Should You Carry A .380 For Self Defense?

[@dannyhale7645]

I'm a retired paramedic. In my experience treating gunshot wounds, caliber is a lot less important that shot placement. I've seen people die from one shot from a 22 LR. I've also seen people survive wounds from larger calibers, like 7.62x39.

[@echo_research_and_development]

While that may be accurate, it is not so helpful in practical terms, because no person saying that I know of so far was a Robocop capable of targeting and hitting a specific organ.

[@dannyhale7645]

@@echo_research_and_development , yes and no. I've targeted and hit deer through the heart. My son took his first deer with a perfect heart shot from 250 yards with a 223. On the other hand, those deer weren't trying to kill us. Making an accurate shot on another human being who is intent on killing you has to be more difficult than I can imagine. There was a pack of wild dogs that came around a house where I lived in the '90s. One day I fired a shot near them to scare them away. A German shepherd from the pack came after me, in a dead run. I didn't have time to make it back into the house before he got to me. So I had to shoot. I couldn't aim well. I was too nervous. So I emptied my 30 round magazine. He was hit, and ran off, but I didn't hit him well enough to drop him in his tracks. I can't imagine how much harder that would be if it were a person with a weapon. I hope I never find out. I'm sure that training makes it less difficult, but it would never be easy.

[@ralphholiman7401]

Same experience I had with 28 years of law enforcement. We had an informant who was shot 16 times with an AK47 and lived. We had another woman shot six times in the chest with a .357 who lived. But, we also had a case where a hooker shot a john with a .25 and he died very quickly. Bullet placement is 98 per cent of what a bullet will actually do.

[@dannyhale7645]

@@ralphholiman7401 , I had a guy who was shot in the head with an SKS and lived. It was a ricochet off a tree, and it was a FMJ load. It hit him beside the eye and lodged under the skin. Last I heard, they thought he might lose his vision in the affected eye, but that was it. I also had a boy who's parents let him shoot a malfunctioning 22 rifle, unsupervised. There was some kind of problem with the action. As he was coming back inside, the stock bumped against the door frame, causing the gun to fire. Hit him in the head. We had two ambulances respond, so he had two medics working on him. We worked our butts off, but we lost him. I had another SKS GSW. Some idiot tried to shoot a woman in a drive by. Hit her toddler daughter in the foot. I also worked another call with multiple victims shot by a 22. Crazy exboyfriend went to his ex's house and started shooting. Hit her in the head. She was DOA. Her daughter took one to the stomach and survived. I treated the new boyfriend. We put him on a helicopter to a trauma center with multiple GSWs to his junk and his pelvic area.

[@echo_research_and_development]

@@ralphholiman7401 It appears that you are over-genralizing based on anecdotes by saying it is 98% bullet placement. Let me ask you this. Would carry a 25ACP, saying, "This is all I need. Since, I can always hit a mid brain or upper spinal cord."? 22 LR, even 380 ACP can skid off a skull when a shooter made a head shot. Also, there are multiple gun fights where medical examinder determined that a thig received multiple fatal shots and the thug still fought on anyway, causing a lot of damage before collapsing. Only place where a stop is guaranteed is mid brain or upper spinal cord. 1. No one is a robocop who can always hit those areas. 2. Even if someone is a robocop, stuff like 25ACP may not even reach the area, even with perfect aim.

[@hernanmarin3904]

I trust the .380...I've been a LEO for over 20 years. Back in 1998, I left my house around 6 pm to go to work and left my wife and 3 years old son back at the house. Around midnight two men broke into my house and my wife used one of my guns, a .380 and shot both guys. That .380 saved both my wife's and son's lives. So, a well placed shot from any caliber will do the job.

[@pablitoperez9109]

Did it drop the guys tho? Or did they choose to run away and not fight? The important question is after application of the 380 did the perpetrators still have options for make a decision. Bc even if they ran away they still had the option to make a choice.

[@ryanthomas2374]

@@pablitoperez9109 is your point to drop the guy did where he stands or stop the threat? 380 will do both.

[@christianjensen3182]

I am in possession of a gun my (now late) neighbor used in self defense about 18 years ago. It is still zip tied in the police evidence box, exactly how it was returned to him a year after the event. The box is label with "death investigation" as the perp. was deceased on scene. What caliber was it you ask? 32acp.

[@jasonhohman7702]

I misread and thought you said a .380 saved both your wives! I thought "daaaaamn, ya polygamist!" LOL! That reminds me of a saying... Behind every man who supports gun control is a wife with a boyfriend!

[@Me2Lancer]

When I was in the 6th grade I got a reality check about 22 LR. A neighbor friend was changing seats in the family vehicle. When he did, a 22 LR discharged and killed him instantly. Enough said.

[@karenstein8261]

A few things to remember: -- The gun you have beats the gun you left at home; -- Only hits count; -- No gun is perfect for every situation; -- You only get to take a life to save a life.

[@timd8088]

The day I got my pistol permit, my uncle told me “A .22 in your pocket is better than a .45 in the safe”. After taking a few pistol training courses, one of my instructors said in one of the courses, when asked what caliber is a good self defense round… “I’ve yet to meet a person who said they’ve had to draw for personal protection, and have the threat stop and ask what caliber that gun is.”

[@Dunecoone]

Its not about what the threat thinks of my caliber choice. You're to care that your choice of caliber can do the job. 🤡

[@costaplenty7482]

My 2 cents, if you are competent with firearms the smallest gun to carry would be the lcp max and not a 22lr.

[@ManDuderGuy]

@@Dunecoone Couple things though: what most often "stops" an attacker is a psychological effect ("my victim is fighting back, a gun is pointed at me, there's a loud noise, I feel the pain from being shot"); again it's psychological too, not purely physical. And if that don't work, shot placement is gonna be more important than cartridge, generally speaking.

[@spartanx169x]

@@Dunecoone for civilians not cops, but for civilians , 95 times out of 100 1 shot of anything is going to end the situation, such as home invasion and parking lot attacks. They are not going to stick around for a gunfight. For cops, and Convenience store robberies thats different. But generally when bullets fly people scramble.

[@Dunecoone]

@@spartanx169x agreed. Still doesn't mean ANY violent criminal is going to stop and wonder what caliber you have. 🤡

[@Ms_Tex]

"As much as I love guns, I'm not going to let them dictate my entire lifestyle." AMEN!

[@CC-te5zf]

I met an old man at a gun shop many years ago. The discussion of the best carry caliber came up. I'll never forget what he said: Any gun is an attitude changer. In other words, most bad guys don't expect to encounter someone with a gun. Even a .25 auto can be effective. Any time a bad guy gets a gun pointed at him, it changes the game back to your favor. So, it's not the caliber - it's the guy with the gun.

[@ara2805]

In the 1970s at a biker bar in Fontana, California, a fight broke out. One Hell's Angel drew a .25 pistol and shot another Hell's Angel. The target raised his arm as the gun came up and his leathers stopped the bullet cracking his ulna. The wounded target then disarmed the shooter and beat him to death with his own gun. "Never shoot a man with a .25 Auto. It may lead to violence." ~ Col. Jeff Cooper, USMC combat pistol instructor

[@CC-te5zf]

@@ara2805 And never go to a biker bar. Lol!

[@terrykeever3280]

In the late 80s when I first started learning about firearms, I read about a woman driving a taxi that was raped by a customer. She had a cheap .25 acp like a Raven or Titan (I think it was a city where carrying was illegal). He had her in the back seat and was proceeding to rape her before she was able to get it out and use it. She put all 5 or 6 rounds of ball ammo into his chest. He completed his act before he bled out. She should have put it in his ear. Shot placement is extremely important for smaller calibers. There are now some much better performing .25 acp rounds. Mas Ayoob wrote an article around this time titled "Friends don't let friends carry mouse guns". One quote I still remember was about it being a little better than a sharp stick.

[@ara2805]

@@CC-te5zf Where else can a biker go?

[@CC-te5zf]

@@ara2805 True! I was joking of course!

[@GraybeardWithUncommonSense]

Hey, remember that a .380 is also known as the 9mm short. It’s a 9mm with a little less powder, and easy, easy, EASY to conceal.

[@michaelweymouth4015]

Good show. I’ve seen a video of police statistics with one shot stop guns used to stop assaults. .380 and up stops the assailant with one shot, smaller calibers may take two or more, so .380 is good and controllable with small print. Plus as he said it’s still a 9mm short round just 20+/- grains lighter than 9mm. Get some.

[@adamschaeffer4057]

@@michaelweymouth4015 If it has been good enough for the British secret service it's good enough for me

[@kagyu1]

I reload 9 mm and once every thousand or two rounds a piece of .380 brass slips in, I usually only catch it when setting the bullet, because it won't set. It's identical to 9mm except for length.

[@imsosticky5447]

9x17 vs 9x19

[@kilowhiskey7973]

@@adamschaeffer4057 I mean, the Israeli Mossad used .22’s to kill those involved in the Israeli Olympic ski team executions. The Israelis have also formally fielded the .50 DE as well. This doesn’t *always* make it practical, but they sure got the job done. Hell. The US used the .38 for quite sometime until we realized it couldn’t kill Filipino insurgents that were high on drugs- which lead to the adoption of the .45 1911.

