Bodyguard 38 vs. M&P 340

[manthony4563]

I intend to get a new revolver for my second gun. I already carry a Kahr PM 9 in a Crossbreed holster. I am torn between these two S&W revolvers for concealed pocket carry. I'm left-handed so perhaps the Bodyguard would be better with the ambidextrous latch but the 340 seems to be a better quality gun. I looked at it in my lgs and the latch seemed a little hard to open.

I had a 638 and traded it in because it was my first gun and I found the recoil to be a little bit hard to handle. I also had a LCR but it broke (cylinder wouldn't turn) and even though Ruger replaced just about everything I was a little nervous about trusting the gun.

I have a M&P 9mm for range use and love it. I wish I could try both revolvers at a range but I can't. Any suggestions before I make the leap? Also it's $469 vs $699(and no laser).

 

[dt3201]

If the M&P you have now isn't a compact you ought to look at the M&P 9 or 40 compacts for carry. They look bigger than they feel.

 

[grege33]

You'll get all the feedback you want on the Bodyguard 38. It seems to be a polarizing gun...just read some of the threads about it.

I own one, and I really like it, but you'll find that many of long time Smith lovers hate it because it's such a departure the traditional line of revolvers...you'll see.

 

[MSgt G]

I have the M&P 340 and love it! I couldn't be more pleased. It's a joy to carry and the sights are great! I highly recommend it.

As for the Bodyguard 38, I haven't even held one yet, and thus, can't comment.

Good luck with your decision.

 

[Ky Gun Trader]

the M&P340 would be my vote I am a big guy with big hands and completely swallow the petite grip on the new bodyguard

 

[grege33]

Just curious: An M&P 340 is a scandium 357 vs an aluminum/polymer Bodyguard 38...not really apples to apples. Why aren't you considering a 442 or a BG 38 (more comparable)?

Have you ever shot a 357 from a 13 oz snubnose? Sounds painful.

 

[Old cop]

I own both an M&P 360 (scandium .357) & a 638. I have looked at the new Bodyguard (plastic & aluminum) and just don't like the look or feel. I'm also a lefty and got used to the old S&W J platform (retired LEO). For my money the 638 is the better buy. Recoil is snappy but w/practice can be controlled. The M&P 360 was purchased slightly used, otherwise I would not have paid the extra money for one. The 340 is a better quality gun, but if you found recoil unpleasant with the 638, remember the 340 is lighter by 2 - 3 oz.

 

[sbcman]

Not long ago I was in your shoes with this decision. I bought a Ruger LCR and within about 200 rounds, the return spring snapped on me- locking trigger and all up cold. While it was at the factory, I started looking at j-frames and ended up purchasing an M&P 340. I haven't looked back. The 340 has a unique sight picture with a HUGE U in the rear sight and a massive front nightsight, allowing quick target acquisition. It comes with a slighter heavier trigger than the LCR, but one that's every bit as smooth. It's also an accurate little peice. And, contrary to much internet lore, the recoil even with screaming 125 grainers will not shake the earth from its orbit. You definitely know you've lit a round off when you pull the trigger, but it can be managed easily (granted, recoil is subjective). Like most new guns, continuing to practice with them will train you in its nuances of grip handling and so forth so that you can adjust to the weapon to ease reoil. Also, you've got the versatility of 38s, if desired. It can be carried easily any way you wish, although when I purchased mine I grabbed a Desanti Nemesis pocket holster and that's where she's went ever since.

I've never shot the new BG but I did handle one while searching out small revolvers. I personally didn't care for the new placement of the cylinder latch, nor the button for the laser. Training would overcome these issues. All in all, I'm sure the BG would get the job done, and it is priced much lower than an M&P 340.

Nevertheless, I recommend the M&P 340. It's pricey, but well worth it in my opinion. If lasers are a need for you, you could put some TGs on it later.

 

[HiCap]

I would choose the BG over the 340; it's more modern, and the laser is an added feature. I've shot 150 rounds through mind, some of them 158 grain plus P's. It is a delight. I have retired my LCR. Incidentally, I have owned at 340 and sold it, because even with standard load 38's it it terribly.

HC

 

[HiCap]

.......make that "bit terribly".

HC

 

[mag318]

I can highly recommend Smiths' new Bodyguard 38. Prior to buying mine I carried a Model 337 AirLiteTi which is a great carry gun due to it's weight. What I didn't like was that the recoil was a bear, regular loads were bad enough but +P loads were painful. The new Bodyguard in contrast is a joy to shoot and comfortable even with hot +P loads. I realize that most people, LEO included carry their CCWs a lot and shoot them a little. I however like to shoot whatever I carry and practise with it a lot. With my old lighter J frame I'd practise with non +P loads then at the end of the session shoot 5 or 10 rounds of my +P carry loads. With the new Bodyguard I can shoot all afternoon mixing +P with non +P loads. This revolver handles recoil better than any other J frame size revolver I've ever owned. You have to shoot one of these to believe it. I'm up over 1000 troublefree rounds thru mine now and couldn't be happier. The laser is frosting on the cake.

 

[Lou1460]

340 is definitely my 1st choice. It's 2 ounces lighter, can fire .357 as an option, and has superior sights. The laser on the bodyguard is a gimmick. You would never get it turned on during a split second, high stress situation plus it is worthless on a normal sunny day. The 340 is a little bit higher quality and is worth the extra 200 bucks.

 

[Condition Yellow]

I haven't shot either, but have handled both--yesterday as a matter of fact. Lou is spot on regarding the laser on the BG. You have to push a TINY button and it is tough to get it right every time. I didn't like the cyl. latch, and the trigger felt funky to me.

The 340, on the other hand, is perfect for its intended purpose. Heck, get the M&P 340 CT: The planets will align, and angels will sing, all to the glow of a tritium front sight and laser grips. Or, save a lot of money and get the 442/642.