The market for firearms chambered in.380 Automatic Colt Pistol (ACP) represents one of the most resilient and specialized segments of the U.S. consumer handgun industry. Far from being rendered obsolete by the proliferation of high-capacity 9mm “micro-compact” pistols, the.380 ACP market has solidified its position by bifurcating into two distinct, highly defensible consumer segments. The first is comprised of users who prioritize absolute, uncompromising concealability above all other factors. The second, a rapidly expanding demographic, consists of recoil-sensitive shooters who value ease of manipulation and a manageable shooting experience more than terminal ballistics. This dual-pronged market position ensures the caliber’s enduring relevance and profitability.
The evolution of the.380 ACP pistol is a story of technological advancement directly responding to consumer demand. The market was once defined by classic, all-metal, direct-blowback designs, such as the Walther PPK, which relied on the sheer mass of the slide to safely cycle the action.1 While iconic, these firearms are heavy for their size and often produce a sharp, unpleasant recoil impulse. The modern era was ushered in by the advent of lightweight, polymer-framed pistols utilizing a locked-breech action, a system previously reserved for more powerful cartridges.3 This engineering shift, pioneered by firms like Kel-Tec with its P3AT, allowed for the creation of true “pocket pistols” that were significantly lighter and softer-shooting than their blowback predecessors, fundamentally reshaping the concealed carry landscape.4
Two key trends currently define the market’s trajectory. First is the emergence and subsequent dominance of the “EZ” sub-category, a market segment created almost single-handedly by the Smith & Wesson M&P380 Shield EZ.6 These firearms are engineered with features like easy-to-rack slides and easy-to-load magazines, making the semi-automatic platform accessible to a wide range of users who may have previously been limited to revolvers due to diminished hand strength.4 The commercial success of this concept has spurred direct competitors from major manufacturers, including Ruger and Walther, validating it as a significant and permanent market fixture.9
The second major trend is a “capacity creep” within the micro-pocket pistol segment. For years, the primary trade-off for a pocketable.380 was a low magazine capacity, typically 6+1 rounds. Models like the Ruger LCP MAX and the redesigned Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0 have shattered this paradigm, now offering 10+1 and even 12+1 round capacities in footprints that remain genuinely pocket-sized.11 This development directly challenges one of the key selling points of the slightly larger micro-9mm pistols, further solidifying the.380’s niche.
Ultimately, the market is sustained by a clear set of consumer drivers. Deep concealability remains the paramount concern for a core user base who must carry in non-permissive environments or with minimal attire.11 Low recoil and ease of manipulation are the non-negotiable requirements for the growing segment of new, elderly, or physically smaller shooters who find the compact 9mm platform too challenging.6 By developing specialized products that excel in these specific areas, the.380 ACP market has carved out a defensible and thriving space that is not in direct competition with, but rather complementary to, the mainstream 9mm market.
Top 20 .380 ACP Firearms: A Data-Driven Ranking
The following table presents a comprehensive ranking of the 20 most popular firearms chambered in.380 ACP within the United States market. The ranking is derived from a composite analysis of sales data, online discussion volume, consumer sentiment, and expert reviews, as detailed in the Appendix.
Rank | Model | Manufacturer | Action Type | Primary Market Role | Key Popularity Driver(s) | Total Mention Index | % Positive Sentiment | % Negative Sentiment |
1 | LCP MAX | Ruger | Internal Hammer | Deep Concealment/Pocket Carry | Class-leading capacity-to-size ratio | 98 | 85 | 15 |
2 | M&P380 Shield EZ | Smith & Wesson | Internal Hammer | Recoil-Sensitive Shooters | Unmatched ease of manipulation | 95 | 92 | 8 |
3 | G42 | Glock | Striker-Fired | Recoil-Sensitive Shooters | Reliability, soft recoil, ergonomics | 92 | 94 | 6 |
4 | P238 | SIG Sauer | SAO | Classic/Heritage | Premium build, 1911-style trigger | 90 | 91 | 9 |
5 | PPK/S | Walther | DA/SA | Classic/Heritage | Iconic “James Bond” status | 88 | 80 | 20 |
6 | Bodyguard 2.0 | Smith & Wesson | Striker-Fired | Deep Concealment/Pocket Carry | High capacity, improved trigger | 86 | 88 | 12 |
7 | Thunder 380 | Bersa | DA/SA | Value & Imported Models | High value, reliable PPK clone | 84 | 87 | 13 |
8 | P365-380 | SIG Sauer | Striker-Fired | Recoil-Sensitive Shooters | P365 modularity, soft recoil | 82 | 95 | 5 |
9 | Security-380 | Ruger | Internal Hammer | Recoil-Sensitive Shooters | High capacity, value price | 79 | 90 | 10 |
10 | 80X Cheetah | Beretta | DA/SA | Classic/Heritage | Premium features, high capacity | 77 | 91 | 9 |
11 | PD380 | Walther | DA/SA | Recoil-Sensitive Shooters | Excellent ergonomics, low recoil | 75 | 92 | 8 |
12 | MC14T | Girsan | DA/SA | Recoil-Sensitive Shooters | Tip-up barrel (no slide rack) | 72 | 88 | 12 |
13 | Micro 380 | Kimber | SAO | Classic/Heritage | Premium 1911 aesthetics | 70 | 75 | 25 |
14 | Mustang | Colt | SAO | Classic/Heritage | Original micro-1911 design | 68 | 70 | 30 |
15 | 1911-380 | Browning | SAO | Classic/Heritage | 85% scale 1911, soft shooting | 65 | 90 | 10 |
16 | CW380 | Kahr | DAO | Deep Concealment/Pocket Carry | Smooth DAO trigger, slim profile | 62 | 78 | 22 |
17 | DB380 | Diamondback | Striker-Fired | Deep Concealment/Pocket Carry | Extreme thinness and light weight | 58 | 70 | 30 |
18 | P3AT | Kel-Tec | DAO | Deep Concealment/Pocket Carry | Foundational micro-pistol design | 55 | 65 | 35 |
19 | Baby Rock | Rock Island Armory | SAO | Value & Imported Models | Most affordable 1911-style option | 52 | 68 | 32 |
20 | CPX-3 | SCCY | DAO | Value & Imported Models | Lowest price for double-stack capacity | 50 | 60 | 40 |
Detailed Market Segment Analysis
The U.S. .380 ACP market is not monolithic; it is composed of four distinct segments, each catering to a specific consumer priority. Understanding these segments is critical to comprehending the competitive dynamics and product positioning within the caliber.
