Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0 Impressions: A Modernized Micro .380 Built for Deep Concealment

The Smith & Wesson Bodyguard name has long been associated with deep-concealment firearms built for close-quarters personal protection. Over the years, the Bodyguard lineup has included everything from lightweight J-frame revolvers to the original six-shot micro-compact Bodyguard .380 pistol; handguns favored by those who prioritize discretion, reliability, and fast access at intimate defensive distances.

With the release of the Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0, the company has taken a decisive step forward. This latest iteration represents a complete modernization of the platform, addressing past concerns about capacity, ergonomics, and shootability while preserving the Bodyguard’s core identity as a purpose-built deep-concealment gun.

Slightly larger than the original micro-compact Bodyguard .380, but still very much an ultra-concealable pistol, the Bodyguard 2.0 now offers an impressive 10+1 or 12+1-round capacity, a dramatic improvement over the original’s limited capacity.

For concealed carriers looking for a balance between minimal footprint and meaningful firepower, the Bodyguard 2.0 .380 ACP is shaping up to be one of the most compelling micro-pistols available.

S&W Bodyguard 2.0 with a Glock 43 for size reference

Reduced Size, Increased Capacity, A True Deep-Concealment Upgrade

Promotional photos of the Bodyguard 2.0 don’t accurately portray its scale; in images, the proportions resemble a shrunk-down M&P Shield or a miniature full-size M&P. Upon opening the box, the pistol’s true size becomes apparent; it’s noticeably smaller than it looks online, and far more refined in person.

Built on a re-engineered ergonomic polymer frame, the Bodyguard 2.0 features a uniform textured finish that enhances grip without becoming abrasive. Though small, the grip is comfortable, aided by a well-executed undercut beneath the trigger guard, which allows the middle finger to lock in securely. The pistol’s slim profile, under 1 inch at its widest point, makes it ideal for pocket carry, deep IWB concealment, or even ankle carry.

The magazine release is pronounced and positive, ejecting the black steel magazines cleanly. The included 10-round flush-fit magazine keeps the pistol compact, while the 12-round extended magazine adds valuable real estate for the hand.

The trigger features a flat face with a central safety lever that doubles as a drop-safety mechanism. Trigger pull weight averaged 5 lbs., 3.7 oz., with about a quarter-inch of takeup before a clean, crisp break, very respectable for a striker-fired defensive pistol of this size.

Controls and Handling: Simple, Practical, Defensive-Minded

Two versions of the Bodyguard 2.0 are available:

• NTS (No Thumb Safety)

• TS (Thumb Safety) with bilateral levers

The pistol evaluated here was the NTS version, which keeps the control layout minimal.

Aside from the trigger, the only frame-mounted controls are the takedown lever and the slide stop/release, both located on the left side. This simplicity enhances reliability and minimizes snags when drawing from deep concealment.

Two subtle but effective fingertip index pads are molded into the frame above the front of the trigger guard. These stippled panels act as tactile reference points to help shooters maintain proper off-trigger finger placement, an appreciated detail that improves both safety and consistency.

Slide Design and Factory XS Night Sights

Smith & Wesson redesigned the slide for improved manipulation, adding scalloped serrations at both the front and rear. While marketed as “aggressive,” they are better described as positive and easy to work, providing dependable traction without biting into the skin.

A chamber viewing port eliminates the need for press-checks, allowing shooters to visually confirm load status instantly.

Perhaps the most notable upgrade, and one of the strongest selling points, is the inclusion of XS Tritium night sights straight from the factory. This is a major improvement for a micro-pistol traditionally used in low-light defensive situations.

The sighting system includes:

• Rear Sight: Blacked-out, serrated, fixed U-notch

• Front Sight: Tritium lamp surrounded by a high-visibility orange glow ring

This configuration yields a fast, clear sight picture in all lighting conditions, lending the Bodyguard 2.0 a truly duty-grade sight setup in a pocketable gun.

Blacked-out rear sight

XS Front sight

Specifications: Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0

Feature	Specification
Caliber	.380 ACP
Length	5.5 inches
Height	4 inches
Weight	9.8 ounces
Capacity	10+1 (flush), 12+1 (extended)
Barrel Length	2.75 inches
Action	Striker-fired
Sights	XS Tritium front, U-notch rear
Optics-Ready	No
Barrel Material	Stainless steel
Integrated Laser	No

Ultra-compact in size yet notably upgraded in capability, the Bodyguard 2.0 remains true to its heritage: a modern-day pocket-pistol designed for speed, simplicity, and deep concealment.

Range Test: Reliability Through 500 Rounds

For our initial impressions of the Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0, we ran a total of 500 rounds through the pistol. The gun was thoroughly cleaned before the first shots were fired. During the first 50 rounds, the pistol experienced two malfunctions: one stovepipe and one light primer strike. After those first 50 rounds, the Bodyguard 2.0 was taken down, cleaned again, and returned to the line.

Across the remaining 450 rounds, the pistol ran flawlessly with no additional malfunctions. This performance suggests that the Bodyguard 2.0 may benefit from a brief break-in and proper lubrication, after which it appears to deliver consistent, dependable operation.

While 500 rounds is no torture test, it appears to be off to a good start.

Is the S&W Bodyguard 2.0 the Best Micro .380 for Deep Concealment?

With our sample size of one, it's probably too soon to definitively answer that question, but here are some key takeaways:

• The Bodyguard 2.0 is a major modernization of Smith & Wesson’s classic deep-concealment .380, offering better ergonomics, capacity, and shootability.

• Despite its refined look, the pistol is smaller than it appears online, making it ideal for pocket carry, deep IWB, and ankle carry.

• Upgrades like the improved frame design, flat-faced trigger, and simplified controls make it easy to handle and consistent under stress.

• Factory XS Tritium night sights significantly enhance low-light performance and give the pistol a fantastic sight picture.

• With 10+1 or 12+1 capacity, it delivers meaningful capacity in an ultra-compact footprint.

• Across 500 rounds, the gun showed strong reliability; two minor malfunctions in the first 50 rounds, then flawless operation through the remaining 450 after a cleaning.

• Overall, the Bodyguard 2.0 stands out as a highly capable deep-concealment .380 for those who need a discreet, dependable defensive pistol.