First Impressions of Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0 Handgun Magazine .380 ACP 10/rd BB5DC86F
The Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0 Handgun Magazine .380 ACP 10/rd BB5DC86F is a factory magazine designed specifically for the Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0 .380 pistol. Featuring a 10-round capacity, stainless steel construction, and a corrosion-resistant finish, this magazine aims to provide reliable feeding and lasting durability. It’s a product designed for those who prioritize having extra rounds ready to go, whether for range training or everyday carry, and needs a factory magazine for reliability.
My interest in this magazine stemmed from a need for increased training capacity with my Bodyguard 2.0. While the pistol is incredibly concealable, the limited 6-round capacity of the standard magazine always felt insufficient for extended range sessions. I was looking for a reliable, high-capacity magazine that wouldn’t compromise the pistol’s compact nature, ultimately opting for another factory magazine to avoid potential compatibility issues from aftermarket brands.
Upon receiving the Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0 Handgun Magazine .380 ACP 10/rd BB5DC86F, my first impression was positive. The stainless steel construction felt robust and well-made, and the magazine had a reassuring weight. The factory-drilled witness holes were clearly visible, which should allow for quick and easy round counts.
I had considered magazines from ProMag and ETS, but ultimately decided against them. While cheaper, online reviews suggested potential reliability issues in those aftermarket magazines that I could not risk. The Smith & Wesson magazine, although more expensive, offered peace of mind due to its factory backing and promises of reliability.
Overall, I was excited about the potential of the Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0 Handgun Magazine .380 ACP 10/rd BB5DC86F to enhance my training experience with the Bodyguard 2.0. My initial impression was of a well-built, reliable magazine that should provide a significant improvement in capacity and overall usability.
Real-World Testing: Putting Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0 Handgun Magazine .380 ACP 10/rd BB5DC86F to the Test
First Use Experience
My first range experience with the Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0 Handgun Magazine .380 ACP 10/rd BB5DC86F was conducted at my local outdoor range, under fairly standard conditions: sunny with a slight breeze. I ran approximately 200 rounds of various .380 ACP ammunition types through the magazine, including FMJ and JHP rounds, to assess its feeding reliability. The goal was to simulate typical self-defense scenarios and general target practice.
The magazine performed flawlessly throughout the entire session. It loaded easily, seated firmly in the pistol, and fed every round without a single hiccup. The anti-tilt polymer follower seemed to work effectively, preventing any jams or misfeeds.
I was pleasantly surprised by the ease of use. The magazine felt just like the original, requiring no additional effort to load or seat. My initial concerns about potential compatibility issues were immediately alleviated.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0 Handgun Magazine .380 ACP 10/rd BB5DC86F has continued to perform reliably. I’ve used it in a variety of conditions, from hot summer days to cooler, slightly damp fall evenings, and it has consistently fed without any issues. The corrosion-resistant finish has also proven to be effective, as there are no signs of rust or corrosion despite regular use and minimal cleaning.
In terms of durability, the magazine shows no significant signs of wear and tear. The stainless steel construction has held up well, and the feed lips remain undamaged. Maintenance has been simple: a quick wipe-down after each range session and occasional lubrication of the spring.
Compared to other pistol magazines I’ve used over the years, the Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0 Handgun Magazine .380 ACP 10/rd BB5DC86F stands out for its consistent reliability and durable construction. It outperforms cheaper aftermarket magazines that often suffer from feeding issues or premature wear. It lives up to the Smith & Wesson reputation for quality and dependability.
Breaking Down the Features of Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0 Handgun Magazine .380 ACP 10/rd BB5DC86F
Specifications
The Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0 Handgun Magazine .380 ACP 10/rd BB5DC86F is designed to work specifically with the Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0 .380 pistol. It holds 10 rounds of .380 ACP ammunition. The magazine is constructed from stainless steel with a corrosion-resistant finish.
These specifications are crucial for reliable performance and durability. The 10-round capacity offers a significant increase over the standard 6-round magazine. The stainless steel construction and corrosion-resistant finish ensure the magazine can withstand regular use and exposure to various environmental conditions, which is particularly important for concealed carry.
