Favorite .380 for concealed carry - Page 3

claydoctor · April 12, 2011, 10:15 AM

I'm surprised at the negative reactions to the KelTec P3AT. Mine has been flawless. Never had a problem with either ball or hollowpoints and it is accurate. Recoil not objectionable at all.
I would probably have bought the LCP when it came out but already had the P3AT so hard to justify. I was hot on the Bodyguard.380 but was turned off by what I considered to be the awkward location of the laser switch. Instead of buying the Bodyguard, I mounted a CT laser on the KelTec.

440SAW · April 12, 2011, 02:51 PM

SIG 232 for me. Today's ammo enables the .380 piece to hit hard; you would not want to be on the recieving end of it under any circumstances; esp at less than 30 feet. Yes, higher caliber stops harder, but down is down.

Squibb · April 12, 2011, 03:02 PM

If it came down to a .380 IMO the Kahr is far and away the winner given the choices you have listed. However, it is not inexpensive. You might want to compare those on your list to the new Kahr CM9.

You'll find it is actually smaller than some of the .380s, it's not a blow back so more comfortable to shoot, it takes 9mm so cheaper to feed, and since it is a less expensive model of the proven PM9, you won't be sending it to the factory.

MikePapa1 · April 12, 2011, 03:08 PM

I carry a Sig P238 in my pocket and a Sig P220 on my hip.

psyfly · April 12, 2011, 03:20 PM

Quote:

Oh, the blasphemy! The granddaddy of all pocket .380 pistols is not mentioned!

Not quite as soon as the FN/Browning, but earlier than the PPK is my favorite Star D series (Mine's a DK and a lot younger at age 53 than the first Star Ds). Direct grand daddy (mommy?) of the Sig P238

However, I carry my P3AT most of the time that I carry a .380 (9mm Cort).

The 'little jewel' stays in my desk drawer.

Best,

Will

tynimiller · April 12, 2011, 03:21 PM

very impressed with the showing Bersa is making on this.

Smaug · April 12, 2011, 04:14 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tynimiller

very impressed with the showing Bersa is making on this.

Because whenever someone tries them, they're hooked. They can't believe how good they are for that amount of money. They're Ruger quality* at Hi Point prices.

The thing is that no one tries them. I admit that I only tried mine because it "fell into my lap" for only $100. But to take the chance and spend $250-300 is a different matter.

* - By that, I mean accurate and reliable, but not quite having a top level of parts finish.

Drew78 · April 12, 2011, 06:19 PM

I have a LCP w/ CT laser guard and really like it for what it is... a pocket gun.

The bodyguard is just a tad too big in all the wrong places for my build, hate the laser on it, and am not a fan of manual safties on my defensive pistols.

The Taurus is well, a Taurus... not for me

The Kahr seems really nice, but I have ZERO faith in the company. Seems you get a pistol that runs like a scalded beeotch, or a complete dog destined to spend its time in the origional box going back and forth to the factory.

The Sig 238 is nice, but again, seems REALLY big for a pocket gun, it has a safety, and its a SA in a pocket.

I love the feeling of the Diamondback .380 but am waiting to see if they can get their act together as a company.

There it is, my $0.02. YMMV of course...

-Drew

Smaug · April 12, 2011, 11:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Drew78

The Taurus is well, a Taurus... not for me

If you read a bit, I think you'll find that Taurus autos have a much better reputation than their revolvers. Autos are easier to produce; not as much precision work and fitting to be done.

If I bought locally, I'd probably buy a Taurus pistol if it felt right.

Drew78 · April 12, 2011, 11:53 PM

While that may be true, there seem to be many more companies in better standing that have earned my trust. That's where my decision goes...

Nitesites · April 12, 2011, 11:58 PM

Mine didn't make it on the list. SIG P238 carried in a ankle rig.

Wheeler1 · April 13, 2011, 12:01 AM

For some time, I've carried my Thunder .380 and was quite pleased with it, but had a real reminder of my breakin troubles when I tried a new box of ammo at the range the other day. Tried some new practice ammo (inexpensive Monarch brand). While loading the magazines, I realized the rounds had a particularly flat nose and were semi jacketed HPs. Right away, I had serious issues with the rounds feeding. Almost every round! Removing all of the new ammo and going back to my more rounded 'ogive' shape and fully jacketed HP ammo restored the flawless functioning of this weapon.

