Then you understand! Finally I realized that the girls wanted to look at my legs so I started wearing shorts. Haha! No more ankle holster. I still carry the Model 642 occasionally.
@@rushthezeppelin but more than 10 rounds. If S&W can put 30 rounds in their 22 magnum, they could do at least 25 rounds in a 22LR version of the Bodyguard 2.0
My summer/pocket carry has been the M&P Bodyguard for years, but the terrible sights, heavy trigger, and 6 round capacity make the 2.0 a worthy upgrade.
At one time I considered the original Bodyguard. But I passed on purchasing it for the very same reasons you mention. My retired LEO friend has one I'm hoping to borrow for a comparison.
I carry a Shield Plus when wearing a belt, and an LCP Max when wearing gym shorts. The LCP has served me well, despite it's subpar ergonomics, but I am so excited to try the Bodyguard 2. Should blend the size of an LCP Max and the shootability of a Shield Plus. Thanks for your review and service to your community.
Great video brother, that ‘s definitely going to be my next purchase. I’ve been carrying their original Bodyguard 380 for about 7-8 years now, trading up today!!
I agree with you 100%. The pictures and video on it doesn't really show size until you pick it up. When I opened the S&W box I though the pistol was missing, then realized it was in the wrapper. In my hands it was so tiny. Yes grip texture, trigger, slide serrations, sights, magazine capacity are all excellent for a pistol of this size. 👍 As for an optic I'm betting there isn't even an optic available small enough to fit this slide and if there was the window would be so small and useless. Oh and YES a 22LR in this would be awesome.
Hapkido, when I started as a LEO in Chicago in 1973, only revolvers were authorized as a duty weapon. It wasn't until after I retired in 2009 that I purchased a semi-auto. I went through many semi-auto calibers and manufacturers. About 1 year ago, I eventually settled in on the Sig 365-380 because I found it to be the perfect size for conceal in carry with summer clothing, but yet not to tiny. I really don't care for small snappy pocket guns like the LCP, although I also had one. To me, the Sig 365-380 just a perfect size and is very comfortable to shoot with very little recoil. A few months ago, I once again made a change to the Sig 365 9mm because of a RU-vid video by Massad Ayoob discussing the effectiveness of the 380 caliber and the 9mm. Massad characterized the 380 caliber as a compromise, but he preferred the 9mm. The Sig 365 9mm is just about the same size as the Sig 365-380 and just slightly heavier. I found it easy to shoot accurately with very manageable recoil. I am not a collector of firearms, so I have always traded them in when making a purchase. I also want the 2 firearms I have be of the same caliber. It makes it easier to keep track of your ammo supply... crazy right? At the same time, I traded in a Ruger Security 380. It was by far the nicest shooting firearm I every had. It shoots like it was a 22 cal. I purchased a larger Ruger Security 9mm compact as well. That also is a sweet shooter with little recoil. I just think a larger gun is better than a smaller one in any caliber, but Conceal and Carry requires a smaller gun for comfort and summer attire. As you can imagine, I have lost quite a bit of money buying and trading in guns. At least it is cheaper than buying new cars. I think this new S&W Body Guard 380 is a good choice if you're in the market for a true pocket sized firearm. Nice review...Thanks!
We've travelled much the same path firearm-wise. I've traded and tried a countless number of handguns. Lost a ton of dough as well When I graduated from the Academy in 1981 it was just revolvers for many years. I carried so many different ones. My first auto was a nickel plated Colt 1911 but I wasn't allowed to carry it on duty. Off duty and undercover they didn't care. Things have come a long way. But I still like the old stuff too. Try the Bodyguard 2.0. You'll like it.
Hello, just wanted to say excellent work explaining yourself and the firearm. I really appreciate your perspective, especially with the experience you have you have earned a new subscriber excellent work
Thank you! I'm not a gun pro. Just a guy who's had a lot of hard knocks and experience with personal protection. I thought it was time to share some of it. Especially some of the stories!
