.38 Special vs .380 Auto
For those considering .38 Special vs .380 Auto as compact defensive options, understanding their ballistic differences helps inform the selection process. The .38 Special (125gr JHP at 900 fps) offers marginally higher energy, maintaining 202 ft-lbs at 50 yards compared to the .380 Auto's (90gr JHP at 1000 fps) 166 ft-lbs. The penetration advantage clearly favors the .38 Special, reaching 11.9-12.1 inches, which approaches FBI minimum standards, while the .380 Auto achieves only 8.8-9.0 inches, falling below optimal defensive parameters. The .380 Auto does provide a recoil advantage, generating 1.41 ft-lbs of recoil energy versus the .38 Special's 2.19 ft-lbs. Cost considerations favor the .380 Auto, with ammunition starting around $0.29 per round compared to $0.37 for .38 Special. Remember that performance varies considerably between different ammunition selections and firearm platforms, so these figures represent typical defensive loadings rather than definitive performance benchmarks.
Ammunition Parameters
.38 Special Parameters (Self-Defense Load)
.380 Auto Parameters (Self-Defense Load)
.38 Special vs .380 Auto Ballistics Chart
Comparing bullet drop at various ranges between .38 Special and .380 Auto.
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.38 Special vs .380 Auto Energy Comparison
Comparing the muzzle energy and energy retention at various distances between .38 Special and .380 Auto.
.38 Special vs .380 Auto Bullet Penetration
Comparison of estimated penetration depth in 10% ballistic gel between .38 Special 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
- Our penetration data is calculated using mathematical models based on sectional density, velocity, and expansion factors. While not actual gel tests, our calculations have been validated against manufacturer test data and provide reliable estimates for comparison purposes.
- Actual results may vary depending on clothing barriers and other factors
.38 Special vs .380 Auto Recoil
Comparing recoil energy and impulse between .38 Special and .380 Auto.
.38 Special 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
.38 Special vs .380 Auto Velocity
Velocity decay from muzzle to 50 yards for .38 Special and .380 Auto.
.38 Special vs .380 Auto Average Cost
Comparing cost per round and training affordability between .38 Special and .380 Auto.