[@ToledoPitbull]

ATTENTION ALL LADIES!!!! DO NOT CARRY YOUR FIREARM IN YOUR PURSE! If you do your asking to have your weapon being passed from criminal to criminal after a criminal robs you for your purse. A good rule of thumb is ALWAYS carry your firearm on your person!

[@outwardpeak1764]

THANK YOU FOR SAYING IT!

[@iamkyleclimer]

Facts!

[@WHO-xi4zp]

Also purses get really dirty and you don’t want that in you’re gun. I remember hearing some guys mom spilled stuff on her purse and for months after the gun was unknowingly rusted shut.

[@outwardpeak1764]

@@Joe.dirt7909 ... Your front bumper isn't even on anymore.. check yourself woman

[@Dajokerboy101]

My great grandma used to keep hers in her breast area. She didn't play no shit

[@MarkedInBlack]

My Uncle carried a 380 for as long as I can remember. I used to think it was a dinky round because I grew up with 45’s and 357 magnums. Though I love those calibers, I find myself using a 380 for everyday edc. It’s just small and light enough to not interfere with my normal clothing and lifestyle, and it’s something I always have with me and not just in the vehicle or off body in a shoulder bag. My Uncle knew what he was doing and it took me 30 years to understand why.

[@thomasdeebel6695]

Look at Underwood ammo, they have very serious 380 rounds.

[@WalterJohnson-er7bt]

@@MarkedInBlack I imagine your uncle was an old combat veteran as a I am. We know these bad encounters 99 percent of the time happen in the 10 or 15 yard range. Generally little or no advance warning or you would not be there. So you need a comfortable physical sized weapon that doesn’t weigh a ton. It needs controls that are intuitive and fall immediately to hand. You should handle and practice with it until every move and action is automatically a natural reaction. Odds are you will be forced to shoot one handed because of range and need to put lead on target fast. So practice one handed and don’t forget to practice reloading. Under these scenarios you don’t need a cannon! You want light, fast and fit your hand and body weapon. Always fire 3 rounds straight into center chest fast. Practice on three targets at a time like you have three attackers. Never more than 3 because if you have more than three armed attackers you will have been shot by then. Having been shot myself, you may or may not be incapacitated. So continue the fight as they will. If you have done as instructed, you will die knowing that you took at least three of them with you to hell.

[@MarkedInBlack]

@ Korea. He always has his Llama 380, an ice pick w/ modified grip, and a pouch of ground cayenne pepper powder to throw in someone’s eyes. He was crazy, but it a fun way and took no 💩 from anyone. He ended up with Mesothelioma from the war and passed away in 1995. He was my favorite uncle.

[@WalterJohnson-er7bt]

@@MarkedInBlack So sorry to hear another of America’s fine warriors has met his fate. I done two tours in Vietnam and one tour in the 5K zone in Germany. A man is never the same after experiencing real direct fire, being hit and bagging dead friends. So some of us may seem a little odd to regular people.

[@davewattles7237]

You sir, are making far too much sense in today's world to suit many people; good job!!

[@DHEAD_EYE]

sad but true

[@johnnymccann5607]

There are times and places a good compact 380 or smaller calibers is going to get you home . my Taurus spectra 380 is so lite I can walk around the house all day in my PJs, a forget it's in my pocket , I don't worry about over penitration with this gun . nanna and papa

[@terryjarvis6544]

Being a firearms instructor and having a Marine Corps background. I tell all my students to pick a firearm that they are comfortable with and don't get hung up on the caliber size. Because it comes down to shoot placement, not size.

[@KEPSAGAMER]

Thank you... "the right shot does the right job" an arrow could kill an elephant... will the gun WORK when you really need it to WORK.... if so can YOU make it WORK.... those are the most important things in a bad situation...

[@mi777ke777]

.380 has been taking down things since the early 1900's. Its been through wars and then fell out of favor to 9mm. Its a great round for self defense.

[@ak47monster49]

Everyone says carry the biggest gun you can I disagree. By their logic we should all carry a 50bmg. I carry/ use different guns for different purposes. This is my pocket carry/ everyday. No complaints does it shoot a 12 gauge slug no. But it will get me and my family out of a sticky situation.

[@ibelieveitcauseiseentit9630]

@@ak47monster49 unless your opponent has a 45.

[@markurbancowboy]

@@ibelieveitcauseiseentit9630 A 380 or small gun is just as good as a large one. If you get the drop on the person or you are a better shot. Lol this is funny from a movie "Get Shorty". Fast forward ahead to 1:24. kzbin.info/www/bejne/hWSUo3WPpr6eq7M

[@KSSBG]

@@ibelieveitcauseiseentit9630 then it would depend on aim

[@ara2805]

@@KSSBG Placement has little to do with stopping power. A .380 center mass can stop a target eventually if the target is not wearing body armor. A large caliber projectile, regardless of FPS, will inflict severe hydrostatic shock even against Class IV armor allowing for a second kill shot.

[@guruthossindarin3563]

What I love about a little 380 and a pocket holster is that you can covertly put your hands on your weapon when you're unsure if it's needed.

[@ChrisfromGeorgia]

Excellent point.👍

[@Blooming_blossomm]

Awesome Point.

[@Z0mb3hHunt3r]

:) absolutely! it offends noone and can be especially effective against armed muggers/robbers, especially if you take advantage of OODA.

[@mrca2004]

Just like the knife I carried in my pocket when I lived in a non ccw state. When the threat was spotted, hand was ON the knife ready to switch off the safety. On 2 occasions, the sound of the safety being clicked off sent the aggressor running. Unlike waist band carry where you have to lift shirt and reach for the gun, I already have my hand on it and am ready to draw. It is faster than reaching and lifting shirt so the minimal time to rack the empty chamber is as fast and appendix draw without rack.

[@jerryorange5140]

I appreciate that you speak plain truth. I have different guns that I carry at different times for different reasons. My running errands gun when I'm out by myself is a .380. When I'm on security duty at my church it's a .357 or .45 1911. If I'm teaching new shooters I start them on .22 revolver and work them up to whatever their goal is.

[@maxmelber5878]

Wow that's the third most fuddy thing I've ever read

[@bluetankman1]

As a veteran police officer or over 30 years, I've pretty much have carried a firearm in the states daily. I have several, in several calibers and the one that I use as my "mail box gun" is the Kel-Tec .380 that has a metal clip mounted on the side. This weapon is also used as my athletic shorts gun, because I can clip inside my shorts without the fear of it falling out. Thanks, for this informative video and keep up the good work.

[@myblacklab7]

As long as it's made in the USA, it's OK by me. I still think a Ruger might do better, but I could be wrong.

[@JohnnyOnion-jz7tf]

about those metal clips...do you have a good one in mind? Im very tempted to try one out, but no clue which ones to trust.

[@ImmaSaveUFromMe]

I say carry the largest round you can control and shoot accurately. If that's a .22 so be it. Although of course there is something to be said about capacity. I think that's why so many including myself love 9mm.

[@BrassBashers]

I told my mom this, she's been so to the point of getting a gun for years but has yet to do so yet. Finally told her a few months ago "Look here is a big, lightweight, minimal-recoil, reliable .22 you can learn to shoot easily and has 15 rounds. If they stick around after the first couple just send 15 their way, they'll get the message!"

[@gabriel08607]

@@BrassBashers hopefully she gets it soon then. I’d rather her get it now than become another statistic of “I’ve always put off buying a gun until I became a victim of a crime”

[@nitewatchman1576]

My small weapon, I just put in my pocket with a holster. It's great, a LC9s with two spare mags.

[@charlie6629]

I'm small and carry a Sig .380 although my go to is a Sig .45. That's magic in my hands. Super accurate with it. It fits me perfectly.

[@derrickjohnson5368]

22 is lethal because your follow up Shots will be right on target with minimal recoil

[@devilsadvocate22289]

As a photographer, I always follow Rule 1 of photography: “The best camera is the one you have with you.” This same rule also applies nicely to concealed carry and self defense, imo.

[@chrissewell1608]

The best camera, is the one that shoots bullets too!

[@anonymouslee2083]

In both cases, having something to shoot with is better than having nothing to shoot with lol

[@DAVE_WHITE]

nope it is practice if you can not draw and hit a target in 2 seconds leave it home

[@marcusaherrera]

I'm a photographer too, completely agree

[@ralphholiman7401]

And, like with a camera, the more you practice with it, the better you are with a gun. Better a .380 that you practice with constantly, than anything else you carry that you hardly ever shoot.

[@jayduke6148]

I have a 22, 380, 9mm. My preference is the 380. Guns don't kill. It's the type of bullet that does the damage. Over the past few years, several top quality 380 personal defense rounds have been developed. The WILL get the job done.

[@Combat556]

You are correct. I use Buffalo Bore ammo in my Sig P232 380.

[@that1electrician]

I have a Sig P238 and I absolutely love it. It's a dead-straight shooter, easy to handle, super easy to conceal. 7+1 with the extended pinky grip magazines. I love it. And I wouldn't want to be shot with Speer Gold Dot HP .380s!

[@KonaLife]

Just got one myself. I absolutely love it, too. I just wish .380 ammo wasn’t so expensive.

[@RoyalWulffDry]

Same here love it. Amazing accuracy. Even put some nice g10 grips on it.

