Is a .380 a Good Self Defense Gun?

General
1

I’ve been doing some digging into the effectiveness of the .380 caliber for self-defense, and I’m really curious about everyone’s thoughts on it. I know it’s smaller than the popular 9mm, but I wonder how it stacks up in real-world scenarios. Here are a few things I’d love your insights on:

Effectiveness:

  • How does the stopping power of the .380 compare to other calibers, like 9mm or .40?
  • Are there specific defensive loads that people recommend?

Reliability:

  • Do you find .380s are generally reliable for self-defense? Any brand recommendations?
  • How important is the size/weight of the gun in carrying it daily?

Personal Experiences:

  • For those who carry or have carried a .380, what has your experience been in terms of performance?
  • Any issues you’ve faced with recoil or accuracy at the range?

I’m totally open to hearing both expert opinions (links to articles or videos are welcome!) and personal anecdotes. Looking forward to reading what you all think, thanks in advance!

3 Likes
2

I’ve always believed the .380 can be a viable self-defense option, especially in close quarters. It may not have the same stopping power as larger calibers, but it’s better than nothing.

5 Likes
3

I agree with you, but I think it’s important to consider personal comfort and shooting ability too. A round that you can shoot well is often better than a more powerful one you can’t control.

4

While some criticize the .380 for its power, it’s crucial to look at terminal ballistics. A well-placed shot can do more than raw stopping power, especially with modern ammo advancements.

5

I’ve tested out various calibers, and I find the .380 manageable, especially for women or those who may not handle heavier recoil well. It’s all about the intended use.

6

Exactly! You can’t just rely on caliber alone; shot placement is key. Plus, .380 is easy to carry and conceal.

7

Is it really that effective in life-threatening situations? I’ve read differing opinions. Some say it won’t stop an attacker decisively.

2 Likes
8

It’s all about context. In a self-defense situation, getting hit with any bullet is going to deter an attacker. People underestimate the psychological impact.

9

But what’s the alternative? A .45 might be powerful, but not everyone wants to carry that weight. .380 can be a great compromise.

10

A .38 revolver can be more reliable. If we’re comparing, at least with revolvers, they won’t jam as easily as some semi-autos.

11

True, but there’s something to be said about the capacity of a semi-auto like the .380. More rounds could be beneficial in a panic situation.

12

I’ve noticed that many people prefer a .380 for its recoil management. That’s often overlooked when discussing self-defense guns.

13

Consider the ammo too! The right self-defense rounds can significantly enhance the .380’s effectiveness. Have you looked into defense-specific loads?

14

Honestly, I’ve seen folks survive being hit with larger calibers. It depends heavily on the situation and the individual’s response to the threat.

3 Likes
15

I think we should also consider the fear factor. A loud report from a .380 might just be enough to scare off an attacker without a shot fired.

16

Definitely! A little noise can go a long way in de-escalating a confrontation before it turns physical.

2 Likes
17

I like the idea of carrying a .380—it’s compact and easy to hide. But any self-defense weapon requires practice and training to use effectively.

2 Likes
18

In the end, each gun has its pros and cons. It’s about what you feel confident with. Just don’t forget to practice!

19

I think .380 handguns are a great option for self-defense, especially if you prioritize concealment. Their size and weight really make them easy to carry daily, which is essential for self-defense situations.

20

Absolutely! I’ve found that the smaller frame makes them very comfortable for everyday carry. Plus, you don’t have to worry as much about printing.