The .380 pocket pistols also known as mouse guns or “get off me” guns can be a good choice for personal defense. Prices vary from $200 to $700, some current full size handgun model may be a better choice to go.But, if you’re looking for good concealment carry with a decent bite, then the .380 caliber is a good choice to consider. Before we get into the list, a quick word about .380 pocket size pistols and a pragmatic opinion.Besides the concealment attribute, most of these pistols aren’t that great. Full size semi-auto pistols are reliable, but the child size pistols are hindered with malfunctions during that melee.
While fishing to get the gun out of your pocket and wind up with a weird grip or you’re trying to create space when this 250 pound guy is hammering you from above – these are the things that tends to lead to malfunctions.Ok, lets get to the meat of this – Here’s a quick list of good .380 ACP pocket pistol for concealed carry to see if it works for you:
Bersa Firestorm .380
Ruger LCP II .380
Ruger LCP Max
Kahr CW 380
Sig Sauer P238
Glock 42
S&W Bodyguard 380
Kel-Tec P3AT
Let’s go over some pros and con.Down SideFirearms chambered in .380 caliber are typically lightweight, which can make it more difficult to manage recoil, leading to decreased accuracy. The design of the firearm also plays a role in recoil management, with a high grip design being more effective at controlling recoil than a low grip design. Additionally, a larger grip size offers better control and improved handling. Finally, it’s important to note that the .380 caliber is not as powerful as a .45 caliber firearm.
UpsideSo the positive is that its a highly concealed gun, but you still need to be aware of deep concealment. This would make it harder to access in a stressful situation.Another upside is the caliber, I know what we said earlier about bigger caliber.
38 Special vs .380 slug
But a closer examination against a .38, a .380 velocity is faster. Yes, it doesn’t hit as hard as the .38 due to the different grain weight. (158 grain vs 95 grain)In the context of personal defense shooting, its all about putting multiple shots to the vital points (center mass) of the body is the way to go.Quick Word on AmmoAnother equation to add to your equalizer is the ammo.Go with a decent hollow point ammunition. If you’re experienced with hollow points, then you know that all hollow points are not the same in terms of expansion when it hits the target. The only real answer is for you to get some and test it out then choose which ones to go with. Check out these .380 ACP self-defense rounds here.
Ok, here’s the description on these fine .380 pocket pistols:
Glock 42Everyone knows Glock makes good reliable guns.Their G42s performs very well.The barrel is longer than the other at 3.25″ and weighs more than the others at 13.76 ounces.This may be the reason why you can shoot quickly and accurately and not have your muzzle flip too much.This obviously has a higher price tag at $440.
Sig Sauer P238This is more expensive than the G42, MSRP at $629.With a great name brand, the gun also performs well.The P238 “is 1911 Inspired”. This is an all metal gun which gives you extra control on the recoil, very accurate.Weighs in at 15.2 ounces with a 2.7″ long barrel.If you’re not used to taking a 1911 apart, then don’t get this gun.
Kel-Tec P3ATOne of the lightest .380 subcompact at 8.3 oz empty and 11 oz when loaded. However, many owners are saying though this little sucker is not a .357 Magnum but shooting this thing does bite. Its not fun shooting it. Trigger pull is at 5 pounds.
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The following ballistic gel tested conducted a while back from Lucky Gunner shows some .380 loads produced surprisingly good results, most demonstrated either good penetration without expansion or decent expansion with subpar penetration. Only a couple of loads managed to exhibit satisfactory performance in both areas. The .380 ACP cartridge is frequently regarded as “underpowered,” but careful selection of ammunition can help to alleviate some of its shortcomings.
Final thoughtsMouse guns that roars with .380s are good if that’s what you want for personal protection but bear in mind. Realistically, you will need to rain down multiple lead to stop someone. So if you’re going to carry a pocket-sized .380, make sure you test fire it as much as possible, keep it clean, well-lubricated and practice your malfunction clearance drills.Do you pocket carry a .380?Looking to get some Ammo, have a look below.