S&W Bodyguard VS Ruger LCP review

[c3 rolling]

I just picked up a new S&W Bodyguard .380 and I thought it would be a good chance to compare it to the popular Ruger LCP. Regarding reliability, shooting feel, and features, here it is.

Ruger LCP:

Cons:
1. Chokes on cheap hollow points like Remington UMC.
2. Slide doesn't lock back after last round.
3. Sights are pretty useless for accurate range plinking.
4. No second primer strike ability.

Pros:
1. Way smoother/lighter trigger than the S&W.
2. 100% reliable with any decent ball/HP ammo.
3. 2 ounce lighter than the S&W.
4. Easier to field strip than the S&W.
5. Cheap

S&W Bodyguard:

Cons:
1. Issues with light primer strikes, 15 times out of 150 rounds.
2. Very heavy/gritty trigger, I would say 11+ pounds.
3. Questionable frame rails, appears to be worn/rough after only 150 rounds.
4. Brass hits me in the face.

Pros:
1. Higher build/finish quality than the LCP.
2. Good sights and decent laser.
3. Rougher grip texture and feels more secure in the hands than the LCP. Higher grip at the tang of the hand.
4. Slightly less recoil.
5. Second primer strike ability.
6. Locks back on last round.
7. A tiny bit more accurate than the LCP, probably due to the better sights.

Size is about the same, both very concealable.








The S&W barrel appears more durable with thicker steel. Notice the S&W has a thicker/longer guide rod and spring. The inner of the slide on the LCP is very rough with a lot of machining marks while the S&W is smooth. This also applies to the exterior of the slide where the LCP has many visible machining marks in the slide serrations.

[c3 rolling]

The S&W has very rough frame rails, almost appears to have unusual damage from shooting. The LCP frame rails are very smooth and perfect even with 300+ rounds.



The S&W uses their typical steel magazines, decently smooth and well built. The LCP magazine on the other hand is labeled "Made in Italy" and is very smooth with a shiny black finish. The magazine resembles something a higher end handgun would have.




Due to all the light primer strikes, brass in the face, and questionable frame rail damage my S&W is going back to the factory for warranty work. I'm a bit dissapointed with S&W because their Bodyguard is the first lemon I have owned from S&W. It doesnt appear to be isolated because there are numerous threads online regarding their issues. At the moment, I think the LCP is the better CCW/range gun. Once the Bodyguard comes back maybe Ill change my mind but until then, the LCP is the winner in my book.

[johnny_boy02]

Thanks for the info, I have been thinking at the bodyguard since my LCP is the complete opposite of reliable with FTE every other shot.

[stix213]

Thanks for the info on the Bodyguard. If you end up getting rid of it, consider a Sig P238. I have an LCP and the P238, and even though its a few oz heavier I like the P238 much better. If you do, get the good Wolff spring for it and it runs 100%. Very light trigger cause its a SA condition 1 style pistol, and has top notch factory night sights.

[den888]

Thanks for the comparison!

[ace21]

I was looking for the S&W Bodyguard. Is it available in Cali?

[XDRoX]

Both are off roster.

I considered the S&W when I was looking for a pocket pistol but went with the LCP. I never got a chance to shoot the Smith, but I couldn't be happier with my LCP. Awesome little gun, and I'm not a Ruger fan, well until now

[chim-chim7]

So how can your fairly compare the guns when one is defective and needs repair at the factory. Wait until you hear the story from S&W first. LCP is the clear winner over a lemon. Yea ok.

[c3 rolling]

So how can your fairly compare the guns when one is defective and needs repair at the factory. Wait until you hear the story from S&W first. LCP is the clear winner over a lemon. Yea ok.

Even if the S&W wasnt a lemon, i think the LCP might be the better quality gun overall. For SD, the bodyguard may be better if it shot flawless. The trigger on the SW is really bad, the pad of my finger was numb after about 75 rounds. The LCP is great for plinking with a smooth, decently light trigger. Trust me bro, I'm just as dissapointed as you are because I love S&W firearms and this is my first and only Ruger. The SW is returning to me this week and we will see how it turns out. I'm hoping the heavy trigger was defective and they fixed it.

[SDM44]

I think you should get the LaserMax for the LCP and see how it then compares to the Bodyguard 380, since the laser function (button operation & location) would be about the same on both guns.

Good write up and thanks for the info. I was looking to get a Bodyguard 380 for awhile now, but I came across a good deal on a LCP so I bought that (along with a LaserMax, but purchases separately).

[chim-chim7]

Let us know what you hear back. I already own a LC9 but was wanting the LCP. I guess I got to pay premium for one. Just wish I could shoot one first.

[Mickey D]

I prefer this S&W Body Guard.
Reliable and potent.

[cruising7388]

[QUOTE=c3 rolling;7581728]I just picked up a new S&W Bodyguard .380 and I thought it would be a good chance to compare it to the popular Ruger LCP. Regarding reliability, shooting feel, and features, here it is./QUOTE]

Exceptional Post. Great information. Thank you!