[@micahjones6557]

A .380 is perfectly fine for concealed carry. I’m so tired of hearing people say that it isn’t good enough. That is total ignorance about the caliber. There are some really good .380 self defense rounds these days.

[@Brett235]

A good test is to go to your local grocery store and buy a cheap out of date ham with the bone in it and shoot it. I know from doing that test that the .380 with regular hollow point ammunition does a lot of permanent cavity damage up to 12 inches from 10 feet.

[@ManDuderGuy]

I don't even judge people who choose .22LR. If that's the right thing for them, then ok good. Hell of a lot better than nothing, especially if they like the gun and shoot it well.

[@ManDuderGuy]

@@brentharrington8134 Seriously. It's like people have forgotten the basics: It's very loud. People know it's deadly. It's a chunk of lead moving at very high speed that can kill you from quite a distance..... But noooooo that's not good enough for the mall ninjas; "hurrrrr durrrr I got a Desert Eagle with 3 reloads, concealed, every day, yep; gotta be ready for Thanos in case he shows up." Sure ya do champ, sure ya do lol.

[@ralphholiman7401]

@@brentharrington8134 , exactly. In real life, no one wants to be shot with anything. I was in law enforcement for 28 years. .22''s have killed a boat load of people. I can promise that when we were about to hit a drug house, if someone had said, "Don't worry. All he has is a .22," no one would have said, "Oh, why didn't you say so, hell, let's take these hot ballistic vests off, he's only got a .22. "

[@edgardeese]

Grab some cavitating ammo - Lehigh Defense - and it's plenty.

[@marksneedly7365]

I just bought a S&W Bodyguard .380. I'm pleasantly surprised by how accurate it is. A 3 inch group at 10 yards is a lot better than I expected.

[@Jim-oo7dk]

Interesting. I didn't know they still sold those. So you can live with the trigger? I like the looks of them.

[@marksneedly7365]

@@Jim-oo7dk A chambered double action is worth more than an unchambered single. And I'm not about to walk around with a chambered single in my pocket. The trigger serves its purpose.

[@bobhilker8921]

Carry mine everywhere and been doing so for years. Feels weird if I don't have it with me. Kinda like not wearing your watch if you wear one daily.

[@benhogan6675]

I used to carry that gun until the mags starting popping out while firing. Sent it to S&W to have the grip body replaced and couple hundred rounds later it started again. It sucks too because I really wanted to love that gun but I can't trust it so that gun has been retired and replaced with a Glock 42.

[@benhogan6675]

@@Jim-oo7dk the trigger isn't made for competition, it's a carry gun that you can put in your pocket or purse and not have to worry about negligent discharge. And if you are in a self defense situation, your adrenaline will kick in and you won't even think about that trigger pull.

[@rdm1000]

I'm old enough to remember when both the cops and the bad guys regularly carried 32s and 38s, and managed to kill each other just fine. They will kill, even if there is a better and more efficient caliber available. You are using the gun for self defense, and it will do its job in that regard. I have yet to meet a 9mm and larger caliber snob who is willing to volunteer getting shot in the chest with a .380. It is not going to bounce off his chest, or his face. It is a deadly weapon. And let's be clear. Our goal is not to kill someone. We are better than they are. Our goal is to stop a deadly assault where we, our family, friends, or just other good citizens are in need of protection. .380 will do the job. It may not be and EDC for most of us. But there are situation as Colion notes when it is the right weapon for the situation. And it is a perfectly acceptable caliber.

[@thebigfellar7178]

You sound like the perfect victim. I don't shoot to wound , I shoot to kill . I personally know a guy who shot a home intruder , who was robbing him , in his house. He didn't kill him ,as you said he wounded him . That guy ended up suing him from prison , and guess what the robber won. The guy lost his home , his life savings , everything he owned. He ended up , living with his brother in his basement . Homeowners only covers a certain amount . Had he killed him , none of that would have happened , dead men tell no tales. Ask any lawyer you know or any police officer , betcha a $100 dollars they tell you exactly what I just told you!!!! And why would anyone carry a 380 ? When you can get a 9,38,357 , etc the same exact size. Stupid people give stupid advice. In Va. by ""law"" you're required to flee your home if an intruder is inside. ""Not shoot them"" Crazy huh. Peace.

[@doughesson]

@@thebigfellar7178 Go ahead & say that"I only shoot to kill" when you're in the courtroom after shooting a criminal. Good luck with that. You better think that self defense plan all the way through.

[@thebigfellar7178]

@@brentharrington8134 Ask a police officer or a judge in confidence . See what they tell you. You ever notice most shooting victims of police die ??? Check out the stats Mr. knows it all , I think you will be shocked. There's a reason most die. Police get sued too. Ever follow the Israeli news .they always say the subject was neutralized. that means killed in English. There's a reason for that too. Getting clearer ???

[@thebigfellar7178]

@@doughesson If you had bothered to read my comment concerning how I thought Mr. Noir was wrong you would of seen ""I said I would tell everyone I was terrified afraid for my life etc. and that's what I would tell everyone . Judge ,jurors ,lawyers etc. But my victim would never draw another breath.

[@doughesson]

@@thebigfellar7178 And that's why you will be looking at murder charges. You shoot to stop the attack, not necessarily to kill your assailant. If he dies as a result of being shot multiple times, you are left with the cold comfort that you didn't get out of bed that morning intending to kill anyone.

[@dertythegrower]

Respect. And respect to anyone listening, self defense is key.

[@AngryGnome87]

Self-defense, with a weapon? Weak

[@Itsloco314]

@@AngryGnome87 So when you have to defend yourself against someone who has a gun then what?

[@AngryGnome87]

@@Itsloco314 never needed to 🤷

[@AngryGnome87]

@@Itsloco314 because where I live, you use a weapon you are weak

[@thomashoctor8687]

@@Itsloco314 He would open up his hands to show his empty palms and say in a low and menacing voice, " I am not weak!" Then he'd get shot in the face but hey at least he isn't weak.

[@tinman8972]

Here in Florida, where tee shirts and light shorts are de rigeur, I've found the best concealable compromise is one of the .380 mouse guns that can be kept in a friction-style pocket holster. Even the smallest nines outline.

[@raywite6665]

A Kahr CM9 suits me, just about as small with a little for punch.

[@Desperado3248]

Whoever coined the term mouse gun was an idiot who never fired a shot in a gun fight. Whenever I hear someone utter this stupid phraseI offer them a simple challenge. Shoot yourself in the chest twice groin twice and then one in the head. Oddly none accept. I have carried a 380 frequently, and have no doubt that at self defense range it will do the job.

[@jamesbarnes8854]

I have a Kel-Tec P32 as my suit/basketball shorts gun. I carry a bodyguard 380 the rest of the time.

[@iwrite61]

For quick trips, I carry a S&W M&P Bodyguard 380. People complain about the trigger, but I like the revolver style pull weight for pocket holster carry. And there’s double strike capability.

[@1968CudaGuy]

Yes!! I love my little M&P Bodyguard for short and quick trips to the grocery store, going to get gas, and other errands where I'm in shorts or sweatpants and a pullover or hoodie.

[@dcwaku]

Same here.

[@donf3877]

For the 380... it all comes down to two things: barrel length and ammo selection. Paul Harrell has had several videos on this subject on his channel. Ammo that is great for a 3.5" barrel... might not expand at all with a 2.5" barrel. And, ammo that is great for a 2.5" barrel might not be so good for a 3.5" barrel. ANYONE that wants to carry a 380 (or ANY hand or long gun for that matter) should check out his channel. EVERYTHING he does is done with ZERO bias for any caliber or any gun manufacturer or any ammo manufacturer (well... except for the stockless 12 gauge POS shotgun).

[@pbc1951]

Can't say for sure, but I'll bet 1 shot from a 380 will change somebodys mind real quick !!

[@harrisong5023]

I’ll have to check it out. Been wanting a Ruger LCPII lately for a pocket gun. Already have two 9’s, but they’re too bulky for a lot of the summer activities I do.

[@Macc504]

I use hollow points

[@donf3877]

@@Macc504 And, some hollow point ammo had zero expansion out of shorter barrels due to the slower velocity out of the barrel (the reason for handgun caliber carbines... much higher velocity from the much longer barrel). It looked just like cheap full metal jacket range ammo after being shot. No mushrooming at all, which is the whole purpose of hollow point. The tip mushrooms out causing a bigger wound cavity and stops the round inside the body instead of blowing out the back and possibly hitting someone else in the process. So, it did not perform even close to as suggested by the manufacturer. And, out of longer barrels some hollow point ammo disintegrated on impact. Not much good either. Check out Paul Harrell's three part video series "Concealed carry .380 ACP ammo selection". It was a REAL eye opener for me. The top brand expensive ammo I had been carrying in my shorter barrel .380 was CRAP. I might as well have been carrying it with my cheap range ammo. Paul Harrell uses what he calls a "meat target", instead of ballistic gel. It simulates a body much better. T-shirt fabric, followed by pork ribs, followed by a watermelon or oranges or something like that to simulate lungs, followed by more pork ribs, followed another layer of t-shirt, followed by several layers of fleece. And, he shows the damage each type of round inflicts on each section of the target, and what stopped the round. I even switched out my 9mm ammo, after watching his video on that caliber as well. Out of my full size 4.5 inch barrel... my old ammo went completely through the meat target and out the back. NOT what you want to happen. It could very easily wound an innocent bystander behind the intended target. Again, that is the purpose of hollow point and the reason the police use them. To eliminate, or greatly reduce, the possibility of wounding someone behind the criminal.

