January 22, 2015

8 Smith & Wesson Compact Defenders

Eight of Smith & Wesson's current handguns that maintain the bodyguard spirit.

Richard Johnson

smith & wesson, smith & wesson concealed carry, concealed carry, smith & wesson guns, smith & wesson revolvers, smith & wesson pistols

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Photo by Smith & Wesson

S&W M&P Bodyguard 380
A laser-less version of the original, the new M&P Bodyguard 380 maintains all of the classic features that have made the gun a hot seller: It’s thin, compact, reliable and affordably priced. Chambered in .380 ACP, this low-recoiling gun carries a MSRP of only $379.

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Photo by Smith & Wesson

S&W M&P Bodyguard 38
Using a hybrid polymer-aluminum frame, the matte black Bodyguard 38 is a “hammerless” revolver with an ambidextrous cylinder release and a built-in laser. Very light at only 14.3 ounces, the gun holds five rounds of .38 Special and is +P rated. The MSRP for this model is $539.

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Photo by Smith & Wesson

S&W M&P Compact
A compact version of the M&P duty pistol, the M&P Compact is a serious fighting handgun for those with a need for discreet carry. Caliber choices include 9mm, .357 SIG and .40 S&W. Options include Crimson Trace Lasergrips and frame-mounted thumb safeties. MSRP starts at $569.

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Photo by Smith & Wesson

S&W M&P 340
With a scandium alloy frame, the M&P 340 weighs just a touch over 13 ounces. Topped with an XS Sights’ 24/7 tritium front sight, this double-action-only revolver is chambered in .357 Magnum. Finished in matte black, the M&P 340 carries an MSRP of $869.

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Photo by Smith & Wesson

S&W Model 43 C
The Model 43 C is chambered in .22 LR and may be the perfect choice for anyone who is recoil sensitive due to injury or a medical condition. It holds eight rounds, weighs only 11 ounces and comes with an XS Sights tritium front sight. The MSRP is $689.

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Photo by Smith & Wesson

S&W Model 351 C
Looking for more power than a .22 LR but don’t want the kick of a .38? The Model 351 C is a J-Frame revolver chambered for the .22 Magnum and holds seven rounds in the cylinder. An XS Sights tritium front sight is standard. The MSRP is $689.

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Photo by Smith & Wesson

S&W Model 442/642
Considered by many to be the ultimate pocket guns, the Model 442 and Model 642 J-Frame revolvers are internal-hammer guns that tip the scales at 15 ounces. Chambered in .38 Special, the guns have either a matte black (442) or a matte silver (642) finish. S&W lists the MSRP at $469 for these guns.

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Photo by Smith & Wesson

S&W Performance Center Model 327
This Performance Center .357 Magnum revolver holds eight rounds in the titanium cylinder. A 2-inch barrel and scandium frame make this gun easy to carry, while the tuned action makes it a dream to shoot. The distinctive wood grips complete this beautiful gun. The MSRP is $1,309.

When applied to handguns, the term “bodyguard” is synonymous with Smith & Wesson. The company has used the term for a variety of compact pistols that have served armed citizens and law enforcement officers for decades. The following are just some Smith & Wesson compact handguns that maintain the bodyguard spirit.

For More Information

Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 380

Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 38

Smith & Wesson M&P Compact

Smith & Wesson M&P 340

Smith & Wesson Model 43 C

Smith & Wesson Model 351 C

Smith & Wesson Model 442/662

Smith & Wesson Performance Center Model 327

Smith & Wesson’s Model 686 Plus Revolver

5 Smith & Wesson Guns for Everyday CCW Self-Defense

Gun Review: The Timeless Smith & Wesson M&P Revolver