Yes sir thank you very much for this and keep it coming! I really like your style and I prefer pocket pistols as well. Seems like the Ruger LCP II always goes in my pocket out of all of my pistols as Its easy and simple to carry without a holster. I think this BG 2.0 being about the same size will be my new carry especially with the Ruger pocket holster lol! Cheers!
This looks very interesting. I hope they come out with one in a 22 and more so in a 32 ACP with a few extra rounds in the magazine. Thanks for the video.
Somebody is doing a good job running the show there. Now, from what I hear, they need to get their quality control on the mark. However, no complaints with the ones I have.
just found your channel. i was able to hold this great gun a couple weeks ago at a LGS, and fell in love. It's pricey for the small gun but i definitely want one! I'm also retired from a career in public safety/law enforcement & firearms instructor. i'm looking forward to more of your laid back and informative content.
Great review, this helped me a lot. I have always carried 9mm, but in fairness with the Federal HST 99gr 380 ammo, it's good enough for 99% of self defense situations.
I agree. I have seen suspects hit with 45 rounds and they did not go down. In fact, one guy was shot with a 12 gauge, and he walked from the scene and walked himself right into the hospital emergency room. I don’t think I suspect that was hit with a well-placed round is going to say I’m glad someone shot me with a 99 grain 380. I’m glad it wasn’t 124 grain 9 mm! Ha ha.
IN 1979 when I started I carried a S&W Model 65 on duty. Now I carry a SD&W M&P 2.0 Compact Carry Comp. Been out for years now. Definitely thinking about adding the Bodyguard 2.0 myself.
The Smith 65 was a good rugged gun. I carried a Model 66 for about two years. I've carried several small off duty guns. I like a lot of them. But for my use right now the BG 2.0 is my favorite. You'd like it.
I just came across your channel, and have been considering the S&W Bodyguard 2.0 recently as well, so thank you for your opinion and great info. There are many good RU-vid channels that review firearms, but what peaked my interest in this video was your career in the LE field and the potential for stories from your time in law enforcement and self defense advice. I suspect that this may be your greatest strength in terms of video content and what potentially separates you from the many other fine firearms related RU-vid channels. I have been a big fan of Massad Ayoob for a long time for the same reason, and it would be great to hear more of your experiences, training, and other observations. I look forward to future videos from you and wish you the best of luck with your channel…Subscribed!
Thank You! There are indeed a lot of good channels out there. I've been following Massad Ayoob since before the internet! Thanks for your advice. I'm just learning this. It will improve with time.
I found your channel and subscribed because RU-vid recommended this video. I always like to tell smaller creators when RU-vid does this and they gain a subscriber. I recently picked up the Bodyguard 2.0 as well.👍 It is my only 380, but it felt so good in my hand. My usual EDC is a micro 9, but I have been known to carry a 10mm on occasion...
Thank you! I think you'll like the BG 2.0 because you don't have to think about it. I've carried small 9's as well but a 10mm???? Wow! You must be visiting some tough neighborhoods! LOL.
Thank you. I'm just a regular Bozo who's been around self defense stuff for all my life. I'm more comfortable talking to a felon in custody than in front of that iPhone! LOL. I'm hoping to get better and that folks will share.
I've been carrying the LCP II for a couple of years in the provided holster in my back pocket. I shoot it OK, but I get a finger pinch from the trigger occasionally and the recoil is snappy. I'm looking forward to trying out the S&W Bodyguard 2.0.
I really enjoyed your style and the way you present the info. You're calm, cool and real. I've been debating about this but as a non-Special Forces tough guy, (like most RU-vid commenters seem to be) I've seen lots of things said about the .380 not being enough in comparison to a .9mm which I carry. I can't say if it's enough, but I can confidently say I don't want to be shot with one. I'm just a regular guy looking for protection and, in my climate where it's t-shirts and shorts 8 months a year, concealing is a chore. I'm pleased it's working for you and I'm going to look into it. Thanks, Sir! Stay safe.
