Best .380 ACP to Date? Another .380 ACP Round that Cuts the Mustard! Plus FMJ VS JHP Myths Busted

[@GunSam]

I want to share my opinion on FMJ/ball and overpenetration. I typically get a lot of comments from two sides, with one side saying that over-penetration is not a thing because there's few documented cases of a person behind the 'bad guy' struck by a bullet. Then the other side is adamant that over-penetration is likely to happen and will kill an innocent party and put you in jail. My opinion from what I do and have seen over the years is completely different. Although I don't have evidence of this, I personally believe that the 'over-penetration' standard of no more than 18" in organic gel (clear gel is similar but off by a couple inches) is there for an entirely different reason. With all of my ballistic testing, the thing that I have seen time and time again is that bullets that penetrate to near 18" but not over that, tend to 'dump' damage. Either by hollow point expansion or by tumbling. Rounds that can easily penetrate way beyond this standard, typically leave a tiny hole with very little damage. And of course, it makes sense that a larger frontal or side bullet area tearing through, will slow down faster, not penetrate as far and cause more damage. So to me, the no more than 18" penetration (about 20" in clear gel) is still an excellent standard to judge ammo by, as if they are of decent power (not .22 LR) and have expanded or yawed and came to a stop close to 18" penetration, this is just a secondary confirmation that the test did well.

[@ronolson2024]

Thanks for that info. Makes sense. Keep on speaking your mind. It's another great reason to tune into your tests. I've found all of your explanations based on both reality and testing experience.

[@ravenrise320]

To me, it's a bit more practical of an argument than anything. Simply put. Does one want every possible ounce of a given rounds F.P.E. dumped into a bad guy? And maybe extra artery, organ, and tissue damage via an expanded or fragmented bullet Or is one ok with losing bullet expansion, and some or most of a cartridges F.P.E, for the sake of MAYBE said bullet going deep enough and in the right direction, inside of a bad guys body, to MAYBE cause them to cease their activity? The ideal is both. Buy since we are dealing with handguns and cartridge producers more concerned with liability than practicality? We cant always get both from some of our favorite calibers that really could perform much better and cover most of the bases we would like covered, IF cartridge makers gave more of a damn.

[@davidw6684]

I definitely fall into the fmj/solid/penetration-is-a-good-thing camp. There are many reasons for this but frontal damage is good but hitting the spine, creating an exit hole, or going deep with a side shot are better. Tons of documented evidence shows that would channel diameter means little. Expanding ammo's main advantage is in making nastier wounds. As much of a "pro" as that is I would rather have (the chance of) incapacitation through greater blood loss via an exit would . . . and the chance to hit the spine, and better barrier penetration, and (usually) more/better reliability in a semi-auto, etc. Hollow points do have their place but you got to have the gas to drive it. Many cartridges do not or they are borderline. Anything below 9mm in a full sized pistol falls in the category for me including many 38's. Wadcutters are a good compromise and I think your previous vids show that.

[@JeffreyCotle]

If you are carrying to protect from wildlife. There is no such thing as over generation.. but for carry in the wild areas called city's. I can see where you don't want to hit a innocent person. I don't go to town and work in the forest for my job. I worry more about bear and rattlesnakes. Than I do with people. . For this fmj, hard cast. 😊😊

[@BrokenBarBox]

@@GlockPerfectionDawg speaking of running your mouth and disqualifying yourself…..

[@GunSam]

I removed a troll comment that was rude and YELLING about why I would stretch a spring, and not replace it with a Wolff spring. This is why I get irritated sometimes, as I will on some days get like 35 different people trolling me with similar stupidity. It's rather funny though, as his advice would have entailed....stopping video production, going home. Ordering a new spring, waiting a week for it. Then installing new spring....and then going back out and resuming filming the video where I left off. I know some people have good intentions, but if you have advice - have more sense than that with your advice.

[@ratagris21]

Sorry to hear the trool BS you deal with. Good course of action. You be you and be happy keep on truckin'!

[@jimatyeo]

Also to add to that knowing how to fix your weapon on the fly without other parts is super important. I might also say it is much cheaper considering you use multiple firearms as well. Plus some folks cannot buy new goodies all the time. By you explaining you fixed your problem very simply and quickly we all benefit. Except for a few people with angst. Excellent video BTW.

[@Tman2.0]

Old saying, there's one in every crowd, this day and age there's alot more than one idiot in crowd. Thanks for putting out these videos, very informative.

[@techfixr2012]

Good on you brother. Stay safe, stay alive.

