.380 Auto vs 9mm Luger

Comparing the .380 Auto vs 9mm Luger cartridges reveals why the 9mm has become the more dominant defensive option despite the .380's popularity for compact pistols. The 9mm Luger (124gr JHP at 1201 fps) generates substantially more energy, maintaining 337 ft-lbs at 50 yards compared to the .380 Auto's (90gr JHP at 1000 fps) 166 ft-lbs. This energy difference directly impacts penetration performance, with the 9mm achieving 14.7-15.0 inches of penetration, well within FBI-recommended standards, while the .380 Auto reaches only 8.8-9.0 inches, falling below optimal defensive parameters. Recoil management favors the .380 Auto significantly, generating just 1.41 ft-lbs of recoil energy versus the 9mm's 3.84 ft-lbs. Cost considerations slightly favor the 9mm, with ammunition starting around $0.20 per round compared to $0.29 for .380 Auto. Remember that performance varies considerably with different ammunition selections and firearm platforms, so these figures represent typical defensive loadings rather than definitive performance benchmarks.

Ammunition Parameters

.380 Auto Parameters (Self-Defense Load)

Bullet Type:
JHP
Bullet Weight:
90 grains
Muzzle Velocity:
1000 fps
Ballistic Coefficient:
0.099
Zero Range:
25 yards
Drag Function:
G1
Sight Height:
0.5 inches

9mm Luger Parameters (Self-Defense Load)

Bullet Type:
JHP
Bullet Weight:
124 grains
Muzzle Velocity:
1201 fps
Ballistic Coefficient:
0.196
Zero Range:
25 yards
Drag Function:
G1
Sight Height:
0.5 inches

.380 Auto vs 9mm Luger Ballistics Chart

Comparing bullet drop at various ranges between .380 Auto and 9mm Luger.

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.380 Auto vs 9mm Luger Energy Comparison

Comparing the muzzle energy and energy retention at various distances between .380 Auto and 9mm Luger.

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.380 Auto vs 9mm Luger Bullet Penetration

Comparison of estimated penetration depth in 10% ballistic gel between .380 Auto and 9mm Luger at self-defense distances.

Self-Defense Ammunition Penetration

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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

.380 Auto vs 9mm Luger Recoil

Comparing recoil energy and impulse between .380 Auto and 9mm Luger.

.380 Auto Recoil (Self-Defense Load)

Bullet Weight:
90.0 gr
Bullet Velocity:
1000.0 fps
Powder Charge:
3.1 gr
Firearm Weight:
2.5 lbs
Recoil Impulse:
0.47 lbs·sec
Recoil Velocity:
6.03 fps
Recoil Energy:
1.41 ft·lbf

9mm Luger Recoil (Self-Defense Load)

Bullet Weight:
124.0 gr
Bullet Velocity:
1201.0 fps
Powder Charge:
5 gr
Firearm Weight:
2.5 lbs
Recoil Impulse:
0.77 lbs·sec
Recoil Velocity:
9.94 fps
Recoil Energy:
3.84 ft·lbf
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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 9mm Luger Velocity

Velocity decay from muzzle to 50 yards for .380 Auto and 9mm Luger.

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.380 Auto vs 9mm Luger Average Cost

Comparing cost per round and training affordability between .380 Auto and 9mm Luger.

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