The Micro Pocket Pistols: The Deep Concealment Standard
This segment is the bedrock of the modern.380 ACP market, defined by an uncompromising focus on minimal size and weight. These firearms are engineered for the deepest concealment, often carried in a pocket where larger firearms are impractical. While this focus on portability often comes at the expense of shootability, recent innovations have sought to mitigate these compromises.
Ruger LCP MAX (Rank 1): The LCP MAX is the undisputed leader of the micro-pocket category and the overall .380 ACP market. Its market dominance is driven by a single, game-changing feature: a standard 10+1 round capacity (with an available 12-round magazine) in a chassis that is negligibly larger than its 6-round predecessors.11 This effectively neutralized the primary capacity advantage of larger micro-9mm pistols. The LCP MAX also represents an iterative refinement of the LCP line, incorporating features consumers had long demanded: functional, dovetailed sights with a tritium front post and a substantially improved trigger compared to the original LCP.11 However, its market leadership is not without detractors. Online consumer sentiment frequently criticizes the pistol for its “snappy” recoil, a consequence of its extremely light weight, and a noticeable volume of reports cite reliability issues such as failures to feed and a propensity for surface rust on the slide.19 Despite these issues, its capacity-to-size ratio remains its key, and currently unbeatable, popularity driver.
Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0 (Rank 6): The Bodyguard 2.0 is the LCP MAX’s most direct challenger. Following a significant redesign, the new model abandoned the original’s heavy double-action-only, hammer-fired system for a modern striker-fired action with a flat-faced trigger, resulting in a much-improved shooting experience.14 Like the LCP MAX, it boasts a high capacity of 10 or 12 rounds in a micro-compact frame. Consumer feedback consistently praises its ergonomics, which many feel make the gun “hold like a larger pistol,” mitigating some of the control issues common to this size class.21 While it competes head-to-head with the LCP MAX, it has faced its own challenges, with early production models generating reports of light primer strikes and other reliability concerns that appear to have been addressed in later runs.22 It is positioned as a slightly more refined and comfortable-to-shoot alternative to the Ruger.
Kahr CW380 (Rank 16): The Kahr CW380 occupies a premium niche within the micro-pocket segment. Its reputation is built on Kahr’s exceptionally smooth, long, and consistent double-action-only trigger pull, which many enthusiasts consider the best in its class.23 This trigger, combined with a locked-breech action and high-quality construction, makes the CW380 a surprisingly accurate and soft-shooting pistol for its diminutive size.17 However, this premium performance comes with caveats that temper its mass-market appeal. Kahr pistols are known for requiring a significant “break-in” period of several hundred rounds to achieve optimal reliability, and consumer forums frequently report a sensitivity to certain types of ammunition.26
Diamondback DB380 (Rank 17): The Diamondback DB380’s primary market appeal is its extreme dimensions; it is one of the thinnest and lightest.380 ACP pistols available, weighing a mere 8.8 ounces.12 Often described as a miniaturized, striker-fired Glock, it boasts surprisingly good ergonomics for its size, with a low bore axis that helps manage recoil.29 Its popularity is driven by users seeking the absolute limit of concealability at an affordable price point. This focus on size and price, however, is accompanied by mixed long-term reliability reports in consumer discussions, which positions it as a value-oriented choice for those prioritizing concealability above all else.30
Kel-Tec P3AT (Rank 18): Though discontinued in 2022, no analysis of this segment is complete without acknowledging the Kel-Tec P3AT.5 This firearm was the progenitor of the modern polymer pocket pistol revolution.4 Its locked-breech design enabled a size and weight (8.3 ounces) previously thought impossible for the caliber, creating the market category that Ruger and others would later dominate.32 While foundational, the P3AT was a crude instrument, widely criticized for its punishing recoil, nearly non-existent sights, and inconsistent quality control.33 Its historical importance lies in proving the market’s existence; its technical shortcomings directly created the opportunity for more refined successors like the Ruger LCP to capture the market by offering a similar package with improved usability.