[@supraman221989]

After watching his video I did end up switching my carry ammo I love Paul's channel

[@Jaden48108]

I own a Ruger LCP .380 with built in laser sights. In the summer it's about the only thing I carry. In the winter with heavier clothing on my go to is the Glock 26. Both fit my needs which are minimal. So I'm with you about not getting wrapped around the axle over gun choices as long as they are reliable and fit your lifestyle. The only thing I would caution against is ladies shouldn't carry guns in their purses, when purse snatching is a common thing. Now you're empowering criminal purse snatchers who get the purse and the gun. There are better ways to conceal.

[@floridareedsreviews]

It really is true: The perfect gun for self-defense is the one that you will carry, that you are comfortable with, and that you will use.

[@reallyitsbrit]

.380 is the perfect size for me to carry. I’m very small so I want to carry something small enough that it’s not uncomfortable on my hip. Also, I can control it and I am very accurate with it. Love my .380. Edit: also, little kick back is a plus

[@javiervalenzuela8284]

It's a good caliber. I use a bersa, it has enough heft to really give you minimal recoil and they sell lasers that turn on by completing the circuit which makes follow up shots a breeze when combined. You could go for a higher caliber but it will be harder on the follow up shots especially at range which is already an issue due to size of a conceal carry. It just makes more sense, to me at least, to use 380 as a conceal carry caliber especially for defensive purposes where it's all about speed while maintining as much accuracy as possible.

[@kevinh891]

I carry a .380 and have for decades. I run Underwood ammo in it. It will work just fine. It goes with me pretty much everywhere. In colder weather I carry my 1911 in.45acp. But the .380 is my primary carry for all the same reasons you mentioned. Small size, super reliable, and easy to toss in a pocket. You have no reason to leave it home...

[@diplexnormal3353]

Hell yeah. Hey, I know this reply’s late but do you have any advice about concealing as a lean person? I weigh like 135 pounds and I own a Ruger EC9S, it’s a great handgun and have shot hundreds out of it, I’ve been thinking of concealing and I live in a permit-less state as they changed that law about 4 years ago. You got any tips?

[@kevinh891]

@@diplexnormal3353 Basically any inside the pants holster is a good option. Position is a matter of preference mostly. Like most of us. You will end up with a drawer full of holsters. Experiment a little and you will find what works for you...

[@jacktribble5253]

From 1989 to 1992 I actually carried a .380 full time. I was stationed in a kind of rough place, violence was a daily thing and I ended up using it three times over about four years. It had a 100% success rate. I never even had to fire it in those situations but it saved my ass at least three times and probably more. There are no reliable stats on the criminals who changed their mind at the last minute. Great video.

[@MercuryRyzen]

Not to be argumentative, but what you just said could be summed up as 'The fact I had a gun and drew it, stopped the threat of an attack/mugging/violent act.' Which is far better than having to shoot and or kill someone (far less mental and financial stress). However, the fact you carried a .380 means diddly, could have been a realistic b.b. gun if you never shot it. And no, Im not advocating anyone carries a pellet gun. Not all aggressors turn tail at the sight of a firearm.

[@thisismagacountry1318]

So you allowed 3 criminals to saunter off to create more crimes. Good job. Would you like a half caff soy latte for your safe space?

[@samrumade9429]

I have only had to draw a gun one time.long story,I’ll try to keep short. I just purchased a red hawk,44 mag. Came home from lgs,went in house.looking over new gun, a strange vehicle drove in driveway,two people got out,one stayed by vehicle,other came to door. I had gun in right hand ,behind my leg,opened inside door,to tell them not welcome.to leave. By that,he opened storm door,I raised gun to his nose,very unpolitely told him where to go and when to get there. By this,the lookout by the vehicle backed out of drive leaving his accomplice. He stopped about a half block away,told first perp he better haul ass and catch up to him! He did. Now..here’s the kicker to this whole deal…the gun was unloaded…had no ammo for it yet. Proved to me the point that a weapon is a deterrent to crime.

[@demetriuscooksey7147]

@@thisismagacountry1318 that's a pretty harsh criticism for something you didn't witness first hand. So if a show of force is enough to stop the threat, are YOU suggesting he shoot the guy anyway? With even remedial training you know that levels of threat change and you need to have the basic common sense to change your level of response with that threat.

[@thisismagacountry1318]

@@demetriuscooksey7147 Coddling criminals is not a good look

[@dboy6400]

Agree with the 380 being adequate. For over 10 years I've had a Bersa Thunder CC in my pocket. No muss no fuss, and definitely will stop a bad guy.

[@outlawgamingrp]

I have the same one. It fits nicely in a small upper pocket of a jacket

[@d.y.h.w.]

I have the same gun. 🙂

[@preacherF-15]

How many bad guys have you shot with it?

[@bigress4300]

Have u ever used it to shoot anyone?

[@mikedkc]

Great job getting the message across quickly and effectively. A .380 pocket pistol isn’t all that fun at the range, but one might just come in handy at a critical moment. Subbed.

[@BrassBashers]

My buddy, who usually carries a .25 in his pocket, states "It's better than throwing rocks!" I would have to agree on that. Plus loud noises make thugs shit their pants

[@smokingcrab2290]

I had a raven 25. If it wasn't for the terrible safety, I would have carried it.

[@swaghauler8334]

I wish lehigh defense would make an extreme penetrator in .25 ACP. IF they can get a .32 ACP to hit 13" of penetration, they should be able to get a 35grn .25 ACP to do the same.

[@shoelessbandit1581]

@@smokingcrab2290 those raven 25s are better than they have any right to be. I don't carry mine but I know it's reliable

[@sicilianlibertarian8417]

A small pocket sub-.380 pistol in the pocket is better than nothing.

[@babybuddha7921]

Excellent video! My daughter at 18 began her concealled carry with a 380,felt more comfortable in her car door a 9mm hellcat, a 20 guage shotgun in her room and multi Ruger (over Smith & Wesson) Ar- 15’s to protect our property with 6 german sheppards being home while I work as a truck driver. Thank our Constitution for choices. God Bless America! And YOU my friend.👍😎

[@ebsmokymtn9445]

.380's were the caliber of choice for many LEO's in Europe for a long time. And, like my Sig P238, many are extremely easy to rack (I know, I do keep one in the chamber, though) & get lead down-range & on target. Oh, and they're really easy to dress around, thus easy to always have on me.

[@709Zulu]

An excellent, question to talk about. I've always said a hit with a .22, is better than a miss with a .44

[@datingzoner3968]

MAKE YOUR CHOICE NOW beautyzone.cam/Anggeline PRETTY GIRLS FOR A DATE ⬆️⬆️ tricks I do not know Megan: "Hotter" Hopi: "Sweeter" Joonie: "Cooler" Yoongi: "Butter So with toy and his tricks, do not read it to him that he writes well mamon there are only to laugh for a while and not be sad and stressed because of the hard life that is lived today. Köz karaş: '' Taŋ kaldım '' Erinder: '' Sezimdüü '' Jılmayuu: '' Tattuuraak '' Dene: '' Muzdak '' Jizn, kak krasivaya melodiya, tolko pesni pereputalis. Aç köz arstan Bul ukmuştuuday ısık kün bolçu, jana arstan abdan açka bolgon. Uyunan çıgıp, tigi jer-jerdi izdedi. Al kiçinekey koyondu wins taba algan. Al bir az oylonboy koyondu karmadı. '' Bul koyon menin kursagımdı toyguza albayt '' dep oylodu arstan. Arstan koyondu öltüröyün dep jatkanda, bir kiyik tigi tarapka çurkadı. Arstan aç köz bolup kaldı. Kiçine koyondu emes, çoŋ kiyikti jegen jakşı dep oylodu. # 垃圾 They are one of the best concerts, you can not go but just seeing them from the screen, I know it was surprising 💗❤️💌💘

[@charlie6629]

Can't carry a .22 in California. Dumb ass laws

[@narutobroken]

Charlie everything is illegal there. Can't even have small engines like generators anymore.

[@Medevil9908]

Got the Ruger LCP. I've been consistent in carrying it for years. Just slip it in the pocket and you're good to go. I haven't changed anything about my lifestyle. I used to carry a heavy 1911 but I found that I'm more likely to consistently carry the LCP as opposed to the 1911. It's just so much lighter and smaller making it more convenient than anything else I've found.

[@davidgoodnow269]

Yup, got the Ruger ARX ammo for an aunt. These days, marketed as Interceptor. .380 ammo optimized for the Ruger LCP!

[@jasonmeyers5849]

Same, I pocket-carry my LCP when walking the dog late at night.

[@scotch1993]

My LCP Max won’t stop jamming.

[@jasonmeyers5849]

@@scotch1993 My LCP II has Jammed from day one (bought it new). Failure to feed, regardless of ammo type. So it's kind of a single shot carry. Lol I'll look into it one of these days...

[@level-III]

I have the same LCP first gen. Thing runs like a champion and it's not bad at 10 yards.