[@davehoward2791]

After seeing a couple of impressive meat tests with the Fiocchi JHP’s, and testing them for reliability in my LCP, it became my EDC round when I carry my .380. Fiocchi has a winner with this one, and at less cost than the hot rod rounds that don’t always perform as well as the Fiocchi’s, it was a no-brainer. Great test Sam, thanks! 👍

[@paulkleinkramer5065]

My first handgun was a Sig Sauer 380 back in 1994. I trained with it, shot bullseye with it, carried it and reloaded for it. That 380 was my companion for a decade before I moved on to other more powerful things. Now that I'm getting older and have some arthritis in my hands, 380 sounds pretty good once again.

[@kevinrichardson8859]

Sig Sauer p230? Nothing at all wrong with a good reliable 380...and flat nose fmjs!!!!! 380...small enough to have with you at all times..no excuses..as long as it's reliable and you can shoot it accurately with speed(pluses of 380) you are good 👍

[@jason200912]

Do you get high pain from 9mm?

[@JPSamm2U]

Ditto with age and hand...at 75 I found the Ruger 380 Security to be one of the best weapons I have ever shot...The reason is low recoil stays on target and the slide is very comfortable for both older adults and women... I chose 380 for personal carry for more than 10 years now... the difference between a 9 and a 380 is almost the same size. But the weight to cary and I always carry double stacks from Bersa Pro, to Ruger Security to a 9 Hellcat .. My thing is to have at least 15, 16 or the 17 round weapon. You never know when or who you might face... for me..if I remove my weapon from the holster. .in a live situation in public not at a range.. if I remove the weapon from a holster due to a threat someone will be shot and first to shock startle and hurt second, to permanently damage and last when required will terminate..

[@painmt651]

I was a 357 guy all my life until I hit my 50s, and now I carry a 380, and sometimes a 38 special

[@Moshbearpig]

your speed and accuracy with the .380 was pure devastation on the steel

[@oldcop18]

My 1974 real world experience was with my issued revolver, a Colt DS thirty-eight. It was fired on a dark parking lot so all I saw was the suspect’s muzzle flash directed at me across the hoods of our cars. My gun had to be reloaded w/a speed loader under fire and I managed four center mass hits. The other 8 rounds went into the car close to the suspect as he moved around inside his car trying to get at me. This event is why I trust a J Frame revolver over a small .380 for personal protection. Good video Sam. Really cannot recall if I shot one handed or used both hands to grip the weapon, but your mag dump represents how I fired under the stress of a real world gunfight.

[@oldcop18]

I was incredibly lucky that night which had more to do with the outcome than skill. Our range training back then was bulls eye targets at various distances. We were never trained how to fight with a gun.

[@MilesLong556x69]

So was it the ability to shoot more accurately? Or.. I don't understand. Thank you for your service!

[@oldcop18]

Apparently I was more accurate than the guy who was shooting at me, but he did put a round in another cop just as I got there. Luck was definitely on my side that night. Hope that answers your Q.

[@gk5891]

I have an LCP that is incredibly reliable and a Colt DS 2nd Issue that never seems to go out of time. I've been very lucky I know. The LCP is always in my hip pocket if I'm clothed period. Armed or not. That has a quality of its on. My Great Grandfather survived multiple gunfights with an S&W .32 Hand Ejecter. To many people fixate on the tools.

[@timd729]

​@@gk5891 Tell us the story about your grandfather getting into multiple gun fights with a 32. How did that happen?

[@lanedexter6303]

Great test, Sam! Your observation that even a non-expanded HP beats FMJ takes me back to the 1970’s, when we didn’t have good low velocity pistol HP ammo, and Col. Cooper recommended a good hard cast SWC over FMJ.

[@Brykk]

Point shooting (instinctual shooting) is much more important, imo. Too many people practice with too much emphasis on pinpoint accuracy, when its much more important to hone your instinctual ability. I agree “aim small, miss small”, but you dont “aim” in an emergency situation, you instinctually react. As impressive as the fiocchi was here, i cant help but remember how varied the results have been with the brand overall. Thank you for another great video. It really does help me get to thinking about what it is that I prioritize when choosing ammo/calibers.

[@ElainesDomain]

For decades I thought that at 30' it was ok to shoot the bad guy. I'd go to the range and use the smallest target and just do a semi fast mag drop. No warming up first. This was with a 180 gr .40. My goal back then was to hit the paper. At 70 years old I now practice one handed. I suck but still do it.I use the large targets that have the good spots outlined. At the moment I carry an all steel .380. I don't have confidence that 1 or 2 shots is enough so I mag drop. Thank you Edward B for the ammo and Mr Sam for the tests.

