If you’ve been around the gun community long enough, you’ve likely heard about the battle waging between 9mm and .45 ACP, or maybe the one between .40 S&W and .45 ACP…
Some people love to rant about the 9mm, while others prefer to take the classic .45 ACP head-on.
Either way, these calibers tend to get the most attention among keyboard warriors…but what about 9mms little sister, .380 ACP?
Both 9mm and .380 both have the same diameter bullet, so what sets these two apart, and when it comes to self-defense which is better?
Well, we’re here to offer a little perspective and some data to help you out. We’ll walk through the similarities and differences between 9mm and .380 ACP, then help you figure out which one is right for your defense setup.
So, keep reading!
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A Little Bit on the .380
The .380 is an American-made cartridge created in 1908 by John Moses Browning.
It’s also referred to as the 9mm Browning, the 9x17mm, and the 9mm short, all due to the fact that it has the same diameter as the 9x19mm Parabellum.
But for easiness’ sake, let’s just stick with calling it .380 ACP.
The .380 was designed as a low-recoil round that would be easy to manage but strong enough to neutralize oncoming threats.
Unfortunately, the .380 never lived up to its true potential as a service round and was overshadowed by the performance of the 9mm.
Still, it did see action among some police forces and was the caliber used by the MAC-11 submachine gun.
Even though the .380 never lived up to the expectations that Browning may have hoped for, it did become a popular round for backup pistols due to its relatively small size.
And thanks to the gun’s low recoil, it’s been marketed as a great self-defense cartridge for inexperienced shooters.
.380 ACP Ammo in Stock
Comparing the .380 to the 9mm
With the exception of the train-stopping .45 ACP, which has a long history of success in the field, most other cartridges in production have a hard time squaring off with the 9mm – and for good reason.
The 9mm gives you the best of all worlds — magazine capacity, control, and power. It’s not hard to see why it’s a favorite of law enforcement worldwide, and also one of the most popular calibers time and time again.
While the .380 might just look like the 9mm’s shorter cousin, in actuality, these two rounds function quite differently.
Keeping that in mind, it’s kinda unfair to place the .380 up against the 9mm. (Yes, we know did that with the title, but hear us out…)
Instead, a better question is “which caliber is better for you?”
9mm Ammo in Stock
Which Is More Powerful?
When looking at power, the 9mm unanimously beats the .380 every time.
It’s a heavier cartridge that produces significantly more energy (including recoil energy).
If power is your primary focus and you’re thinking of going with a .380, you’re barking up the wrong tree.
It’s been (unfairly) stereotyped as an underpowered cartridge for almost as long as it’s been around, but ballistic tests place the 9mm lightyears beyond the .380 with regards to power.
And while it’s no match for the 9mm, shooting the right ammo can transform your .380 into a formidable concealed-carry pistol.
So, Why Choose .380 over 9mm?
Well, if power is your primary decision, you wouldn’t. But power isn’t what the .380 is made for.
In some ways, the low power of the .380 ACP is actually one of its strengths, depending on how you look at it.
The average .380 gun is designed as an ultra-lightweight, subcompact handgun.
This makes them great for use as a primary or backup concealed carry weapon.
And since the .380 cartridge doesn’t produce much recoil energy, you’re able to exercise more control over your lightweight handgun than you would with a round like the 9mm.
So, what you end up getting with the .380 is a lightweight gun that’s not much different in size from pocket pistols like the .22 LR, .25 ACP, and the .32 S&W, but far more powerful.
What about Shootability?
Generally speaking, one of the biggest advantages to the 9mm is that it’s an easy-to-handle cartridge — at least when compared to the bigger calibers out there.
Here’s a 9mm Glock 19:
Indeed, the 9mm does have a lot to offer in terms of power and control, making it one of the most well-rounded handgun cartridges, in my opinion.
However, when we’re looking at shootability between the 9mm and the .380, the 9mm loses this round.
If you’re looking for a powerful caliber that’s easy to handle, the .380 delivers in every way.
Here’s a Bersa Firestorm .380:
It may not have the same expansion or penetration as the 9mm, but it does have lower recoil.
In fact, if you shoot a 9mm handgun and a .380 handgun that weigh the same, the .380 will experience 94% less recoil than the 9mm.
Admittedly, that low recoil won’t do you much good against someone on the other side of the parking lot. But it makes a difference if you’re stopping an armed assailant from entering your bedroom — especially if you’re an inexperienced shooter.
Which Is Best for Concealed Carry?
Again, that depends on the needs and expectations you have of your pistol.
Remember, the 9mm is the superior caliber for military and police because it’s powerful, easy to control, and has a maximum effective range of 50 meters (almost 55 yards).
It also has a maximum range of 1,800 meters, but good luck at hitting a target that far away unless you’re shooting legend, Jerry Miculek.
Needless to say, the .380 doesn’t outdo the 9mm on any of those strengths, with the exception of being easier to control.
But stopping threats 50-yards away isn’t what the .380 is designed for.
It’s a mouse gun that’s meant as a last resort to neutralize threats at close range.
For this reason, it’s become a popular backpack/purse pistol for some shooters and a backup pistol for law enforcement.
The Verdict
I mean, can you really go wrong with a 9mm?
Personally, I think the 9mm offers an all-around great round useful in almost every type of scenario. On the other hand, the .380 is limited to close-range protection.
Also, for doomsday preppers, the 9mm clearly wins. You’ll likely come across more 9mm ammo than any other cartridge.
But if you’ve already got a 9mm and want a lightweight, easy-to-carry pistol…the .380 makes a fine addition to your collection.
Remember, the .380 isn’t an ineffective round by stretch of the imagination. It just doesn’t outperform the 9mm in any way except for weight and size.
And since subcompact 9mms are a thing, there aren’t too many reasons to opt for a .380 as your primary.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, part of buying a gun is finding the right fit for you.
Now that you’ve learned a little bit about the 9mm and the .380, hit the range and give both calibers a test to see which one you like best.
Did we get it right or is one clearly better than the other? Leave us your thoughts below. Looking for that perfect mouse gun for your collection? Take a look at the Best .380 Pistols.