The “Plus-Sized” & Easy-to-Use Segment: Redefining the.380 ACP
This segment represents the most significant area of growth and innovation in the.380 ACP market. These firearms intentionally trade the absolute minimalism of pocket pistols for a slightly larger frame, using that extra size to dramatically enhance shootability, reduce felt recoil, and simplify the manual of arms. This category has successfully opened the semi-automatic market to a demographic that was previously underserved.
Smith & Wesson M&P380 Shield EZ (Rank 2): The Shield EZ is the category-defining product, and its market impact cannot be overstated. Its success is built on a trio of “easy” features: an easy-to-rack slide, an easy-to-load magazine with helper tabs, and an easy-to-shoot nature with minimal recoil.6 These characteristics are a direct result of its internal hammer-fired, locked-breech design, which allows for the use of a much lighter recoil spring than is found in comparable striker-fired or blowback pistols.7 The Shield EZ effectively created a new market for semi-automatic pistols among shooters with arthritis, low hand strength, or a general aversion to recoil, a demographic previously relegated to double-action revolvers.4 Its market dominance is solid, though it was subject to an early consumer advisory for its manual thumb safety engaging under recoil with certain ammunition, a matter Smith & Wesson addressed with an upgrade program.37
Glock 42 (Rank 3): As Glock’s first single-stack.380 ACP offering, the G42 is lauded for its exceptional reliability, high-quality construction, and remarkably soft recoil impulse—many users consider it the most comfortable-shooting pistol in its size class.6 Its ergonomics are classic Glock, fitting a wide range of hands well despite its small size.39 The G42 effectively bridges the gap between the micro-pocket pistols and the larger EZ models. However, its primary market vulnerability, and a frequent point of negative consumer sentiment, is its low 6+1 magazine capacity.40 In an era where competitors offer 10 or more rounds in similar or even smaller packages, the G42’s capacity is a significant competitive disadvantage.
SIG Sauer P365-380 (Rank 8): This model represents a strategic convergence of the micro-9mm and.380 ACP worlds. By chambering the.380 ACP cartridge in its best-selling P365 modular chassis, SIG Sauer created a pistol that offers the ergonomics, trigger, and extensive accessory compatibility of a top-tier carry gun with the soft-shooting characteristics of the.380 ACP.12 The slide and barrel are lightened to reduce racking force and felt recoil, directly targeting the same user base as the Shield EZ.43 The P365-380’s key advantage is its ecosystem; users can leverage the vast market of P365 holsters, grip modules, and accessories, making it an incredibly versatile and appealing package for those already invested in or attracted to the P365 platform.
Ruger Security-380 (Rank 9): The Security-380 is Ruger’s direct answer to the Smith & Wesson Shield EZ. It employs the same core concept, utilizing Ruger’s “Lite Rack” internal hammer system to achieve an easy-to-rack slide and soft recoil.9 Ruger’s competitive strategy with this model is twofold: a significantly higher standard capacity of 15+1 rounds and a more aggressive price point.46 It is positioned as the high-value, high-capacity alternative in the “easy-to-use” segment, appealing to budget-conscious consumers who still demand the accessibility features pioneered by the Shield EZ.48
Walther PD380 (Rank 11): Walther’s entry into this segment, the PD380, leverages the company’s renowned expertise in ergonomics. The grip and controls are heavily influenced by the acclaimed PDP series, resulting in a pistol that is exceptionally comfortable to hold and shoot.6 Like its competitors, it is praised for its very low recoil and easy-to-manipulate slide.8 The PD380’s key differentiator is its DA/SA (double-action/single-action) trigger system, complete with an ambidextrous safety/decocker. This appeals to a subset of shooters who prefer the safety and trigger characteristics of a traditional hammer-fired pistol over the striker-fired or internal hammer systems of its main rivals.50
Classic & Premium Models: Heritage and Performance
This market segment is driven less by pure utility and more by factors like build quality, historical significance, aesthetics, and the pride of ownership. These are often all-metal firearms that command a premium price and appeal to enthusiasts, collectors, and individuals who view their firearm as a piece of craftsmanship.
Walther PPK/S (Rank 5): The Walther PPK/S is more than a pistol; it is a cultural icon. Its market position is almost entirely sustained by the “James Bond effect”—its inextricable link to the fictional spy, which has lent the firearm an enduring aura of sophistication and espionage for over 60 years.1 This cultural cachet allows it to command a premium price and maintain high popularity despite being, by modern standards, technically outclassed. As a direct-blowback, all-steel pistol, it is heavy for its size and produces a surprisingly sharp recoil impulse that many users find unpleasant.53 Older models were also notorious for “slide bite,” an injury to the shooter’s hand caused by the reciprocating slide, a flaw addressed in modern production with an extended beavertail.1 The PPK/S’s market performance is a powerful case study in the value of brand identity, proving that a compelling narrative can be as potent a market driver as technical specifications.