[@butplug-s1k]

I have everything from .22Lr - .357 have carried all of them. The cal. I have carried the most is .380 like you been carrying for years started at age 17 am now 66 I live in the country so I can shoot at my leisure. I have made metal torso targets with pelvic area's and train to hit that as well as center mass feel very good about .380 being enough. PS my .380's are high capacity that also helps my confidence in .380.

[@tedcollins4684]

I like .380 and carry because it is easier to conceal and control. Maybe also because it was my 1st pistol caliber. I typically load fnfmj because no worry against larger targets or barrier penetration. Thank you Sam! Stay safe.

[@butplug-s1k]

Nothing but fmj-fn for me it's W white box.👍👍

[@allenbolen9705]

Those Fiocchi defense dynamics performed well. Definitely good to practice shooting from different positions! Me and some friends found out years ago 380 is easier to shoot and control. We shot 45,40, 9 mm and 380. Draw and shoot the 380 definitely stood out. I kinda like the ARX for quick follow ups. They also penetrate well. Great test!

[@Kenbur]

with my age and other things, the 380 EZ I shoot makes all the difference in my accuracy compared to the larger calibers in the past. up to 20 yards, I have become very confident I am not going to miss target with rapid fire. I was impressed with the Fiocchi ammo as I had trouble with the FMJ Fiocchi always messing up on the range so didn't even try the JHP since other brands seemed much more reliable. Now I may need to get a box and run it through my EZ to see if it will work. thanks as always for a great perspective on ammo and guns.

[@frosty0419]

I like the way you inserted the board to show bullet diameter within the target. 👍🏻

[@murrayjimm]

Yet again, another informative, no-nonsense video with great walk away information for me. Thanks.

[@gsitzkowitz]

You have touched on one of the factors that almost no one considers!!!! I started shooting timed defensive drills 2 years ago. I had a 365 9mm that I just loved but in those drills it became apparent that I couldn’t shoot the gun worth a damn in those drills. I found that with a bigger gun I was much better. Due to the cost of ammo I would occasionally mix in my Taurus TX 22 and I went from bottom of the barrel horrible to rock star!!!! In talking to the range officers that told me I needed a bigger gun. I tried a Glock 26 with a pinky attachment and was able to run those drills satisfactorily but still no where near what I could do with my 22. Last January I rented a 365-380 and was completely astounded!!! I’m so close to matching the same performance that I achieved with the 22 in my timed drills. Just last week I stepped up to running a similar drill that you demonstrated with your mag dump. No problem with the 365-380 and sorta ok with the Glock. There is something to be said for being able to dump copious amounts of lead down range with a decent degree of accuracy, thank you for saying it!!!

[@SomethingCompass]

I had a similar experience with the 365XL 9mm vs the 365-380. As somebody on KZbin said (shooting the 365-380), "It is fun to go fast."

[@talon2pro]

Not too long ago 9mm couldn't keep up with .45. Not too long ago .380 wouldn't have been trusted at all. Now, with modern loads, they are ALL much more on par. Another GREAT video Sam~!

[@kevinrichardson8859]

9mm still can't keep up with 45acp!!!! If you are speaking of 9mm +p or +p+ 9mm...then 45acp 185 grain +p & 200 grain +p 45acp must be taken into consideration...9mm is good...but it is no 45acp....technological advances were made in all calibers...not just 9mm...45acp STILL displaces and disrupts more tissue ...ie permanent wound cavitation

[@brandonnevarez8417]

Blows my mind because those same people will swear by a .38 snub nose for protection but yet look down on 380 auto even a well made reliable one, buth out those small barrels have similar effect and its all about where you strike them at and both are made for up close point shooting so there both even in my book, at 20ndeet with practice especially with 380 you can head shots with eas a 38 snub u can probly also but my experience with 2in barrel 38 snub was kinda all over the place with flyers but thats just me

[@taasch2505]

​@@brandonnevarez8417revolvers are a different skill set than semi autos. Snubbies are another subset within that skill set. You won't get good over night with a snubnose. Practice is required. Some of us have had SO MANY bad experiences with pocket autos jamming we look at them as a marketing gimmick for people not serious about self defense. "I'd rather have 5 for sure than 10 maybes"

[@eddie578]

I love the 380 for just that reason. Easy to shoot and make hits. I quit carrying my 9mm for the 380 EZ (love that gun). Making hits is what's necessary to defeat the bad guy(s). AND I'm getting older and can handle the 380 with ease. I really like your videos!

