.380 Auto Ammo Overview

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.

What .380 Auto Does Best

Deep Concealment

The .380 Auto excels in deep concealment applications where maximum discretion is required. The cartridge's dimensions allow for extremely compact pistol designs that can be easily concealed in pocket holsters, ankle holsters, or other non-traditional carry positions. This makes it particularly valuable as a backup weapon or for situations where larger firearms would be impractical or too conspicuous.

Recoil-Sensitive Shooters

For shooters who struggle with larger calibers due to physical limitations, arthritis, or sensitivity to recoil, the .380 Auto offers a viable defensive option. Its moderate recoil and muzzle blast allow for better shot placement and more confidence in handling the firearm. The ability to shoot accurately and maintain control of the weapon often outweighs the theoretical advantages of larger calibers.

Warm Weather Carry

During warm weather months when clothing options are limited, .380 Auto pistols provide a practical solution for concealed carry. Their small size and light weight make them ideal for carrying in light clothing while maintaining adequate defensive capability. Modern defensive ammunition has made these compact pistols more viable than ever for personal protection.

Popular Manufacturers

Premium Defense

• Hornady: Critical Defense and Custom loads
• Speer: Gold Dot defensive ammunition
• Federal: HST and Premium Personal Defense
• Winchester: PDX1 Defender and Silvertip
• Sig Sauer: V-Crown JHP

Practice Ammunition

• Federal: American Eagle and Champion
• Winchester: White Box and Target
• Remington: UMC and Range
• Sellier & Bellot: FMJ Training
• PMC: Bronze line

.380 Auto History

The .380 ACP was designed by John Moses Browning and introduced by Colt in 1908. It was created as a self-defense cartridge for early blowback-operated semi-automatic pistols. The cartridge gained widespread adoption throughout Europe, where it became known as the 9mm Kurz (9mm Short).

Throughout the 20th century, the .380 served as a popular military and police backup weapon, particularly in European countries. The famous Walther PPK, chambered in .380 Auto, became an iconic example of the compact, reliable pistol design that the cartridge enabled.

The advent of "shall issue" concealed carry laws in the United States during the 1990s and 2000s led to a resurgence in .380 Auto popularity. This renewed interest drove significant developments in both pistol design and ammunition performance, resulting in today's highly efficient pocket pistols and modern defensive loads.

Modern ammunition development has largely addressed the cartridge's traditional shortcomings, making it more viable than ever for personal defense. While still not as powerful as larger cartridges, the .380 Auto continues to serve as a practical solution for deep concealment and backup applications.