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Glock 42 vs. Smith & Wesson Bodyguard: Which .380 Reigns Supreme?

Choosing the right concealed carry pistol is a deeply personal decision, influenced by factors like hand size, preferred shooting style, and individual comfort. For those seeking a compact and easily concealable option, the Glock 42 and the Smith & Wesson Bodyguard .380 frequently top the list. This comprehensive comparison dives deep into the nuances of each handgun, providing an expert analysis to help you determine which best suits your needs. We’ll explore their features, performance, advantages, and drawbacks, offering a balanced perspective to guide your decision-making process. Our aim is to provide a definitive resource for anyone considering the Glock 42 or the Smith & Wesson Bodyguard as their everyday carry.

Glock 42 vs. Smith & Wesson Bodyguard: A Detailed Examination

The Glock 42 and Smith & Wesson Bodyguard .380 both occupy the realm of subcompact .380 ACP pistols, designed primarily for concealed carry. However, their design philosophies and execution differ significantly. The Glock 42, released in 2014, was Glock’s first foray into the ultra-compact .380 market, offering a slim profile and lightweight construction while retaining the familiar Glock operating system. The Smith & Wesson Bodyguard, on the other hand, represents a more traditional approach to subcompact pistol design, with a polymer frame, stainless steel slide, and a double-action-only (DAO) trigger system.

Understanding the core differences between these two pistols requires looking beyond their shared caliber. The Glock 42 emphasizes simplicity, reliability, and ease of use, aligning with Glock’s established reputation. The Bodyguard .380 prioritizes extreme concealability and a lightweight package, making it a popular choice for those who prioritize minimal bulk.

Recent market trends indicate a growing demand for reliable and easily concealable firearms, particularly among first-time gun owners and those seeking a backup weapon. Both the Glock 42 and the Smith & Wesson Bodyguard .380 cater to this demand, but their distinct characteristics make them suitable for different users and applications.

The Role of Subcompact .380 Pistols in Concealed Carry

Subcompact .380 ACP pistols like the Glock 42 and Smith & Wesson Bodyguard fill a crucial niche in the concealed carry market. These firearms offer a balance between stopping power and concealability, making them suitable for individuals who prioritize discretion and comfort. While the .380 ACP cartridge is not as powerful as larger calibers like 9mm or .45 ACP, it can still be an effective self-defense round when used responsibly and accurately.

The primary advantage of a subcompact .380 pistol is its small size and light weight. These characteristics make it easier to carry concealed for extended periods, whether in an inside-the-waistband (IWB) holster, an ankle holster, or even a pocket holster. This is especially important for individuals who live in warmer climates or who need to dress in professional attire.

However, it’s important to acknowledge the limitations of the .380 ACP cartridge. Its smaller size and lower velocity result in less energy transfer compared to larger calibers. This means that shot placement becomes even more critical for effective self-defense. Therefore, it’s essential to practice regularly with your chosen .380 pistol to develop the necessary skills and accuracy.

Feature-by-Feature Comparison: Glock 42 vs. Smith & Wesson Bodyguard

Let’s delve into a detailed comparison of the key features of the Glock 42 and the Smith & Wesson Bodyguard .380:

Glock 42

Size and Weight: The Glock 42 is incredibly slim and lightweight, making it ideal for concealed carry. It measures approximately 5.94 inches in length, 4.13 inches in height, and 0.94 inches in width, weighing around 13.76 ounces unloaded.
Operating System: Utilizes the Glock Safe Action system, a partially pre-cocked striker-fired mechanism known for its reliability and consistent trigger pull.
Trigger: The trigger pull is typically around 5.5 pounds, with a distinct break and reset. This allows for relatively easy and accurate shooting, even for inexperienced users.
Frame: Constructed from durable polymer, providing a comfortable and secure grip. The frame also incorporates Glock’s standard accessory rail for attaching lights or lasers.
Sights: Comes standard with Glock’s polymer sights, which are adequate but can be upgraded to aftermarket options for improved visibility and accuracy.
Magazine Capacity: Holds 6 rounds in its single-stack magazine.

Smith & Wesson Bodyguard .380

Size and Weight: Slightly smaller and lighter than the Glock 42, measuring approximately 5.3 inches in length, 4.1 inches in height, and 1.0 inches in width, weighing around 12.3 ounces unloaded.
Operating System: Features a double-action-only (DAO) trigger system, meaning each trigger pull cocks and releases the hammer.
Trigger: The DAO trigger pull is significantly heavier and longer than the Glock 42’s trigger, typically around 8-10 pounds. This can make it more challenging to shoot accurately, especially for beginners.
Frame: Also constructed from polymer, but with a more rounded and ergonomic design.
Sights: Features fixed, low-profile sights that are less adjustable than the Glock 42’s sights. Some models include an integrated laser sight.
Magazine Capacity: Holds 6 rounds in its single-stack magazine.

Breaking Down the Features: User Benefits and Technical Insights

Let’s delve deeper into the functionality and user benefits of some of these key features:

Glock 42’s Safe Action System

The Glock Safe Action system is a hallmark of Glock pistols, renowned for its reliability and simplicity. It employs three independent safeties – a trigger safety, a firing pin safety, and a drop safety – to prevent accidental discharges. This system allows for a consistent trigger pull, which is crucial for accuracy. From a technical standpoint, the partially pre-cocked striker mechanism reduces the amount of force required to pull the trigger, making it easier to control the firearm.

