The Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 380 has long been a popular choice for concealed carry, but its bigger brother, the Bodyguard 380's 9mm counterpart, has also carved a niche for itself. This in-depth review will explore the S&W Bodyguard 9mm, examining its features, performance, pros, and cons to help you decide if it's the right firearm for your needs.
What Makes the S&W Bodyguard 9mm Unique?
The Bodyguard 9mm distinguishes itself through a blend of features designed for discreet everyday carry. Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to conceal, even for individuals with smaller builds. The integrated laser sight, a standard feature, significantly enhances target acquisition in low-light situations, improving both speed and accuracy. This laser sight is easily activated with an intuitive ambidextrous switch.
However, its small size does come with trade-offs. The short barrel and compact grip can affect accuracy and recoil management for some shooters, particularly those unfamiliar with smaller-framed handguns.
Performance and Reliability: On the Range
The Bodyguard 9mm, like most Smith & Wesson firearms, generally boasts reliable performance. During testing, the firearm consistently cycled through a variety of ammunition types without any malfunctions. Accuracy, however, is heavily dependent on the shooter's ability to control recoil and master the gun's sight picture. The short sight radius makes precise shots at longer ranges challenging, but for close-quarters self-defense scenarios, its accuracy is generally sufficient. Recoil is noticeably sharper than in larger 9mm handguns.
Key Features and Specifications
- Caliber: 9mm
- Capacity: 6+1 rounds
- Barrel Length: 3.0 inches
- Overall Length: 5.25 inches
- Weight: Approximately 16 ounces (unloaded)
- Integrated Laser Sight: Yes, with ambidextrous controls
- Sights: Fixed, low-profile
- Action: Double-action only (DAO)
Pros and Cons: Weighing the Options
Pros:
- Exceptional Concealability: Its compact design makes it ideal for everyday carry.
- Integrated Laser Sight: Significantly enhances accuracy in low-light conditions.
- Lightweight Design: Comfortable to carry for extended periods.
- Reliable Performance: Generally performs well with various ammunition types.
- Smith & Wesson Reputation: Backed by a trusted and reputable firearms manufacturer.
Cons:
- Sharp Recoil: Can be difficult for some shooters to manage, particularly those with less experience.
- Short Barrel and Sight Radius: Limits accuracy at longer ranges.
- Small Grip: May be uncomfortable for shooters with larger hands.
- DAO Trigger: Requires more trigger pull than a single-action or striker-fired pistol.
Is the S&W Bodyguard 9mm Right for You?
The S&W Bodyguard 9mm excels as a concealed carry weapon prioritizing ease of concealment above all else. Its small size and lightweight design are its strongest assets. However, the trade-offs regarding recoil and accuracy must be carefully considered.
This pistol is best suited for individuals prioritizing concealability and who are comfortable with a short barrel and potentially more challenging recoil. Prioritize hands-on experience at a range before purchasing to assess personal comfort and proficiency. If you are a beginner, consider taking a firearms safety course. Furthermore, explore other compact 9mm options available on the market to compare features, performance, and overall suitability for your specific needs.
Disclaimer: This review is for informational purposes only. Always practice safe firearm handling and storage. Consult with a qualified firearms instructor for training and guidance. Firearms laws vary by location; be sure to comply with all applicable laws and regulations.
