10mm Auto vs .380 Auto
Part of our full caliber comparison chart — energy, drop and recoil for every handgun caliber side by side.
The 10mm Auto vs .380 Auto comparison represents the extremes of semi-automatic pistol power. The 10mm Auto (175gr JHP at 1150 fps) produces 429 ft-lbs at 50 yards compared to the .380 Auto's (90gr JHP at 1000 fps) 166 ft-lbs. Penetration differs substantially: the 10mm reaches 15.5-15.9 inches within the FBI's optimal zone, while the .380 Auto falls short at 8.8-9.0 inches. Recoil matches expectations with the 10mm at 7.69 ft-lbs and the .380 Auto at just 1.41 ft-lbs. The .380 Auto enables pocket-sized pistols for deep concealment; the 10mm requires a full-size frame but delivers stopping power suitable for large game.
Ammunition Parameters
10mm Auto Parameters (Self-Defense Load)
.380 Auto Parameters (Self-Defense Load)
10mm Auto vs .380 Auto Ballistics Chart
Comparing bullet drop at various ranges between 10mm Auto and .380 Auto.
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10mm Auto vs .380 Auto Energy Comparison
Comparing the muzzle energy and energy retention at various distances between 10mm Auto and .380 Auto.
10mm Auto vs .380 Auto Bullet Penetration
Comparison of estimated penetration depth in 10% ballistic gel between 10mm Auto and .380 Auto at self-defense distances.
Self-Defense Ammunition Penetration
Notes:
- FBI standard for optimal penetration is 12-18 inches in 10% ballistics gel
- These penetration figures come from a model of sectional density, velocity and expansion, not from gel tests. Use them to compare the two calibers, not as a measured result.
- Actual results may vary depending on clothing barriers and other factors
10mm Auto vs .380 Auto Recoil
Comparing recoil energy and impulse between 10mm Auto and .380 Auto.
10mm Auto Recoil (Self-Defense Load)
.380 Auto Recoil (Self-Defense Load)
Notes:
- Recoil calculations based on bullet weight, velocity, powder charge, and firearm weight
- Recoil energy indicates the felt force when firing the weapon
- Recoil impulse represents momentum transfer during firing
- Actual felt recoil can vary based on grip, stance, and firearm design
10mm Auto vs .380 Auto Velocity
Velocity decay from muzzle to 50 yards for 10mm Auto and .380 Auto.
10mm Auto vs .380 Auto Average Cost
Comparing cost per round and training affordability between 10mm Auto and .380 Auto.
Cheapest 10mm Auto Deals
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Cheapest .380 Auto Deals
| Product | Price/RD |
|---|---|
|
$0.30
1000 rounds
|
|
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Fiocchi .380 Auto 95gr FMJ Ammo
Sold by: Fast Ammo
|
$0.31
1000 rounds
|
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$0.31
1000 rounds
|
Dealer links open the dealer's site. Some are affiliate links, and AmmoSight may earn a commission at no cost to you.