[@PatriotPaulUSA]

Yes, Thank You Sam! I just bought my 1st 380 this year, for a number of the reasons you have said. Yes I have 9mm & 45 too, but my 380 can be shot so fast and kept on target, its really something to think about in high stress situations. I know I am more accurate, and more comfortable. I shoot my 9mm pretty well but I know I can the 380 without even thinking. I Did Not buy a micro pocket pistol LCP, but chose a larger G19 size ,15+1 Ruger Security, also for because it shoots soo much better for my large size hands, The wider doublestack grip is much more comfortable too. You should check out some Atomic Ammo with Hornady's 90gr XTP's loaded in nickel plated cases, at 1100fps, if you can. I just bought a bunch because of another channels tests. Its 100FPS faster than Hornady's loading of it, and it always expanded in his testing. It comes in nice reloadeable, nickel plated cases unlike Hornady and Federal these days. Great tests and commentary, as always Gun Sam.

[@painmt651]

I think you would also really enjoy the Beretta cheetah. They have a single stack model that I think they only made for a year or so, and the more common double stack 13 rounder. They have like a 4 inch barrel, so you really get the most out of your 380 ammunition

[@erolkavlakverizon6112]

Now that most of the country is living in the temperatures sent to us from Hades..I have been carrying my Spectrum .380acp. It's lighter than my Walther PPK . I do not feel "undergunned" with my .380.. great video..

[@GunSam]

Thanks. Whenever people doubt the .380 ACP, I remind them that .32 ACP, .25 ACP and .22 LR were the historical pocket calibers back in the day and .380 ACP is a bullet as big as 9mm, .38,.357 etc.

[@jamesgray2955]

Thank you Sam. I sometimes carry a 380 due to what I'm wearing. I'm going to watch for some of the Fiocchi to have on hand.

[@alananderson5929]

Wife’s 380 EZ performance center is among the most fun guns to shoot at night with their hi viz sights. Shooting Fiocchi It does well compared to my twice the price Kimber K6. As always great vid and nice shooting, Sammy.Semper Fi🇺🇸

[@eddie578]

I really like the different aspects of defensive shooting that you test. I recently had to go to the 380 due to issues with my hands. Further, I also own the Shield EZ 380 and appreciate your use of it in your evaluations of 380 ammo. Thanks for the great videos and tests of the 380.

[@louieHuelsman]

That’s right my man can’t always choose the situation were in!!!

[@Me2Lancer]

Thank you Sam for this highly informative post on advantages of 380 ACP with spontaneous shooting and use of muscle memory. Also, appreciate the test of various types of ammos.

[@J.R.F.23]

Another great video... Thank you for posting it. When I am in a situation whereas I believe I will only have one had to shoot with; I usually carry a Ruger LCP2 "in .22LR". Yes I know .22LR is not an ideal caliber for self defense. However with 10+1 rounds of CCI Stingers; I shoot the LCP2 fast and accurate. My LCP2 is very well broken in; and functions as reliably with CCI... As any .380 pistol that I have ever shot. 22Lr recoils so lightly, it's very easy to shoot fast and accurate. Another point that I would like to add... I have a reoccurring issue with my right shoulder; and I am right handed. .22LR is the only caliber that I seem to shoot well with "off the hip", without using the sights. When my shoulder is NOT bothering me; and I feel that I will be in a situation where I can shoot with both hands... I carry Either a Bodyguard 380, a S&W 442 .38, or a Shield Plus 9mm. Most "non law enforcement" self defense shootings are usually under 4 yards; and often less than 2 yards!

[@ratagris21]

Excellent testing Sam! Thanks to Edward B for his contributions to the channel testing with ammo types. Well done both if you and thank you both for all you! Bravo! ♠️🎩🎯🇺🇸🏹

[@ronolson2024]

To me it looked like the ARX did as well as the JHP in most of the tests performed, while having less recoil than the JHP. Seems like a winner to me. Price to me would be the determining factor! Great test, and always interesting.

[@tonycolca2241]

You make a great point in a real world situation you dont rhink about sights or any thing else

[@127AFS]

Being fast and accurate is exactly why .380 is my choice of calibers for carry. I'm only satisfied with my 9mm performance if I'm using a larger handgun. The problem with that is I found a gun of that size and weight sort of cumbersome to carry at times, especially in my line of work. On the other hand, a pocket .380 like the LCP Max is a nice size to carry, but way too snappy for me to shoot well. I finally found the perfect in between size with the P365-380, and I carry it more or less every day.

