First Impressions: $160 All Metal AMT Backup .380

Published on June 27, 2025
Duration: 9:01

This video provides first impressions of the all-metal AMT Backup .380 pistol, highlighting its compact size, full metal construction, and budget-friendly price point. The reviewer compares it to other pocket pistols like the Diamondback DB-380 and Taurus Spectrum, discussing its ergonomics, trigger feel, and potential recoil. The AMT Backup is presented as a unique, albeit discontinued, piece of firearm history, suitable as a backup or specialized carry option.

Quick Summary

The AMT Backup .380 is an all-metal, 6+1 capacity pocket pistol that feels surprisingly heavy, comparable in weight to a Glock 26. Acquired for $160, it offers a budget-friendly option, though finding spare parts is challenging as the company is out of business.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Yesterday's Firearm
  2. 00:37Hockey Tape Grip Enhancement
  3. 00:42EDC Setup with TLR-7X
  4. 00:51Value of Used Firearms
  5. 00:59Quality of Used Smith & Wesson
  6. 01:06Introducing the AMT Backup
  7. 01:13AMT Backup .380 Specs & Feel
  8. 01:20AMT Backup vs. Glock 26 Size/Weight
  9. 01:33Recoil Management with Full Metal
  10. 01:42AMT Backup Price & Condition
  11. 01:51Hockey Tape Application
  12. 01:55Pocket Pistol Comparisons
  13. 02:01AMT Backup Features: Sights
  14. 02:26AMT Backup Features: Hammer Fired
  15. 02:34Magazine Release Mechanism
  16. 02:40Racking & Guide Rod Spring
  17. 02:48Magazine Quality
  18. 02:56Ergonomics & Magazine Well Effect
  19. 02:59Recoil Complaint & Undercut
  20. 03:09AMT Backup .357 SIG Variant
  21. 03:18Mission for .357 SIG AMT Backup
  22. 03:25Capacity & Ridiculousness
  23. 03:30Backup vs. Main Carry
  24. 03:38Preferred Pocket Pistols
  25. 03:44Aesthetics & Origin
  26. 03:51Quality & '9mm Kurz' Clarification
  27. 03:57Trigger Assessment
  28. 04:06Trigger Comparison: AMT vs. Taurus Spectrum
  29. 04:13Size Comparison: AMT vs. Glock 26
  30. 04:20Size Comparison: AMT vs. M&P 40 Compact
  31. 04:29Carrying Around the House
  32. 04:48Use Cases: Dog Walking, Mailbox Gun
  33. 04:52When NOT to Carry a Pocket Pistol
  34. 05:04Pocket Pistols are Great
  35. 05:10Trigger Smoothness & Sight Acquisition
  36. 05:15Value Proposition of Pocket Pistols
  37. 05:22Backup Gun Story: Detroit Incident
  38. 05:36Cool Piece of History
  39. 05:42Potential for .40 S&W or .357 SIG Recoil
  40. 05:49Future Review & Magazine Search
  41. 05:54Discontinued Parts & Used Market
  42. 06:00Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the AMT Backup .380 pistol?

The AMT Backup .380 is an all-metal, 6+1 capacity pocket pistol known for its compact size and surprisingly heavy feel. It was manufactured in California and is considered a unique piece of firearm history, especially given its availability in .357 SIG.

How much does the AMT Backup .380 typically cost?

The reviewer acquired their AMT Backup .380 for $160, which is considered a very good deal. Online searches for similar models in fair condition often show prices ranging from $250 to $290.

What are the pros and cons of the AMT Backup .380?

Pros include its all-metal construction for potential recoil management, compact size, and budget-friendly price when found used. Cons are its weight, the difficulty in finding spare parts and magazines due to the company being out of business, and its unconventional sights.

How does the AMT Backup .380 compare to other pocket pistols?

It's similar in size to a Ruger LCP but is significantly heavier and thicker due to its full metal build. It's compared to the Taurus Spectrum and Diamondback DB-380, offering a different tactile experience and weight profile.

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