.32 ACP vs .380 Auto
Part of our full caliber comparison chart — energy, drop and recoil for every handgun caliber side by side.
The .32 ACP vs .380 Auto comparison weighs two pocket pistol calibers with different performance levels. The .380 Auto (90gr JHP at 1000 fps) delivers 166 ft-lbs at 50 yards compared to the .32 ACP's (60gr FTX at 1000 fps) 104 ft-lbs. Neither caliber meets the FBI's 12-inch penetration minimum with expanding ammunition: the .380 reaches 8.8-9.0 inches while the .32 ACP hits only 7.0-7.3 inches. Both generate minimal recoil, with the .32 ACP at 0.81 ft-lbs and .380 Auto at 1.41 ft-lbs. The .380 offers more stopping potential while the .32 ACP fits in smaller, lighter pistols. Performance varies with ammunition selection and firearm platform.
Ammunition Parameters
.32 ACP Parameters (Self-Defense Load)
.380 Auto Parameters (Self-Defense Load)
.32 ACP vs .380 Auto Ballistics Chart
Comparing bullet drop at various ranges between .32 ACP and .380 Auto.
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.32 ACP vs .380 Auto Energy Comparison
Comparing the muzzle energy and energy retention at various distances between .32 ACP and .380 Auto.
.32 ACP vs .380 Auto Bullet Penetration
Comparison of estimated penetration depth in 10% ballistic gel between .32 ACP 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
.32 ACP vs .380 Auto Recoil
Comparing recoil energy and impulse between .32 ACP and .380 Auto.
.32 ACP 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
.32 ACP vs .380 Auto Velocity
Velocity decay from muzzle to 50 yards for .32 ACP and .380 Auto.
.32 ACP vs .380 Auto Average Cost
Comparing cost per round and training affordability between .32 ACP and .380 Auto.
Cheapest .32 ACP Deals
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Cheapest .380 Auto Deals
| Product | Price/RD |
|---|---|
|
$0.30
1000 rounds
|
|
|
Fiocchi .380 Auto 95gr FMJ Ammo
Sold by: Fast Ammo
|
$0.31
1000 rounds
|
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$0.31
1000 rounds
|
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