[@johnochicago8457]

Very impressive tests. I might re-consider the .380 ammo. Well done Sam!!

[@DanTheWolfman]

We have a winner! NorthwoodsTesting has done multiple shots through 4 layer Organic Gel & 4 layer clear ballistics from lcp and 42...the 42 seems to get expansion Organic gel...the lcp probably 50/50...no expansion in the less dense Clear Gel...but good penetration numbers all around. If they feed in ur gun reliably...which 50 rounds gives u enough to test and load one or two for carry I'd use these Fiocchi

[@GunSam]

I am really surprised how the Fiocchi JHP in .380 ACP and 9mm did as well as the best of the mainstream brands variants. I wouldn't say they are as good due to lack of sealant and bullet bonding, but that being said...I think most people could afford to just buy 1,000 round bricks of Fiocchi JHP ammo and just practice with it and carry it, rotate fresh carry ammo every few months.

[@hoffpbass]

Love the 4 or 5 shot dump exercise.

[@davidlee8551]

Good theories & good tests of theories!

[@DaveTalks985]

Excellent video, love you Gun Sam.

[@louieHuelsman]

Gun Sam and the Real World!!!!!!!!!

[@techfixr2012]

I have a RIA .380, but I have a Star BM too. Both are secondary to my Smith M10.

[@CARMONAJOE]

I have a Taurus .380 mini revolver that I can't wait to shoot. I EDC a Glock 42 and also have a P365 in .380, a baby RIA 1911 in .380, my EZ Performance Center and the Hi-Point 3895 carbine in .380. All smooth like butter, fun to shoot and train with.

[@stuartmarkman769]

I agree that in a situation where time is important, you dont have time too get a perfect sight picture but too go with the muscle memory and fire in the direction of the threat before the threat can fire at you. Great video and I do carry a 380EZ or a 9mm EZ.

[@leewitte4700]

My favorite video of yours and I've seen a couple dozen. I have carried 32, 380, 9mm & 357. Settled on 380 for most of the time, but still carry 32 and 9mm based on seasonal clothing choices. I agree, the 380 is pretty effortless, fast and intuitive. 9mm and up takes more concentration and physical effort. I had 45 ACP early on and switched to 9mm. Now pretty much settled on 380 for the reasons you highlight here.

[@eddie578]

Great evaluations. Glad I found your channel. Good common sense approach. I had to go to the .380 for carry due to hand issues and I couldn't believe, as you pointed out, just how much better my hit ratio is. Keep up the good work.

[@myvenusheeler]

Several years ago I bought a large supply of the old Fiocchi nickel plated Extrema's, which are loaded with the XTP 90 grain due to the old Shooting the Bull KZbin test of .380 ammo. It has never once malfunctioned in either of my LCP's. Hopefully they wil count if the chips are down.

[@macriggland6526]

I suspect they still load XTPs. I would pick up a case of 1000 if I had a chance. The nickel plated 124 grain 9mm XTPs are a good balance of performance and price, but I only load them up into a duty sized gun.

[@myvenusheeler]

@@macriggland6526 According to Fiocchi's site they are still loaded with the XTP 90 grain. I suspect it's the same as the Extrema but without the nickel case.

[@thomastune776]

I love the 380. Thanks for the review/demo.

[@Brykk]

This really rekindles my thoughts on how much i wonder about flat point bullets over fmj.

[@MilesLong556x69]

I carry flat nose fmj in my 380, with 2 backup mags and another gun 😂

[@charlesmudd9834]

★ ABSOLUTELY great test. It spoke! Will be looking for some of that ammo. I've got some of fiocci's fmj I've never ran (yet), but that hp round looks like a winner. Much appreciated, G.S., ...Thank you.

[@someguy325es]

The whole point of these medium size 380's like the shield is for people that have low hand strength and recoil sensitivity so that ARX round looks like it could be the ideal balance for a lot of people. Great test.

[@celticfriar1129]

Really helps me to better know what ammo to use in my 380's thanks.