SIG Sauer P238 (Rank 4): For years, the SIG P238 has been a dominant force in the premium pocket pistol market. Modeled after a miniature 1911, and a direct descendant of the Colt Mustang, its popularity stems from three key attributes: a crisp, clean single-action-only (SAO) trigger; a high-quality, all-metal (aluminum frame, steel slide) construction; and a soft-shooting nature.11 Unlike the PPK, the P238 uses a locked-breech action, which significantly tames the recoil of the.380 ACP cartridge, making it far more pleasant to shoot.18 It is positioned as the quintessential premium pocket pistol for those who appreciate the 1911 manual of arms and demand a high level of fit, finish, and shootability.
Beretta 80X Cheetah (Rank 10): The 80X Cheetah is Beretta’s modern revival of its classic 80-series pistols. This is a “plus-sized”.380 that competes not on concealability, but on features and shootability. It boasts a high 13+1 capacity, an optics-ready slide, and Beretta’s premium X-treme S DA/SA trigger.6 Due to its all-metal frame and substantial weight (25 oz), its direct-blowback action produces very mild recoil, making it exceptionally pleasant to shoot.6 However, its size and weight place it outside the realm of deep concealment, positioning it as a range gun, a home defense option for the recoil-averse, or a carry gun for those who prioritize shooting comfort over concealability.61
Browning 1911-380 (Rank 15): This pistol offers a unique value proposition: it is a 1911 scaled down to 85% of the original’s size.63 This design results in a firearm that perfectly preserves the ergonomics, controls, and single-action trigger of the classic 1911 but in a lighter, thinner, and much softer-shooting package.64 It appeals directly to the vast market of 1911 enthusiasts, serving as an ideal training tool, a comfortable carry option for those who find a.45 ACP too cumbersome, or a suitable firearm for shooters with smaller hands who still desire the 1911 platform.
Kimber Micro 380 (Rank 13) & Colt Mustang (Rank 14): These two pistols are direct competitors in the micro-1911 space, both tracing their lineage to the original Colt Mustang design.66 Like the SIG P238, they offer the desirable SAO trigger and 1911 ergonomics in a pocket-sized, all-metal package.69 They appeal to consumers seeking a premium aesthetic and a classic American design. However, unlike the SIG P238, both the modern Colt Mustang and the Kimber Micro 380 have a mixed reputation for reliability in online consumer discussions, with frequent mentions of malfunctions and the need for a break-in period, which tempers their market position relative to the SIG.71
Value & Imported Models: The Price-Point Competitors
This segment is characterized by firearms that compete primarily on price, offering functional self-defense tools to budget-conscious consumers. While often lacking the refinement and brand prestige of their more expensive counterparts, these models frequently provide excellent value and, in some cases, unique features not found elsewhere.
Bersa Thunder 380 (Rank 7): The Bersa Thunder 380 is a titan of the value category. An Argentine-made clone of the Walther PPK, it has built a formidable market share by offering a similar all-metal, DA/SA package with key ergonomic improvements (such as a more comfortable grip and a slide release) at a fraction of the Walther’s cost.6 For decades, it has earned a reputation as a reliable and accurate pistol for the money, making it a go-to recommendation for a first-time gun buyer on a budget.17 The availability of a high-capacity “Plus” model, which holds 15 rounds, further enhances its value proposition.6 While consumer sentiment is overwhelmingly positive regarding its value, some criticisms regarding inconsistent fit and finish and occasional reliability issues persist.77
Girsan MC14T (Rank 12): Imported from Turkey by EAA, the Girsan MC14T has carved out a significant market niche by offering a unique and highly desirable feature: a “tip-up” barrel.6 This design, borrowed from the classic Beretta Model 86 Cheetah, allows the user to load a round directly into the chamber without needing to rack the slide—a massive advantage for individuals with severe hand strength limitations.18 By combining this feature with a double-stack 13+1 capacity and an affordable price, the MC14T serves a specific sub-segment of the “easy-to-use” market that even the “EZ” models cannot fully accommodate.81
Rock Island Armory Baby Rock (Rank 19): The Baby Rock, manufactured in the Philippines by Armscor, is the market’s entry-level 1911-style.380.83 It provides the sought-after ergonomics and crisp single-action trigger of the 1911 platform at an extremely accessible price point, often selling for less than half of its American-made competitors.45 This value proposition is its primary driver. However, this low cost is often associated with reports of feeding issues, particularly during the break-in period, and a generally lower level of fit and finish, positioning it as an option for tinkerers or those for whom price is the single most important factor.84
SCCY CPX-3 (Rank 20): The American-made SCCY CPX-3 competes at the absolute lowest tier of the market, offering a 10+1 capacity polymer-framed pistol for under $200.86 Its market position is defined exclusively by its price and capacity. This extreme value is offset by significant and widely reported drawbacks. Consumer sentiment and expert reviews consistently criticize the CPX-3 for its very long, heavy, and stubborn double-action-only trigger pull and a reputation for inconsistent reliability.4 It serves the segment of the market with the most restrictive budget, where the primary goal is to acquire a firearm with a double-stack capacity at the lowest possible cost. Note, SCCY has gone out of business so if you buy one, there will not be any warranty support. Click here to read our post mortem analysis of SCCY.
