Best .380 Pistol Reviews: Top Choices for Every Shooter
A small cartridge can have a surprisingly long history. The .380 has remained a familiar name in the handgun world for more than a century, appearing in compact carry designs, recreational firearms, and modern defensive handguns. Its manageable size, moderate recoil, and widespread availability have helped maintain its popularity. But what exactly does ".380" mean? How does it compare with .380 Auto, and why are there so many handgun designs chambered for it? This article explains the cartridge, its terminology, common handgun configurations, and the design differences that make each platform distinct. What Is a .380? The .380 is a rimless, straight-walled handgun cartridge commonly associated with the designation .380 ACP. The ".380" portion refers approximately to the bullet diameter in inches, while ACP stands for Automatic Colt Pistol . Introduced in the early 20th century, the cartridge became popular because it provided a relatively compact combination of hand...