SCARY, to say the least.

I'm not sure how this effects other firearms but then again, I'm kinda particular on my ammo and my guns.

All that being said, the little Bersa Thunder .380 is a fine piece of workmanship. With over 2500 rounds RELIABLY down the tube before I tried the new ammo, I am impressed and still carry it daily. With my 'tried and true' ammo of course.

My other favorite in a 'smaller caliber' is my CZ-82 in 9mm MAK. Not exactly a 'pocket' pistol, but dead reliable and deadly accurate. I kinda like the round too........... Then there are my revolvers............. Hmmmmm.

I'm open to a new weapon...or an older 'classic' in .380 if I can find a reliable (and affordable) one AND it is a consistent performer.

KCabbage · April 13, 2011, 02:52 PM

Whatever fits you best. Just make sure you use FMJ or Hardcast lead for defense!

ghalleen · April 13, 2011, 03:05 PM

I went to the store with the intention of getting a SIG P238, and if they didn't have one, then a Ruger LCP.

However, they didn't have the P238, and before I could buy the Ruger, I checked out the Taurus TCP. Nice little gun!

In my opinion, it beat the Ruger in several areas:

1. Lighter trigger. It's still long, but is a good 2lb lighter up to the end, where it gets stiffer.

2. Tiny bit thinner

3. Better sights

4. I liked the black stainless steel finish.

5. Felt better in my hand

6. Slide locks open on empty

7. Came with an extra magazine and belt pouch.

Needless to say, I came home with the TCP.

RickE · April 13, 2011, 03:43 PM

ghalleen, your comments on the TCP are right on. I love mine. I have not had any issues with it. My son in law just got a SW Bodyguard .380 with a built in Lazer for a good price. I hear the triggers have issues, and I don't like the on/off switch for the lazer. Looks cool however.

Mokumbear · April 13, 2011, 07:55 PM

I am halfway through the 200 round break in period for my blackened stainless Kahr P380.

I'm going to try to complete it this weekend.

Didn't have an easy time with the 1st 100 rounds.
After e-mailing tech support, I am trying different ammo for the next
100 rounds.

Kind of like a little project for someone who doesn't get to shoot a lot.

I am hoping the next 100 rounds go better and have been assured
by one of their better tech support people that they will do what it takes to fix it if there is still a problem.

I want it to work out because this is a an ideal gun for times when even
my compact PPS 9mm is a little too large.
I will say this, the Kahr is not punishing on the hand after 100 rounds fired.

More on this as "the project" continues...

Always-Vigilant · April 13, 2011, 08:38 PM

I like the Sig P232. Not the smallest but conceals great with the right holster. I use Don Hume 715 for IWB and the Glaco Concealment holster for OWB. Sig P232 is also fun to shoot at the range.http://thefiringline.com/forums/atta...5&d=1301945803

orionengnr · April 13, 2011, 09:16 PM

Quote:

I owned a P3AT and couldn't get through a magazine with it without a malf. Also nasty to shoot. Gone.

I had two (one each first and second generation). Both worked about the same as yours did, with the same end result--gone.

I have had two LCPs, and both worked fine (I still own one, and put 50 rounds through it yesterday).

But I will sell it in a heartbeat as soon as I find a Kahr P380 for a decent price.

Can't believe you don't have the Kahr P380 in your poll....

Orangeshadow03 · April 13, 2011, 09:21 PM

Bodyguard for me, tried the LCP, it just didn't feel as good to me. I feel like I can hold on to the BG a lot better. I do agree with the post from earlier, the laser on the BG pretty much sucks:barf:, but the sights are dead on.

Yung.gunr · April 13, 2011, 10:46 PM

Don't have it yet but I'm planning on getting the Taurus TCP. It feels much better then the Ruger LCP or any of the Kel Tecs. Especially the trigger.

sailor353 · July 11, 2011, 01:36 PM

I carry my BT380 in a Don Hume pocket holster in my front pocket all of the time. I wear shorts and tee shirt 9 months of the year. The gun is comfortable and prints very little, looks kie you might have a wallet in your pocket.

lcpiper · July 11, 2011, 04:05 PM

Speaking of holsters, I have a Galco IWB for my 85B Cheetah and I had an unsettling revelation today.