Market Synthesis & Strategic Outlook
The.380 ACP handgun market has demonstrated remarkable resilience in the face of intense competition from the 9mm micro-compact category. Its continued success is not an anomaly but a direct result of strategic product differentiation and a deep understanding of specific consumer needs. The caliber has effectively built a defensible moat around two key market segments that are not adequately served by the more powerful 9mm cartridge.
The first segment is the “no compromise on size” consumer. For this user, the ability to carry a firearm in a pocket or with minimal clothing is the primary requirement. Due to the lower operating pressures of the.380 ACP cartridge, manufacturers can design pistols that are fundamentally smaller and lighter than is possible with 9mm, as exemplified by the Ruger LCP MAX and S&W Bodyguard 2.0. The second, and arguably more significant, segment is the “no compromise on comfort” consumer. This rapidly growing demographic of new, elderly, or recoil-sensitive shooters prioritizes a manageable shooting experience and ease of manipulation. The.380 ACP’s inherently mild recoil makes it the ideal caliber for the “EZ” class of firearms, such as the S&W Shield EZ and Ruger Security-380, which feature easy-to-rack slides and have opened the semi-automatic market to a new generation of gun owners.
While 9mm micro-compacts like the SIG Sauer P365 have captured the mainstream of the concealed carry market by offering a “one-size-fits-most” solution, the.380 ACP has thrived by dominating the extremes. It is the undisputed king of deep concealment and the undisputed champion of user accessibility. The market is not a zero-sum game where one caliber must vanquish the other; rather, it is a landscape of specialization. The introduction of the SIG P365-380 signals a potential future of platform convergence, where major manufacturers offer multiple calibers within a single, modular firearm family, allowing consumers to select their preferred balance of power, size, and recoil without changing platforms.
The outlook for the.380 ACP caliber is strong and stable. The growth of the “EZ” category has cultivated a loyal and expanding user base that values its unique characteristics. Furthermore, continuous advancements in defensive ammunition technology have significantly improved the terminal performance of the.380 ACP, mitigating historical concerns about its efficacy as a self-defense round.88 As long as there are individuals who require the absolute deepest level of concealment or who cannot comfortably and confidently operate a compact 9mm pistol, the.380 ACP will continue to occupy a vital and profitable position in the U.S. firearms market.
Appendix: Methodology
The rankings and analysis presented in this report are based on a proprietary composite scoring model designed to provide a holistic view of a firearm’s position in the U.S. market. This model synthesizes data from four distinct, weighted sources to generate a “Total Mention Index” that reflects not only sales volume but also consumer mindshare, expert consensus, and cultural relevance.
The four data sources and their respective weights in the composite score are as follows:
- Social Media Sentiment & Volume (40% Weight): This component measures the volume and nature of organic consumer discussion. Data is aggregated from high-traffic, specialized online communities, primarily firearms-related subreddits (e.g., r/CCW, r/guns, r/Glocks) and dedicated forums. Sophisticated sentiment analysis is applied to categorize mentions as positive, negative, or neutral, focusing on recurring themes of praise (e.g., reliability, ergonomics, value) and criticism (e.g., malfunctions, recoil, price). This source is weighted most heavily as it provides the most direct and unfiltered insight into the real-world experiences and perceptions of the end-user base.16
- Sales Data & Rankings (30% Weight): This component serves as a proxy for commercial velocity and market demand. The analysis incorporates publicly available sales data, including top-selling lists and relative popularity rankings from major online firearms marketplaces such as GunBroker.com and Guns.com, as well as large-scale retailers like Cabela’s and Palmetto State Armory. This data provides a quantitative measure of which models are being purchased most frequently.46
- Expert & Influencer Reviews (20% Weight): This component captures the consensus opinion of established industry experts. The analysis systematically collates and scores reviews from reputable print and digital firearms publications (including Gun University, Pew Pew Tactical, American Rifleman, Guns & Ammo, Shooting Illustrated) and prominent online video reviewers. This source reflects the opinions that shape consumer purchasing decisions and establish a firearm’s critical reputation.6
- Cultural Relevance (10% Weight): This is a qualitative multiplier applied to models whose market presence is significantly influenced by factors beyond their technical specifications or sales performance. This factor accounts for historical importance and cultural impact. Its most significant application in this report is to the Walther PPK/S, whose enduring popularity is inextricably linked to its iconic status as the “James Bond gun”.51 A smaller weight is also applied to foundational designs like the Kel-Tec P3AT, which created the market segment its successors now inhabit.
Data from each of these four sources is normalized to a 100-point scale and then combined according to the specified weights to calculate the final “Total Mention Index” for each firearm, which determines its overall rank. This multi-faceted methodology ensures that the final rankings are robust, defensible, and reflective of a firearm’s complete market footprint.