Thanks for the straight, honest feedback. I've tried carrying 9's but I guess when I'm not working I just want to be comfortable, plus I'm lazy! LOL. If I were going into a really bad area, I might pull something bigger from my firearm wardrobe. On duty it's different. A good load and shot placement is what I'll "shoot" for!
Nice information. I’ve had the 2.0 since July 20th. Have been able to put 600 various FMJ/JHP’s through it. Had one hiccup, round number 2 out of the first use of the 12 round mag. It didn’t go completely into battery. Tapped the slide, it went home. I wanted to put a ton of rounds through it quick, because I wanted to be sure I could retire my LCP’s. Being as narrow as it is, my hand between my thumb and index finger started to feel it after the first session of 350 rounds…..lol. Worth it. I will carry it exclusively with the 10 round mag. I say the same thing about it being optic cut. Why? It’s narrower than ANY quality optic on the market, and I don’t think there’s enough real estate on the slide to mill off. Look forward to some of your stories sir.
I noted the same thing when I jacked in the very first round. Turned out it was me not realizing how heavy the slide spring was. Performed perfectly after that. Thanks for subscribing!
I have watched several reviews and your is the most down to earth! Does the gun seem to shot a little to the left? I’ve seen other targets and the groupings seem strong to the left.
Thank you! You know, I was in and out of the range pretty quick the day I purchase the BG 2.0. I didn't bench test it or try for extreme accuracy. It shot extremely well. But now that you mention it, I did place my shots on the left side of the kill zone. Hmmm. Going to check in out again soon. Good observation!
Picking mine up tomorrow! I have a 642 that I love, an original Bodyguard that I carry daily. After watching many many reviews with all being great. Well, I gotta have one. SnW makes quality guns.
@@mrperfecttt001007 wrong! I have a Glock 26, and a 42! The Bodyguard 2.0 is way better than either! Sounds like you’re a Glock cult member!! They’re NOT perfection!!
Thanks! I'm looking into holsters as well. You know that every holster making is scrambling to tool up for this gun. So far only Muddy River Holsters and Alabama have holsters although I haven't seen them yet. I'll be looking for a pocket holster and a concealable belt holster for this. I've asked a few makers to send samples but nothing yet. For now I'm using my LCP pocket holster and an ancient generic belt holster as seen in the Part 2 video.
I currently EDC the LCP Max because I am retired and only wear shorts and sweats and the Max can be concealed no matter the clothing. I will look into adding the Bodyguard to the rotation.
Right now it's loaded with Federal Premium 90 Gr. Hydra Shok HP's. I've carried the Hydra Shoks in just about every caliber for many, many years. (I'm old school but willing to change!) I'm hoping to get my hands on some Hornady Critical Defense and Federal ammo loaded specifically for shorter barrels.
Dude, I just bought mine found a store that was supplying them. I go pick it up tomorrow. Can’t wait to own the new 2.0 😊 hey I wanted to tell you I have been doing a bunch of research on 380 self-defense ammo and so far I really like the federal premium HST and the Hydro shock deep
Great, practical review. Thank you. And .380 is perfectly good. Off topic - is Hapkido a good, practical self-defense system for an in-shape seniors (>65)?
Thanks! I agree. Hapkido can be very intense. The answer is a qualified yes. However, the techniques and tricks I'm going to highlight are designed for anyone of mostly any physical condition. I think everyone should learn several moves to defend themselves in most situations. If you're in good condition you definitely could handle hapkido. However, styles within the art vary and some can be more "acrobatic." I would avoid those styles.
Some insight into what damage all calibers do into actual people based on your experience would be cool. Every time i watch a crime show i always listen to what calibers were used to off somebody.
Haha! I plan on sharing what I've seen over the years. It may not be scientific but it will certainly be real! I can't watch cop shows. Makes my blood pressure rise seeing all the things that just aren't real. I'll stick to Charlie Chan movies.
Thank you! Yes, I thought it might make each video more interesting if I could use a real life illustration. Of course, I'll "change the names to protect the innocent."
Really good advice and review of this firearm, I am not ex law enforcement but I have friends who are and they are very adamant against carrying a 380 , I know Massad is against it also !! Not sure how to feel about this issue?????