[@nickliberto6583]

I like the .380 for a lot of reasons. The design of hollow points today is such that this caliber will tear up a lot of flesh and penetrate enough to do serious damage. There is a trade off because to be effectively concealed, the weapon must be small. A short barrel may reduce the speed of the bullet and the target might not be stopped. But again, three or four well place rounds will generally stop most assailants.

[@anthonybizzell3857]

You might want to look at penetration tests when a hollow-point round is fired through denim. That's how the FBI evaluates effectiveness. The hollow point of the round is filled with the material and fails to expand. That is true for most all calibers. I'm interested in how effective a self-defense round is after penetrating winter wear before contacting flesh.

[@adamterrandos9319]

​@@anthonybizzell3857 Well, I wouldn't say the FBI is wrong, but the standards use a theory that differs from popular concepts. Let's not forget that the Feds once thought to 9x19 was nearly useless. They convinced a whole lot of people that this was golden measure. Without going into detail, I had a GSW from a 9mm +P JHP. Then later, used a Micro Compact in self-defense. In both instances, the calibers did enough of what they needed to. Penetration, even just the hypothetical 12-dozen inches, is gilding the lily. Defensive do a lot of "fuck you up" as soon as contact is made, let alone plowing a hole through tissue and bone, or Winter clothing. Preparing for all contingencies isn't a bad idea, but I regret any sleep that I lost over it. Modern bullet are devastating. It's not just a pin hole for an owie. It's not a barn door hole, either. Likewise, it's not just a love tap. Movies are probably a major culprit. Writers and Actors that never have shot or been shot, imagining what it's like to shoot or get shot. In two word: Totally sucks. We hear a lot of bullshit about attackers being on booze/pills. That may slow the effects of some bullet holes, but it doesn't make them bulletproof and invincible. It just means you need to move away until it catches up to them, and they bleed on your rug, or whatever. Imagine being hit by a stabbing bicycle (because it really doesn't take much to be burt really bad). Take a cartridge or casing from your favorite gun. Go to the mirror and old the point to your chest. Even if the bullet doesn't deform or expand, that is the minimum you'd be hit with. Then add them mass with velocity for energy. People images themselves a tank. But, that bullet is probably not going to bounce off harmlessly. Industrial Accidents can be a good example. Crime Scene photos if you can get them. Humans aren't thick sheets of paper or gelatin blocks. It's a good test for its purposes, but it's not golden. Some people survive, many don't.

[@derekstevenson56]

That was the theory behind the Hornady Critical Defence with the HTX i think wich allows the round to expand instead being clogged with material​@anthonybizzell3857

[@patriothippie5881]

Good video ! A reliable .380 with modern ammo Isn't anything to scoff at and I still haven't found a single person willing to stand in front of one

[@sicilianlibertarian8417]

Exactly. I carry a .32ACP. People huff and puff about it, but I have not found any volunteers to stand in front of one either.

[@danielswartz6818]

I appreciate your constant defense of the second amendment and every time I see you on the internet I make sure I watch your presentation. Truly an intelligent man. May God bless.

[@mikewilliams6086]

As a NZ citizen I would never have considered carrying a self defence weapon before covid. Now after our nuts government started handing out money to the gangs im now scared of what could happen one day out shopping. Robberies and shootings have become common place in out cities while the perpetrators get away. I understand you a lot more America

[@2katkitty]

My first firearm instructor said that if a gun doesn’t feel right to you, it is not going to be the right one. Everyone is so obsessed with 9mm, but the gun that felt right to me was the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield EZ .380.

[@unokitsune]

Love that gun and how easy it is to load. The ammo cost and scarcity though makes me frown.

[@DarthPoyner]

My wife adores hers. And I even use it occasionally. Hell, it had me buying the 9mm version of it for a car carry. I carry larger pistols for EDC. Big hands and all.

[@Persuasian338]

You made a good choice. My household has 3. Pretty much everyone besides myself.

[@greyscout01]

Agree with that.

[@edanthony7091]

100% agree with this. My go to gun is a .380 glock because of how slim it is. Then a G26.

[@Roadking26]

The ammo for a 380 has improved dramatically. It is basically a 9mm short. Your have the 9mm parabelum that is 9x19. The Makarov is 9x18, and the 380 is 9x17 same size bullet, and the loadings that have come out lately have to very good ballistics. Sometime I carry my lcp max with a 12 round mag, and an extra mag. That's 24 rounds. I feel very safe with it. Sometimes I carry my glock 26 with a 17 round mag, and a stock 12 round, or my glock 30 with 2 stock mags. I feel safe with any of them. I have bigger pistols, but those are my main carries.

[@JustTheTip556]

It literally is a 9mm short. That's actually an official name for this caliber in some places. .380 is great though. I carry 9mm too but I like that .380 has less recoil but still packs a punch unlike .22, .32acp

[@zoobrizz]

So much overkill I have to question your abilities.

[@mblake0420]

@@zoobrizz 😆 never enough ammo

[@christophermarkee5445]

What do you think of 38 Special plus p as a defensive round.

[@morecarstuff]

bro we literally twinning lol. with the 26 i can comfortable appendix it with the 17, and sometimes i just want to "forget" i got something on me, in terms of comfortability, that's where the max comes in. love this max, 12 rd mag just perfect. the max very smooth.

[@wayartio]

The 380 was a standard military carry round since 1910. Many armies used it and is in common use today. Ammo improvements have nade it an ideal CCW round. No one laughs at the 380 nowadays. A great caliber for women and deep conceal. It will be around for a long time.

[@jimv.661]

I've carried my KelTek P3AT every day for 19 years. Will group inside 4" all the time at 7 yds. Made my first pocket holster for it in under a minute from boot leather and a stapler. Worked great. Covered the imprint, covered the trigger, and always stayed in the pocket. Later I got fancy and made the same but with a couple of rivets rather than the staples.

[@goldenone8622]

I recently swapped out my Sig P238 for a P365X Romeozero. From a CCW standpoint, the P238 was ideal. Just as you said in the video, I wear form fitting clothing and I could conceal the .380 in shorts and a t-shirt. I swapped it out for to the P365X for 3 reasons. The first is capacity. P238 is 6+1, P365X is 12+1. The second reason is standardization of ammo. I ditched .380, .40 and .357 Sig and all my pistols are now 9mm. The final reason is the red dot. Overall, the P365X isn't much bigger than the P238, but it has so many more features that it was a no Brainer. Point of all this is not to take away from the .380 at all. The .380 is absolutely capable of self defense and you're absolutely right with your presentation in this video. Keep up the good fight Colion!

[@chrisn5527]

Remember,NO one wants to get shot, no matter what caliber!

[@tonyv8925]

The .380 (9 x 17 Kurz) is basically a "get off me" cartridge. Accurate and powerful up to about 7 yards. Beyond that I would think that the 9 x 19 would be a better choice. I am a senior citizen, with arthritis, so it is difficult for me to rack the slide on 9mm and the recoil makes it hard for me to hang onto the pistol after a shot. At 7 yards I can put all 7 rounds into a 2.5" square and that is just fine for me. Thank you for sharing this video.

[@Somethingfishyinc]

Look at the sw ez performance 9m or 380. Very easy to rack slide and shoot.

[@Ripskiis]

Smith & Wesson "EZ" series is perfect for you. I could rack the slide with my thumb and pinky. They're truly "EZ" to use. All the way around.

[@Ripskiis]

With the EZ line from Smith & Wesson, there's also a tab to pull down the follower making loading the mags incredibly easy as well.

[@Subtlenimbus]

Of course 9x19 is more powerful, but a 380 will retain a lot of its energy well past 7 yards. The accuracy will be determined by the gun, not the cartridge. I shoot steel at 25 yards with my lcp max, and it still hits it hard enough.

[@dannydevito2275]

I have seen some self defense stats that seem to show .380 acp is pretty comparable to 9mm in effectiveness

[@Joe.dirt7909]

Yes, low powered 9mm….but not in higher grain 9mm

[@donf3877]

@@Joe.dirt7909 I cut and pasted my overall comment for your reply: For the 380... it all comes down to two things: barrel length and ammo selection. Paul Harrell has had several videos on this subject on his channel. Ammo that is great for a 3.5" barrel... might not expand at all with a 2.5" barrel. And, ammo that is great for a 2.5" barrel might not be so good for a 3.5" barrel. ANYONE that wants to carry a 380 (or ANY hand or long gun for that matter) should check out his channel. EVERYTHING he does is done with ZERO bias for any caliber or any gun manufacturer or any ammo manufacturer (well... except for the cheap stockless 12 gauge POS shotgun) Paul explained that, when the 380 became popular... many ammo manufacturers just shoved their 9mm round into a 380 case. He has shot many many 380 rounds that show ZERO expansion from ANY 380 regardless of barrel length. There wasn't enough powder to get sufficient speed to cause expansion. But, the manufacturers have, well SOME have, changed that. And, using the correct ammo for a barrel length, the 380 is every bit as effective as a 9mm. 22LR or 25 or 32 or 38 or 9mm or 10mm or 357 mag or 44 mag or 45... the gun that is MOST effective is the one you can carry EVERYDAY and are comfortable firing. I ride a mobility scooter, so my "fight or flee" ain't a flee at all and is all fight. This make me what you would call, a "perfect target". I carry a 13+1 45ACP in a shoulder holster under the sports coat I always wear... but I also have a 14+1 380 in the outside waist pocket of the coat (I firmly believe in having as many rounds as available!!!). I am comfortable shooting both, and most importantly have a less than one second draw to first accurate shot on target with a distance of seven meters (21 feet). Will the 45ACP stop someone better than my 380... probably. BUT, I am NOT going to give up either one. And, I ALWAYS train using a three round rapid fire burst. I saw a chart from the FBI a long time ago on the ability of one round disabling an attacker enough to end the engagement. ALL calibers, from 22LR up through 45ACP, had LESS than a 17% chance of a single shot ending an engagement. ALWAYS train using a three round burst!!!!!!!!!