If you find this post useful, please share the link on Facebook, with your friends, etc. Your support is much appreciated and if you have any feedback, please email me at in**@*********ps.com. Please note that for links to other websites, we are only paid if there is an affiliate program such as Avantlink, Impact, Amazon and eBay and only if you purchase something. If you’d like to directly donate to help fund our continued report, please visit our donations page.
Sources Used
- 3 Classic .380 Carry Guns – The Shooter’s Log, accessed August 29, 2025, https://blog.cheaperthandirt.com/3-favorite-380-carry-guns/
- What is the difference between blowback and locked breech pistols? – Quora, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.quora.com/What-is-the-difference-between-blowback-and-locked-breech-pistols
- .380 ACP – Wikipedia, accessed August 29, 2025, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/.380_ACP
- What Is The Best Compact 380 Pistol? – AmmoMan.com, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.ammoman.com/blog/best-compact-380-acp-pistol/
- KelTec P3AT – Wikipedia, accessed August 29, 2025, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/KelTec_P3AT
- Best 380 Pistols for Concealed Carry [2025!] – Gun University, accessed August 29, 2025, https://gununiversity.com/best-380-pistols/
- M&P® 380 SHIELD EZ® | Smith & Wesson, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.smith-wesson.com/product/shield-ez-180023
- Best .380 Pistols in 2025 – Dirty Bird Industries, accessed August 29, 2025, https://dirtybirdusa.com/best-380-pistols-in-2024/
- Ruger® Firearms, accessed August 29, 2025, https://ruger.com/products/security380/models.html
- Walther PD380 Semi-Auto Pistol | Bass Pro Shops, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.basspro.com/p/walther-pd380-semi-auto-pistol
- Best .380 Pistol Options For Deep Carry [Tested] – Gun Digest, accessed August 29, 2025, https://gundigest.com/handguns/concealed-carry/top-380-pistol-options-for-deep-carry
- 8 Best .380 Pistols [Hands-On Tested] – Pew Pew Tactical, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.pewpewtactical.com/best-380-pistols/
- Ruger LCP MAX Semi-Auto Pistol | Cabela’s, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.cabelas.com/p/ruger-lcp-max-semi-auto-pistol
- S&W® BODYGUARD® 2.0 TS | Smith & Wesson, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.smith-wesson.com/product/sw-bodyguard-2-ts
- Pocket pistol – Wikipedia, accessed August 29, 2025, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pocket_pistol
- Seeking Ladies advice on a .380 Carry pistol : r/CCW – Reddit, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/CCW/comments/1i5ztek/seeking_ladies_advice_on_a_380_carry_pistol/
- 6 Top Notch .380 ACP Pistols for Concealed Carry – NRA Women, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.nrawomen.com/content/6-top-notch-380-acp-pistols-for-concealed-carry
- Top Modern .380 ACP Pistols for Self-Defense – The Shooter’s Log, accessed August 29, 2025, https://blog.cheaperthandirt.com/top-modern-380-acp-pistols-for-self-defense/
- Thoughts on lcp max and how it compares to its lcp2 brother? : r/CCW – Reddit, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/CCW/comments/10it2im/thoughts_on_lcp_max_and_how_it_compares_to_its/
- Ruger LCP Max Problems: Tips and Fixes You Need to Know – Craft Holsters, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.craftholsters.com/ruger-lcp-max-problems-tips-and-fixes-you-need-to-know
- S&W Bodyguard 2.0 Reviews? : r/CCW – Reddit, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/CCW/comments/1l4wkic/sw_bodyguard_20_reviews/
- S&W Bodyguard 2.0 Problems, Solutions & Range Time – YouTube, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TYEtAHt3nzI
- 9 Affordable Pocket .380 Pistols | NRA Family, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.nrafamily.org/content/9-affordable-pocket-380-pistols/
- Kahr P380 | Power Packed 380 or Micro Pistol Bust? – Lynx Defense, accessed August 29, 2025, https://lynxdefense.com/reviews/kahr-p380/
- CW380, Matte Stainless – Kahr Firearms Group, accessed August 29, 2025, https://shopkahrfirearmsgroup.com/cw380-cw3833/
- new EDC: Kahr cw 380 : r/guns – Reddit, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/guns/comments/1mauw88/new_edc_kahr_cw_380/
- Pocket carry Kahr CW380? : r/guns – Reddit, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/guns/comments/4r2i0e/pocket_carry_kahr_cw380/
- Diamondback Firearms DB380 Pistol | Police Magazine, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.policemag.com/weapons/article/15348420/diamondback-firearms-db380-pistol
- Gun Review: Diamondback DB380 ACP – Athlon Outdoors, accessed August 29, 2025, https://athlonoutdoors.com/article/gun-review-diamondback-db380-acp/
- Testing the Diamondback DB9 (Gen 4). Good so far! : r/CCW – Reddit, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/CCW/comments/1mlcymh/testing_the_diamondback_db9_gen_4_good_so_far/
- Diamondback DB9 or Ruger LCP Max? : r/CCW – Reddit, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/CCW/comments/1975gfp/diamondback_db9_or_ruger_lcp_max/
