Kansas Gunshop is a Wichita, KS-based retailer specializing in firearms and accessories. The Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 380 Carry Conceal Pistol is a compact, lightweight .380 ACP pistol designed specifically for discreet carry. Its integrated laser sight offers enhanced aiming capabilities. Available now for $499.00.
Reviewed by Derek, Owner & FFL Holder at Kansas Gunshop. Kansas-licensed FFL dealer since 2008, NRA Range Safety Officer.
Last updated: April 2026
What makes the Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 380 a solid choice for concealed carry?
The Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 380 Carry Conceal Pistol is built from the ground up for discreet personal defense. Its small frame and light weight make it easy to carry all day, whether in a pocket, ankle, or IWB holster. Chambered in .380 ACP, it delivers a manageable recoil impulse while providing sufficient defensive capability for close-range encounters. The integrated INSIGHT laser sight is a significant advantage, offering rapid target acquisition in stressful situations, a feature often found on larger, more expensive firearms. Having handled many of these through my FFL, I can attest to their consistent fit and finish. For a pistol designed for deep concealment, it offers a surprisingly comfortable grip for its size, which is important for maintaining control during firing. The double-action only (DAO) trigger provides a consistent pull, which some prefer for defensive applications, as it reduces the chance of an accidental discharge under pressure. It’s a pragmatic choice for those prioritizing discretion and reliability in a small package.
| Product Type | Semi-Automatic Pistol |
|---|---|
| Material | Polymer frame, Stainless Steel slide and barrel |
| Manufacturing | Smith & Wesson, Springfield, MA, USA |
| Finish | Matte Black Armornite® |
| Hardness/Quality | Heat-treated stainless steel components, durable polymer frame |
| Compatibility | .380 ACP ammunition, M&P Bodyguard 380 specific holsters and magazines |
| Installation/Usage | Ready to use out of the box, standard field stripping for cleaning |
| Weight | 12.3 oz (empty) |
| Dimensions | Length: 5.25 in; Width: 0.75 in; Height: 3.75 in |
| Country of Origin | USA |
| Condition | New |
| SKU | 10045 |
What are the key features of the M&P Bodyguard 380?
- Integrated INSIGHT Laser Sight: This is a standout feature, allowing for quick target acquisition, especially in low-light conditions or when a perfect sight picture isn’t possible. It’s factory-installed and zeroed, ready to go.
- Compact and Lightweight Design: Weighing just over 12 ounces and with a slim profile, this pistol is designed for deep concealment without being a burden to carry daily. It disappears easily under light clothing.
- Double-Action Only (DAO) Trigger System: Provides a consistent, deliberate trigger pull from the first shot to the last, which some shooters find advantageous for self-defense.
- Stainless Steel Drift Adjustable Sights: While the laser is a primary aiming method, the traditional sights are robust, low-profile, and can be adjusted for windage, ensuring accuracy.
- Corrosion-Resistant Finish: The Armornite® finish on the slide and barrel provides durability and resistance to wear and corrosion, important for a firearm that will be carried close to the body.
- Manual Thumb Safety: Offers an additional layer of security, giving the shooter control over when the firearm is ready to fire.
- Disassembly Lever & Takedown Pin: Simple and straightforward field stripping for cleaning and maintenance, without requiring specialized tools.
Who is the Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 380 for?
Buy it if:
- You need a primary or secondary firearm for deep concealment.
- You prioritize light weight and a slim profile for everyday carry.
- You appreciate the added benefit of an integrated laser sight for aiming.
- You are comfortable with a double-action only (DAO) trigger pull.
- You’re looking for a reliable .380 ACP pistol from a reputable manufacturer.
- You live in a state or region where larger firearms are difficult to carry concealed.
Skip it if:
- You prefer a larger caliber for primary self-defense (see our 9mm handguns).
- You prefer a single-action or striker-fired trigger with a shorter, lighter pull.
- You have larger hands and find smaller grips difficult to manage (consider a compact pistol).
- You plan to use it for extensive range shooting rather than primarily for carry.
- You are looking for a pistol with a higher magazine capacity.
How does the Bodyguard 380 compare to other concealed carry pistols?
| Feature | Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 380 | Kel-Tec P-3AT | SIG Sauer P365 (Micro-Compact 9mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Polymer frame, Stainless Steel slide | Polymer frame, Steel slide | Polymer frame, Stainless Steel slide |
| Quality | Good, consistent S&W manufacturing | Functional, budget-oriented | High-end, premium fit and finish |
| Compatibility | .380 ACP, integrated laser | .380 ACP, no integrated laser | 9mm, often optics-ready |
| Shipping | Same-day from Kansas Gunshop | Varies by retailer | Varies by retailer |
| Lifespan/Durability | Designed for defensive use, good longevity | Lighter duty, less robust | Excellent, designed for high round count |
| Price | ~$499.00 | ~$250-300 | ~$550-650 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 380 reliable?
Based on my experience handling these and feedback from customers, the M&P Bodyguard 380 is generally considered a reliable pistol for its intended purpose of concealed carry. As with any firearm, proper break-in and using quality ammunition are key.
What kind of recoil does the .380 ACP have in this pistol?
The .380 ACP cartridge in the lightweight Bodyguard 380 produces a manageable recoil. It’s certainly noticeable due to the pistol’s small size, but most shooters find it controllable for defensive purposes. It’s less snappy than many compact 9mm pistols.
Does the integrated laser drain the battery quickly?
The integrated INSIGHT laser on the Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 380 is designed for intermittent use, primarily for target acquisition in defensive scenarios. While leaving it on continuously would drain the battery, normal defensive use typically allows for a reasonable battery life. It uses common CR1632 batteries, which are readily available.
What is the magazine capacity of the M&P Bodyguard 380?
The Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 380 typically comes with two magazines: one flush-fit 6-round magazine and one extended 6-round magazine with a finger extension, providing a 6+1 capacity. Additional magazines are available for purchase.
Where can I buy a Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 380 online?
You can purchase the Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 380 Carry Conceal Pistol directly from Kansas Gunshop (kansas-gunshop.com). We are a licensed FFL dealer and can ship to your local FFL for transfer.
Is the manual safety necessary on the Bodyguard 380?
The manual thumb safety on the Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 380 is a user-selectable feature. Some shooters prefer the added layer of security, especially for concealed carry, while others prefer to train without it. It’s a personal preference, and the pistol can be carried safely either engaged or disengaged, depending on your training and comfort level with the DAO trigger.
How easy is it to clean the M&P Bodyguard 380?
Field stripping the Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 380 for cleaning is a straightforward process. It involves removing the magazine, checking for clear, pulling down the takedown pin, and then removing the slide. Standard cleaning tools and solvents are all you need to keep it in good working order.
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