Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 380
Smith & Wesson · Pistol · Discontinued · 2014
Also known as: M&P Bodyguard 380, M&P BG380, Bodyguard .380 M&P
Overview
The Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 380 is a micro-compact, double-action-only, internal hammer-fired semi-automatic pistol chambered in .380 ACP, introduced as the M&P-branded update to the original Bodyguard 380 line. This model refined the original 2010 Bodyguard with the M&P designation and improved ergonomics while retaining the core pocket-pistol DNA that made the platform one of America's best-selling concealed carry handguns. The pistol features a high-strength polymer frame with a matte-coated stainless steel slide and barrel, weighing just 12.3 ounces (349g) unloaded. The 2.75-inch (70mm) barrel feeds from a flush-fit six-round single-stack magazine, giving a 6+1 total capacity. The double-action-only fire control provides second-strike capability, allowing the trigger to be pulled again on a round that fails to fire. A manual thumb safety on the left side of the frame and drift-adjustable stainless steel sights are standard. At just 0.75 inches (19mm) wide and 5.25 inches (134mm) long, the M&P Bodyguard was purpose-built for pocket carry and deep concealment. The pistol uses a simple blowback operating system typical of .380 ACP pocket pistols.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 349 g (12.3 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 422 g (14.9 oz) |
| Overall Length | 134 mm (5.28") |
| Barrel Length | 70 mm (2.76") |
| Height | 104 mm (4.09") |
| Width | 19 mm (0.75") |
| Action Type | Blowback |
| Firing Mechanism | Double Action Only |
| Trigger Type | Double Action |
| Trigger Pull | 40 N (9.0 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 6 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 259 m/s (850 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 196 J (145 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 10 m (11 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 406 mm (15.98") |
| Number of Grooves | 6 |
| Frame Material | Polymer |
| Slide Material | Stainless Steel |
| Barrel Material | Stainless Steel |
| Finish | Melonite |
Calibers
- .380 ACP · primary — also known as .380 Auto, 9x17mm, 9mm Browning Short
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Thumb Safety, Heavy Double Action Trigger, Second Strike Capability
- Features: Polymer Frame, Stainless Steel Slide, Melonite Finish, Drift Adjustable Sights, Stainless Steel Front Sight, Square Notch Rear Sight, Manual Safety Lever, Slide Lock On Empty, Pocket Carry Design, Internal Hammer Fired, External Takedown Lever, Second Strike Capability
Variants
- M&P Bodyguard 380 (No Laser) — Base Model
- M&P Bodyguard 380 with Crimson Trace Laser — Laser Upgrade
- M&P Bodyguard 380 Engraved — Engraved
Service history
Operators
- U.S. Civilian Concealed Carry Market · adopted 2014
- U.S. Law Enforcement (Backup/Off-Duty) · as Authorized Backup Weapon
Production
Production years: 2014-2023
One of the best-selling pocket pistols in America during its production run; replaced by the Bodyguard 2.0
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Discontinued: 2023
Notes
The M&P Bodyguard 380 was available in multiple configurations including models with and without an integrated Crimson Trace laser sight. Unlike the original 2010 Bodyguard 380 which featured an Insight Technology laser, the M&P-branded version offered a Crimson Trace unit or no laser at all. The heavy double-action-only trigger pull of approximately 9 pounds (40 N) was widely criticized for making accurate shooting difficult, though proponents argued the heavy pull served as an additional safety feature for pocket carry. The pistol's simple blowback action, while reliable, contributed to snappy felt recoil that some shooters found uncomfortable for extended practice sessions. The M&P Bodyguard 380 was discontinued around 2023 when Smith & Wesson released the completely redesigned Bodyguard 2.0, which switched to a striker-fired action with nearly double the magazine capacity. Rifling twist is 1:16 inches (406mm) with 6 grooves, right-hand twist. MSRP at discontinuation was approximately $379.
Background
The M&P Bodyguard 380 carried forward the storied 'Bodyguard' name that Smith & Wesson originally applied to the Model 49 revolver in 1959. Adding the 'M&P' (Military & Police) designation to the Bodyguard line signaled Smith & Wesson's intent to position the micro .380 alongside its larger M&P pistols as a serious defensive tool rather than just a backup gun. Despite the heavy DAO trigger drawing constant criticism from reviewers, the M&P Bodyguard 380 sold in enormous numbers, proving that extreme concealability and a trusted brand name outweighed trigger feel for the pocket-pistol market segment.