- Kel Tec P3AT vs Ruger LCP: Which is the Best Budget-Friendly CCW? – Vedder Holsters, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.vedderholsters.com/blog/kel-tec-p3at-vs-ruger-lcp/
- Kel Tec P3AT bit me. First time at the range with it. : r/guns – Reddit, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/guns/comments/pgg6f/kel_tec_p3at_bit_me_first_time_at_the_range_with/
- Your opinion about Kel-Tec : r/guns – Reddit, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/guns/comments/11dz7hs/your_opinion_about_keltec/
- Thoughts on the S&W M&P 380 Shield EZ : r/guns – Reddit, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/guns/comments/80in3e/thoughts_on_the_sw_mp_380_shield_ez/
- Smith & Wesson M&P 380 Shield EZ Review – YouTube, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TclKpSgcjMk
- M&P®380 SHIELD™ EZ™ CONSUMER ADVISORY | Smith & Wesson, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.smith-wesson.com/safety/recall/m-p-380-shield-ez-consumer-advisory
- Glock 42 : r/Glocks – Reddit, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/Glocks/comments/19434p5/glock_42/
- GLOCK G42 .380 Auto Pistol, accessed August 29, 2025, https://us.glock.com/en/pistols/g42
- Glock 42 Review: Specification, Performance, and Price – Craft Holsters, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.craftholsters.com/glock/guides/42
- Glock 42 Review: A Good Self Defense Pistol? – Gun University, accessed August 29, 2025, https://gununiversity.com/glock-42-review/
- SIG SAUER P365 380 | America’s #1 Micro Compact Pistol, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.sigsauer.com/p365-380.html
- P365 380 Luxe – Fun, Fun, Fun : r/SigSauer – Reddit, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/SigSauer/comments/1mal3rx/p365_380_luxe_fun_fun_fun/
- Sig Sauer P365-380 Pistol Manual Safety – MidwayUSA, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.midwayusa.com/product/1024945452
- 10 Top 380 ACP Pistols 2025 – Gun Tests, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.gun-tests.com/handguns/pistols380/10-top-380-acp-pistols/
- 380 Pistol for Sale | Buy Online at GunBroker, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.gunbroker.com/380-pistol/search?keywords=380%20pistol&s=f
- 380 – For Sale :: Shop Online – Guns.com, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.guns.com/search?keyword=380
- Is a .380 even worth it? : r/guns – Reddit, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/guns/comments/1bq4y0j/is_a_380_even_worth_it/
- Thinking About Buying a PD 380 : r/Walther – Reddit, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/Walther/comments/1mu46e5/thinking_about_buying_a_pd_380/
- Two Senior Friendly 380 Compared: Walther CCP M2 or S&W Shield EZ – YouTube, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QrokWZeTxm8
- Walther PPK | James Bond’s guns, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.thejamesbonddossier.com/lifestyle/guns/walther-ppk.htm
- How did the Walther PPK become James Bond’s weapon of choice? – Gentleman’s Journal, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.thegentlemansjournal.com/article/walther-ppk-pistol-james-bond-007-how-when-gun/
- Walther PPK/S Semi-Auto Pistol in Stainless Steel | Cabela’s, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.cabelas.com/p/walther-ppk-s-semi-auto-pistol-in-stainless-steel
- Walther PPK : r/liberalgunowners – Reddit, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/liberalgunowners/comments/1i92ges/walther_ppk/
- SIG Sauer P238 – Wikipedia, accessed August 29, 2025, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SIG_Sauer_P238
- 1st gun – Sig Sauer P238 : r/CAguns – Reddit, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/CAguns/comments/1kcdjok/1st_gun_sig_sauer_p238/
- Colt Mustang : r/guns – Reddit, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/guns/comments/3t2o77/colt_mustang/
- 80X Cheetah – Beretta, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.beretta.com/en-us/product/80x-cheetah-FA0042
- 80X Cheetah Green – Beretta, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.beretta.com/en-us/product/80x-cheetah-green-FA0107
- Beretta Cheetah 80x or Browning 1911 Black Label : r/guns – Reddit, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/guns/comments/17yd6jd/beretta_cheetah_80x_or_browning_1911_black_label/
- Beretta 80x cheetah : r/CCW – Reddit, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/CCW/comments/1ap2rqz/beretta_80x_cheetah/
- Review: Beretta 80X Cheetah | An Official Journal Of The NRA – American Rifleman, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.americanrifleman.org/content/review-beretta-80x-cheetah/
- 1911-380 Pistol Overview – Browning, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.browning.com/products/firearms/pistols/1911-380/overview.html
- Browning 1911-380 Review 2025 – Gun University, accessed August 29, 2025, https://gununiversity.com/browning-1911-380-review/
- Review: Browning Black Label Medallion Pro Compact – Handguns, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.handgunsmag.com/editorial/review-browning-black-label-medallion-pro-compact/331770
