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.380 Ammo Overview

The .380 ACP cartridge, introduced in 1908 by Colt, is a compact pistol cartridge designed for self-defense and concealed carry. It balances manageable recoil with sufficient stopping power for close-range encounters. Today, .380 ammo remains popular among personal defense users and backup firearm enthusiasts.

Why Choose .380 Ammo

Light recoil suitable for new and sensitive shooters
Compact size fits easily in small pistols
Widely available with many bullet options
Effective for close-range self-defense scenarios
Compatible with numerous handgun models

Key Variants

FMJ 380 ACP — Full metal jacket rounds for practice and target shooting.

JHP 380 ACP — Jacketed hollow points optimized for personal defense.

+P 380 ACP — Higher pressure rounds offering increased velocity and energy.

Competitor Comparison Table

Feature	.380 Ammo	9mm Luger	.32 ACP
Typical MSRP	$15–$30 per 50 rounds	$20–$35 per 50 rounds	$12–$25 per 50 rounds
Velocity (fps)	~950–1,000	~1,200–1,300	~900–950
Energy (ft-lb)	190–200	350–400	150–160
Typical Use	Concealed carry, self-defense	Duty, self-defense, competition	Concealed carry, training
Recoil	Low to moderate	Moderate	Low
Availability	Very common	Extremely common	Fairly common

Best Use Cases

Concealed carry and personal defense
Backup handgun use
Short-range home defense
Training and target practice
Lightweight carry for sensitive shooters

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use .380 ammo in all .380 pistols?

Yes, .380 ACP ammo is standardized and fits all firearms chambered in .380 ACP, but always consult your firearm's manual for compatibility.

What is the typical velocity of .380 ammo?

Most .380 ACP rounds travel around 950 to 1,000 feet per second, depending on load and bullet type.

How does .380 compare to 9mm Luger in power?

.380 ACP generally has less velocity and energy than 9mm Luger, making it softer shooting but less powerful for stopping threats.

380 AMMO for Sale