Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard38 w/ct laser SKU12056A handgun

Representative photo of the Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 38 family. The California model may differ in finish and details. Product photo courtesy of Guns.com.

Smith & Wesson

Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard38 w/ct laser SKU12056A

.38 Special Revolver 1.875" barrel ✅ CA DOJ Certified
Caliber .38 Special
Type Revolver
Size Compact Revolver
Barrel 1.875"
Capacity 5
Weight 14.3 oz
Action Double Action Revolver
🛡️ Certified for Sale in California — CA DOJ Handgun Roster
View this model on the official DOJ roster ↗

Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard38 w/ct laser SKU12056A Overview & Reviews

Overview
The Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 38 is a compact, lightweight revolver manufactured by Smith & Wesson, one of America's oldest and most respected firearms makers. Designed as a personal protection firearm, it combines simplicity and reliability in a package suitable for concealed carry or backup defense. This model features an integrated crimson trace laser, enhancing target acquisition in low-light situations.

Key Features

  • Five-round .38 Special cylinder with smooth double-action trigger
  • Built-in Crimson Trace red laser sight for improved accuracy and target awareness
  • Compact aluminum frame and stainless steel cylinder, weighing approximately 14.3 ounces
  • Hammerless design with integral hammer guard for snag-free carry
  • Fixed front and rear sights with laser backup aiming

Pros & Cons

  • ✅ Extremely reliable and simple to operate—no manual safety to forget
  • ✅ Lightweight and compact for comfortable all-day carry
  • ✅ Integrated laser provides aiming advantage, especially in dim lighting
  • ✅ Certified on California DOJ Handgun Roster for legal purchase
  • ❌ Limited five-round capacity compared to semi-automatic alternatives
  • ❌ .38 Special is less powerful than 9mm or larger calibers
  • ❌ Revolver reloading is slower than magazine-fed pistols

Best For: Concealed carry backup weapon, personal protection for first-time revolver shooters, individuals prioritizing simplicity and reliability over capacity, and those seeking a trusted California-legal option.

🏪 Where to Buy the Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard38 w/ct laser SKU12056A in California

You can buy the Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard38 w/ct laser SKU12056A online and have it shipped to a California-licensed FFL dealer, or buy it at a local gun store. Every handgun purchase in California requires a Firearm Safety Certificate, a DROS background check and a 10-day waiting period. Find a California FFL near you →

Online dealers ship to a California FFL. You pick up at your local gun store after the 10-day waiting period.

PURVEYORS OF FREEDOM™CA Compliant · Ships to your FFL · Price MatchShop CA-compliant →
GunBroker — Live Listings
Real-time CA auction & fixed-price listings
→
GrabAGun
Ships to CA FFL · Large inventory
→
Brownells
Ships to CA FFL · Largest selection
→
Palmetto State Armory
Ships to CA FFL · Competitive pricing
→
Sportsman's Warehouse
CA retail locations + online
→

Searching retailers for Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 38. Prices and stock vary; confirm the exact California-compliant model before you buy. Some links are affiliate links that help support this site.

Get an email if this model leaves the roster

We check the DOJ roster daily. If the Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard38 w/ct laser SKU12056A is removed, you'll hear about it the same day.

We'll email you to confirm. One email per roster update, only when something you follow changes. Unsubscribe anytime. Privacy