Before You Buy - Smith & Wesson's New Bodyguard 2.0
380 ACP is an often underestimated carry cartridge, especially in the modern age of the mighty micro compact 9mm category of pistols. However, when it comes down to it, most 380 ACP pocket pistols are some of the easiest to conceal in virtually any type of clothing. However, while 380 ACP pocket pistols tend to be a great combination of lethality and concealability, they are almost always not that great to shoot and still have the capacity issues that most single-stack 9mm compact pistols do. Cue the new Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0. Released about a month ago, the new Bodyguard 2.0 takes the 380 pocket pistol in a new step and improves upon the first generation Bodyguard 2.0 so much that the new version might be my new dedicated summer carry pistol. Today we’ll go over my experiences with it so far to see whether or not you should pick one up for yourself.
Specifications and Key Features
The Bodyguard 2.0, despite its name, is an almost entirely different pistol than the first-generation bodyguard pistol chambered in 380 ACP. While the original model could only hold a scant 6 rounds in its flush-fit magazine, the new Bodyguard 2.0 can hold an entire 10 rounds with the included flush-fit, or 12 rounds with the pinky-extension magazine. The biggest difference between the old and the new pistols is that the new Bodyguard has traded in its single action-only system for a proper, modern striker-fired system. This makes the pistol infinitely better to shoot, providing the shooter with a much more familiar trigger that’s safe to carry even in the absence of manual safety.
“The Smith & Wesson® Bodyguard® 2.0 sets out to change expectations around what is possible with a micro handgun. Focused on setting a new bar for shootability, the Bodyguard 2.0 leverages superior ergonomics, and an enhanced trigger to elevate performance. We’ve been able to accomplish this while still keeping the handgun small enough for deep concealment.”
- 10+1 and 12+1 Capacity
- Improved Flat-Faced Trigger
- Aggressive Slide Design
- Superior Ergonomics
Similar to other small 380 pistols, the Bodyguard can be difficult to operate given that its control surfaces are much smaller than on a 9mm pistol. The new pistol features helpful forward slide serrations for press checks and clearing malfunctions, and the pistol also features an M&P 2.0-style grip texture which makes it feel great in the hand while shooting.
Range Performance
380 pistols typically fall into one of two “shootability” categories for me. Smaller 380 pistols tend to be pretty bad in this department while larger 380 pistols like the S&W 380 EZ are much easier to shoot but lack the 380's better concealablity characteristics in favor of a larger, easier-to-use frame. The most striking thing about holding the Bodyguard 2.0 for the first time is just how tiny it actually is. I have fairly normal-sized hands and the Bodyguard 2.0 without the pinky extension is just large enough for me to get a full one-handed grip on the pistol. This makes for a better draw from the holster.
The pistol comes with good, clear sights that are adjustable for windage. You’ll need a punch to do this and in my case, I had to drift my sights just a smidge to the left to get the pistol on point at 15 yards and beyond. Other than that, the sights are meant for close-range defensive work with a nice and bring orange front dot paired with a very generously wide u-notch rear sight. Accuracy only really becomes an issue once you’re beyond what I’d consider self-defense range - about 15 yards or more.
One drawback of the pistol that I’ve noticed from my range sessions is how quickly the gun heats up. Being such a small firearm, the Bodyguard 2.0 can quickly become too hot to handle in just a handful of magazines. While this does make practicing at the range more difficult and time-consuming, it’s something that you’ll just have to contend with if you want to become proficient with your carry gun.
As a final note, the best Bodyguard 2.0 Holster would probably be a belly band or an appendix in the waistband holster. The pistol is so small, however, that pocket holsters are now a real possibility, even with a 10-round capacity! Current holster options are limited, but you can expect a lot to start showing up on the market here soon - especially from Falco Holsters.
Pros:
- High capacity compared to similar-sized .380 pocket pistols
- The new striker-fired system gives the pistol a better trigger than any other pocket .380 on the market
- Good drift-adjustable iron sights
- Very easy to shoot
Cons:
- Few current holster options
- Heats up quickly during shooting
- Ammunition is expensive when compared to 9mm
- Considered less potent than 9mm
Conclusion
In short, I think the new Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0 is a great pistol. I’m only about 500 or so rounds into the handgun, and therefore I don’t have much to say about its long-term durability, but for the 500 rounds of ball and defensive ammunition I’ve shot through the gun, I haven’t had a single malfunction out of the gun or any of the ammunition I’ve tried with it which includes Federal’s HST, and Hornady’s Critical Duty defensive loads. All in all, if you’re in the market for a pint-sized pocket pistol that can still pack a punch and is insanely easy to shoot, pick up the Bodyguard 2.0 now!
Luke Cuenco
6.9.2024