148 Leave a Reply
Yeah I have friends who sneer at "only" having a 380. I ignore them. For me a gun is all about home defense, and they seem to ignore that it matters much more that I hit what I'm aiming at vs how much damage I do. And believe me, you hit someone with a 380 at close range, that's no love tap; it will stop them. And thanks to much less recoil, I feel I have a much better chance with that than a 9mm, esp if I'm shooting with one hand. It's not like I can go "wait a minute Mr Criminal, give me a sec to assume the proper grip and stance..."
When I made the decision to start carrying again, I also decided to start practacing again. (I am over 80 years old, and I have not done any real shooting for 15 years or so.} So i got ahold of some old friends, and went out to the local range, with about a dozen pistols, from .22s through .45s. If I am going to carry, I want to be able to hit what I aim at. So, lots of practice. My son carries a beautiful S & W .45, but I soon discovered that I could not fire more than one clip thru it wthout a lot o pain in my wrists. Samer thing with amost everything else. Eveh the 9mm could only last 3 clips, without hurting.
Then, I tried a friend's wife's Bersa 380. I put a half-box thru it! No pain! The next day I bought 2 boxs. I finally got so I could hit what L aimed at, and still no pain. So, I now carry a Bersa 380, and practice regularly..
What a fantastic article! I have a S&W .45 ACP and am Apex 9mm. To all did a great job explaining the differences, magazine capacity, velocity and penatration. The 9mm target rounds don't break the bank. However, I'm now thinking about the .380 for the range only and the 9mm as my CC. The .45 is now my home defense. Thanks again for a clear description.
In making the decision for my wife's carry gun, she found the 380 easier to rack so it was the clear choice.
Everyone says the .380 caliber is smaller than the 9 mil. It's not. The 9 mil is literally a smaller diameter. 9 millimeters is 0.354 inch diameter round. .380 is 0.380 inch diameter round. 9 millimeter ÷ 25.4 millimeter/inch = .354 inches making the 9 millimeter round (if it's truly 9 millimeter) 0.034" smaller in diameter. If the .380 is not as powerful, it's because powder load/bullet weight ratio is smaller by comparison, not the diameter of the bullet.
For posterity’s sake, this is incorrect. 380 ACP and 9 mm Luger/Parabellum are both .355, and the projectiles can even be interchanged when reloading, obviously allowing for weight differences. The 9mm is indeed a much hotter load owing to the larger case and pressure as we all know, but the bore diameter is identical.
Bruh .380 is not actually .380. Pleaseeee people quit making claims when you have no idea what you’re talking about. They are both officially listed as being 9mm/0.355, but to my eyes the .380 diameter looks a. Tiny bit smaller.
I do allot of sport in the outdoors, cycling and running. My EDC is a Glock 19, my sports companion is a Glock 42 with Hornaday Crtical Defense, mag guts in each of two mags, one in the Glock 42 and a spare, giving me 15 rounds. It’s enough power and ammo for a sports outing I believe. Back home the Glock 19 comes out.
There could be 3 apartments within a 50 yard distance. Do to over penetration, I could probably inadvertently injure a neighbor or friend. I just want the perpetrator out of my personal space or home. A .380 is sounding much better to me. Yes, I might have to hit him with about 5 rounds but with the less recoil, this shouldn’t be a problem to stay on target.
Just curious, what’s the average distance from within your bedroom to your hallway or even the average distance of someone’s hallway? I keep hearing 50 yards/55 feet, I live in DC, an urban area. Which means at 50 yards you are not even a threat to me or my family at that distance. A .380 is perfect for my personal space.
After all is said and done; this is all about accommodating a smaller, inexperienced shooter. The 9mm is (much) more powerful than the .380 cal. The 9mm, is still an anemic round, when compared with the .357 magnum, the .45 cal., and the .40S&W. Say what you want, any data, etc., but the bare-bones facts are that a larger, more powerful round is going to stop a threatening, violent man in his tracks, faster than a smaller, less powerful round. (Go big, or stay on the porch). The 10mm round was developed in answer to the anemic 9mm and .38+P rounds used in the tragic 1986 FBI Shootout, in which 2 agents were kia, among 5 others wounded, (7 total), when the involved agents chose 9mm and .38+p rounds. The 10mm round; due to it's "recoil problems" with smaller, and female FBI Agents, was 'cut down' to the popular .40 S&W round. The .40cal Round was ultimately pushed out, (again), due to "recoil problems" with smaller and female FBI Agents. The 'new & improved' 9mm round was then ushered in, in a campaign by the FBI in an attempt to accommodate these smaller agents. Now, you have a general public who "wants their cake, .. and to eat it too". You can't have it both ways. To attempt to "be comfortable, and to be safe", in a lethal situation, is flawed logic. Tragically, NOT Reality. The underpowered .380, and 9mm, while both lethal, are being, have been foisted upon the general public. In an attempt to please the smaller, weaker agents, the FBI Bureaucrats have inadvertently led the FBI, and the general public, down a slippery slope of unbelievably ridiculous bureaucratic bungling. The FBI Agents, mostly Accountants and Lawyers need to 'man-up'. Realize that the more you "sweat and are uncomfortable in training; the less you will bleed in combat". It's past time to correct this Tom-foolery, and get back to basics and common sense. The rest can follow suit.
The best daily carry is the one you will carry. Numbers and cartridge performance do not mean anything if the firearm is not with you. I'll take a .380 over a 22LR or 25. The Ruger LCR Max should be considered. I got mine on sale at Academy for $279. Less my military discount I'm out at $250+/-. I ordered (2) 12-round magazines for $40 bucks.
Carry something besides your permit!!!
Excellent job...
I have 2 9's, SIG P365 and Ruger P95. As awesome as these are, seriously considering a little Walther 380.
I chose the .380 for my wife because although it loses the power battle to the 9mm that's outweighed by the confidence she has with it. The reduced recoil "relaxed" her and she's much more proficient with the .380 than she was with the 9mm. Great article!
You got it exceptionally right…especially the parts about what the persons needs are and what suits their situation! Great job!
Hi! You got it right. The 9mm bullet has a more gunpowder capacity than the .380 bullet. Therefore, the 9mm bullet is longer than the .380's. The .380 caliber handgun is much shorter than the 9 mm, consequently, the 9 mm range is longer as well. There is a beautiful .380 handgun made by Browning, which I believe is one of the best .380 handguns on the market.