[@Mawndow]

Do your research on different calibers and what each is capable of, and the guns that accompany them. Then decide for yourself what works for you. I think for some people like myself, .380 is a fantastic round that can give you the firepower you need for any given situation yet stay lightweight and low profile for ease of carrying.

[@ws8061]

I have .40 and this exact Ruger with a pocket holster. I'm a 6' 200lb dude and the Ruger, holster, and one extra mag fit in my back pocket like a bulky wallet, just pick it up off the table like a wallet and slide it in my back pocket. I love my 40 but I end up carrying the LCP twice as much easily. My next gun purchase is gonna be a sub compact Glock 42 or 43x because they do feel better in my hand and shoot better than my LCP but I won't ever get rid of the LCP.

[@ThePrybra07]

I pocket carry a lcp and have been for 5 years. Don't have to fiddle with holsters or belts just pull it out of the lock box and go. I used to carry a full size 1911. The lcp and like pistols are game changers. Caliber doesn't matter the fact that you have a gun does

[@datingzoner3968]

MAKE YOUR CHOICE NOW beautyzone.cam/Anggeline PRETTY GIRLS FOR A DATE ⬆️⬆️ tricks I do not know Megan: "Hotter" Hopi: "Sweeter" Joonie: "Cooler" Yoongi: "Butter So with toy and his tricks, do not read it to him that he writes well mamon there are only to laugh for a while and not be sad and stressed because of the hard life that is lived today. Köz karaş: '' Taŋ kaldım '' Erinder: '' Sezimdüü '' Jılmayuu: '' Tattuuraak '' Dene: '' Muzdak '' Jizn, kak krasivaya melodiya, tolko pesni pereputalis. Aç köz arstan Bul ukmuştuuday ısık kün bolçu, jana arstan abdan açka bolgon. Uyunan çıgıp, tigi jer-jerdi izdedi. Al kiçinekey koyondu wins taba algan. Al bir az oylonboy koyondu karmadı. '' Bul koyon menin kursagımdı toyguza albayt '' dep oylodu arstan. Arstan koyondu öltüröyün dep jatkanda, bir kiyik tigi tarapka çurkadı. Arstan aç köz bolup kaldı. Kiçine koyondu emes, çoŋ kiyikti jegen jakşı dep oylodu. # 垃圾 They are one of the best concerts, you can not go but just seeing them from the screen, I know it was surprising 💗❤️💌💘

[@scottmccloud9029]

@@datingzoner3968 Two Bit Lot Lizards.

[@KonaLife]

Love my Sig P238 chambered in .380 ACP. It’s super accurate, lightweight, and has a battery of arms that’s similar to a 1911.

[@Somethingfishyinc]

Same here

[@williamsporing1500]

Carried a 1911 for years! When I got older, that thing was just so heavy it was bothering me. Bought myself a Taurus TCP in 380…. Great little gun. I carry a spare mag too.

[@stevekiss616]

I am a retired LEO. For years my EDC weapon for home or around town has been a Glock 42 IWB with 95 grain FMJ. It has a Hogue rubber beaver tail grip sleeve and mag mounted grip extension. It is very comfortable to handle. I also carry a spare mag when I leave home. It is meant to serve as a short range "get-the-hell-off-me" gun for 7 to 10 yards. A 380 works well in that application. It is light, comfortable and low maintenance. It has served me well and I can put 6 rounds inside a silver dollar at 7 yards. I keep a Glock 17 very close in my vehicle when I am traveling out of town. Confrontations out on an open road side may require more service than I could get from my "parking lot gun".

[@RESTORED_REPUBLIQ]

Why would you carry fmj in public? Dont you know that fmj can go through the body and hit innocent bystanders

[@longgone9869]

@@RESTORED_REPUBLIQ You’re right that can be a problem but I’ve see many short-barreled 380s do not generate enough velocity to open the hollowpoint properly and they effectively act like a full metal jacket.

[@yourlogicalnightmare1014]

The ammo you choose will be used against you in court, as everything will. Former and present LEOs get a pass where most citizens do not. There are thousands of Kyle Rittenhouse prosecutors in the U.S. who HATE the constitution and HATE self-defense claims, and they'll ruin you financially even if they can't get you decades in prison

[@Springfield2016]

Totally agree the 380 has it's place. My normal carry is a G43x, but when dressing in light clothing I often use my G42 loaded with ARX ammo. Much easier to conceal and I believe shot placement is more important than caliber.

[@douglascarr8045]

My LCP goes where I go. I trust it 100%.

[@pip_a728]

My husband got me a holster for my 380 LCP II as a Christmas gift. Mine goes with me everywhere too!

[@troyveenendaal6087]

I got my 380 EZ for my daily carry. Fits me and easy use, also know if I am out of town for Uncle Sam it’s something my wife can use too. Get what you think fits you, never the other way around.

[@frankquevedo6001]

This is the type of info program I really enjoy watch; no wasted time with theatrics, skewed, remarks. Just great reviews, show(n) how it’s done , and do it! Great show!

[@DerpASherpa117]

I use the Hornady American Gunner XTP for my .380 carry ammo of choice for my LCP MAX. I have heard good things about the Precision One XTP and the Hornady FTX as well as the Federal Shock DEEP as well. I have heard universally GREAT things about the Underwood Extreme Defenders and will probably buy them next just to compare with my XTP. I bought a Ruger LCP MAX and a Vedder Pocket Locker holster just because I knew it would give me NO EXCUSE to not carry a firearm with me wherever I go. It has so far succeedes in that regard. The damn thing is so small that unless someone is explicitly looking at your tight gym shorts pocket at the right angle, they won't be able to tell you're carrying a firearm.

[@indistinctchatter3501]

I found the Ruger LCP too small, my Glock 19 too big, Bersa Thunder 380 just right. It is reliable, accurate, holds 8 rounds (15 with the plus model). The extended mag with finger groove let’s me wrap around all five fingers. It’s also hammer fired so I’m not worried about shooting my **** off. Works for me, I recommend testing one out as they have many models to fit your needs, and they won’t break the bank. Lastly, modern 380 defense ammo is pretty damn good, and range ammo easy to find.

[@bobrowley4346]

+1 on the Bersa Thunder 380, a better gun than is given credit for. No, it's not a Glock and probably wouldn't survive tens of thousands of rounds without issues but for those who don't shoot the shit out of their handguns (me) it'll work for years and years. My wife carries a Thunder, and finds it just right for her. The DA/SA trigger is surprisingly good, and the sights acceptable. My only complaint is the placement of the mag release on the single stack model, not great.

[@garyvon1736]

I have Bersa plus and Bersa 8 shot for backup

[@PetuniaIii-pd1ww]

We like our regular thunder .380...they've sold a million of them for a reason...

[@javiervalenzuela8284]

Yup. It's reliable enough. The magazine is large enough to accept cheap ass rounds I've seen smaller ones not accept if you're on a full budget, there are lasers online that work by completing the circuit when you hold it. This means you can have it in your pocket after chambering one and using the safety, then when needed you can pull it out and both hit the safety and pull the hammer before you're fully drawn. By the time you're fully drawn you're ready to rock, just start squeezing the trigger as the laser is on and with little to no recoil and the laser follow up shots will be accurate and as quick as you can squeeze.

[@SaltNBattery]

I love that it’s DA/SA. The decocker. I removed the magazine disconnect, which is as easy as removing the grip screw and removing the little tension spring. It really is a great gun. I wish my mom could rack the slide, but she needed something easier.

[@michaelholt8590]

My mother (5 foot tall 90 pounds) has a Ruger LCP in 380 and it works great for her. It's not only light and easy for her to handle but conceal as well. True it doesn't hit like a 45 but a 380 will still kill you dead.

[@hawktuner11]

Purchase a gun that fits your lifestyle is absolutely correct. That’s why I have as many guns as my wife has purse’s!

[@Shandon-wq2bv]

😂😂😂

[@mydogbullwinkle]

As far as the caliber is concerned, .380 has its limitations but I wouldn't want to be shot by one.

[@jasonmeyers5849]

I said that exact same thing! The. 380 some pop, and I would NOT want to be shot once or 7 times by one!

[@anonymouslee2083]

I've read up on ballistic testing on various .380 ACP brands, and apparently Hornady Critical Defense in .380 does a pretty bang up job of balancing adequate penetration with reliable expansion

[@southboundguitar]

Critical Defense is all I carry in my .40. Hands down, some of the best SD ammo on the market. I didn't know that they carried it in .380, as well. I think I just found my next carry pistol. Hornandy also makes a Critical Duty round for your 9mm, which provides a tad bit more penetration to the ridiculously expansive projectile. I carry that in my P80 G17. It's about $2 a round....but it's absolutely worth it....and you won't be shooting this stuff at the range.

