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cje1980 · May 30, 2018, 09:23 PM

Without question the 327 is a more effective round. This is proven by gel tests. It's virtually impossible to find a 380 round that consistently BOTH penetrate 12" AND expand. I have a little Beretta Pico that I use for quick errands when I need something I can just toss in a pocket without much thought. I load it with Winchester 95 gr FMJ FN. I just don't really trust any JHP to get the job done in a 380.

At the same time, the 327 Federal Gold Dot loadings even out of 2-3" barrels rival the performance from modern 9mm loadings out of service length barrels.

The problem with 327 Federal is that ammo just isn't available for it and expensive. Other than that there is no question the 327 Federal LCR is a better option than a pocket 380 in terms of effectiveness. The 327 Federal barks quite a bit though so not everybody can handle it very easily.

May 30, 2018, 09:23 PM	#27
cje1980 Senior Member Join Date: November 15, 2004 Location: Colorado Posts: 1,412	Without question the 327 is a more effective round. This is proven by gel tests. It's virtually impossible to find a 380 round that consistently BOTH penetrate 12" AND expand. I have a little Beretta Pico that I use for quick errands when I need something I can just toss in a pocket without much thought. I load it with Winchester 95 gr FMJ FN. I just don't really trust any JHP to get the job done in a 380. At the same time, the 327 Federal Gold Dot loadings even out of 2-3" barrels rival the performance from modern 9mm loadings out of service length barrels. The problem with 327 Federal is that ammo just isn't available for it and expensive. Other than that there is no question the 327 Federal LCR is a better option than a pocket 380 in terms of effectiveness. The 327 Federal barks quite a bit though so not everybody can handle it very easily.