.380 Auto vs .40 S&W
Part of our full caliber comparison chart — energy, drop and recoil for every handgun caliber side by side.
The .380 Auto vs .40 S&W comparison illustrates the tradeoff between concealability and terminal performance. The .40 S&W (165gr JHP at 1175 fps) delivers 413 ft-lbs at 50 yards compared to the .380 Auto's (90gr JHP at 1000 fps) 166 ft-lbs. Penetration shows a stark difference: the .40 S&W reaches 14.9-15.3 inches, meeting FBI standards, while the .380 Auto manages only 8.8-9.0 inches. The .380 Auto's advantage is recoil at just 1.41 ft-lbs versus the .40 S&W's 5.94 ft-lbs. Pocket pistols chambered in .380 offer deep concealment where a full-size .40 S&W would print.
Ammunition Parameters
.380 Auto Parameters (Self-Defense Load)
.40 S&W Parameters (Self-Defense Load)
.380 Auto vs .40 S&W Ballistics Chart
Comparing bullet drop at various ranges between .380 Auto and .40 S&W.
Try Our Ballistics Calculators
Want to calculate exact trajectories for these calibers with your specific loads?
.380 Auto vs .40 S&W Energy Comparison
Comparing the muzzle energy and energy retention at various distances between .380 Auto and .40 S&W.
.380 Auto vs .40 S&W Bullet Penetration
Comparison of estimated penetration depth in 10% ballistic gel between .380 Auto and .40 S&W 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
.380 Auto vs .40 S&W Recoil
Comparing recoil energy and impulse between .380 Auto and .40 S&W.
.380 Auto Recoil (Self-Defense Load)
.40 S&W 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
.380 Auto vs .40 S&W Velocity
Velocity decay from muzzle to 50 yards for .380 Auto and .40 S&W.
.380 Auto vs .40 S&W Average Cost
Comparing cost per round and training affordability between .380 Auto and .40 S&W.
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
|
|
$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.