Great article thanks well done. For those of you that do not own a 380. Or have never bought ammo for one. The technology in ammo is crazy now days. And they have some defense ammo now days for the 380 that would change ones mind. And on the streets, in news reports the 380 gets its fair share 67 yr old vet from northern Utah have a great year ahead
50 meters is exactly 55 yards. Otherwise informative article.
50m = 54.6807 yards
Learn something new every day! Thanks for the correction.
Shot placement class.
"If you’re looking for a powerful caliber that’s easy to handle, the .380 delivers in every way."
We all know the .380 isn't a "powerful" caliber.
Not till u get shot with it
I didn’t say it doesn’t hurt, just that it isn’t powerful.
Just a point of interest, John Dillenger was taken down by a .380.
Nope. Dillinger was killed with a Colt Model 1903 Pocket Hammerless (.32 ACP)
correction. The Colt apparently was the gun Dillinger was carrying at the time.
"The .38 caliber revolver belonged to Capt. Timothy O'Neil of the East Chicago, Ind., police department. He and colleague Sgt. Martin Zarkovich fired two of the five shots credited with killing Dillinger outside the Biograph Theater in Chicago"
credit: Chicago Tribune.
Harville leaves out one important point…. Reloadability. I reload my 380 Browning with 68 grain Leigh copper hydro shock bullets at 1100 fps. When they hit gallon jugs full of water, the jug explodes. Same with the 9mm version. Anybody getting hit by one of those things is going to be a world of hurt.
Exactly. It's "powerful" enough to do the job. For self defense, it's a great caliber weapon. Yes, the 9mm has more energy, but a 380 will stop a perp just the same and typically u can get more shots off quicker with high accuracy
My brother had the best answer to all the flak about size, caliber, etc.: "It ain't the gun, it's the gunner". Whatever firearm you use, make the decision to be the safest person with that weapon. Practice, train, treat your weapon with respect and, also, respect the opinions and rights of others. There's a reason we have so many options to choose from; we're not robots, we're people. Thanks. Be safe, stay safe.
You chose the right tool for the job. A small .380 for personal protection of self and loved ones where discretion is needed. It is definitely not for engaging A mall shooter or anybody 30 feet or more away. Read that most defence shootings are 10feet or less (in your face situations) and that less than 50% of the shots fired hit the target. That means completely different training for those types of situations.
Good article! The 380 has its place. The 380 is a good round for what it was designed for.
Wife loves her 380EZ. I liked so well, I bought one for myself.
I carry a 40SW most of the time. But I also carry the 380 at other times.
380 will do the job. If I remember correctly WWI was started my a 380.
FN .32 caliber
We who carry understand the three factors that control the damage caused that can stop and attacker: (1) the size or diameter of the hole, (2) the depth of the hole, and (3) the tissues that are destroyed or damaged by the hole made by them. Compared to rifles, handguns are typically underpowered by handguns are more portable to carry concealed wherever we go. There are many issues involved in our decisions about where to carry, when to carry, what to carry, and how to carry. We all have to focus on the three disciplines of mindset, gun handling, and marksmanship and what makes us skilled in all three. We all have to make choices about effectiveness, number of rounds our handgun will carry, the cost of those rounds, and whether we will be able train enough with the ammunition which use for carrying. One choice does not fit all. I carry what works well for me and I respect that my choices may not work for everyone because their criteria differ from mine. (Critical thinking does not mean there is only one choice because there are multiple sets of criteria that are reasonable.) And by the way, I would be grateful for backup from any reasonable, law abiding person who saved my neck regardless of what they they carry. I hope none of us ever has to face defending against an attack.
Two points of interest regarding the .380. 1) As mentioned the lower recoil is not only for inexperienced shooters but for smaller women. My wife will not shoot my G22 because of recoil. She also has some arthritis and racking the slide on a 9mm is still hard for her. The S&W .380 ez fits both needs. She is a deadeye with it. 2) I've yet to meet a single person who would volunteer to be shot with a .380 (or anything smaller for that matter).
Hi Wes, my wife and your wife have these issues in common and she carries the same handgun. As an instructor, I am well aware of how to teach people to rack a slide but technique is not always enough even though instruction can help many shooters. Winchester PCDW-1 hollowpoints and Federal HST hollowpoints are some of the best to shoot in a 380 and they shoot well in the S&W .380 my wife has. Also, this pistol was designed by S&W as a carry handgun for exactly the reasons you stated.
Try the Underwood 90gr 380 with the Extreme Penetrator LeHigh Defense bullet. It's a 380 on steroids - acts like a 9mm almost and they're barrier blind. They also make a +P version. Be aware of your target backdrop though, as they can over-penetrate. Ammo Quest tests it per FBI specs here on youtube under this title: Ammo Quest .380 ACP: Lehigh XP Xtreme Penetrator test in ballistic gel .
I agree as a woman with super small hands I struggle to reach the trigger on my husbands 9mm and successfully hit what I’m aiming for. And IF I am successful one round maybe two is max for me with the recoil.
I would highly recommend the .380 ez then. S&W made a great design. I helped an elderly neighbor chose a gun a year ago. We let him shot several revolvers and a couple of different autos. With his age and limits with his hands, the EZ was what he chose as well.
They are great I'm a old vet got 2 of my daughter inlaws one easy to use for alot of folks
This ammo should have been included in your article in some form., “ Federal has introduced a .380 ACP load to its Hydra-Shok Deep lineup, the first cartridge for the chambering to consistently meet FBI protocol recommendations.”.
In deep concealment gun I believe the better comparison would have been .380 vs. 38spcl snubby. My last duty weapon was a Glock 22 gen4 and yes in a full size gun I prefer the 40 S&W over the 9mm. However in a compact weapon like EDC it's a Glock 26 gen5. I currently have a deep concealment 380 in the form of what I've experienced is the only good Taurus I've owned it's the TCP 738. I can hit a steel torso at 25 yards all day long with 100% reliability with various defensive ammo. I would still like to get a Glock 42, but they're as hard to find as a politician a day after they're elected.
At least with the snubby, you can play around with bullet weight and charge more than loading a .380 auto.
