Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 38
Smith & Wesson · Pistol · In Production · 2010
Also known as: M&P Bodyguard 38, Bodyguard 38 Crimson Trace
Overview
The Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 38 is a five-shot, double-action-only revolver chambered for .38 Special +P, built on a modified J-frame with an aluminum alloy upper frame and steel-reinforced polymer lower frame. Introduced in 2010, the Bodyguard 38 features an integrated Insight laser system built into the frame, making it one of the first factory revolvers to incorporate a laser sight as standard equipment. The revolver features a compact 1.875-inch barrel, an internal hammer design that prevents snagging during concealed carry, and weighs only 14.3 ounces (405g) unloaded. The overall length is 6.6 inches (168mm), making it highly concealable. The cylinder is stainless steel with a PVD coating for corrosion resistance. The integral laser offers three modes (constant, pulse, and off) with user-adjustable windage and elevation, and features a five-minute auto-shutoff to preserve battery life. The ambidextrous cylinder release is top-mounted for ease of access. The Bodyguard 38 is designed specifically for personal protection and concealed carry applications.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 405 g (14.3 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 448 g (15.8 oz) |
| Overall Length | 168 mm (6.61") |
| Barrel Length | 48 mm (1.89") |
| Height | 105 mm (4.13") |
| Width | 32 mm (1.26") |
| Firing Mechanism | Double Action Only |
| Trigger Type | Double Action Only |
| Trigger Pull | 49 N (11.0 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Rotary |
| Muzzle Velocity | 274 m/s (899 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 316 J (233 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 15 m (16 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 457 mm (17.99") |
| Number of Grooves | 5 |
| Frame Material | Aluminum Alloy |
| Barrel Material | Stainless Steel |
| Finish | Matte Black |
Calibers
- .38 Special +P · primary — also known as .38 Spl +P, .38 S&W Special +P
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Revolving Cylinder
- Safety mechanisms: Hammer Block Safety, Cylinder Latch
- Features: J Frame, Integral Laser, Internal Hammer, Polymer Grip, Five Shot Cylinder, Concealed Carry Design, Ambidextrous Cylinder Release, Lightweight Construction
Service history
Operators
- Civilian Concealed Carriers
- Off-Duty Law Enforcement
Production
Production years: 2010-present
Current production concealed carry revolver
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Notes
The Bodyguard 38 represents a modern take on the classic J-frame snubnose revolver, incorporating contemporary features like an integral laser and polymer construction to reduce weight. The internal hammer design eliminates the exposed hammer spur found on traditional double-action revolvers, preventing the hammer from snagging on clothing during a defensive draw. This also means the revolver can only be fired in double-action mode, with no single-action capability. The aluminum alloy upper frame combined with the steel-reinforced polymer lower frame creates a very lightweight package while maintaining structural integrity. The integrated Insight laser is activated by buttons on both sides of the frame for ambidextrous operation and can be adjusted without disassembly. The laser runs on a single battery with approximately 3 hours of continuous use. The short 1.9-inch barrel and lightweight construction result in significant muzzle flip and recoil, especially with +P ammunition, requiring practice to master. The black ramp front sight and integral rear notch provide basic sighting, though most users rely on the laser for aimed fire. The Bodyguard 38 is rated for +P ammunition but standard .38 Special loads can also be used for reduced recoil during practice.
Background
The Bodyguard 38 was developed during the height of the concealed carry boom in the United States, combining the simplicity and reliability of a J-frame revolver with modern laser sighting technology in a package weighing less than a pound.