Ruger LCP Max vs Bodyguard 2.0: Which is the Mightier Pocket Pistol?
If you’re looking for a micro handgun for concealed carry, you’ve no doubt come across both the S&W Bodyguard 2.0 and the Ruger LCP Max – two guns that are competing as some of the best pocket pistols on the market.
Both the Ruger LCP Max and the Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0 are updated and improved versions of their original predecessors: the Ruger LCP and LCP II, and the S&W Bodyguard 380. And although they are incredibly similar, there are some distinct differences between the two weapons that may make one a better choice for you over the other.
When comparing the Ruger LCP Max vs Bodyguard 2.0, right off the bat you see that both are micro-compact .380 handguns with a 10-round capacity. They’re incredibly close in size and weight, though the LCP Max operates with an internal hammer-fired system, while the Bodyguard 2.0 is striker-fired.
With that, let’s jump into the details of what differentiates these tiny but mighty pistols from one another and talk about why they're so popular for concealed carry.
Products Mentioned In This Article
Ruger LCP Max
When the original Ruger LCP was first introduced in 2008, it was nearly an instant hit. In 2016, Ruger released the LCP 2 as an upgraded version of the original, which included a number of improvements. In 2021, Ruger once again redesigned the LCP, coming out with the LCP Max. With a higher capacity, better ergonomics, and the addition of dovetail sights, the LCP Max has continued to be one of the most popular pocket-sized personal protection pistols on the market.
The Ruger LCP Max is a compact, .380 handgun designed with an internal hammer-fired, single action only trigger. It features raised cocking ears, a reversible magazine release, and Ruger’s Secure Action™ fire-control system, which includes a bladed-safety trigger.
With a smooth-edged frame for comfort and reduced visibility, a 10-round capacity, and patented barrel cam geometry that slows down the slide to reduce recoil, the 10.6-ounce LCP Max is the perfect balance of shootable and concealable.
If you’re in need of a new IWB, OWB, or pocket carry Ruger LCP Max holster, take a look at our lineup of Kydex and hybrid holsters and customize one to your gun model.
Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0
The original Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 380 was released to the public in 2014, and quickly became a popular choice for pocket-sized concealed carry. In 2024, the company decided to take the feedback they’d received over the years and recreate the Bodyguard into something almost entirely new: the Bodyguard 2.0.
Switching to a striker-fired trigger system, adding a bit of length to the slide, and creating a more ergonomic grip were just a few of the changes that have made plenty of shooters eye this model as an upgrade to their current CCW.
This 9.8-ounce, .380 pistol features an improved flat-faced trigger, aggressive slide serrations, and an angled grip for a natural point of aim. It also comes with your choice of 10 or 12 rounds and either with or without a manual thumb safety.
If you’re looking for an IWB, OWB, or pocket carry Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0 holster, check out our collection of Kydex and hybrid options.
Ruger LCP Max vs S&W Bodyguard 2.0: Specs
Bodyguard 2.0 vs LCP Max: Size & Capacity
Because the Bodyguard 2.0 and the LCP Max are both micro-compact pocket pistols chambered in 380 Auto, they are incredibly close in size, with the Bodyguard weighing slightly less and measuring a tad wider and longer than the LCP Max.
The Ruger LCP Max weighs 10.6 ounces and measures 4.12 inches tall, 0.81 inches wide, and 5.17 inches long with a barrel length of 2.8 inches. The S&W Bodyguard 2.0, on the other hand, weighs 9.8 ounces and measures 4 inches tall, 0.88 inches wide, and 5.5 inches long with a barrel length of 2.75 inches. Both have a 10-round mag capacity, with the option of carrying up to 12+1 with an extended magazine.
Ruger LCP Max vs Bodyguard 2.0: Frame, Slide, & Barrel
The bodies of these two firearms are incredibly similar in size, with the Ruger’s frame and slide being smoother and more rounded out than the Bodyguard’s.