Hi John. Tom Givens notes in his book "Concealed Carry Class: The ABCs of Self-Defense Tools and Tactics" that some recent develops in ammunition have raised the 38 spl off its knees. He says - among the best are the all lead semi wadcutter hollow point rounds by Winchester or Federal. He also mentions the Barnes bullet as loaded by CorBon in its DPX line in the 3 inch barrel or longer. He notes that all penetrate adequately and tend to expand, or deform , creating larger wound channels.
You did not get it right. Compare the Sig 365 or XD-Hellcat to those .380 pistols. If you want to be taken seriously, try harder.
Ok, I'm an old Artilleryman and thinks its best to engage bad guys as far away as possible. 20-30 kilometers works for me. When it comes to small arms I maintain that philosophy. When bad guys with AR-15's are afoot, I want to have 7.62 NATO bullet launcher to stop them before they can reach me. The same goes for a handgun. 50 meters is better than knife throwing distance, which is about the best you can do with a 380. I don't want a gun that only really shoots from one end of a bedroom to the other. That doesn't work so well outdoors where 50 meters is much better. The discomfort of recoil doesn't even enter in my consideration when choosing an effective caliber. All I want is to survive... and engaging the attacker at 50 meters assures that much better than at "bedroom" or "knife" range. A gun I can only use in my bedroom isn't worthless... but its close.
Certain climates and how people are dressed makes your choices useless. There was times I had to carry a mouse gun, yes I prayed I didn't have to use it. Because if I carried what would have been viewed as a "cops gun" my cover would have been blown. However like you I prefer bigger calibers when I can and yes in a full size gun I prefer 40 over 9mm. Now that I'm retired I don't have to worry about some else's choice of a duty weapon.
Bob- If you're shooting an attacker at 50 meters you better have a really good lawyer.
After Russia and China play their opening gambits in Ukraine and Taiwan, no telling what might happen. Better safe than sorry.
If that's the case, an SKS will work MUCH better... :-)
Excellent comment!
Engaging the attacker at 50 meters assures that you will be going to jail. 50 meters is not defensive. It is offensive. With 50 meters between you and the "attacker", you are not being attacked. You are free to flee. Shoot and kill at that distance and you are a murderer.
We’re not talking about long range here. For a CC weapon used for self defense you’re talking most encounters happening at 10 yards or so. If you’re shooting someone at 50 yards there’s a potential liability issue (which nobody seems to want to talk about). I agree with you on assailants with a 5.56 or some other semi-auto rifle but, quite frankly, I don’t carry my AR-10 with me when I go and run errands. Unless you do (which I doubt), it would be a good idea to have a concealable weapon you can access quickly and safely. I’m a former Marine Corps military policeman and MSG with plenty of training. I have an AR-10 among my collection but with proper ammo my P365 in .380 with top-notch defense ammo will do a fantastic job I’m sure. I also don’t have to worry about liability with over-penetration. You don’t have that same luxury with a 7.62 launcher. Every platform and caliber has it’s use, and with modern ammo, the .380 is a great self-defense round that does the job.
If you have weak hands from arthritis, disability or in my wife's case just weak hands this is a good round especially in the Walther CCP M2. She doesn't enjoy the noise of a nine or recoil but is willing to practice with a 380. She doesn't like to shoot but is willing to do what it takes to be proficient because of this round.
I worked for a Police department back when revolvers was the service gun. A 357 or a 38 was the Norm, them there it was,. A .40 caliber service gun Smith and Wesson' that didn't work well with many officers. Serca the year 2000 we went to the 9 mm. And that caliber still in use today. I'm retired now and I have a wonderful collection of fire arms on assorted calibers. I'll always thought that the 380acp was a perfect fit for ladies. But with the Hot weather that dominate the State of Florida, the 380acp in a Ruger gem 2 is the best thing ever. I'll know if I ever need to use it I'll be well prepared.
The 9mm has received a lot of attention in
recent years with new bullets. +P and +P+ loadings have made it pretty “zesty” especially in small hand guns. Certainly the 9 is more powerful but the .380 is adequate
at short distances and you might have
some legal issues shooting an attacker at
50+ yards. Hitting a balloon at 1,000 yards
with a pistol is wow, not sure I could do that
with my rifle. Bottom line…there’s no substitute for a well placed shot which might
be easier with less “Zest.”
I'm shopping around for a concealed carry weapon and I can't see any reason to go with the .380 when you will end up paying more for less powerful ammo. Am I mistaken or am I right on this?
.380 is always more expensive than 9.
9 is more widely available during ammo shortages, cheaper, and more powerful. Unless the gun you REALLY like is only chambered one .380, I see no reason to pick .380 when you could have a 9
Seen this kind of BS before with little to no facts....
Watch "The Best Handgun Caliber - A Real World Study" a fact based study based on actual shootings. on youtube.
The Kahr pm9 is about the same size as the 380
I like the writer of this article think 380 has its place next may be right for you.
I carried a 380 AMT backup for many years, it did its job. I sold it after I saw my Kahr CM9 was not much larger, and carried the same 6 rounds, (my AMT was modified to get the 6th round in, and reliable) but the Kahr can also use a 7 or 8 round mag.
I got out of the 380 business for me, After parting with a Walther PK380, a very sweet shooter.
I recently also got out of the 45 game. I carry a Beretta 92X, Taurus G3C, and. Glock 43 & 43X.
I just use the 9mm and the 22 now. As I get older, I am loving these nice 22’s.
As a Private Investigator I carried a Colt .45 combat commander for 41 years and took out the black on the shooting range at 35 yards. During the 41 years, I'm very sorry to say that I had to use it to save 7 lives, and none of them were more than 20 yards from me. For backup, I carried a Colt .380 and had to use it 3 times for the same reason, they were within 15 yards and it only took one shot each. I believe if during during the 41 years I only carried the .380 I would have had the same results with all 10. Sure, the .380 is small, and it has less punch than the bigger guns, but all it takes to use it as good as I did is practice, and a lot of it.
Listen to Steven L Jones, he's right about the 380. If you doubt its power, just go to youtube and search "380 windshield" and watch the two videos at top of search results.