I was going into town to pick up some things from my daughter's house and I had my Beretta in the holster and I have just started carrying it with one in the pipe and the safty on. Well I pulled it out of the holster as I got in the seat and immediatly saw that the safty was off and I was like "*** over?". So I put the gun on safe, yanked off the holster, put the gun back in the holster and snapped the hammer strap closed and sure enough the hammer strap retention is forcing the safty off when you snap it closed. This holster is going back to the shop and I'll be looking for another, probably one without a hammer strap.

I actually noticed this happen for the first time about a week ago but wasn't sure so I let it slide. This time, seeing it again, I was sure of things and determined to figure out what was happening.

In all fairness to Galco, this holster is actually for the Thunder and Firestorm .380 series pistols and not specificlly for the Cheetahs so I can't blame Galco at all. only the limited selection of holsters at my LGS when it comes to non Glock, M1911, and SIG holsters.

dgludwig · July 11, 2011, 04:39 PM

Quote:

More on this as "the project" continues...

Any update, Mokumbear?

I_Am_NOT_Lost · July 11, 2011, 05:18 PM

LCP get's my vote, but it all is relative to how your going to carry this gun. I like pocket carry because it is without a doubt something I can actually carry comfortably every day.

I looked at the Bodyguard and and to be honest the gun is just to "busy", S&W tried to pack to many features into a gun that wasn't built for them.

meanmachine1961 · July 11, 2011, 05:26 PM

LCP is the easiest to carry gun that I have ever owned. Can't even tell I've got it with me. No excuse to leave the house unarmed since I bought one.

View Poll Results: Which .380?
Kel-Tec P3AT	32	18.29%
Ruger LCP	83	47.43%
Lorcin	0	0%
Bersa Thunder	41	23.43%
Smith&Wesson Bodyguard	26	14.86%
Cobra Patriot	2	1.14%
Micro DesertEagle	3	1.71%
Hi-Point	1	0.57%
Multiple Choice Poll. Voters: 175. You may not vote on this poll

April 12, 2011, 02:51 PM	#52
440SAW Member Join Date: April 7, 2011 Location: Plymouth, CT Posts: 17	SIG 232 for me. Today's ammo enables the .380 piece to hit hard; you would not want to be on the recieving end of it under any circumstances; esp at less than 30 feet. Yes, higher caliber stops harder, but down is down. __________________ Freedom is something you can't take for granted.

April 12, 2011, 03:02 PM	#53
Squibb Senior Member Join Date: May 6, 2010 Location: Indianapolis Posts: 213	If it came down to a .380 IMO the Kahr is far and away the winner given the choices you have listed. However, it is not inexpensive. You might want to compare those on your list to the new Kahr CM9. You'll find it is actually smaller than some of the .380s, it's not a blow back so more comfortable to shoot, it takes 9mm so cheaper to feed, and since it is a less expensive model of the proven PM9, you won't be sending it to the factory. __________________ NRA Lifer since 1971

April 12, 2011, 03:21 PM	#56
tynimiller Senior Member Join Date: December 21, 2010 Location: Osceola, IN Posts: 258	very impressed with the showing Bersa is making on this. __________________ ~ONLY TWO DEFINING FORCES HAVE EVER OFFERED TO DIE FOR ME (you), JESUS CHRIST AND THE AMERICAN G.I. ONE DIED FOR MY (your) SOUL, THE OTHER FOR YOUR FREEDOM!~

April 13, 2011, 12:01 AM	#62
Wheeler1 Member Join Date: April 14, 2010 Location: San Antonio, Texas Posts: 30	For some time, I've carried my Thunder .380 and was quite pleased with it, but had a real reminder of my breakin troubles when I tried a new box of ammo at the range the other day. Tried some new practice ammo (inexpensive Monarch brand). While loading the magazines, I realized the rounds had a particularly flat nose and were semi jacketed HPs. Right away, I had serious issues with the rounds feeding. Almost every round! Removing all of the new ammo and going back to my more rounded 'ogive' shape and fully jacketed HP ammo restored the flawless functioning of this weapon. SCARY, to say the least. I'm not sure how this effects other firearms but then again, I'm kinda particular on my ammo and my guns. All that being said, the little Bersa Thunder .380 is a fine piece of workmanship. With over 2500 rounds RELIABLY down the tube before I tried the new ammo, I am impressed and still carry it daily. With my 'tried and true' ammo of course. My other favorite in a 'smaller caliber' is my CZ-82 in 9mm MAK. Not exactly a 'pocket' pistol, but dead reliable and deadly accurate. I kinda like the round too........... Then there are my revolvers............. Hmmmmm. I'm open to a new weapon...or an older 'classic' in .380 if I can find a reliable (and affordable) one AND it is a consistent performer. __________________ "The whole art of fencing consists in just two things, to hit and not to be hit." M. Jourdain, In Moliere's Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme, 1670 Last edited by Wheeler1; April 13, 2011 at 12:14 AM.