[@jonathantheeverydayfitness8220]

Love your content. Not new to this world, but learning at light speed since the pandemic. Your views make sense. Thank you.

[@RedheadedMusic]

I love my S&W EZ380. I have limited strength in my wrists and this works well for me. I can’t say enough great thing about this. I got mine a couple of months ago and need to get to the range and practice more. Love it.

[@Ripskiis]

Good looking and reliable guns too. S&W is amazing all the way round. Oh and best warranty in the busines.s

[@williammills7778]

Thanks for another great video.. I carry a p238 for the same reason. The 380 has a very good one shot kill history. We call it .380 auto now, but when it was introduced over 100 yrs ago, it was the 9mm ACP (also short or kurz). With self defense rounds, it does what I need it to do as a pocket pistol. 🙂

[@QuantumMechanic_88]

It's no secret that the vast majority of gun defense scenarios take place at 10 feet or less. Some people understandably worry about the penetration abilities into and through heavy clothing with a body shot . A head shot with the proper .380 is the bomb and shooting 3-inch groups at 20 feet is totally achievable. Thanks for your excellent video, Colion Noir and all the best.

[@wizardofahhhs759]

What makes you think you can hit a bad guy in the head when everything is happening so fast?

[@QuantumMechanic_88]

@@wizardofahhhs759 Because I am one hell of a great shot .

[@ceecee2485]

Nice to see a realistic take on the caliber. There are some that act like there is one choice (their choice) and everything else is wrong. Thanks.

[@Red_AIert]

Your LCP Max video convinced me to get one and I love it. Hopefully I’ll never ever have to use it unless target shooting but it’s very easy to conceal and holds 12+1 with extended mag. Thank you for keeping it 💯. 🇺🇸✌🏽

[@nahtay72]

Same.

[@Ant0417]

Same. I carry it everyday.

[@Christophernorbits]

Bought mine 3 weeks ago.

[@RGBellCSI]

I traded my LCPII for the LCP Max at Scheels. They gave me 80% of their current price for LCPII towards the LCP Max. I wanted the extra capacity and improved sights.

[@BeingFireRetardant]

Excellent little pistol... But let's be honest, a bit smooth (for no real reason still) and it just barely fits the hand with the 12rd mag. Functions great, reliable. But just about as small of a gun as is still ergonomically correct enough to be accurately shootable, chambered in the lowest tier defensive round. It's not ideal, compared to a G19 or SP01 or Laugo Alien, lol. Everything about the LCP Max is just enough to get the job done. But Ruger has definitely hit a home run on raising the bar for what a bare minimum carry gun should be. And compared to twenty years ago, it beats the hell out of an Airweight Special on many levels. Nobody is pretending it's a perfect all rounder. Rather, it's a really good baseline starting point. For what it's worth, comparing calibers, if weight is your primary criteria, a loaded 365 9mm weighs the same as two loaded LCP Max's, 12 round mags for all. Food for thought...

[@LT1210]

I’ve used a sticky holster for years with my S&W .380. It’s worked great for me and not very bulky.

[@nmr6988]

Yes on .380 for defense rounds. I recommend the Glock 42. ETS makes 9 round magazines for it that only minimally increase the grip length. Still totally concealable.

[@tedrick79]

the extended mag for the .380 helps if you got big mitts too

[@nmr6988]

@@tedrick79 👍

[@marcie1671]

10 rd mags are only slightly larger than the grip too.

[@nmr6988]

@@marcie1671 , I have not seen 10 round magazines for the Glock 42. Where can I get them? However, my carry setup literally is only big enough to fit in the nine round magazine. Still, it would be nice to know for those times when I decide to carry in a neoprene belly band or my Pegasus kydex holster.

[@marcie1671]

@@nmr6988 Promag makes them.

[@jakel974]

When i worked behind a firearms counter i said something similar. Find the weapon that fits you. We had a metallic pink .22 lr revolver. Obviously most don't want that. One day a lady came in asking for something very small she could carry while jogging in pants with no pockets. It was exactly what she needed. Get the weapon that best fits your needs.

[@ejcheck]

Bravo! Great explanation. This was the logic I used in deciding to carry a Sig P238 and refused to allow the gun to dictate my lifestyle. 1- IWB was not appealing to me, I found the thought of buying pants 2"s bigger in the waist depressing. Especially as my waist was growing. 2- I use a Desantis pocket holster that required a tad of modification for the safety, and the gun/holster looks like a wallet in my back pocket. Thanks for the video

[@ebsmokymtn9445]

Same here, I have a 'Braids Formed Black Leather Wallet & Pocket Holster., specifically made for the Sig P238. When I got it I wrapped my pistol in several layers of waxed-paper (wax-side out) & then pressed it into the new holster for a few days, it now fits very tight but will extract easily.

[@Senormojado75]

I got my wife the S&W EZ380, and she is comfortable with it, she doesn’t like most of my guns. Honestly she only likes the 22’s so when I found a pistol that she was comfortable with I jumped on it. I feel so much better now that she has more than a 22 by her side.

[@kenharper7189]

I got one of those for my wife too. She's pretty dang accurate with it and it's a pretty sweet shooting gun so I got me one in 9mm. Works great for concealed carry.

[@naughtystep9856]

Thanks 75_MALO & Ken Harper. I’m getting the EZ as well. Unfortunately don’t haven access to a range with gun rental. Bought a Canik TP9 Elite SC for my 1st. I’m keeping it, but the EZ is…easier to shoot & load. What I need as a new shooter with some arthritis. Doing grip strength training too. 👋🏼😎

[@T20-c8f]

Frick yeah man. Our wives are some lucky ass women… ladies, can we take a moment to appreciate the husbands who take the time and money to buy you the perfect gun when we could all as well just “give you” a 5 shot revolver and tell you this is what it is. I got my boo a sig p365 as the first birthday present I ever got her. I’m always asking her if I can see it as I normally carry a g34 but my subcompact “mailbox gun” is a g26 and shit I like her p365 way more than the 26, but hey it wasn’t out at the time and it takes glock mags. No need to buy another subcompact.

[@lumberjack5726]

Exactly the same boat with my wife. She loves hers

[@bryananderson3772]

@Foggy she'll probably end up with something a little smaller lol. I don't even carry a 19

[@bigbarkingdog2010]

I recommend a pocket holster always. I respect this man and his content. Colion. Good man.

[@troytruong8246]

yall are killing me with pocket carry. not tactical!!

[@bigbarkingdog2010]

@@troytruong8246 This country is large and mature enough for different opinions. I like watching the videos that Colion produces. He covers many topics in a thoughtful manner. The options available to 2nd amendment supporters are vast. I respect that you know what is best for the situations in which you find yourself. Travel safe. Be well. Respectful Regards.

[@sptster1200]

All pistols put holes in things. Shot placement is key. A .44 mag miss is a miss. A .22 to the chrome dome equals lights out.

[@cgsimons1187]

It was actually less than 20 years ago that Kel-Tec got things started with the pocket size .380 ACP. Prior to that the best you could find(with great difficulty) in that size was .32 ACP. The .380 ACP has similar stopping power to the standard .38 Special load. Though with the recent introduction of the .30 Super Carry, they just might manage to make little pocket pistols that hold even more rounds with nearly the power of the 9mm. As for having something to carry to the mailbox, someone stopped their car in front of my house a few weeks back while I was going to get the mail. It was nighttime and there is only trees and grass on the other side of this normally busy road. I got the feeling whoever was in that car was sizing me up. I would have preferred to have my 12 gauge shotgun with me at that moment. Though I did have my little .380 pocket pistol which sure beats empty hands. Maybe they sensed easier prey was out there. They drove away.

[@gsxrman6319]

If it was the POS Kel Tec you were fooked ,it would have jammed .

[@myrtlelittle4130]

Walther PPK in .380 has never been a slouch.

[@nedsurf1876]

The 38 special compact revolvers IMO seem a better option for a compact pocket gun to just throw in a pocket for a quick trip out. One can shoot from inside clothing and/or make a contact shot without the worry of the defense pistol going out of battery and having to do a malfunction drill. There is a good variety of defense rounds in 38 special including deep penetrating hard cast.

[@cameronizatt3293]

Plain old full wadcutters will penetrate in all weather and dress conditions. Low Blast, Low Recoil, Easy To Shoot. Give Them a thought

[@bruced.370]

@@cameronizatt3293 yes, true but hard to find in my area. 😔

[@AOMartialArts]

@@cameronizatt3293 I thought the wadcutter was banned. 🤔

[@alane7896]

your 100% right

[@sean0181]

That is what i keep in mine underwood/buffalo bore hard cast full wadcutters ,that round will do anything you need it to do and they hit poa in my 360,642.

[@htennek1]

I have a Smith and Wesson Shield EZ .380 and I think it is amazing. The recoil is hardly noticeable as the gun isn't the super sub-combat mini pistols that most .380s are. (which I honestly have no idea how people even use those) so it has more mass to absorp that. My friend was all "why ever use a .380 when 9mm exists" I replied to can say that about any round that isn't a .22 or a 50 calibre. I can stay on target and have consistent placement with my .380 much better than my 9mm, and I wager that might make the difference between life and death if it comes to it when my adrenaline is pumping and my mind and body is racing through hoops it is not normally running through.

