It is in this regard that the .380 ACP pistol carved its niche in concealed carry, striking a fine balance between manageability and adequate stopping power. While many critics indicate that a .380 ACP doesn’t have near the punch of its larger brothers, like the 9mm and .45 ACP, proponents still praise reduced recoil and ease of use, especially with compact and subcompact designs. Here, we’ll review the top five .380 ACP pistols that stand out for their performance and reliability.
CZ Model 83 380 Auto
Even though it is discontinued, the CZ Model 83 is still a very desirable item for those interested in concealed carry. All-steel-framed guns add weight to the gun, enhancing its stability and, hence, easy handling. The pistol is very sturdy in construction, and one will seldom come across any feeding, firing, or ejecting problems with it. “This model is worth looking for at gun shows, pawn shops, and online,” says one expert, touting the enduring value of this model.
Glock G42 380 Auto Subcompact Slimline
The Glock G42 offered the most convenience and best concealability. Adding a laser sight, the Viridian Green Laser R5-G42 Reactor, easily brought about better accuracy in our shooters. “With a Viridian Green Laser on the G42, it did noticeably improve the accuracy of our shooters,” said one of the testers. It was described as perfect for user-friendliness and reliability.
Kimber Micro Carry Advocate Brown
The Kimber Micro Carry Advocate Brown features tritium-insert sights, which give it a remarkable advantage in low-light conditions. Designed much like the traditional 1911 for sturdiness and ergonomic comfort, the only drawback was its heavier trigger, which took a little more practice to get right. “The Kimber showed superior fit and finish, had tritium sights, and a spare magazine,” making it a top contender in the .380 ACP category.
Ruger LCP-C Custom No. 3740 380 Auto
A few reviewers have pointed out that the Ruger LCP-C Custom No. 3740 had a more improved trigger action and sights over the former design. “The Custom version has earned a commendation for these enhancements,” gaining high marks for changes making it worthy as a model to carry hidden.
Rock Island Armory Baby Rock No. 51912 380 Auto
The Baby Rock by Rock Island Armory is a miniaturized 1911 with a grip safety and excellent sights for its size. Benchrest accuracy and comfort while firing highly lauded this gun. “The Baby Rock is the most comfortable pistol to fire from a bench of any in this list,” he emphasized, signifying the user-friendly design and reliability.
A central idea about the .380 ACP’s appeal is lower recoil, which may make a dramatic difference in shooter control and speed for quick, on-target follow-up shots. Many find the .380 ACP has less recoil, allowing them to deliver follow-up shots more rapidly with better control overall, which is especially critical in defense. Another area that can further maximize the effectiveness of a .380 ACP pistol is making sure one has top-end self-defense ammunition on hand. Its real key is the shooter’s capability of quickness and accuracy to hit targets effectively. Thus,.380 ACP stands effective for self-defense.
Though it can’t stack up in stopping power against larger calibers in any final analysis, the .380 ACP has its redeeming features—usability and lessened recoil—that currently make it quite an attractive choice for too many concealed carry permit holders to ignore. The following top five models epitomize the most balanced performance, reliability, and manageability available from .380 ACP pistols.