I bought a 9mm Walther PPS and that little 19.4oz pig drove me crazy next to my appendix. I switched to a 13.76oz G42 .380 and have never looked back. Reducing the weight by almost *half a pound of metal* made all the difference in the world. My 380 is so comfy I almost forget it's there.
I have a Glock 25 which I swap the upper and magazine to convert it to 9mm, so I can shoot .380 ACP and 9mm with exactly the same gun and I do not think the .380 ACP has 94% less recoil than the 9mm, maybe 20% or 25% but no more.
Thank you! Started the article thinking I needed a 9mm, finished the article happy with my 380!
Same here. 380 Sig with Hollow points I think works for me under my shirt tail . Would never want to get in a shoot out with any pistol.
Thanks for the in depth article comparing 9 mm to 380. I own both and while I love my Sig Sauer P365, I find it a bit heavy with the 12+1 round extended
magazine for concealed carry. I prefer my Ruger LCP 2 in a sticky holster inside my belt at appendix position. When light weight 9 mm ammo finally becomes available again I may more comfortable carrying my 9.
Thanks again for the article.
I'm 4'10" and 113lbs. I've shot a glock 9mm and other calibers and I chose the 380 for myself. The larger pistol is impossible for me to carry concealed, and the kick throws me off balance. It wouldn't be safe (or accurate) for me to use for self defense, but I can easily get off all six round in my LCP in a few seconds. Even if that dozen take down an attacker completely, six HPs is going to slow him down enough that I can run away faster than he can catch me. You'll never convince me that a 45 is better for concealed carry protection than my 380.
And you believe you'll hit with all 6 shots? At best, 1/3 (real world high-stress situation statistics for police) will hit. So you've got 2 rounds of 380 ACP you're counting on ending the threat. Better hope you get those shots right and they penetrate and expand enough...
You forgot one other stat regarding police hitting what they "aim" at and that is the fact that most cops spend the *minimum required time* at the range.
Totally agree, I can't comfortably conceal a 9mm, but 380 works for me. The gun I will carry is better than the gun at home in its safe.
I am 64 been shooting since a small child , so I have most pistol calibers and to me the 380 is a good concealed carry option , it’s accurate and light and has enough impact for close quarters combat . Lets face it if you shoot someone over 30 feet Away , you are probably going to jail because you have other options In most cases and are expected to exercise them . Don’t get me wrong I like a 44 mag ! But hey
I live in maryland. I had to take a course and it included Shooting a handgun. I had the choice of 9mm or 22. I chose the 9mm. I was given a Glock 17. This was the first time I have shot a handgun. The Glock felt much bigger than expected and I didn't feel as confident shooting it. I bought the M&P 380ez. I really enjoy the 380ez. It is for home defence because getting a CC in Maryland is tough to say the least.
I didn't know about that gun. I like the grip safety. I always felt that should have been more popular especially considering how revered the 1911 is and it has one.
The 1911 had a safety because its original design was intended to be carried cocked & locked, hammer cocked back ready to fire & the safety on. That way as you draw the 1911 out of your holster you click off the safety and are ready to fire as soon as you get the gun in position. In the military this is called Condition 1. In addition to the safety switch on the 1911 you also have the grip safety so that there is no way the hammer is going to accidently go down and fire a round while holstered.
If I am not carrying a 1911 my safety is not on because no other gun has a grip safety, therefore my hammer is not cocked back.. And if I am carrying a 1911 w/o a grip safety then my safety is still off because my hammer is up.. When I need to draw, instead of flipping the safety off I Cock the hammer back. That way I am still ready to fire once I have my pistol in position..
I hope that answers your question about safety's.
Ps... I wish more pistols had help safety's also. I really like them and feel they are a great feature and it makes me feel more comfortable carrying my pistol with it inn my gun !!!
Ugh, I hate auto correct. My PS should read: I like Grip safety's...I wish more pistols had them !!!
I have both and respect them both. Folks need to remember that the Black Powder 38s didn’t achieve the velocity of the 380. They killed thousands of men in Civil War and out west. Knew a gunsmith that’s had a 32 discharged in his gut. He went down for the count. Just saying.
I inherited a little vest pocket gun - Walther Model 5. Has a wonderful feel in the hand despite being tiny. Love the quality of it and that it is so thin. It is only a .25, though. And it isn't too reliable. All the "small" guns now are chunky looking. Blocky. And I think the reason is that they are pretty much all .380 and up. Maybe a .32 would be a happy medium.
I used to have a .32 auto Derringer. I thought it was too underpowered tho, so I sold it and bought another Derringer in .38 Special. It was too big and I hated it, so I sold that one and now I have no Derringer's. Guess I need to find another .32 Auto. I used to carry it a lot !!!
Regarding concealability of the .380 pistol, versus the 9mm., the Sig 365 and others have pretty much leveled that playing field. There really is not much difference anymore in the size of the pistols themselves. Of course, the .380 cartridge weighs a little less than the 9mm. Cartridge. The way I see it, as an instructor, the only use the .380 has in the Personal Protection world, is its use by someone who cannot effectively and accurately fire anything more powerful, or, if that is the only thing you gave to protect yourself at the time. Nowadays, Recoil in the 9 mm. Pistol has become more manageable by the availability of the ported models. Smith&Wesson, Glock, and Sig Sauer are just a few of the companies producing ported pistols. Try one of these pistols, you will see the difference.
Seriously ??? As an instructor I think your comment is very short sighted.. Many new shooters and those that are just not comfortable with recoil would prefer the .380 and people like you and comments like yours pressure them into getting a 9 mm pistol when they in fact should not. My sister has trouble with her hands and the .380 is a much better choice for her as a 9 mm in the same size and weight pistol would over power her..
In fact, from your comment, one would have to doubt you are an instructor at all anyway, as an instructor would know that there are not pocket sized 9 mm pistols that are ported. If some company does indeed make a ported pocket gun, I certainly do not know anyone who would spend the extra money on it, as it would be a waste.. Why would you need a ported pocket gun ? There barrel isn't long enough to need porting !!!!!
