotgun to start with.
 
We will be visiting most of the national parks this summer. All four of us carry, and I really like my body guard 380. I am thinking about putting in some Buffalo bore 380 plus P rounds for bear defense, It's highly likely I won't fire any rounds at all, but just in case the bear spray doesn't work on the grissly's.
The wife has a Rugar lcp which states not to use plus p ammo, I'll have her carry FMJ standard load, my 22 yr old son will be carrying a 45 auto, and the daughter will have a 22 magnum long barrel revolver. We're gonna be wandering around all these crazy parks for a 3 months (not my idea), I just hope we don't get eaten.
Thinking about adding a 44 mag holstered (so I'll have both)
I'm most worried about Jackson hole, yellowstone, and Glacier parks, bears and wolves, but I hear there are grizzly's in Moab and Arches and grand teton parks as well. Black bears are in bryce canyon, and some of the other utah parks we plan to visit.
and wolves and mountain lions in most of the parks we plan to visit.
Any advise would be appreciated.
FE
 
If I was in your situation (visiting national parks and concerned about bears) I'd pack a .44 magnum loaded w/bear stoppers. Nothing else comes close and you'll need immediate incapation to survive.
 
I'd go to the bear spray before the .380, tbh. And if you can pack around a .44 Magnum accessible for bear defense, then I'd frankly either just use that for 2-legged defense, and leave the .380 for trips to town.

Although my standing policy on bears is to not be where they are.
 
Can Bodyguard 380 take "+P"?

fusioneng said:
I am thinking about putting in some Buffalo bore 380 plus P rounds for bear defense,
Thinking about adding a 44 mag holstered (so I'll have both)
Any advise would be appreciated.
FE
Click to expand...



I carry a BG, but if I was planning on going where there is a good chance of a bear encounter I would want more than a sharp stick!

Just my 2 cents.
Enjoy your trip & be safe out there.[emoji41]
 
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I have learned when you ask for ammo advice on the internet most people will end up more confused than before they asked the question.

Let's face it, a handgun cartridge no matter which one, is not going to be as effective as a rifle, or shotgun. Not just my opinion but the opinion of coroners, and doctors.

Truth is chances of being a victim of a crime is low, even lower with SA, and common sense. Then their is most people fear getting shot, even criminals. They see a gun, and that is enough.

IMHO shot placement is the most important if firearm has to be fired in self defense. There are cases where people continue to fight after being shot, but that has been the case with almost all calibers.

I hope the OP can come to some conclusion from the confusion. I would suggest carry what he feels comfortable with. Survival IMO is more important than warranty, but I am not suggesting +P. Not taking a stand either way.

The OP should consider the options, and one of them might be move up to a 9MM if he wants more energy.
 
I have been using Liberty Ammunition Civil Defense 380 in my Bodyguard 380 for years now and never had a problem. Is +p pressure but low grain 50 grain to be precise but at 1500 fps. The only problem with my bodyguard is the stupid plastic mag release that keeps wearing out and having to be replaced.
 
fusioneng said:
We will be visiting most of the national parks this summer. All four of us carry, and I really like my body guard 380. I am thinking about putting in some Buffalo bore 380 plus P rounds for bear defense, It's highly likely I won't fire any rounds at all, but just in case the bear spray doesn't work on the grissly's.
The wife has a Rugar lcp which states not to use plus p ammo, I'll have her carry FMJ standard load, my 22 yr old son will be carrying a 45 auto, and the daughter will have a 22 magnum long barrel revolver. We're gonna be wandering around all these crazy parks for a 3 months (not my idea), I just hope we don't get eaten.
Thinking about adding a 44 mag holstered (so I'll have both)
I'm most worried about Jackson hole, yellowstone, and Glacier parks, bears and wolves, but I hear there are grizzly's in Moab and Arches and grand teton parks as well. Black bears are in bryce canyon, and some of the other utah parks we plan to visit.
and wolves and mountain lions in most of the parks we plan to visit.
Any advise would be appreciated.
FE
Click to expand...
Underwood Xtreme Penetrator Bullets my work
 
I don't think my hand would forgive me if I shot .380+P in my Keltec P3AT.
It can't be fun.
I just use Gold Dot in it. Or ball. It's not like either one is going to turn it into a .357 Mag.
 
I have the .380 "discussion" at least twice a month with friends & guys in my Gun Club. Personally I would not carry a .380 for SD even though I do own some. I bought them just because I love the design and lines of the Colt 1903 & 1908 Series M Pocket Pistols.

I'm sure you could put a few of the HOT Buffalo Bore rounds through it but would NOT make a habit of it. The gun won't blow up but will probably loosen up a bit after a while. Like someone above posted - you can't make a .380 into a 9mm and if you are that concerned with the stopping power of the .380 acp I'd simply suggest stepping up to either a 9mm or .38 Spl. J Frame. You should also consider the new Colt Cobra which will easily handle +P's and is reported to be a great handling gun that holds 6 rounds.
 
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