[@MDformernavalperson]

A well-done test and evaluation! 380 ACP has often been considered questionable for defense in the U.S., despite its long term use by police and military in Europe. Perhaps this is because we are the home of the .45 long Colt, the .45 ACP, and the 44 mag.? However, Greg Ellefritz's study of the effectiveness of multiple calibers showed that there was little real difference between .380, 38 special, 9mm, and 40 S&W. Your "real world" shooting protocol is consistent with the findings of the NYPD analyses of police-involved shootings, wherein a significant proportion of the officers could not remember whether or not they actually saw their sights when firing. A good quality medium-sized 380 semiauto, such as the Beretta 80 series, or the CZ 83, provides low recoil, rapid firing rate, and reasonable capacity, all of which contribute to an increased probability of effective hits. The caliber is not the best for police use due to many factors that are not often relevant to civilians (need for barrier penetration, requirements to actually apprehend a perpetrator, dealing with barricade situations, storming a drug house, etc.). But for most of us, in most situations, it seems to be adequate.

[@freddiemansky7102]

as always good presentation i can tell you put a lot of work in to your videos and i thank you for it!

[@frankhinkle5772]

This is an interesting and practical test. I have shot one handed while holding my 25lbs. range bag in my weak-hand to simulate holding back or protecting another person. The Fiocchi Training Dynamics 95 grn JHP did pretty good! Impressive.

[@warbuzzard7167]

This was really well produced. Thanks for your efforts.

[@toolmakerbest1584]

Thanks Sam! Never thought I'd think so, but the EZ sounds pretty good to me, finely!

[@guardianminifarm8005]

Very good information, details, demo & perspective. Thanks a bundle.

[@bitdancer1005]

Well done! I appreciated your thinking and approach. The .380 ACP round may be the most well rounded cartridge for personal defense.

[@NoFuxLeft2Give]

As always, intelligent considerations & realistic & honest testing! So; I saw a vid where Hornady American Gunner XTP performed excellently in some testing. Was done on Northwoods Testing channel. Now, you've really got me thinking (always a dangerous endeavor)...do I maybe see a Beretta Cheetah in my future...? Lol

[@motorosso3349]

I have .45, 9mm, 380 ACP, .22 Mag and .22LR semi-auto pistols. The most accurate is the .22LR in fast fire situations so the best compromise for me has always been 380 ACP (to get self-defense ballistics). Actually, my .45 caliber (Sig P220) with RDO is pretty good too but takes longer to get back on target.

[@chrisgabbert658]

👍😊🎯 it’s manageable.

[@davidca96]

I carry 68gr xtreme defenders in my G42, they will usually cause more damage than an fmj and the damage ismt possibly blunted by any clothes vs. a hollowpoint in this round. Just my personal choice, especially in Michigan where half the gear people have a lot of layers on and id rather know the round will do what its supposed to more reliably. I only usually carry 380 in the summer though, but you get my point darnit.

[@joegoetz8884]

Ol’ John Browning knew what he was doing, when he designed the 380.

[@Caveman01384]

I’m 76 and shoot At targets printed on standard paper even my misses hit the paper 10 rounds in 10 seconds 10 yards love the 380 EZ

[@randyduncan795]

Great performance from a Fiocci JHP?! I note that the FMJ didn't jam with either mag but the JHP did. I suspect few of us would carry a 380 of that size given all the micro 9s available. But the mousegun is easily carried in denied areas. I've been keeping a JHP in the LCP's chamber followed by FMJ although the phillips screwdriver bullets also seem to perform well and haven't jammed yet. I'd like to fire a few hundred of them before trusting their reliability. Thank you for the great testing!

[@GunSam]

I used FMJ in one magazine and JHP in the other. When I messed with the magazine, I never got another jam.

[@bobcatforever3485]

GS. Good video. Another look at some interesting ammo. Thanks for sharing and take care.

[@Saintbow]

Love the results! But man, you're killing me on my choice of what weapon to buy. Been debating on buying a .380 weapon for my CCW or going with traditional 9mm micro or a .38 snubby/3 incher. Your data on the .380 and .38 special really makes me consider this caliber for self defense.

[@TumescentPuma]

LCP Max Love mine

[@dangerman007]

I would like to see if the 90 grain JHP would expand in the 2.5-inch barrel.

[@ChuckTruitt]

Yes, good stuff! -Gunny T sends

[@Nono-rh4lr]

Why I got the Ruger Security 380. Fast quick shooting nice to see

[@terryfowler6090]

My edc is a ppks .380. Loaded with fmjs. Nuff said 😊

[@sylviacandler5541]

I think that it is a shame that a Keith Style wad cutter in 100g is not made for the 380 ACp as the Keith Style of Wad cutter creates a lot of hydraulic shock. Buffalo Bore ammo rules in the 380 and with my rugers, I exchanged the factory spring for the 14 lb recoil spring so I would not tear the pistol up with the Buffalo bore ammo. Never forget that you may have to shoot through heavy clothing in the Winter. Love your video's Gun Sam!

