.380 vs 9mm: Caliber Comparison for Self-Defense

When it comes to selecting a handgun for personal protection, the debate between .380 ACP and 9mm is incredibly common. A significant number of popular handguns are manufactured in both of these calibers, making a direct comparison essential for informed decision-making.

This article delves into a detailed comparison of the .380 and 9mm cartridges specifically for self-defense scenarios, providing a clear understanding of their strengths and weaknesses.

.380 vs. 9mm: Key Differences

Here’s a quick overview of the primary distinctions between the .380 ACP and 9mm Luger:

• Size: The 9mm cartridge is longer than the .380 ACP, although their bullet diameters are virtually identical.
• Power: 9mm boasts significantly more power and energy compared to the .380 ACP.
• Handgun Size & Concealability: .380 pistols are generally designed to be more compact and lightweight than 9mm pistols, enhancing their concealability.
• Ammunition Cost: 9mm ammunition is typically more affordable and widely available than .380 ACP.
• Bullet Weight & Velocity (.380): Common .380 bullet weights range from 88 to 99 grains, with typical velocities between 800 and 1,100 feet per second.
• Bullet Weight & Velocity (9mm): Common 9mm bullet weights range from 115 to 147 grains, typically achieving velocities between 900 and 1300 feet per second.

.380 vs. 9mm Comparison Table

For a side-by-side technical comparison, refer to the chart below:

Size and Dimensions: .380 vs. 9mm Cartridges

The physical dimensions of the cartridges are a key difference between the 9mm and .380 ACP. The 9mm cartridge is notably larger than the .380 ACP. Specifically, a 9mm round has an overall length of 1.169 inches, while the .380 ACP measures 0.984 inches in overall length. Similarly, the 9mm case length is .754 inches, exceeding the .380’s .680-inch case length.

This increased case volume in the 9mm allows for a larger powder charge. Consequently, the 9mm operates at significantly higher pressures, contributing to its greater power.

Interestingly, when examining bullet diameters, both the .380 and 9mm are remarkably close, typically around .355 inches or .356 inches, varying slightly based on bullet construction and manufacturer.

Recoil Comparison: .380 vs. 9mm Handguns

Recoil is a crucial consideration, especially for concealed carry handguns where quick and accurate follow-up shots are vital. Excessive recoil can hinder accuracy and make rapid fire challenging.

Recoil is influenced by several factors, including the firearm’s weight, barrel length, the specific ammunition loading, and the shooter’s individual strength and shooting technique.

Generally, when comparing handguns of similar size and weight, .380 ACP ammunition produces less recoil than 9mm ammunition. This is primarily attributed to the .380’s lighter bullets and reduced powder charge. However, it’s important to note that 9mm recoil is still widely considered manageable for most shooters, including those with varying levels of experience.

Both calibers will generate recoil, and proper training is essential for all shooters, particularly beginners, to learn effective recoil management techniques for accurate and controlled shooting.

Ballistics and Performance: .380 vs. 9mm

Both the .380 ACP and 9mm are popular choices for self-defense, but the 9mm generally exhibits superior ballistic performance.

Ballistic gel testing is a common method to evaluate cartridge performance. To provide a direct comparison, we examined several popular self-defense rounds in both calibers using ballistic gel, following FBI testing protocols.

The FBI standard for penetration depth is between 12 and 18 inches in ballistic gel, representing adequate penetration to reach vital organs without excessive over-penetration.

Bullet expansion is another critical factor. Expansion creates a larger wound channel and can aid in energy transfer. While there’s no definitive standard, an expansion to 150% of the original bullet diameter is generally considered effective. For both .380 and 9mm, this target expanded diameter is approximately .533 inches.

Muzzle velocity, measured in feet per second (FPS), and muzzle energy, measured in foot-pounds (ft/lbs), are also recorded to assess the round’s potential impact and destructive capability as it leaves the barrel.

It’s important to remember that ballistic gel tests are indicative but not definitive predictors of real-world performance. They should be considered alongside other factors when choosing a self-defense cartridge.

Ballistic Gel Test Results: .380 vs. 9mm

The table above summarizes our ballistic gel testing results. Let’s examine each caliber’s performance in more detail.

.380 ACP Ballistic Performance

For .380 ACP, we tested the Speer Gold Dot 90-grain GDHP and the Federal Personal Defense 99-grain HST JHP rounds, fired from a Smith & Wesson M&P Shield EZ pistol with a 3.68-inch barrel.

The Speer Gold Dot rounds in .380 ACP fell short of the 12-inch minimum penetration depth and also did not achieve the desired .533-inch expansion.

In contrast, the Federal Personal Defense HST .380 round just met the minimum penetration depth, averaging 12.25 inches. It exhibited impressive expansion, exceeding 1.5 times its original diameter.

While these specific tests showed mixed results for .380 ACP, other defensive rounds, such as the Hornady Critical Defense 90-grain FTX, have demonstrated good performance in separate ballistic tests.

9mm Ballistic Performance

The 9mm rounds tested were the Federal Law Enforcement 124-grain HST JHP and the Hornady Critical Defense 115-grain FTX, fired from a Sig Sauer P365XL with a 3.7-inch barrel.

Both 9mm rounds performed well, achieving penetration depths within the FBI-recommended 12- to 18-inch range. While average expansion was adequate, one Hornady Critical Defense round failed to reach the .533-inch expansion benchmark.

Fortunately, there is a wide selection of effective 9mm self-defense ammunition options available, many of which consistently perform well in ballistic testing.

Ammunition Cost: .380 vs. 9mm

Ammunition cost can be a significant factor when choosing between .380 and 9mm, particularly for practice and training.

Generally, 9mm ammunition is more economical than .380 ACP. Purchasing a case (1,000 rounds) of .380 ACP can often cost significantly more, exceeding the price of a comparable case of 9mm by over $100. This price difference can accumulate over time, especially for frequent shooters.

.380 vs. 9mm for Self-Defense: Which Caliber Wins?

When evaluating .380 vs. 9mm for self-defense, it’s essential to consider the overall picture of each cartridge’s attributes.

9mm offers a broader range of handgun choices, more diverse ammunition options, generally lower ammo costs, and superior ballistic performance. While 9mm recoil is greater than .380 ACP, it remains manageable with practice for most shooters.

.380 ACP is favored for its lighter recoil and the availability of smaller, more easily concealable handguns. Although less powerful than 9mm, .380 ACP can be a viable self-defense option when loaded with high-quality self-defense ammunition.

Ultimately, the best choice between .380 ACP and 9mm depends on individual needs and priorities. Regardless of caliber selection, prioritizing a reliable pistol and effective ammunition combination, coupled with consistent practice and accurate shot placement, is paramount for effective self-defense.