Best .380 Auto Ammo
Compare loads for defense, target, competition & more
The .380 Auto (Automatic Colt Pistol), also known as 9mm Kurz or 9x17mm, represents a balance between power and concealability. Developed by John Moses Browning in 1908, this cartridge has seen renewed popularity in the modern concealed carry era. Its moderate power and low recoil make it particularly suitable for ultra-compact pistols and backup weapons.
While not as powerful as larger defensive cartridges, modern ammunition development has significantly enhanced the .380's capabilities. The cartridge's enduring appeal lies in its ability to be chambered in extremely compact, lightweight pistols that excel in deep concealment roles. For those prioritizing ease of carry and shootability over absolute power, the .380 Auto offers a viable compromise.
All .380 Auto Loads
Compare ballistics and prices across 8 products
| PRODUCT ↕ | GRAIN ↕ | VELOCITY ↕ | ENERGY ↕ | BC ↕ | USE CASE ↕ | BEST PRICE ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Ammo Inc Streak .380 Auto 100gr TMC Green Ammo
100gr
• 890 fps
• Target & Range
|
100gr | 890 | 176 | .095 | Target & Range | $0.43/rd |
|
Ammo Inc Streak .380 Auto 100gr TMC Red Ammo
100gr
• 890 fps
• Target & Range
|
100gr | 890 | 176 | .095 | Target & Range | $0.44/rd |
|
Fiocchi .380 Auto 95gr FMJ Ammo
95gr
• 960 fps
• Target & Range
|
95gr | 960 | 194 | .077 | Target & Range | $0.36/rd |
|
PMC Bronze .380 Auto 90gr FMJ Ammo
90gr
• 961 fps
• Target & Range
|
90gr | 961 | 185 | .1 | Target & Range | $0.36/rd |
|
PPU .380 Auto 94gr FMJ Ammo
94gr
• 951 fps
• Target & Range
|
94gr | 951 | 191 | .08 | Target & Range | $0.36/rd |
|
Remington UMC .380 ACP 95gr FMJ Ammo
95gr
• 955 fps
• Target & Range
|
95gr | 955 | 192 | .077 | Target & Range | $0.32/rd |
|
SinterFire .380 Auto 75gr FMJ Lead-Free Ammo
75gr
• 1025 fps
• Target & Range
|
75gr | 1025 | 166 | .085 | Target & Range | $0.61/rd |
|
Winchester USA .380 ACP 95gr FMJ Ammo
95gr
• 955 fps
• Target & Range
|
95gr | 955 | 190 | .082 | Target & Range | $0.38/rd |
.380 Auto Trajectory Calculator
Calculate drop, velocity, and energy at any range
Advantages and Disadvantages
Pros
- Minimal recoil for easy shot placement
- Allows for very compact pistol designs
- Good option for recoil-sensitive shooters
- Modern defensive loads are effective
- Lightweight pistols are easy to carry
Cons
- Less powerful than larger defensive cartridges
- Limited penetration with some loads
- More expensive than 9mm ammunition
- Shorter effective range
- Small pistols can be harder to shoot well