Bought mine at Palmetto State, will be delivered on Tuesday to my FFL. I already have the Ruger LCP Max and the Sig P365-380. The max is a pain to shoot but I like the size. The Sig shoots like so smooth but not a true pocket carry size. I’m hoping the Bodyguard will be able be my new pocket carry.
I haven't owned a 35 since 35 years ago. I bought the BG 2.0 a couple weeks ago and agree with everything you say. What self defense round so you carry in it? Refreshing review from am LEO. Looking forward to seeing more of your videos!
Right now it's loaded with Federal Premium 90 Gr. Hydra Shok HP's. I've carried the Hydra Shoks in just about every caliber for many, many years. I'm hoping to get my hands on some Hornady Critical Defense and Federal ammo loaded specifically for shorter barrels. And thanks!
I enjoy carrying my Shield Plus and 30 Super Carry. However, after seeing the reviews that came out last week, I was compelled to purchase it. I fired it at the range yesterday. I only had 100 rounds, but indeed, it's an incredibly fun gun to shoot, especially given its tiny size. It practically begs you to shoot it.
(There is no ammunition anywhere around here) except for the box sitting beside you ? The first time I picked up a shield plus performance center 9MM it went home with me.. I would have given a months salary for one instead of the .38 revolvers we were forced to carry. Thank you for your service in law enforcement.
Ha! So far you are the second person to notice that. Wish I could give you a prize. Actually, the box was empty. I was going to use it as a prop in the video. I actually filmed a lot more but cut most of it out. Good job and thanks!
I had an M&P Compact in 9mm. This gun is smaller and way lighter. I also had a M&P .22 but it wasn't the compact so I can't compare them. might be interesting to do so.
Former LEO here! You say youve carried a .38 or 380 for off duty for the last 40 years and never felt outgunned??? Do you live in a low crime area? Ot have you everr been in a lethal encounter or had an armed confrontation? If so do you think your opinion would change? With the times now i carry a Glock 32 357sig as a EDC...380s are backup.... ?
Great review. I'm surprised you Never made the leap to the LCP Max, my carry 380. I really like the look of the bodyguard 2.0, appears to have far better ergonomics compared to my Max. Not sure I'm going to drop the $400 to replace my Max but it appears it would be a nicer carry gun.
My Hapkido partner has an LCP Max. We both shot it and considered it an improvement over my LCP II. However, the trigger was not as good as mine. Hoping to get her a Galloway short stroke trigger and see how it shoots. The LCP works, but in my opinion the BG 2.0 works a lot better.
Looks like a very nice gun. I have a shield (PC) .40. I would almost think a shield to be kinda compact for a duty weapon though. Thanks for the video.
I hear you. But after years of carrying everything from Pythons to Model 24 .44 Specials to Colt 1911's and everything in between, I was ready for a lighter piece. I'm gettin' old you know! 😂
For EDC it really. is. I've seen folks shot with just about every caliber. Some go down and some don't so quickly. The .380 with a good load is just a 9mm short.
Optics on pistols suck in mu opinion. In reality, you will never be able to use an optic a self defense distances, let alone cool night sights, regular iron sights. etc Point shooting is where its at. No lights for me either.
@@Joeak74 I'll be doing an evaluation of my trusty S&W Model 642 soon. One of the most interesting revolvers I carried for awhile was the Charter Arms Bulldog .44 Special! Kinda wish I still had it.
You are so right about "What, no rail, no optic?" people. Yeah, let's load down the pocket gun with a red dot, light, laser, and maybe we can find a way to stick an extra mag on there.....
Hahaha! People will complain instead of looking at how good the gun is. Human nature. Having to carry a duty gun every day who want's to even think about their EDC? As long as it's there if I need it. Thanks!
Damn, I’ve been losing sleep considering whether or not I should give a Shield Plus in .30 Super Carry a chance now they drop this on my plate?! Smith and Wesson want my money bad, and I’ll tell you what they’re gonna get it!