April 12, 2011, 10:15 AM	#51
claydoctor Senior Member Join Date: August 26, 2010 Location: Virginia Posts: 450	I'm surprised at the negative reactions to the KelTec P3AT. Mine has been flawless. Never had a problem with either ball or hollowpoints and it is accurate. Recoil not objectionable at all. I would probably have bought the LCP when it came out but already had the P3AT so hard to justify. I was hot on the Bodyguard.380 but was turned off by what I considered to be the awkward location of the laser switch. Instead of buying the Bodyguard, I mounted a CT laser on the KelTec.

April 12, 2011, 03:08 PM	#54
MikePapa1 Junior Member Join Date: January 11, 2011 Posts: 7	I carry a Sig P238 in my pocket and a Sig P220 on my hip.

April 12, 2011, 06:19 PM	#58
Drew78 Member Join Date: October 1, 2010 Posts: 17	I have a LCP w/ CT laser guard and really like it for what it is... a pocket gun. The bodyguard is just a tad too big in all the wrong places for my build, hate the laser on it, and am not a fan of manual safties on my defensive pistols. The Taurus is well, a Taurus... not for me The Kahr seems really nice, but I have ZERO faith in the company. Seems you get a pistol that runs like a scalded beeotch, or a complete dog destined to spend its time in the origional box going back and forth to the factory. The Sig 238 is nice, but again, seems REALLY big for a pocket gun, it has a safety, and its a SA in a pocket. I love the feeling of the Diamondback .380 but am waiting to see if they can get their act together as a company. There it is, my $0.02. YMMV of course... -Drew

April 12, 2011, 11:53 PM	#60
Drew78 Member Join Date: October 1, 2010 Posts: 17	While that may be true, there seem to be many more companies in better standing that have earned my trust. That's where my decision goes...

April 12, 2011, 11:58 PM	#61
Nitesites Senior Member Join Date: March 28, 2011 Posts: 600	Mine didn't make it on the list. SIG P238 carried in a ankle rig.

April 13, 2011, 02:52 PM	#63
KCabbage Senior Member Join Date: February 10, 2007 Posts: 707	Whatever fits you best. Just make sure you use FMJ or Hardcast lead for defense!

April 13, 2011, 03:05 PM	#64
ghalleen Senior Member Join Date: June 15, 2007 Location: Oregon Posts: 466	I went to the store with the intention of getting a SIG P238, and if they didn't have one, then a Ruger LCP. However, they didn't have the P238, and before I could buy the Ruger, I checked out the Taurus TCP. Nice little gun! In my opinion, it beat the Ruger in several areas: 1. Lighter trigger. It's still long, but is a good 2lb lighter up to the end, where it gets stiffer. 2. Tiny bit thinner 3. Better sights 4. I liked the black stainless steel finish. 5. Felt better in my hand 6. Slide locks open on empty 7. Came with an extra magazine and belt pouch. Needless to say, I came home with the TCP. __________________ Proud U.S. Army Veteran NRA Life Member

April 13, 2011, 03:43 PM	#65
RickE Senior Member Join Date: December 18, 2009 Location: Kirkland Wa. Posts: 516	ghalleen, your comments on the TCP are right on. I love mine. I have not had any issues with it. My son in law just got a SW Bodyguard .380 with a built in Lazer for a good price. I hear the triggers have issues, and I don't like the on/off switch for the lazer. Looks cool however.

April 13, 2011, 07:55 PM	#66
Mokumbear Senior Member Join Date: October 8, 2005 Posts: 696	Kahr P380... I am halfway through the 200 round break in period for my blackened stainless Kahr P380. I'm going to try to complete it this weekend. Didn't have an easy time with the 1st 100 rounds. After e-mailing tech support, I am trying different ammo for the next 100 rounds. Kind of like a little project for someone who doesn't get to shoot a lot. I am hoping the next 100 rounds go better and have been assured by one of their better tech support people that they will do what it takes to fix it if there is still a problem. I want it to work out because this is a an ideal gun for times when even my compact PPS 9mm is a little too large. I will say this, the Kahr is not punishing on the hand after 100 rounds fired. More on this as "the project" continues...

