Detail Strip Guide: S&W Bodyguard .38 Revolver

A few years back, Smith and Wesson brought out a new pocket pistol line that challenged all sorts of conventions including how much MIM and plastic can fit into a revolver, whether or not users really do want lasers on everything, and sensible ways to name models of firearm.  The Bodyguard .38, not to be confused with the nearly identically named Bodyguard 380, is the Crimson Trace equipped revolver using a plastic grip frame vaguely reminiscent of the Ruger LCP.

A customer brought one in recently asking about tuning the trigger up, a common job on J-frame S&W guns made simple by available spring kits from Wolff and Apex Tactical Specialties.  Unfortunately because the gun isn't anything like the venerable J-frame, kits made for classic snubbies don't work here.  It's a clever design in a lot of ways, but largely incompatible with drop in mods for other S&W guns.

On top of that, no parts diagrams or guides seem to exist for the BG38.  Smith and Wesson maintains that there are "no user serviceable parts" and the gun should not be taken apart.  CHALLENGE ACCEPTED.  Let's get to it!

Lasers, definitely more dangerous than bullets judging by the warnings.