Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 2.75in Flipper Knife Review

Let’s Talk About Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 2.75in Flipper Knife

The Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 2.75in Flipper Knife is a budget-friendly option in the tactical knife market, designed as a compact and easily carried tool for everyday tasks. It embodies the aesthetic of the Smith & Wesson M&P series, promising a blend of functionality and affordability. This flipper knife boasts a drop point blade made from 8Cr13MoV steel, a material known for its reasonable balance of toughness and edge retention.

My need for a dependable yet inexpensive everyday carry knife led me to the M&P Bodyguard. I wanted something I wouldn’t hesitate to use and abuse, without the worry of damaging a more expensive blade.

Upon unboxing, the knife felt surprisingly solid for its price point. The textured glass-filled nylon handle provided a decent grip, and the black oxide finish on the blade gave it a stealthy look. Compared to my Benchmade Griptilian, the Bodyguard felt less refined, but it also cost significantly less.

Initially, I was excited by the potential value, but also a bit apprehensive about the “light wrist flick” deployment mechanism mentioned in the description. My first impression was a mix of intrigue and cautious optimism.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 2.75in Flipper Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground was a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I primarily used the Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 2.75in Flipper Knife for basic camp tasks like food preparation, cutting cordage, and whittling small pieces of wood for kindling. The knife handled these tasks adequately, though I immediately noticed the deployment required more effort than a higher-end assisted-opening knife.

The wet and humid conditions of the campsite did not affect the grip of the GFN handle. The lack of a strong detent meant that opening the knife smoothly sometimes required re-adjusting my grip.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 2.75in Flipper Knife has shown its strengths and weaknesses. The black oxide coating on the blade has held up surprisingly well, with only minor scratches despite consistent use.

The liner lock remains functional, although the action has become a little gritty over time. Maintenance is relatively simple: a quick wipe down after use and occasional application of oil to the pivot point have kept it running. Compared to my experience with a Kershaw Blur, the Bodyguard requires more frequent maintenance to maintain its performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 2.75in Flipper Knife

Specifications

• Blade Length: 2.75 inches – This compact size makes it ideal for everyday carry and general utility tasks. It’s not a large knife, but it’s sufficient for most common cutting needs.
• Closed Length: 3.75 inches – The closed length makes it easy to carry discreetly in a pocket. This makes it a good choice for those seeking a low-profile EDC option.
• Overall Length: 6.625 inches – The overall length when open provides a decent reach for various cutting tasks. It provides enough leverage without being unwieldy.
• Blade Material: 8Cr13MoV Stainless Steel – This steel offers a good balance of hardness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening. It is a popular choice for budget-friendly knives due to its performance characteristics.
• Blade Shape: Drop Point – The drop point blade is versatile and suitable for a wide range of tasks, from piercing to slicing. The shape enhances control and precision.
• Handle Material: Glass-Filled Nylon (GFN) – GFN is a durable and lightweight material that provides a secure grip, even in wet conditions. It resists impacts and temperature changes.
• Blade Finish: Black Oxide – The black oxide finish offers added corrosion resistance and a non-reflective appearance. It enhances the knife’s stealthy aesthetic.
• Handle Color: Black – The black handle contributes to the overall tactical look of the knife. Black is a versatile and discreet color.
• Weight: 2.7 oz – The light weight makes it comfortable to carry all day without adding unnecessary bulk. It is easy to forget you are even carrying it.

These specifications combine to create a knife that is lightweight, durable, and functional for everyday carry. The 8Cr13MoV steel provides a decent cutting edge, while the GFN handle ensures a secure grip.

Performance & Functionality

The Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 2.75in Flipper Knife performs adequately for its intended purpose. It is a reliable tool for basic cutting tasks.

The flipper deployment is the biggest drawback. It requires a conscious effort and often a wrist flick to fully deploy the blade. The blade’s edge retention is acceptable for the price, but it requires more frequent sharpening compared to knives with higher-end steels.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 2.75in Flipper Knife is decent, especially considering its price. The materials used are practical and functional, but they lack the refined feel of premium knives.

The knife’s ergonomics are generally good; the textured GFN handle provides a secure grip. The liner lock is easy to access and engage, but it does feel a little thin.

Durability & Maintenance

The Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 2.75in Flipper Knife appears to be reasonably durable for its price point. The 8Cr13MoV steel is known for its toughness.

Maintenance is simple; regular cleaning and oiling of the pivot point should keep it in good working order. The black oxide finish helps protect the blade from corrosion.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 2.75in Flipper Knife does not come with many accessories. It includes only the knife itself and a tip-down pocket clip.

Customization options are limited, as the knife is designed as a budget-friendly, all-in-one package. Aftermarket scales or replacement blades are unlikely to be available or cost-effective.

Pros and Cons of Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 2.75in Flipper Knife

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 2.75in Flipper Knife?

Perfect for: Casual campers, hikers, and anyone looking for an affordable and reliable EDC knife. It’s also a good option for those who need a beater knife that they won’t worry about damaging.

Who should skip this product? Those who require a high-performance knife with premium materials and a smooth, reliable deployment mechanism. Professionals who rely on their knives for demanding tasks should also look elsewhere.

Must-have accessories or modifications? A sharpening stone to maintain the blade’s edge. Some users may also prefer to replace the pocket clip with a deeper-carry option.

Conclusion on Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 2.75in Flipper Knife

The Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 2.75in Flipper Knife is a solid choice for those seeking a budget-friendly and reliable everyday carry knife. While it has its limitations, such as the weak flipper deployment and basic steel, its affordability, durability, and compact size make it a worthwhile option.

The price is definitely justified for what you get. It’s a functional and practical tool that won’t break the bank.

I would recommend this knife to anyone looking for an inexpensive EDC option. It’s a great value and a dependable tool for basic cutting tasks. If you’re in the market for a budget-friendly knife, give the Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 2.75in Flipper Knife a try. You might be surprised by how much you get for the price.