My Bodyguard is the newer M&P version, I'm not familiar with the older models. I bought it, and a Ruger LCP II, about the same time last December.
If you like a light and short trigger pull, you may prefer the Ruger. If you want a trigger that's a bit longer and heavier, go for the Bodyguard.
I happen to like both. They are not my main carry. I use them when I wear gym shorts, or a gun to quickly slip in my pocket on the way out. I do like the Bodyguard better, but by a slim margin.
Since the thread is about the Bodyguard, I'll stick to it. It's reliable and combat accurate. No bullseye awards, but it will get the job done. I can slip it in my gym shorts and not worry about it pulling my shorts down.
Strange it may sound, the Bodyguard has no place on my safe. I'm usually at my computer, and it sits on top of my computer where nobody can see it. But, I can always reach it. I keep it in a pocket holster so I can slip it in my pocket if I hear anything or when going on a walk.
The .380 round is not my first preference, but I never did carry a 9mm when going on walks in my gym shorts or long leg athletic pants. That makes the .380 a heck of a lot better than "no gun".
Me and my little Yorkie were attacked by a 100 pound Pit Bull a while back. We came out of it unscathed, but I found myself wishing for a pocket gun. Now, the Bodyguard feels real good in my pocket.