.380 ACP Pocket Pistol Roundup Review

Published on June 20, 2019
Duration: 15:25

This review by Chris Baker of Lucky Gunner Ammo provides an expert-level comparison of popular .380 ACP pocket pistols for concealed carry. Baker, a recognized firearms authority, highlights the trade-offs between concealability and shootability, noting that micro-compacts can be less reliable under stress than larger firearms. He offers critical insights into the handling, trigger characteristics, and potential malfunctions of models including the Glock 42, Sig Sauer P238, Kahr CW380, S&W Bodyguard 380, Ruger LCP Custom, and Ruger LCP II, emphasizing the importance of extensive testing for these small firearms.

Quick Summary

Micro-compact .380 ACP pistols, while popular for concealed carry, are generally less reliable than full-sized firearms, especially under stress. Expert Chris Baker of Lucky Gunner Ammo stresses the importance of extensive testing and maintenance for these small guns, noting potential issues with grip sensitivity and malfunctions for inexperienced users.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro to .380 Pocket Pistols
  2. 03:11Glock 42 Review
  3. 04:45Sig Sauer P238 Review
  4. 07:09Kahr CW380 Review
  5. 09:00S&W M&P Bodyguard 380 Review
  6. 10:53Ruger LCP Custom Review
  7. 12:49Ruger LCP II Review

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main challenges with .380 ACP pocket pistols for concealed carry?

Micro-sized .380 ACP pistols are often less reliable than larger firearms, especially under stress. They require extensive testing and maintenance due to their small size and can be sensitive to grip technique, potentially leading to malfunctions for inexperienced users.

Which .380 pocket pistol is considered the easiest to shoot in this review?

The Glock 42 is highlighted as the largest pistol in the roundup but also the easiest to shoot well. It handles much like a full-sized gun, making it suitable for both novice and advanced shooters, though its size might challenge pocket carry for some.

What are the key differences between the Ruger LCP Custom and the LCP II?

The LCP Custom featured better sights and a wider trigger but had issues like 'trigger bite' and snag-prone sights. The LCP II improved the grip for reduced recoil and offered a trigger that felt more like a striker-fired pistol, though its pull lacked tactile feedback.

What advice does Chris Baker give regarding the reliability of micro-compact .380 pistols?

Chris Baker strongly emphasizes the need for extensive testing and maintenance for micro-compact .380 ACP pistols. He notes their general tendency towards lower reliability compared to full-sized firearms, particularly in high-stress scenarios, and advises against carrying them without thorough vetting.

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