April 13, 2011, 08:38 PM	#67
Always-Vigilant Member Join Date: November 18, 2009 Location: St. Louis, MO. Posts: 84	Sig P232 I like the Sig P232. Not the smallest but conceals great with the right holster. I use Don Hume 715 for IWB and the Glaco Concealment holster for OWB. Sig P232 is also fun to shoot at the range.http://thefiringline.com/forums/atta...5&d=1301945803 Last edited by Always-Vigilant; April 13, 2011 at 08:43 PM. Reason: add pic

April 13, 2011, 09:21 PM	#69
Orangeshadow03 Member Join Date: February 23, 2011 Location: Rural, Ar Posts: 26	Bodyguard for me, tried the LCP, it just didn't feel as good to me. I feel like I can hold on to the BG a lot better. I do agree with the post from earlier, the laser on the BG pretty much sucks:barf:, but the sights are dead on. __________________ I'll keep my FREEDOM, my GUNS, my MONEY, my RELIGION, and you can keep the "CHANGE" ~ Hank Williams Jr. Ruger LCR, Ruger Mark III, Ruger P90, Taurus PT740, Taurus Model 608 S&W Bodyguard .380, Enfield .303, Marlin .22

April 13, 2011, 10:46 PM	#70
Yung.gunr Senior Member Join Date: November 11, 2010 Location: Phoenix area Posts: 1,442	Don't have it yet but I'm planning on getting the Taurus TCP. It feels much better then the Ruger LCP or any of the Kel Tecs. Especially the trigger.

July 11, 2011, 01:36 PM	#71
sailor353 Junior Member Join Date: July 11, 2011 Posts: 1	I carry my BT380 in a Don Hume pocket holster in my front pocket all of the time. I wear shorts and tee shirt 9 months of the year. The gun is comfortable and prints very little, looks kie you might have a wallet in your pocket.

July 11, 2011, 04:05 PM	#72
lcpiper Senior Member Join Date: May 15, 2011 Posts: 1,405	Speaking of holsters, I have a Galco IWB for my 85B Cheetah and I had an unsettling revelation today. I was going into town to pick up some things from my daughter's house and I had my Beretta in the holster and I have just started carrying it with one in the pipe and the safty on. Well I pulled it out of the holster as I got in the seat and immediatly saw that the safty was off and I was like "* over?". So I put the gun on safe, yanked off the holster, put the gun back in the holster and snapped the hammer strap closed and sure enough the hammer strap retention is forcing the safty off when you snap it closed. This holster is going back to the shop and I'll be looking for another, probably one without a hammer strap. I actually noticed this happen for the first time about a week ago but wasn't sure so I let it slide. This time, seeing it again, I was sure of things and determined to figure out what was happening. In all fairness to Galco, this holster is actually for the Thunder and Firestorm .380 series pistols and not specificlly for the Cheetahs so I can't blame Galco at all. only the limited selection of holsters at my LGS when it comes to non Glock, M1911, and SIG holsters. __________________ Colt M1911, AR-15 \| S&W Model 19, Model 27\| SIG P238 \| Berreta 85B Cheetah \| Ruger Blackhawk .357MAG, Bearcat "Shopkeeper" .22LR\| Remington** Marine Magnum SP 12GA., Model 700 SPS .223

July 11, 2011, 05:18 PM	#74
I_Am_NOT_Lost Junior Member Join Date: July 11, 2011 Location: AZ Posts: 10	LCP get's my vote, but it all is relative to how your going to carry this gun. I like pocket carry because it is without a doubt something I can actually carry comfortably every day. I looked at the Bodyguard and and to be honest the gun is just to "busy", S&W tried to pack to many features into a gun that wasn't built for them. __________________ I have a beautiful wife, a good job, and a roof over my head. This is America, and I am happy. -"Would you say he was in grave danger?" "Is there any other kind?"

July 11, 2011, 05:26 PM	#75
meanmachine1961 Senior Member Join Date: May 26, 2009 Location: Muscle Shoals, Alabama Posts: 276	LCP is the easiest to carry gun that I have ever owned. Can't even tell I've got it with me. No excuse to leave the house unarmed since I bought one.