- That’s Metal: .380 Pocket Pistol Shootout – Guns.com, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.guns.com/news/reviews/metal-380-pocket-pistol-shootout
- Colt’s Mustang Pocketlite – SWAT Survival | Weapons | Tactics, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.swatmag.com/article/colts-mustang-pocketlite/
- SIGP238 & Colt Mustang – Unblinking Eye, accessed August 29, 2025, https://unblinkingeye.com/Guns/SIGP238/sigp238.html
- How Much is My Kimber Micro .380 Worth? – We Buy Guns, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.webuyguns.com/valuations/kimber/micro-380
- Colt Mustang: The Perfect Concealed Carry Pistol – Gun Collectors Club, accessed August 29, 2025, https://guncollectorsclub.com/colt_mustang.htm
- Sig p238 vs Colt mustang : r/CCW – Reddit, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/CCW/comments/1jh6njr/sig_p238_vs_colt_mustang/
- Shooting Problems with Kimber Micro CDP | USCCA Gun Review, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.usconcealedcarry.com/blog/bad-day-range-kimber/
- [Review] Bersa Thunder 380 | Super .380 ACP or Total Bust? – Lynx Defense, accessed August 29, 2025, https://lynxdefense.com/reviews/bersa-thunder-380/
- Thunder 380 – Bersa You Can Trust, accessed August 29, 2025, https://bersausa.com/product/thunder-380/
- Features of Bersa Thunder 380: A Lightweight, Semi-Auto Pocket Pistol in .380 ACP [Video], accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.gunbroker.com/c/video/features-of-bersa-thunder-380-lightweight-semi-auto-pistol-in-380-acp/
- Bersa Thunder 380 Combat Plus T380PMC 380 Auto – Gun Tests, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.gun-tests.com/handguns/bersa-thunder-380-combat-plus-t380pmc-380-auto/
- Similar to Bersa Thunder .380 but better? : r/concealedcarry – Reddit, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/concealedcarry/comments/1ctwbv8/similar_to_bersa_thunder_380_but_better/
- Feelings on Bersa Thunder : r/liberalgunowners – Reddit, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/liberalgunowners/comments/11hc14x/feelings_on_bersa_thunder/
- Girsan MC14T [2025 Review] – Gun University, accessed August 29, 2025, https://gununiversity.com/girsan-mc14t-review/
- Girsan MC 14T Tip-Up – EAA Corp., accessed August 29, 2025, https://eaacorp.com/product/girsan-mc-14t-tip-up/
- Bersa Thunder 380 for Sale | Buy Online at GunBroker, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.gunbroker.com/bersa-thunder-380/search?keywords=bersa%20thunder%20380&s=f
- Girsan MC 14T Tip-Up: Open Top Classic .380 – Recoil Magazine, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.recoilweb.com/girsan-mc-14t-review-182828.html
- CAL. 380 M1911 BABY ROCK Titanium Blue Sports Inc Exclusive, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.armscor.com/firearms-list/cal-380-m1911-baby-rock-titanium-blue
- RIA Baby rock 380 issues. any advice would be nice : r/guns – Reddit, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/guns/comments/qf69gi/ria_baby_rock_380_issues_any_advice_would_be_nice/
- BBR Series: Rock Island Armory | Armscor International, Inc, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.armscor.com/bbr
- SCCY CPX-3 380 Auto (ACP) 3.1in Black Nitride Pistol – 10+1 Rounds, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.sportsmans.com/shooting-gear-gun-supplies/handguns/sccy-cpx-3-380-auto-acp-31in-black-nitride-pistol-101-rounds/p/1494419
- Sccy CPX-3 Review – Is This A Gun Worth Owning? – AmmoMan.com, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.ammoman.com/blog/project-380-the-sccy-cpx-3/
- .380 ACP for Defense: The Never-Ending Debate – GunMag Warehouse, accessed August 29, 2025, https://gunmagwarehouse.com/blog/380-acp-for-defense-the-never-ending-debate/
- Why .380 ACP is Making a COMEBACK (The Pocket Pistol Revolution!) – YouTube, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eWgE0UU7BEs
- 380 Acp – For Sale :: Shop Online – Guns.com, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.guns.com/search?keyword=.380+acp
- Top-Selling Guns on GunBroker.com for February 2025, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.gunsandammo.com/editorial/top-selling-guns-february-2025/518544
- Review: Ruger LCP Max .380 with Manual Safety – Guns.com, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.guns.com/news/reviews/review-ruger-lcp-max-380-manual-safety
- Pocket Pistol Shootout: .380 ACP vs .38 Special | An Official Journal Of The NRA, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.shootingillustrated.com/content/pocket-pistol-shootout-380-acp-vs-38-special/
- TIL although the Walther PPK is more known for being the gun James Bond uses (“Ian Fleming’s choice of Bond’s weapon directly influenced the popularity and notoriety of the PPK”), it was also the same gun that Hitler used to commit suicde : r/todayilearned – Reddit, accessed August 29, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/todayilearned/comments/1hhuuzs/til_although_the_walther_ppk_is_more_known_for/