Kansas Gunshop is a Wichita, KS-based retailer specializing in personal defense firearms. The M&Amp;P® Bodyguard® 38 Integrated Crimson Trace® Laser Ma Compliant is a compact, reliable revolver with an integrated laser for enhanced aiming. Its Massachusetts compliance makes it accessible to a broader market. Available now at $599.0.
Reviewed by Derek, Owner & FFL Holder at Kansas Gunshop. Kansas-licensed FFL dealer since 2008, NRA Range Safety Officer.
Last updated: April 2026
What are the specifications of the M&Amp;P® Bodyguard® 38?
| Product Type | Revolver |
|---|---|
| Material | Aluminum Alloy Frame, Stainless Steel Cylinder |
| Manufacturing | Smith & Wesson |
| Finish | Matte Black |
| Hardness/Quality | Standard Smith & Wesson manufacturing quality |
| Compatibility | .38 S&W Special +P ammunition |
| Installation/Usage | Ready to use out of the box; Integrated Crimson Trace laser for aiming assistance |
| Weight | 12.3 oz (unloaded) |
| Dimensions | 6.6″ (overall length), 1.0″ (width), 4.6″ (height) |
| Country of Origin | USA |
| Condition | New |
| SKU | 10049 |
What are the key features of this M&Amp;P® Bodyguard®?
- Integrated Crimson Trace® Laser: The built-in laser sight provides a fast, intuitive aiming solution, which can be particularly useful in low-light conditions or for quick target acquisition under stress. It’s a significant advantage for personal defense.
- Lightweight Aluminum Alloy Frame: This design choice keeps the revolver’s weight down to a mere 12.3 ounces, making it comfortable for all-day carry and less fatiguing during extended practice sessions.
- Compact and Concealable: With its small frame and snag-free design, the Bodyguard® 38 is engineered for discreet carry, fitting easily into pockets, holsters, or purses without printing.
- Massachusetts Compliant: This specific model meets the regulatory requirements for sale and ownership in Massachusetts, broadening its availability for buyers in that state.
- Double-Action Only (DAO) Trigger: The DAO mechanism provides a consistent trigger pull each time, which can be a beneficial safety feature for carry guns as it reduces the chance of an accidental discharge.
- Corrosion-Resistant Stainless Steel Cylinder: The cylinder’s material choice helps resist wear and corrosion, contributing to the firearm’s longevity and reliability.
- Chambered in .38 S&W Special +P: This common and effective self-defense cartridge offers a balance of manageable recoil and stopping power for its size.
Who is the M&Amp;P® Bodyguard® 38 for?
The M&Amp;P® Bodyguard® 38 Integrated Crimson Trace® Laser Ma Compliant is a compact revolver designed with personal defense in mind. Its integrated laser makes it particularly appealing for those who want an immediate aiming advantage without needing to add aftermarket accessories. The MA compliant designation means it’s available for buyers in Massachusetts, a state with stricter firearms regulations. This revolver is a good fit for individuals seeking a lightweight, reliable, and easily concealable firearm for self-protection.
What are the pros and cons of the M&Amp;P® Bodyguard® 38?
Pros:
- ✅ Integrated Crimson Trace Laser: This is a major selling point, offering quick target acquisition and improved accuracy, especially in low light. It’s factory-installed and zeroed.
- ✅ Extremely Lightweight: At just over 12 ounces, it’s one of the lightest revolvers in its class, making it comfortable for all-day carry.
- ✅ Compact and Concealable: Its small size and smooth contours make it an excellent choice for concealed carry, fitting easily into various carry methods.
- ✅ Reliable Revolver Action: Revolvers are known for their simplicity and reliability, often operating even with ammunition duds where semi-autos might malfunction.
- ✅ Massachusetts Compliant: This opens up ownership to residents of Massachusetts who might otherwise struggle to find suitable carry options.
- ✅ .38 Special +P Capable: Can handle more potent self-defense loads for increased stopping power.