Performance & Functionality
The Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0 Handgun Magazine .380 ACP 10/rd BB5DC86F performs its job admirably, delivering reliable feeding and smooth operation. Its extended length might make it slightly less concealable. However, the increased capacity makes up for this. The steel spring provides consistent pressure, ensuring that each round is properly presented to the chamber.
The magazine’s primary strength is its reliability; it simply works as intended, every time. A minor weakness is that loading the last few rounds can be a bit stiff, but this is common with higher-capacity magazines. Ultimately, it meets and exceeds expectations for a factory magazine.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0 Handgun Magazine .380 ACP 10/rd BB5DC86F is functional and straightforward. The stainless steel construction feels solid and well-made. The factory-drilled witness holes allow for quick and easy round counts.
The magazine is easy to grip and insert, even with sweaty hands. There’s no learning curve involved; it functions just like the original magazine. The extended length of the 10-round magazine allows for a fuller grip.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its stainless steel construction and corrosion-resistant finish, the Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0 Handgun Magazine .380 ACP 10/rd BB5DC86F is built to last. It can withstand regular use and exposure to harsh conditions without showing signs of wear. With basic cleaning and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple. Disassembling the magazine for cleaning is not recommended unless absolutely necessary. A quick wipe-down after each range session and occasional lubrication of the spring are usually sufficient.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0 Handgun Magazine .380 ACP 10/rd BB5DC86F is a standalone product and does not come with any additional accessories. However, several aftermarket base plates and magazine pouches are available to enhance its usability. Compatibility with accessories from other brands is generally limited, as it is designed specifically for the Bodyguard 2.0.
Extended baseplates for improved grip or magazine carriers for convenient carry are available aftermarket. Aftermarket options like the Lakeline baseplates cited by another user can further enhance the magazine’s functionality.
Pros and Cons of Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0 Handgun Magazine .380 ACP 10/rd BB5DC86F
Pros
- Increased Capacity: Holds 10 rounds of .380 ACP, providing more shooting time and fewer reloads.
- Reliable Feeding: The anti-tilt polymer follower and steel spring ensure smooth and consistent feeding.
- Durable Construction: The stainless steel construction and corrosion-resistant finish offer excellent durability and longevity.
- Factory Magazine: Guarantees compatibility and reliability with the Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0 pistol.
- Easy to Use: Simple to load, insert, and remove, with no learning curve.
Cons
- Can be difficult to load the last few rounds.
- Price: More expensive than some aftermarket magazines.
Who Should Buy Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0 Handgun Magazine .380 ACP 10/rd BB5DC86F?
The Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0 Handgun Magazine .380 ACP 10/rd BB5DC86F is perfect for Bodyguard 2.0 owners who want increased capacity without sacrificing reliability. It’s also good for those who prioritize factory-backed quality. This includes concealed carriers who practice often and want a magazine that will perform flawlessly under stress.
Those who prioritize maximum concealability above all else, or those on a very tight budget, might want to skip this product. A standard capacity magazine might be more suitable for those focused on smaller size.
A quality magazine pouch for easy carry and quick access is a must-have accessory. Some may also consider an extended baseplate for a more secure grip, as noted previously.
Conclusion on Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0 Handgun Magazine .380 ACP 10/rd BB5DC86F
In summary, the Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0 Handgun Magazine .380 ACP 10/rd BB5DC86F is a reliable and well-made magazine that significantly enhances the usability of the Bodyguard 2.0 pistol. The increase in capacity from 6 to 10 rounds is a major benefit, and the stainless steel construction ensures durability.
The price is justified by the magazine’s consistent performance and long-lasting quality. I would personally recommend it to any Bodyguard 2.0 owner looking to improve their shooting experience.
If you own a Bodyguard 2.0 and want a reliable, high-capacity magazine, the Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0 Handgun Magazine .380 ACP 10/rd BB5DC86F is an excellent investment. Don’t settle for cheaper aftermarket options that may compromise reliability; go with the factory magazine for peace of mind.