[@weirdshibainu]

Almost talking myself into getting rid of my 9mm edc and moving to .380

[@johnhale9686]

I've been watching you and your latest love affair with the 380 EZ. I've been shooting my 380EZ for a couple years , people tell me it doesn't have any penetration my comment is , shoot FMJ. You have to get the rounds on target first . Your shooting ability shows that 100% Hot rounds in my pistol like +p I have issues with feeding ,its also mentioned in the owners manual. I load my 95 grain bullets to about 900 FPS , 90 grain to about 950-1000. It feeds a lot better. My Browning Black Lable doesn't care it shoots everything.

[@jeffbrund]

I carry Underwood Extreme Defender or Black Hills Honey Badgers (Bullets made by Lehigh) in my 380. They are barrier blind when shot through denim etc. Best ammo out there…..for me anyway 👍

[@black_dog_barks]

Debate for me ended after shooting the Glock 43X....the perfect carry gun...no snap.... great GRIP.

[@joshuabriggs7114]

Very interesting! Thanks Sam!

[@mx5ish]

Another awesome review and video Sam!

[@GunSam]

Thank you

[@jimsanders4412]

WOW!! You've just given me a whole lot to think (re-think??) about!! My current EDC is a Taurus G3C (which I really-really like!) loaded with 124 grain Federal HSTs. Love this round, love the way it shoots, however...now, thinking about real-world scenarios (and, truthfully, we all should), and the possibility of needing multiple rounds downrange quickly, I'm starting to think that 10 hits with a good .380 would probably be better than, say, 2 hits with my 9mm. I own both a LCP Max, and a Ruger Security .380, and have put MANY rounds through each with zero issues (yes, I've heard the stories of problems with both, but personally I've experienced none with either). I just got my new Alien Gear Cloak-Tuck 3.5 for my Taurus, but I wonder how my Security .380 will fit(??) Probably not even close!!🤔😄

[@cliffknoebel8528]

Interesting results on that fiocci, im going to pick a few boxes up myself now. Side note it kinda looks like s&w has you a little spoiled on rapid fire lol. I recently discovered I need to use my equinox if I try shooting 9mm fast as possible if I'm trying to get anything remotely close to matching my m&ps.

[@kfsrmn]

The Shield EZ is almost identical to the 9mm Glock 43X in size. I have the G48 which has a longer barrel. The 9mm Norma NXD 65 grain which is very similar to the 9mm ARX lowers the recoil considerably and is my carry ammo when I have a semi auto.. The Glocks come with a 10 round mag and PSA has a flush 15 round mag that fits the 43X and 48. The 380 mouse guns with their under 3" barrels had too many ammo problems. The ARX might be the cure. I have been trying to find some 38 spl ARX locally to try but no luck.

[@louieHuelsman]

Hey Gun Sam did u build the Jug or Not your self?!?!( Always wondered??!?!!!,!?

[@GunSam]

Yes, I build all of the wood items I use from 2x4's. I'm not that skilled, just basic wood cuts and screws.

[@boilerroomed3682]

Have you tried the Hornady "Critical Defense" .380 with the ballistic tip? Paul Harrell tried and liked it on the 'meat target'. The HP didn't clog up with cloth and expanded nicely with decent penetration, etc. However, it ain't cheap...

[@propdoctor21564]

Another excellent video as always... My only issue is it would be nice to see more tests with the LCP which I think more people and myself included are more inclined to be carrying if they decide to carry a 380. If I'm going to carry something as large as the EZ pistol then I will be carrying a similar size 9mm.

[@GunSam]

I did dozens of tests with it, non stop for so long that everyone asked I go bigger. Plus for whatever reason, my viewers obsessively hyperfocus. If I get one malfunction in a video, the entire video comment section becomes about that and nothing else. I got LCP jams in every video. I would suggest looking at my LCP videos as they outnumber the videos I done with the EZ 10/1.

[@propdoctor21564]

@@GunSam okay man thanks for the reply... I've got a LCP and a Smith bodyguard which is what I will carry if I need anything smaller than my Ruger LC9 or Kahr CW9

[@dominiscus]

I know its been said before, but i totally agree you your practice in different weird positions, as well as firing without trying to get a perfect soght picture. In the real world, you probably wont have time for that, let alone will you even be thinking about it. Thats actually why I particularly like 380; the recoil is so manageable that its so much easier to throw rounds on target in a real world scenario. And like you said, the confidence i have in myself knowing i can do that is HUGE compared to my confidence with 9mm.