The Ruger LCP Max’s frame comes in over 15 different colors and designs as well, which could be a draw for anyone looking for something beyond basic black. It has a black, glass-filled nylon textured grip for easy handling and the option of using an included finger grip extension floorplate for those with larger hands.
The Bodyguard 2.0 also has a textured grip made with black polymer set at an 18-degree angle for a more natural, and effective point of aim. It also has a slightly longer grip than the Ruger, making it easier to get hold of without the need for an extension.
Both weapons have a steel slide with front and rear slide serrations for easy manipulation, and steel barrels finished with a protective coating.
Bodyguard 2.0 vs LCP Max: Sights & Optics
Although neither pistol is available optics-ready, both come standard with highly-functional U-notch sights.
The Bodyguard 2.0 is built with a bright dot Tritium front sight and a rapid acquisition, black U-notch rear sight for faster alignment and more accurate target hits. Similarly, the Ruger is also designed with a white-outlined Tritium front sight and an adjustable rear U-notch dovetail drift sight.
Ruger LCP Max vs S&W Bodyguard 2.0: Controls
Trigger
One of the biggest differences between the S&W Bodyguard 2.0 and the Ruger LCP Max is their trigger systems.
The LCP Max is working with an internal hammer-fired, single action only trigger with Ruger’s Secure Action™ fire-control bladed-safety trigger system built-in for added safety. This model’s trigger is known for being nice and short with a smooth pull, clean break, and positive reset.
Alternatively, the Bodyguard 2.0 has a striker-fired trigger system. Its trigger is flat-faced and has a clean take-up, crisp break, and short reset which can help improve a shooter’s accuracy.
Safety
The S&W Bodyguard 2.0 is available either with or without a manual thumb safety, depending on your preference. Either way, it is also built with a trigger safety feature.
The LCP Max, on the other hand, does not come with a manual thumb safety though it does feature the manufacturer’s Secure Action™ fire-control system, which is a combination of a protected internal hammer and a bladed-safety trigger.
FAQ
Does the Ruger LCP Max Have a Lot of Recoil?
Although all micro-compact handguns are bound to have their share of felt recoil, the Ruger LCP Max is specifically designed with patented barrel cam geometry, which delays unlocking and slows down the slide to reduce the amount of kickback you feel compared to other similar .380 Auto pistols.
What is the Best Carry Style for an LCP Max or Bodyguard 2.0?
Because of the small, micro-compact frames of these guns, they are an excellent choice for either pocket carry or inside the waistband carry. The best holsters for a .380 Auto pistol include the Vedder Holsters Pocket Locker® and the LightTuck®, which is our most popular and versatile holster featuring adjustable retention, three levels of adjustable ride height, and adjustable cant up to 30 degrees each way.
Is a 380 Auto Good for Concealed Carry?
The question of whether .380 Auto is an adequate caliber for self-defense is a widely debated topic in the gun community. While the small size of these firearms make them incredibly convenient for concealed carry, critics argue the caliber doesn’t pack enough punch to make it suitable for self-defense.
And while it’s true that .380 rounds don’t have the same penetration and stopping power as say, a 9mm round, it can still get the job done in most scenarios, and is often considered the “minimum” caliber for a CCW. At the end of the day, only you can decide if you’re comfortable carrying a .380 for personal protection. There are plenty of people who choose this caliber pistol as a backup weapon as well!
You can read more about how the different calibers stack up for concealed carry in our article, “ What is the Best Concealed Carry Caliber?”.
Which is Right For Me?
When comparing the Ruger LCP Max vs Bodyguard 2.0, it’s hard to say that one is definitively better than the other. Both are micro-compact, .380 pistols with a 10- or 12-round capacity, and similar sights. With a comparable size and weight, the right choice for you will likely come down to whether you want a manual thumb safety or not, and whether you’re looking for a striker-fired handgun like the Bodyguard 2.0, or one with an internal hammer-fired system like the LCP Max. Beyond that, it comes down to which one feels better in your hand.
If you’re looking for a new IWB, OWB, or pocket carry holster, head to our Holsters by Gun Model page for Kydex holsters that are custom-made for your weapon of choice.
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