Your experience as an instructor is very different than mine is. Most people who shoot the 9 and the 380 extensively will gravitate toward the 9. The 380 pistols (especially the light and dainty ones like the Ruger LC models) have a fair amount of bite and recoil harder than most of the 9s I see shot. I can't count how many times I've had a woman tell me her husband/significant other got her a little 380 that she didn't like (and subsequently won't practice with, or will flinch in anticipated recoil). Add the typically higher round count of a 9mm and the vastly superior bullets (the only 380 I'd even consider for defense is one with ARX-type bullets), and there's really not much of a contest unless the person just has to have it as small and concealable as possible (why not just go with a .38 snubby then?).
You left out an important variable- chamber pressure. Higher PSI means more force acting against the bullet to accelerate it out of the gun. Different powders have different energy concentrations, so 11% less space does not just mean 11% less power. .380 is loaded to 21psi, 9mm loaded to 31-35kpsi. so 11% less space, and within that space, a third less pressure...
there is an argument that all pistol rounds are so low powered compared to rifle rounds that the difference between them in not meaningful, at least when considering stopping power. The argument is that other than a CNS hit, no pistol round can insure stopping an assault and the effect on the assailant depends a lot on his psychological reaction to being shot.
Of my two EDCs, one is a .380 and the other is a 9mm. Make that a PPK/S and a P365. I have long been well aware of their considerable differences, relative advantages and relative disadvantages. For my purposes, they're both great carry pistols: reliable and comfortable. One's a beauty, the other's a beast. Which one I walk out the door with just depends on my mood, or on nothing in particular.
Las razones de cual de los dos calibres se deben usar, están acordes a los objetivos a cubrir. 1) EL cartucho .380 es mucho más adecuado para ser usado para defensa en la ciudad. El Cal. 9mm Para es demasiado penetrante y su energía es temible hasta las 500 ydas, 2) El Calibre .380 permite su uso en armas mucho más pequeñas en donde "sacar primero, tirar y pegar" resulta más importante, porque la distancia siempre es inferior a las 25 yardas. 3) En todos los casos usar proyectil encamisado, solido con punta "loffell" achatada.
My wife has had carpal tunnel surgery and as a result weak wrists. My primary draw to a 380, and something not mentioned in the article is the ease of racking the slide. Less recoil also translates to a softer spring
I carry a 380 every day everywhere I go, the reason? Comfort, size and weight. I take it everywhere. Now for home defense, I have other options, AR15, full size 9mm, 12 gauge with #4 buckshot. My carry gun is small and it is only for self defense, not war.
If I am going to war I want the saw and 2 guys to carry ammo for me.
I picture the ultimate being Jesse Ventura wielding the Minigun in Predator..
The one point I will make is that .380 is same diameter as 9mm with 17mm versus 19mm casing length. That is 11% shorter which means only 11% less powder => 11% less energy / stopping power. This is not such a big reduction in firepower, especially considering the reduction in recoil, as is so often implied.
Hello! While .380 ACP is x17mm Vs. 9mm Luger's x19mm, it is not 11% less powder or 11% less energy. Case length does not equate to either of those measurements. The other side of the equation for energy is the weight of the bullet, .380 ACP normally tops out at about 100gr bullets while 9mm normally doesn't start until at least 115gr. Even looking at the extremes, a very weak 9mm is around 335ft/lb while +P .380 ACP that is very hot maxes out at 295ft/lb. Looking at handloading numbers, both .380 and 9mm data using Hornady 90gr HP XTP using the same powders the 9th Ed Hornady manual calls for almost 25% more powder for minimum loads on 9mm compared to the minimum loads in .380 ACP.
Thanks for the reply. So please explain why the 11% shorter casing length does not equate to 11% less powder. Is there significant primer overhead this casing length comparison does not consider?
Also, it seems that the 14.4" gel penetration is ~11% less than equivalently loaded 9mm.
I will also point out that your comment on bullet weight is not correct. It is not bullet weight alone that matters, but rather mass * velocity * velocity.
On the topic of .380 bullet size versus 9mm bullet size, I am not sure why the .380 bullet has to be smaller, but this together with the shorter casing equates to less compression of the recoil spring to eject the casing, and hence more powder energy translated into bullet kinetic energy (mass * velocity * velocity).
One other point is that your muzzle energy units are incorrect. The correct unit is foot pounds (i.e., energy = force * distance), ft-lbs, not ft/lb. Sorry to be nit-picky, but such things are critical for correct communication / understanding.
I have tried to make some measurements on 9mm Luger. I find that 9 x 19 casing only has 17mm of casing available for powder and bullet, and it appears that ~4mm of casing is needed to hold the bullet, so 13mm of casing is available for powder. If I assume that .380 has these same constraints, then it has 11mm of casing available for powder. Hence, my initial argument that .380 only has 11% less energy than 9mm is now corrected to 15% less energy. There must be some other consideration such as maximum pressure the barrel can tolerate, and it is possible the .380 subcompacts have thinner / lighter barrels?
Replying in one place so it's easier to find - Yes, ft-lb is more accurate.
Cases are rarely filled to capacity. Depending on the powder used and the round used having more or less case fill is not uncommon. Thus, 11% less case does not always mean 11% less powder. It might not even mean 11% less maximum powder depending on the powder used since it might reach the maximum pressure loading before the case is filled.
The length of the bullet is also important, this is generally impacted by weight since fitting more mass in the same diameter requires either a heavier material or making it longer. Generally, the bullet is simply made longer. .380 ACP isn't designed to accept a long heavy bullet like some of the longer heavier 9mm are. .380 ACP normally stops at 100gr while 9mm can go to 147gr and even a little higher.
.380 ACP guns are almost always blowback operated, 9mm guns very often have a locked-breech of some kind. But even when a 9mm firearm is blowback, it is because it has a fairly heavy bolt/slide to back it up. This allows them to handle much higher pressure than .380 ACP.
Thanks again for the reply. I am not familiar with reloading practices, so my query has been based on maximum capacity available in the casing. I am proud owner of Glock 19, but I have never been able to shoot it as well as my Browning Buck Mark .22, which has huge 5.5" barrel with 0.25" wall thickness and blowback action. I had been considering Glock 17 or single stack 1911 9mm with ~5" barrel as alternative options to improve my 9mm marksmanship, but then I came across Browning 1911-380 with 4.25" barrel, so I have been wondering how much muzzle energy loss I would have to accept to downsize to .380 ACP. One key downside I have noticed about .380 ACP is that target ammo is ~2x the price of 9mm.