[@True-word74]

I will always take fmj over hollow point the more penetration the better

[@danielaramburo7648]

Good test. I carry on my 380 Barnes.

[@tonycolca2241]

Your videos are very good real world good info. Thanks

[@ctsnider88]

I enjoyed this test.

[@3Pillers]

👍 would like to see a flat nose 380 tested. Winchester white box.

[@GunSam]

Filed 7/7/23

[@ejsocci2630]

Another great video, thanks

[@ziggy5687]

I have the 380 EZ too and of 4 mags I got one that will stove pipe pretty much every time

[@duaneridings6591]

great video Sam

[@FauxAmis78]

Excellent testing parameters

[@btyhntr]

Underwood extreme defender+p in 380 paired with my bersa thunder edc. Perfect match.

[@brandonsballing826]

At 11:04 it shows how the little .380 expands to .50 caliber (0.5 inches diameter). This is why .380 HP outperforms even .45 FMJ.

[@brandonsballing826]

Also at 23:04 it shows an 8rnd mag dump of 9mm, only 3 hitting, yet all 8 rounds of .380 hit. 8 rounds of .380 is more energy than 3 rounds of 9mm. Don't be arrogant and think you have better aim than this firearms expert, he likely has better aim than you with more training.

[@taasch2505]

If the jhp expands. And then a 45 jhp will be about double the diameter anyways. No matter what a .45 is still a .45

[@oldguy9972]

Discovered your channel a couple years ago and have been a fan ever since. Thanks for your time and effort showing how guns and ammo work in real life. Regarding the over penetration producing fatal results on a second person issue - can you do a test with FMJ ammo and then move the second gel block back 12" and repeat the test to see if the "air gap" changes the depth of penetration ? Thanks for your good work.

[@GunSam]

I did this before kzbin.info/www/bejne/mWi0h5ughdiFfNU

[@GunSam]

this one was better kzbin.info/www/bejne/iobGpJRrrcebsJY

[@The177Hunter]

6:32 did you not notice it when you were loading the mag or did it tear the case as the gun tried to chamber the round?

[@GunSam]

no

[@NoFuxLeft2Give]

So, just an update: I mentioned before that i saw a vid in which the hornady american gunner .380 90 gr xtp did well; as it were, just viewed another in which both that round & the crit def ftx failed to expand through 4 layers of heavy denim into gel, fired from an lcp. Seems like .380 can be a wild card. Based on your testing , which i think includes the most realistic variables, though, if (when?) I get a .380, i'd go with that fiocchi.

[@natjonestower3035]

Probably need to bend the feed lips on the mag a bit. I've had to do that with half of the 380 magazines I've ever owned, they need to be precise. I started where you did, stretching the mag springs. Didn't do it. I just held a good mag up to problem mag and scrutinized the angles and whatnot until I saw the differences, adjusted accordingly. Maybe I just got lucky, but it worked.

[@rezlogan4787]

Through many years of extensive ballistics research I’ve determined that a handgun shooting at least .355 diameter projectiles moving at least 1,000 feet per second and pushing at least 200 foot pounds is the point of diminishing returns. That amount of power WILL be effective and bigger badder handgun cartridges will be only marginally more effective. With that considered, it makes perfect sense to me to pick the most comfortable gun/caliber combination above that floor. .380 is a legitimate choice along with .38 special, 9 mm, and every other faster moving .38.

[@phxamigo]

I'll take a flat nose fmj in .380 all day over a .380 hp. The "over penetration" argument, in my opinion is overblown. Recently retired LE, In all the shootings I have responded to , I have yet to see a case of "over penetration" where an innocent party was injured or killed. Not saying it can't happen, but in a self defense situation I would rather have a round that penetrates sufficiently, especially with so many variables, such as types of clothing, size of intended target, barriers, such as "cell phones, wallets" contained in clothing, etc, etc.

[@GunSam]

I mean, a flat nose FMJ could penetrate 32" of gel easily. Most protocols would say that's not a good thing because it's not doing a lot of damage along the way.

[@zigbeegooblesnort125]

Precision One makes a .380 using XTP bullets that aces the FBI protocols.

[@sidneywhite749]

Often wondered where to keep my gun handy when in the suv.

[@daleweller5193]

The military went to flat nose Fmj , but I have never seen them for civilian use.