It was quite a few years ago. Seth Lebo. Good guy. He married a girl from our church so I had him do it. Pretty good job. Here's the info I found on Google. Lebo's Gunsmithing 2186 Rittner Hwy Shippensburg, PA 17257 717-776-3722 Hope he's still there.
This piece is fantastic. As it is I love it. See no relative value to putting a single stack of 22 Plinkers In a short barrel. Increase the capacity and effectiveness not a chance
Different in size, width and weight. Mostly width and weight. I had a P365 and I just couldn't't pocket carry it comfortably. Other than that it was a great firearm.
I have the original M&P Bodyguard .380. It’s the only .380 I own. I have a bunch of other M&P pistols in the lineup. I’m glad I started reloading my own .380 ammo when I got my Bodyguard 1.0. The cost of .380 is still pretty high when you buy factory. I might just get this new one when one becomes available. My FFL charges like $40 for a transfer. Adding in shipping and transfer and it’s getting up there in price. One thing is for sure, I’m getting the safety version. All my other M&P’s have one, but I’ve heard this new trigger in the BG 2.0 is under 4 pounds. Way too light for me to put in a pocket without a safety.
I don't blame you if you're used to a safety. This trigger is neither light nor too heavy. I think the prices will come down after the excitement wanes.
You could but I'm not sure it would be as popular. Also in PA for we are supposed to carry .38/9mm/.380 minimum for any kind of official use. Now if they add that to the lineup I'd like to try it!
That would be great for in the waist or holster carry. But the extra length wouldn't fit in some of my jean pockets. Still, there would be a market for it.
It's a shame they gave you a stump of a barrel. 1.75 doesn't help the 380 much. S&W would have done well if the gave you at least 2 1/4 inch barrel. As a cost savings they shorted you 100 fps.
The barrel is 2.75 inches. I'm going to put out a short close up video covering all the details I missed in the first one. I was pretty excited just to have it!
@hapkidocopdefense The chamber is not barrel. That's a marketing ploy. The 380 cartridge is .984 of an inch. That leaves 1.75 inch barrel. Break out a tape measure. That inch of chamber cost you 100 fps. Gun makers are lying to you.
Solid copper 380 ammo with serrations will solve all issues of expansion. Hollow points often don’t want to open one in countering clothing or short barrels. Use the same animal on my mind and it’s fantastic
I wish I could give you a prize! I was waiting for someone to notice that. Actually it was empty. I had shot it all. I intended to use it as a prop to hold up in front of the camera but that part was edited out. To come up with a 12 minute video I actually shot about 22 minutes worth of material. I tend to ramble on and tell too many stories.
I agree like you I want a pistol so light I can forget I even have on me. I carry every day concealed in business casual, partly because these guns are so easy and convenient. It’s far more difficult to hide a 9mm, even a small one, with a tucked in polo and slacks. 10+1 380 68gr Underwood Xtreme Defenders should do the job just fine.
You'll really like the Bodyguard 2.0. I carry a duty gun all day long. Who wants to carry a heavy pistol in the evenings as well? I feel well-armed with a .380.
Muddy River Kydex Pocket Holster - with Kevin's review and how to draw. Excellent! Here ya go for the pocket holster - and a great design too. Order number: 215228 Order date: September 14, 2024 Product Quantity Price Pocket Holster Pick Your Firearm.......:(NEW) S&W Bodyguard 380 2.0 Colors and Hand:Qty: 1, Price: $0.00 Which Hand?........:Right Pocket Color & Print Selection.............:Flat Colors + Carbon Colors Flat Kydex Colors............:Storm Grey Carbon Fiber 1 $49.99 Subtotal: $49.99 Shipping: $7.49 via Flat rate - USPS Ground Advantage Payment method: Credit / Debit Card Total: $57.48 AND, here's Kevin's review of this holster - his company's design: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-9ZyO6YL3_k4.htmlsi=tO9Y1Dj29kKGMtzH Hope this is helpful. - Johnny/LongJnSilver