Cons:
- ❌ Heavy Double-Action Only (DAO) Trigger Pull: The trigger pull is long and heavy, which can be challenging for new shooters or those accustomed to lighter single-action triggers. This requires practice to master.
- ❌ Limited Capacity: Being a 5-shot revolver, it has less ammunition capacity compared to many modern semi-automatic pistols. For higher capacity, see our semi-automatic pistols.
- ❌ Snappy Recoil: Due to its light weight, firing +P ammunition can result in a noticeable, snappy recoil that might be uncomfortable for some shooters.
How does the M&Amp;P® Bodyguard® 38 compare to other options?
| Feature | M&Amp;P® Bodyguard® 38 | Taurus 856 Defender (Budget Option) | Ruger LCR .38 Special (Premium Alternative) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Aluminum Alloy Frame, Stainless Steel Cylinder | Aluminum Alloy/Steel Frame, Stainless Steel Cylinder | Aerospace-grade Aluminum Frame, Polymer Fire Control Housing |
| Quality | Good, consistent Smith & Wesson build | Fair to Good, can vary | Excellent, known Ruger durability |
| Compatibility | .38 S&W Special +P | .38 S&W Special +P | .38 S&W Special +P |
| Shipping | Same-day from Wichita, KS (Kansas Gunshop) | Varies by retailer | Varies by retailer |
| Lifespan/Durability | Long, with proper care | Good, but may show wear sooner | Very Long, built for extreme use |
| Price | $599.0 (with integrated laser) | ~$350-400 (no integrated laser) | ~$650-700 (no integrated laser, but often available with Viridian) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the M&Amp;P® Bodyguard® 38 suitable for concealed carry?
Yes, the M&Amp;P® Bodyguard® 38 is specifically designed for concealed carry. Its lightweight frame, compact size, and snag-free design make it easy to carry discreetly in various holsters or even a pocket.
What kind of ammunition does the M&Amp;P® Bodyguard® 38 use?
This revolver is chambered for .38 S&W Special ammunition and is rated for +P loads, meaning it can safely handle higher-pressure self-defense cartridges for increased performance.
How do I activate the Crimson Trace laser on the M&Amp;P® Bodyguard® 38?
The integrated Crimson Trace laser is typically activated by a button located on the frame, near the trigger guard. It’s designed for intuitive activation with your shooting hand’s grip.
Is this M&Amp;P® Bodyguard® 38 model legal in Massachusetts?
Yes, this specific model is designated as “MA Compliant,” meaning it meets the specific regulations and requirements for sale and ownership in the state of Massachusetts.
Where can I buy revolvers online?
You can buy revolvers online, including the M&Amp;P® Bodyguard® 38 Integrated Crimson Trace® Laser Ma Compliant, from Kansas Gunshop at kansas-gunshop.com. We handle the FFL transfer process efficiently, shipping to your local FFL dealer.
What is the capacity of the M&Amp;P® Bodyguard® 38?
The M&Amp;P® Bodyguard® 38 is a 5-shot revolver, meaning it holds five rounds of .38 S&W Special ammunition.
Does the M&Amp;P® Bodyguard® 38 have a safety?
As a double-action only (DAO) revolver, the M&Amp;P® Bodyguard® 38 relies on its long and heavy trigger pull as its primary safety mechanism, reducing the chance of an accidental discharge.
✅ Same-day shipping from Wichita, KS
✅ Discreet packaging
✅ 30-day returns
✅ Secure checkout
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About this review: As an FFL holder and owner of Kansas Gunshop, I’ve handled countless firearms, including many Smith & Wesson models. My perspective on this M&Amp;P® Bodyguard® 38 comes from years of experience in the firearms industry, understanding what makes a reliable and practical self-defense tool, and the compliance requirements for various states. I focus on the practical aspects of ownership and use for the average gun owner.
Last updated: April 2026
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