Smith & Wesson’s latest model, the Bodyguard 2.0, has made waves in the firearm community, earning the prestigious 2024 Handgun of the Year award from Guns & Ammo, as reported by Outdoor Wire. This award, recognizing outstanding performance in a wide range of categories, showcases Smith & Wesson’s commitment to both innovation and quality. Editor-in-Chief Eric Poole from Guns & Ammo highlighted that the Bodyguard 2.0 stood out against a longer list of nominations than ever before, nearly achieving a unanimous vote.
High Praise and Accessibility

Praised for its accuracy, durability, and overall shootability, the Bodyguard 2.0 has set a new standard for what a compact, everyday carry handgun can achieve. The Bodyguard 2.0 isn’t just about function – it’s about accessibility too. With a price tag under $450, Smith & Wesson has positioned this model as an affordable yet reliable option for personal defense.
Options for Different Shooters

Available in models with or without a thumb safety, the Bodyguard 2.0 caters to a broad range of shooter preferences. Designed with ergonomics in mind, it provides comfortable handling while delivering low recoil, making it suitable for both seasoned and new shooters alike. As Vice President of Marketing Kyle Tengwall noted, Smith & Wesson has poured consumer insights into the design to ensure it meets the needs of today’s firearm users.
Exploring Unique Aspects of the Bodyguard 2.0

Below, we explore 10 unique aspects of the Bodyguard 2.0, drawing from recent hands-on reviews by popular YouTubers like Joe from Desk Pop, Roger Barrera from QVO Tactical, and Chris Randall from Honest Outlaw. Let’s dive into what makes this handgun a true standout.
1. An Improved, Ergonomic Grip Design

The Bodyguard 2.0’s grip is one of its defining features, enhancing comfort and control for a wide range of hand sizes. According to Smith & Wesson’s website, the ergonomic grip design has stippling that allows the shooter to maintain control and reduce recoil, a huge advantage for a compact firearm. Joe from Desk Pop emphasizes that the grip feels perfectly redesigned, allowing a natural aim and making the gun enjoyable to shoot repeatedly—something unusual for many subcompact handguns.
2. Compact Yet High-Capacity

Smith & Wesson has squeezed a lot of capacity into this small frame. With both 10+1 and 12+1 magazine options, this 380 Auto caliber gun punches above its weight. Chris Randall from Honest Outlaw even notes that this makes the Bodyguard 2.0 one of the smallest double-stack guns he’s ever seen. With its size and capacity, it becomes a rare find in the micro-compact category, especially since most competitors don’t offer this level of capacity in such a small design.
3. Enhanced Trigger for Consistency and Control

The Bodyguard 2.0 has made a significant upgrade with its improved flat-faced trigger, moving away from the traditional double-action model. Desk Pop’s Joe explains how the flat-face design ensures a crisp and light pull, making it easier to place accurate shots. Roger Barrera from QVO Tactical appreciates the trigger’s consistency and responsiveness, adding that it performs like a much larger handgun’s trigger. With such control, it’s no wonder this model has gained a reputation for being highly shootable.
4. Unmatched Portability and Discretion

With a total weight of just 9.8 ounces, the Bodyguard 2.0 is not only easy to carry but also incredibly easy to conceal. Honest Outlaw’s Chris Randall commented that he initially thought the weight spec was a typo because of how unbelievably light the gun felt in hand. This ultra-lightweight profile makes the Bodyguard 2.0 ideal for pocket or waistband carry, without adding noticeable bulk.
5. Remarkable Recoil Management

While compact guns are often notorious for strong recoil, reviewers have consistently noted how manageable the Bodyguard 2.0 is to shoot. Chris Randall mentioned how the high grip and balanced design minimize the kickback, allowing for quick follow-up shots. Roger Barrera also praises the recoil control, noting that even with a lighter frame, it feels like shooting a larger gun due to the advanced ergonomics.
6. Slide Design That Assists in Quick Handling

The aggressive slide design of the Bodyguard 2.0, with added serrations, is particularly useful in high-stress situations. Smith & Wesson mentions these serrations provide multiple points of traction, making it easy to grip and rack the slide quickly. Chris from Honest Outlaw commends this feature, noting that even with gloves or sweaty hands, the slide is easy to manipulate.
7. Unique Sight Setup for Quick Target Acquisition

The sights on the Bodyguard 2.0 have been tailored for rapid aiming. According to Roger Barrera at QVO Tactical, the rear sight is deliberately spaced to focus attention on the bright front dot, which assists in quickly acquiring the target. While not quite at the level of an optic-ready system, Joe from Desk Pop remarked that the sights are highly functional and effective for rapid, close-range scenarios.
8. Precision Fit and Finish

Despite its affordable price, the Bodyguard 2.0 features an Armorite finish that enhances durability and resistance to wear. This small but high-quality touch is reminiscent of higher-end firearms, according to Chris Randall. This focus on fit and finish is particularly impressive given that the Bodyguard 2.0 remains an entry-level price firearm.
9. Enhanced Concealability with Pocket-Friendly Design

The Bodyguard 2.0’s shape allows it to be tucked away in pockets without drawing attention. As Roger Barrera demonstrates, the gun and a small holster resemble the outline of a smartphone when placed in the pocket, making it a discrete option for daily carry. This unique design approach is a huge win for those looking for low-profile personal protection.
10. Tested and Approved Across Various Scenarios

Each reviewer has emphasized the Bodyguard 2.0’s versatility, from precision target drills to everyday carry comfort. Roger Barrera described how easy it was to handle and fire, even in rapid succession. Chris Randall noted how the Bodyguard 2.0 handled different types of ammunition without issue, maintaining performance across all rounds fired.
A Masterpiece of Accessible Innovation

Smith & Wesson’s Bodyguard 2.0 is a gun that proves micro handguns don’t have to sacrifice usability, capacity, or reliability. With a slew of positive reviews from respected gun reviewers, it’s clear that Smith & Wesson has engineered a handgun that appeals to a broad spectrum of shooters. The Bodyguard 2.0 stands out as an accessible, everyday option without compromising on quality, making it a firearm truly deserving of its 2024 Handgun of the Year award. It’s rare to see so much thought put into an affordable handgun, making it a genuine masterpiece in the compact firearm world.

A former park ranger and wildlife conservationist, Lisa’s passion for survival started with her deep connection to nature. Raised on a small farm in northern Wisconsin, she learned how to grow her own food, raise livestock, and live off the land. Lisa writes about homesteading, natural remedies, and survival strategies. Whether it’s canning vegetables or setting up a rainwater harvesting system, Lisa’s goal is to help others live more sustainably and prepare for the unexpected.