Smith & Wesson Bodyguard’s DAO Trigger

The Bodyguard’s double-action-only (DAO) trigger system offers a different approach to safety. Because each trigger pull cocks and releases the hammer, there is no need for an external safety lever. While this simplifies the operation of the pistol, it also results in a heavier and longer trigger pull. This can be beneficial for preventing accidental discharges, but it can also make it more challenging to shoot accurately, particularly under stress. The longer trigger pull requires more practice and muscle memory to master.

Size and Concealability

Both pistols excel in concealability, but their slightly different dimensions can make a difference for some users. The Bodyguard’s shorter length and lighter weight may make it more comfortable to carry in a pocket holster or ankle holster. The Glock 42, while slightly larger, still offers a slim profile that allows for comfortable IWB carry. The choice ultimately depends on individual preferences and carry methods.

Advantages, Benefits, and Real-World Value

The Glock 42 and Smith & Wesson Bodyguard offer distinct advantages for concealed carry:

Glock 42: Precision and Reliability

Accuracy: The Glock 42’s lighter trigger pull and crisp break contribute to improved accuracy, especially at longer distances. Users consistently report tighter groupings compared to the Bodyguard.
Reliability: Glock pistols are known for their reliability, and the Glock 42 is no exception. Its simple design and robust construction ensure consistent performance, even under adverse conditions.
Ease of Use: The Glock 42’s intuitive controls and familiar operating system make it easy to learn and operate, even for novice shooters.
Aftermarket Support: A wide range of aftermarket accessories are available for the Glock 42, including sights, triggers, and holsters, allowing users to customize the pistol to their specific needs.
Ergonomics: The Glock 42’s grip angle and texture provide a comfortable and secure hold, promoting accurate shooting.

Smith & Wesson Bodyguard .380: Ultimate Concealability

Concealability: The Bodyguard’s compact size and light weight make it incredibly easy to conceal, even in minimal clothing.
Simplicity: The DAO trigger system simplifies the operation of the pistol, eliminating the need for an external safety lever.
Affordability: The Bodyguard is typically less expensive than the Glock 42, making it a more budget-friendly option.
Integrated Laser (on some models): The optional integrated laser sight can improve accuracy in low-light conditions.
Ergonomics: The Bodyguard’s rounded frame and textured grip provide a comfortable and secure hold, even for smaller hands.

Comprehensive Review: Glock 42 – A Subcompact Powerhouse

The Glock 42 stands out as a well-engineered and reliable subcompact pistol. Its user-friendly design and consistent performance make it a solid choice for concealed carry.

User Experience & Usability

From the moment you pick up the Glock 42, its ergonomic design is apparent. The grip feels natural in the hand, and the controls are easily accessible. The magazine release is intuitive, and the slide is relatively easy to rack, even for individuals with weaker hand strength. Disassembly for cleaning and maintenance is straightforward, following Glock’s standard procedures.

Performance & Effectiveness

On the range, the Glock 42 performs admirably. The trigger pull is smooth and consistent, allowing for accurate shot placement. The recoil is manageable, even with +P ammunition. In our testing, the Glock 42 proved to be reliable with a variety of ammunition types, with no malfunctions or failures to feed.

Pros:

Excellent Accuracy: The Glock 42’s trigger and ergonomics contribute to exceptional accuracy for a subcompact pistol.
Unwavering Reliability: Glock’s reputation for reliability holds true with the Glock 42.
Easy to Operate: The Glock 42’s simple design and intuitive controls make it easy to learn and use.
Customizable: A wide range of aftermarket accessories are available, allowing users to customize the pistol to their preferences.
Comfortable to Carry: The Glock 42’s slim profile and lightweight construction make it comfortable to carry concealed for extended periods.

Cons/Limitations:

Limited Magazine Capacity: The 6-round magazine capacity may be a concern for some users.
Polymer Sights: The standard polymer sights are adequate but could be improved with aftermarket upgrades.
Price: The Glock 42 is typically more expensive than some other subcompact .380 pistols.

Ideal User Profile

The Glock 42 is best suited for individuals who prioritize accuracy, reliability, and ease of use in a concealed carry pistol. It’s an excellent choice for both experienced shooters and those new to firearms. Its comfortable ergonomics make it a good fit for a wide range of hand sizes.

Key Alternatives

One key alternative to the Glock 42 is the Sig Sauer P238, which offers a similar size and weight but with a single-action trigger and an external safety. Another alternative is the Ruger LCP MAX, which boasts a higher magazine capacity in a slightly smaller package.

Expert Overall Verdict & Recommendation

The Glock 42 is a top-tier subcompact .380 pistol that offers a winning combination of accuracy, reliability, and ease of use. While it may not be the smallest or lightest option on the market, its performance and quality make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a dependable concealed carry firearm. We highly recommend the Glock 42 for individuals who value precision and reliability in a subcompact package.

Concluding Thoughts: Choosing the Right Firearm for Your Needs

Ultimately, the choice between the Glock 42 and the Smith & Wesson Bodyguard .380 depends on your individual needs and preferences. Both pistols offer a viable option for concealed carry, but their distinct characteristics cater to different priorities. The Glock 42 excels in accuracy and reliability, while the Bodyguard prioritizes extreme concealability and affordability. Consider your shooting experience, carry style, and budget when making your decision. We encourage you to visit your local gun range and try both pistols before making a final choice. Remember, the best firearm is the one that you can shoot accurately and comfortably, and that you will carry consistently.