If you stand the 9mm x 17mm up next to the 9mm x 19mm you will see that there is only about a .5mm difference in casing size. The other 1.5mm difference is the size of the slug itself. The .380 typically has a higher muzzle velocity than the 9mm.
Debo de precisar que éstos conceptos son erróneos. El 9mm Parabellum es un formidable calibre de uso militar, inadecuado la mayoría de las veces para ser usado por civiles ignorantes en ciudades. La clave de su éxito está en sus 35.000 psi, frente a las 22.000 psi de los mejores cartuchos .380 browning. El calibre .380 es totalmente apto para Defensa de Civiles en la Ciudad.
You left out an important variable- chamber pressure. Higher PSI means more force acting against the bullet to accelerate it out of the gun. Different powders have different energy concentrations, so 11% less space does not just mean 11% less power.
I have carried different types of firearms but I have come to the realization that, in my current situation and lifestyle, there is no need for me to carry anything larger than a G42 loaded with Hornady Custom. I could carry other “cooler” handguns but considering size, weight, and the possibility I may actually come across a platoon of NKPA taking over the local mall? Meh,
I was an avid 9mm shooter. I am very comfortable on range with 9mm. I wanted a more concealable everyday carry implement. I went with .380 and chose something rather iconic to self defense/personal protection. My personal feeling is that a well placed small caliber round is far more effective than a larger caliber round not well placed. There is no substitution for time spent on the range practicing placing each shot where you want it and learning to function calmly and collectively with what ever your using. The day you are called upon to put your tool of choice to task is not the day that you should be learning how to maintain composure. Much forethought should be invested in scenarios and preparation or even a howitzer will be of no use! I am extremely comfortable with my chosen Walther ppk have put many effectively placed rounds through it and practiced under many subtractive and pressure circumstances to gain accuracy and to have an idea ahead of time what circumstances will call me to action and when. I do not look for such occasions and am resolved to find every option for not unholstering my personal carry piece but do not have any disresolve when and if that time comes!
Very good article. Described why I have a 380 in addition to my 9mm. Last 3 days of 95+ temps the .380 was the perfect gun for my pocket.
Good article well written describing the 380 as a close contact self-protection option when compared to other small calibers that are available.
One of your typos says .308 vs 9mm... Interesting idea... EDC AR-10 pistol hahaha
Fixed, thanks ;)
Good info even though a bit redundant. Who proofreads your articles? A Hard read. Many errors that made me stop and re-read to figure out what you meant.
Check out this statistical review. According to it, the .380 is “just as good” as the 9mm by the numbers.
As we all know, shot placement is king.
Link: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=nycYxb-zNwc
Without seeing their data, I'm strongly mistrustful of blind statistical review. I would agree that .380 is acceptable as a defensive cartridge, but I wouldn't put faith in that video.
I wanted a 9mm pistol but bought a 380 today instead. The only reason? I cannot pull the slide to the rearmost position on a 9mm without a major struggle. I tried 3 different manufacturers and couldn’t do it. Not even on my neighbor’s used and well oiled Smith & Wesson. I am a 65 year old female, 5’1” and 123 pounds. I’ve lost a lot of strength in my hands but still deer hunt with a crossbow & 7mm 08 and use a 12 gauge for turkey and duck...but dog gone it, I cannot successfully handle a 9mm. The 380 was easy for me in comparison. It was purchased only for personal protection.
Thank you for posting this. I am 61 and somewhat inexperienced shooter. I am looking at buying the S&W Shield EZ, a 380, for all the reasons you mention.
On YouTube Honest Outlaw just put up a review on this. Might want to check it out.
Try the walthers pk380 slide racks easy it not a pocket pistol but it's light and was made for older weak hands and small hands . I bought one and love it very accurate and love the sites.
This is exactly why I have both a 9mm and .380. I can't always rack the slide on my 9mm. I love the EZ .380 for this reason. My shot placement is much better with the .380 because I feel more comfortable. And to be honest, I hope I never have to pull it out, but if I do, I doubt the person on the other end is going to notice the caliber, because my shot placement will be on target!
As a back up or self defense firearm, most of the time if you have to use one it is going to be in close quarters, 5, 10, 15 feet the .380 is faster, lighter and easier to handle, specially if multiple shots are involved(in most situations), also it normally a cheaper firearm to buy and for someone who does not shoot a lot its a better fit and it will get the job done.
I hope your not putting the 9mm into the "big boy" category like you stated above I have a "Big boy" gun .357 mag Trooper III , I also have the National match .45acp, 44mag Anaconda. These are "Big boys" the nine is not. As a matter of fact the law enforcement went to the .40 cal. over the nine because they were tired of shooting these criminals 5,10,15 times before they'd stop.
I appreciate you educating the public on the differences between 9 mm Luger and .380 ACP, however you have made a mathematical error. I followed the link in your claim of the 380 having 94 percent less recoil than 9 mm. The article quotes 9 mm as having 5.36 ft-lb of recoil energy (with all of the requisite caveats of course) and the 380 as having 2.76 ft-lb. After subtracting the two numbers and dividing by the 9 mm's recoil energy, I get a reduction of 48.5 percent. (If you divide by the 380's recoil energy, we get 94 percent but it would be correct instead to say the 9 mm has 194% the recoil energy of the 380.) An easy mistake to make, but certainly not trivial. Thanks for your time and effort. Keep up the good work.
Well written piece, with IMHO solid conclusions. The .380 certainly not the do it all cartridge, but in a pinch deployed with total commitment I think a good choice for many people and circumstances
Excellent page. Lots of good information.
Great article. I’ve emailed to many
Thank you
I prefer t6he 380 to the 9 mm for many reasons. The 380 with lower muzzle velocity actually has greater knock down than the 9. It has far less recoil and a much quieter report. It . It has less weight and easier to conceal. You left the Browning BDA 380 and the Beretta 380 out of the talking points. The 380 is excellent at normal pistol distances Both firearms have a double stack magazine and an extremely comfortable grip.If I can't have a 1911 or Star PD in 45, it is the 380 for me
Wait a second. Whoa. You're claiming that a .380 with less mass and less velocity somehow has more "knockdown power" than a 9mm? That's simply absurd, and would ignore basic laws of physics. A heavier, faster object of reasonable shape is ALWAYS going to have more force and energy than a lighter, slower one.....
