Introduction
Concealed carry practitioners have loved the Smith and Wesson Bodyguard 380, the small size of the firearm makes it ideal for concealment practice. It’s compact, dependable, user friendly – it has earned good reviews from gun lovers. However, like any machine, it comes with its own eccentricities. If you have had problems with your Bodyguard 380, don’t fret, you are not the only shooter who has experienced this.
This post looks at the quintet of Smith and Wesson Bodyguard 380 problems that are most often faced by the owners. Be it an inconsistent trigger pull or failure of the magazine to drop, we’ve got answers that will help you love this little weapon all over again. Let’s get down to business!
Top 5 Smith and Wesson Bodyguard 380 Problems and Its Solutions
The Bodyguard 380 from Smith and Wesson is often considered the most suitable weapon for concealed wearing. However, as with any weapon, it has its own idiosyncrasies. Understanding these Smith and Wesson Bodyguard 380 problems can bring more joy into your shooting practice.
- Trigger Pull Issue
- Slide Lock Problem
- Problem with the Magazine Drop
- Light Primer Strikes
- Firing Issue
1- Trigger Pull Issue & Its Solutions
One of the Smith and Wesson Bodyguard 380 problems is the trigger pull. Most shooters find it heavier than necessary, which in turn affects the accuracy as well as the shooting experience. Most of the cases are usually from the factory adjustments where a particular resistance is intended for safety.
This may, however, not be the case for everyone’s preferences and skills. One useful way to solve this Smith and Wesson Bodyguard 380 problems is training oneself to dry fire in order to build muscle memory. This is beneficial for shooters since they get used to the weight after some time, without the need for real bullets.
Another alternative would be discussing with a firearms expert on improving the trigger parts. This may include changing the spring to a more user-friendly one or polishing the existing ones, if not all, for a better trigger action. However, it is also worth noting that this will not make much difference without proper cleaning and servicing.
2- Slide Lock Problem & Its Solutions
One common Smith and Wesson Bodyguard 380 problems is the issue of the slide lock, which can be very annoying when one is practicing or even in a defensive situation. Everyone knows how frustrating it is when the last round is fired and the slide does not stay in the locked back position.
One reason for this can be a magazine that is not seated properly. Always ensure that the magazine is properly seated into the grip, until a click is heard. This may also be true with regards to the follower, which should not be loose or worn out. Maintenance is important, as the provision of proper care can help avoid the slide lock malfunction.
Make sure to conduct a full cleaning of the gun, and also make sure the slide stop area is clean as well, as it can get gunked up over time. If you still experience Smith and Wesson Bodyguard 380 problems, it may be advisable to get in touch with Smith and Wesson’s customer service for assistance or for possible improvements to your firearm’s parts.
3- Problem with the Magazine Drop & Its Solutions
The magazine drop-off problem is one of the numerous Smith and Wesson Bodyguard 380 problems that users face. This can be quite irritating especially when you cannot afford to drop the gun. More often than not, the magazine will come loose when it is not intended during ammunition changing or shooting.
Either a lose magazine catch or a worn-out part could be responsible. Routine care practices assist in reducing this particular danger. To deal with the loose catch, take the gun apart and check if any screws were left loose. In some cases, when such repairs do not work, a new catch will dispose of the Smith and Wesson Bodyguard 380 problems.
However, if all these measures do not help, it is advisable to turn to a professional gunsmith experienced in the S&W models for repairs and tuning. When operating your Bodyguard, keeping its operational functioning is extremely important to avoid exposure and in reliance.
4- Light Primer Strikes & Its Solutions
It is not uncommon for owners of the Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 380 to face issues with light primer strikes. This Smith and Wesson Bodyguard 380 problems often results in a failure to discharge the current round leaving the shooter in a compromised state and hence, the need to figure out the causes.
One likely cause would be the striking force produced by the firing pin which may be sharp due to a weak spring. This can be easily resolved by getting an aftermarket fir- ing pin spring that is stronger than the original equipment. Another Smith and Wesson Bodyguard 380 problems to consider also happens to be the type of boots fired.
Some bullets are loaded with primers which are harder and therefore require more force to strike ignited. In addition, check the striker channel with respect to out debris and dirt. A simple cleaning routine might just clear the light primer strikes and bring back reliability so a user will be confident while using the handgun.
5- Firing Issue & Its Solutions
Experiencing firing problems can be very annoying Smith and Wesson Bodyguard 380 problems. These defects are usually caused by inadequate care or the use of subpar ammo. To begin with, it is essential to check the gun for any blockage in the barrel. Modern guns cannot be fired if the barrel has any dumping.
So, clean it properly before using the weapon. After this, pay attention to what kind of ammo you are using. Cheap ammunition can result in failure to ignite. Use trusted names that are proven to be effective over time.
Another typical turning point is the recoil spring. Endless fear. Or to put it more correctly, if the thrust spring is not working well anymore, you should change it, and the firing problem should be sorted out. Make sure that your grip and position are correct as you fire. If the hold is wobbly, it can have an effect on trigger pull and a missed shot or a click with no bang can result.
FAQs – Smith and Wesson Bodyguard 380 Problems
Q1: What is the normal or expected trigger pull weight for the Smith and Wesson Bodyguard 380?
The average trigger pull weight tends to read between six point five to eight pounds which some users may find it heavy.
Q2: Why are light primer strikes frequent in this model?
Yes, it may be due firing pin not engaging complete and/or due to praying fire with low-powered ammunition. Regular use of the gun helps to avoid those cases.
Q3: I want to ask how to make the shooting better with Bodyguard 380?
Practice, practice, and practice! In addition, working on grip and stance will help steady every shot.
Q4: Are aftermarket parts bad for the warranty?
Indeed, installation of parts not manufactured by the company may risk the warranty. Be sure to consult the manufacturer before making any altered parts.
Q5: Are there any cleaning recommendations that one should follow in order to achieve maximum efficiency?
Regular cleaning after every use is highly advised. Extra care should be taken on the barrel and magazine areas to ensure they function effectively.
Conclusion
In my experience with the Smith and Wesson Bodyguard 380, you should know a few common issues that would affect your shooting experience. Solutions to Smith and Wesson Bodyguard 380 problems such as inconsistency of trigger pulls, slide locks, magazine dropping, light primer strikes and firing related issues can be found and enhance safety when applied.
Knowing these Smith and Wesson Bodyguard 380 problems is not only important as a gun owner but will also build trust in the weapon. However, within the normal course of use, good maintenance practices and handling will reduce the likelihood of these problems occurring.
Also, keep track of Smith & Wesson’s notifications on recalls or improvements on the tickets as well—you can be sure of how things will work out when it is necessary and the right time to do so. The knowledge you acquire about your weapon carries with it, better ways of handling the weapon and greater alertness whether at the practice range or in a situation where self-defense is called for.