[@josephwildi6149]

Unless I’m out hiking or camping (when I carry either a 9mm Hi-Power or a .45 1911 because concealment is less of an issue) I carry a Walther PK380 or a Walther PPK everyday, depending on where I’m going and what I’m doing. I love both and with modern defense rounds like Federal HST and Speer Gold Dot, the .380 has plenty of ass to stop a threat so long as the rounds are on target.

[@areyou0k98]

Tried a Walther ppk, could not figure out how to shoot that thing well compared to modern guns haha.

[@josephwildi6149]

@@areyou0k98 fair enough, I mostly have the opposite problem. I can shoot the older guns no problem but modern guns seem to sit in my hand differently and I have to put a lot of work in on drawing and sighting with modern handguns. The pk380 being the most modern gun I own and carry I tend to practice with it two or three times as much as the others to maintain the same proficiency but I’m fine with that, just means more time at the range.

[@adamdean5881]

@@josephwildi6149 the PPK is one of the most accurate hand guns I have ever shot. I think some people have issues with the " snappy" recoil a straight blowback handgun offers and that throws their aim off. I learned to shoot semiautos using a Russian Makarov and a CZ-82 so that isn't a big issue for me personally but if you are used to locked breech semi-autos it might be a surprise how much these guns can kick

[@hartsickdisciple]

.380 can be sufficient for most situations, especially in warm weather with light clothing. A lot of modern .380 hollow points meet or exceed the FBI standard for penetration and expansion. Obviously 9mm is preferable, but it isn't always practical. A small .380 is a hell of a lot better than nothing.

[@robertsims9201]

explain how a 9mm isn't practical? I'd take a 9 over 380 any fckn day.

[@hartsickdisciple]

@@robertsims9201 Size and ease of concealment. The smallest .380s are smaller, thinner, and lighter than even the smallest 9mm pistols. I have a micro 9 and a pocket 380. There's a big difference in certain types of clothing.

[@AntiFakeJewsRev2-9-0Zach9-6]

@@hartsickdisciple I've have one on my while my 9 is in a backpack or somewhere near my reach

[@BeavisFireFire]

@@robertsims9201 And I'll take my .40 over your 9.

[@robertsims3759]

@@BeavisFireFire Cool story dude. In all honesty shot placement is paramount with any caliber. That being said I bet I'm a better shot than you with my 9 than your 40.

[@MyWordPressGuy]

I pocket carry a J frame .38 at home, so mailbox trips are seamless, though I would be careful about the hoodie pocket carry to make extra sure you're not covering your left hand inadvertently.

[@JagAss-ls7ie]

Yep. J Frame. Can't beat it.

[@twistedleft1060]

With the amazing array of guns available today, it is not hard to find one that fits into almost whatever activity you may be engaged in. I have moods where I carry my 1911 to walk my dog, but for everyday carry it is just too big and heavy for concealment on my body. What works for me regardless of activity or dress style is my Walther PPK. Remember, 380/Browning 9mm Kurz/ 9mm kurzr was originally a war caliber. It was a favorite in a few machine pistols and sidearms in many European militaries. I always practice for the two center mass and third in the head, so for me, shot placement is important. Of course, I practice the 2 and one with every caliber I have anyway. Good video Mr Noir, as usual.

[@TheIam14]

I totally agree! Do whatever works for you. I'm so sick of hearing people preach these "rules" that they've come up with that they try to force on everyone. How many rounds you need, what size round, one in the chamber, ext...

[@myrtlelittle4130]

Right! All those experts who have never been in a gunfight. A paper target doesn't shoot back at you.

[@SeangLHeng]

All the people that trash .380 I just ask them care to stand in front of my Smith & Wesson 380 bodyguard?

[@byrdshot4846]

I am so glad you made this video! I've been meaning to carry for the longest time, however I couldn't deal with the bulk. I finally bought me a front pocket holster for my micro 380. Now I carry it pretty much all the time, but I also know many people would criticize the effectiveness of a 380. I look toward this weapon as something to get me out of a bad situation and not necessarily a man stopper.

[@Bens359pete]

My keltec 380 is a very concealable gun. Definitely one of my favorites in my rotation. Accurate shooter can do the job with any caliber!

[@curtismarean6963]

Back in the day, my mom would carry an iver Johnson revoler in 32 short. This was her choice, it worked for her. Small guns like this have a place.

[@bradtipton986]

Thank-you for this presentation. I used to have some reservations about carrying a 380 within my lifestyle. Well, I no longer doubt my choice. My carry carry rig really fits in with my casual dress lifestyle.

[@elberttanner6189]

The weapon should always fit the mission. Therefore as your mission changes, so should the weapon.

[@doughesson]

While I have enough guns to pick the right tool for the right job,I can't afford to have a pocket carry gun & a turret mounted M2 on my truck. I'm not feeling undergunned carrying the same handgun daily.

[@wushushorty1]

I love these types of informative/opinion videos. As a newcomer into the CCW world, I am always looking to learn about what would fit my lifestyle, as well as what would be easy to conceal. I am a small dude, small hands, so I am looking into the G3c or Shield EZ for my everyday. Colion's vids, and a few others make it easier for me to make an informed decision. Thanks to all of you out there, for all you do.

[@stephenrogers5593]

What height and weight are you? I’m 5’11”” and pretty slim at 161 lbs. i can easily conceal carry a g19/g23 sized gun. I could probably manage a g17 but if I was getting in and out of a vehicle a lot that day it might get rather annoying.

[@wushushorty1]

@@stephenrogers5593 I'm 5'5.. about 150.. average little Hispanic dude. Lol. Just imagine the cockroach aliens with the coffee from men in black.. haha

[@bluecollarnobody4217]

I deliver food for a living and there’s a strict no gun policy where I work I keep my rugerin my pocket all the time and nobody knowns nothing

[@chipmunk9911]

I carry a .380 with extreme penetrator ammo. I'm very confident my gun and ammo choice are absolutely sufficient for self defense.

[@SharkByteOfficial]

I believe that you should go for Underwood Extreme Defenders instead. You need terminal shock and cavity more than extreme penetration. They will all make it to vitals in the average torso. It's better to have the explosive stopping wounds than just little zippies flying clean thru

[@chipmunk9911]

@@SharkByteOfficial I've always been told .380 doesn't have the power to penetrate. That is why I chose the Extreme Penetrator. But now I think I need to do more research. Thank you.

[@chipmunk9911]

@@SharkByteOfficial Especially since I live up north and we all wear such heavy clothes in winter.

[@blantant]

I think that's a really smart choice for 380.

[@SharkByteOfficial]

@@chipmunk9911 understandable concern but I think it will have plenty of power to stop a threat faster, even with a few layers of clothing. Underwood XDs have a ton of velocity as it is. Someone would have to have stacks of leather and garments while still being obese in order for a .380 to be pretty useless. Either way the amount of cavity the XD round leaves in fleshy targets is worth every penny in my opinion. Its gonna be harder to stop a realistic human threat with penetrators unless the shots hit the heart or brain perfectly. Otherwise its a bleed-out or will-power battle session

[@MrTee12]

If you hit the target 🎯...then you're good. No matter the caliber. But to each its own.

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[@lilcsuperceezy]

Facts💯

[@carlhansen8672]

Great point on fitting a gun to your lifestyle instead of the other way around. A sound reason to own more than one gun. Seasonal weather and what I'm doing that day dictates my carry firearm. I'm old, slow and overweight so I always carry a round in the chamber in a holster.

[@Kuricapitalist]

My mother has been wanting to get one of these for quite a while. We don’t live in a bad neighborhood, or a bad state for that matter, but she’s always wanted something compact and simple. .380 would definitely be a good fit for her.

Bro you are quality in every single way 👊

[@bul166]

Great channel, great content. You put the info out in a direct, succinct way. Thank you 👍

[@newlineric]

Thanks for mentioning “no round in chamber” . I love my LCP 2 but the excellent trigger is so light I cannot justify having a round in the chamber,, in my pocket. So I practice racking it on draw like you demonstrated. Doesn’t mean I can’t rack one if I find myself in a sketchy situation which I avoid at all costs.

[@Asidebar]

better to carry with round in chamber with a holster.

[@larryknowlton7094]

I love the look of the lcp2,but that is exactly why I don't carry one.I have an S&W Bodyguard that is in my pocket, round chambered at all times.

[@michaelgalep2658]

@@larryknowlton7094 Sir, I have an older LCP that is double action only, when cocked, w/a pretty stiff trigger and an LC9SPRO W/a trigger safety like MR. Noir's. I have become confident carrying it in my pocket chambered or holstered on my hip, holstered in my pocket, whatever suits the circumstance, because sometimes seconds very much count! When carrying, one, one must always ALWAYS be aware of ones firearm!!!!! Having said that it is equally important to be "comfortable" doing so!!!! I hope I don't sound condescending as that was not my intention and I apologies This is an extremely critical matter.

[@andrewbrown6457]

I'll second the comment about chambering a round and using a holster. Carrying a pistol unloaded is a bad idea. People may think they can rack one real quick, but will you?

[@michaelgalep2658]

@@andrewbrown6457 Thank you MR. Brown, for backing me on the subject. Under stress the nervous system can get spastic, when milli-seconds count.