It's fine for you to like .380s, but please don't spread non-factual claims about cartridge effectiveness. This is literally people's lives we're talking about.
Not true, faster bullets can pass right through the target (animal\human), slower bullets transfer energy into the target
Considering most self-defense shootings are within the magical 7 foot range, what's the problem?
I had some .380 loads loaded with some powder, that spits them out @ 1265 fps.
When tested at a range, the comments were WTF was that!
They're in a magazine marked, "HOT"
that is no big deal. You can buy 22LR ammo right off the shelf with over 1600fps.
Remember, the .380 isn’t an effective round by stretch of the imagination., I have seen gang bangers walk away after taking headshots from a .380.that never penetrated the skull. Maybe they will do better with the Lehigh Defense rounds but they are hard to find.
I love my PPK/S in .380 for CCW, and have used it as such for 20 years. I've got to really screw up in picking out clothes to wear, to profile the gun. At 10 yards with a modified Weaver stance, it'll keep 3" groups all day. Sure, my full size 9mm and .40 S&W are great and go to's for power, but as a CC gun with Hornady 95 grain Critical Defense XTP's, the .380 is a contender. Remember, a .380 started World War 1 (it was the caliber used to assasinate Franz Ferdinand and his wife).
Federal, HST 95gr. .380 ammo is no joke when it comes to a great self defense round! I put a couple rounds through 4 layers of denim and gallon jugs of water and I was very surprised at the results. They actually opened up to a slightly larger diameter than it's9mm counterpart. Another nasty little round for the .380 is the Liberty Civil defense, those suckers are moving extremely fast!
Penetration>expansion. Guarantee 124grain 9mm HSTs would have greater tissue disruption and penetration depth. Yes, HSTs are one of the better .380 loads, but compared to high end 9mm loads, it's still going to fall short.
Bought a Bersa 380 which is made in Argentina I believe it was used as a sidearm for the Military or the Police , It's compact, Sturdy, easy to rack, mag holds 8 rounds, aluminum frame , good grips , white dot sights (Rear adjustable for windage) and it has a safety, and decocker
Reasonably priced.........
Though a rare problem. I'm getting my wife into the gun world (slowly) and while doing so discovered due to the low recoil of a .380 it's easier to rack than a 9mm. I bring this up because while it may be hard to believe some non shooters need to work the required muscles with less resistance to build them up. She can't rack the 9mm but can the .380. I believe it's caused by less tension on the guide rod spring for the lower recoil of the .380, but we are working her up to a 9mm as her target goal round for range and carry.
Hi Franklin...surprisingly a decent problem! My wife has the same but we've worked her up to 9mm. You can check out the Shield .380 EZ which is much easier to rack.
I was going to suggest the same gun, Eric. The Shield EZ is a great idea for new and disabled shooters.
This is relevant, as I believe for women, new handgun buyers, the point is to hit what you are aiming the pistol. My girlfriend handles cash deposits through ATMs after hours, and I am encouraging her to carry. She has small hands and is inexperienced with firearms. I am looking at a subcompact, and 9mm rounds out of a small gun can be jumpy. What is being suggested here makes a ton of sense.
Cost should be considered as well. The .380 costs about 30-50% more per round and can occasionally be difficult to find (unless ordering online). One more nod to the 9mm.
Good insight!
I love my S&W Bodyguard .380 when I'm jogging or biking - easy to conceal, even in my shorts while I'm jogging (even though it isn't super accessible quickly). For a tiny pocket pistol, it is easy to shoot, although after 50+ rounds at a time, the bony part of my palm starts aching because my hands are big and skinny (I'm 6'3", 195lbs). My kids, ages 12 and 15 absolutely LOVE shooting the .380 because it fits them perfectly and they could do it all day.
The biggest downside which I didn't see you mention is the price per round. .380 ammo is expensive, so shooting it a lot for practice is pricey. Everyone who's carrying IS practicing, right? ;)
My main carry is a compact Springfield XDS 9mm 3.3", but it is quite a bit larger and heavier than my .380.
as always great informative article ,i have several handguns i carry but often end up with my little ruger, it has never failed to feed or had any issues at all and i have fed it many types of ammo., so i feel as confident with it as i do my glock
My Glock 42 jams with some hollow point ammo. The round fails to load leaving a "flat" on the bottom edge of the HP orifice and some brands are worse than others. No problems using FMJ ammo of any brand..
I've never had a jam w/ my Bersa Thunder but don't carry it because I will only carry a double action, regardless of brand or caliber. (For my own safety and others.)
I think it would be helpful if Pew did an article researching the BEST HP round for the 380 given known issues with failure to load. Another comment mentioned this problem also.
I can't speak of .380 as I don't own one, but I have had issues with FTF with some kinds of HP ammo in one of my 9mm's. Never had a single issue with ball ammo in the gun. Win PDX1's would get wedged at the bottom of the feed ramp. It was remedied when I switched to Hornady Critical Defense. The polymer tip in the HP cavity gave the round a profile closer to that of ball ammo.
Hey James, we actually have an article on best .380 defensive ammo here. Hope that helps!
The .380ACP does make a fantastic backup carry gun. People always cite the Bersa Thunder or Ruger LCP, but NO ONE mentions the Bersa BP380CC, which is a single stack (8 + 1) pistol created by Bersa specifically for concealed carry. Great pistol. Check it out!
No mentions of the Remington RM 380, either. I’ve found mine to be reliable and dependable. Another good mention is the now discontinued Taurus TCP 738 which is damn near indestructible.
Love the hand feel of 380 but I would never use mine as personal defense...can’t get through a magazine without a jam....like the size, feel, and accuracy..don’t like ... my Bersa...would like another...more reliable...sleep with my CZ...it works all the time
Dennis
I have a .380 Keltec pocket pistol, a 9mm Ruger semi-auto, a Colt 1911 .45, and a Ruger Red Hawk .357 Magnum revolver. I like shooting them all. My favorite for power and accuracy is the .357. I keep the .380 in the nightstand.