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Should I Add a .380 to My Collection? Login/Join 
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Picture of fpuhan
posted
I find I'm still "fighting" the best way to CC my small 9mm SIGs (P938, P365). I like to front pocket carry, but sometimes I'm seated at a desk for periods of time, and the bulk gets uncomfortable. IWB works at times, but again, when I sit, it tends to dig into my side/back. If I were on my feet most of the time, I wouldn't have this issue.

I've tried shoulder carry, belly belt, I don't like appendix carry, and rear-pocket exposes too much of the gun (I guess I should note that I'm very thin and small-boned. 5'10" and about 140 lbs.). The problem is lessened during the cold months, as I have a couple of NRA jackets that have built-in holster pockets, and they work well. But I can't wear my jacket indoors all the time.

So, I was thinking about getting a micro .380 for those times when my 9mm won't do. Here is a short list of guns on my "consider list" with some commentary:

Ruger LCP. Very light, very small, very inexpensive.
Kel-Tec P-3AT. Lighter than the Ruger, only slightly longer. A bit pricier.
Taurus 738TCP. Lighter than the Ruger, but longer than the Kel-Tec.
Kahr Arms CW380. Shortest of all, but the heaviest (11.5 oz.). Pricier than the others, too.

I'm sure there are others. I started by looking at the Ruger, and unless someone either convinces me it's a bad idea, or has another suggestion that just blows away any of the above, I'll probably go that route. Also, something tells me that reliability can be an issue with some of these, too. I don't want or need more gun problems.




You can't truly call yourself "peaceful" unless you are capable of great violence. If you're not capable of great violence, you're not peaceful, you're harmless.

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Posts: 2857 | Location: Peoples Republic of North Virginia | Registered: December 04, 2015Reply With QuoteReport This Post
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Personally, I would just concentrate on making your other small 9mm's fit into your profile. They are very small to begin with and I'm sure can be accommodated with only a little finagling.
 
Posts: 970 | Location: Virginia | Registered: August 03, 2012Reply With QuoteReport This Post
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Picture of 7mm Mauser
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I have an original LCP that sees EDC duty about 30% of the time. I believe they still make the model for about $200. My range experience with it has been excellent at 7 yards. I carry Hornady Critical Defense which functions reliably. It is small enough and it is big enough for me. With Fall/Winter jackets it becomes near weightless.

7mm

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quote:
Originally posted by fpuhan:
I find I'm still "fighting" the best way to CC my small 9mm SIGs (P938, P365). I like to front pocket carry, but sometimes I'm seated at a desk for periods of time, and the bulk gets uncomfortable. IWB works at times, but again, when I sit, it tends to dig into my side/back. If I were on my feet most of the time, I wouldn't have this issue.

I've tried shoulder carry, belly belt, I don't like appendix carry, and rear-pocket exposes too much of the gun (I guess I should note that I'm very thin and small-boned. 5'10" and about 140 lbs.). The problem is lessened during the cold months, as I have a couple of NRA jackets that have built-in holster pockets, and they work well. But I can't wear my jacket indoors all the time.

So, I was thinking about getting a micro .380 for those times when my 9mm won't do. Here is a short list of guns on my "consider list" with some commentary:

Ruger LCP. Very light, very small, very inexpensive.
Kel-Tec P-3AT. Lighter than the Ruger, only slightly longer. A bit pricier.
Taurus 738TCP. Lighter than the Ruger, but longer than the Kel-Tec.
Kahr Arms CW380. Shortest of all, but the heaviest (11.5 oz.). Pricier than the others, too.

I'm sure there are others. I started by looking at the Ruger, and unless someone either convinces me it's a bad idea, or has another suggestion that just blows away any of the above, I'll probably go that route. Also, something tells me that reliability can be an issue with some of these, too. I don't want or need more gun problems.


Port Orchard, WA
 
Posts: 170 | Registered: October 31, 2008Reply With QuoteReport This Post
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I did this not too long ago, it is much smaller and lighter than a p938 and easier to conceal. Got a bodyguard 380, ruger has a rep for reliability in this size and it’s probably deserved.
 
Posts: 661 | Location: The realm of Texas | Registered: February 06, 2009Reply With QuoteReport This Post
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Yeah, if it's more comfortable and fits the need, go for it. The LCP is proven and reliable and has an array of holsters available for it. The S+W .380 is worth a look as well. I wouldn't touch a Taurus.

BUDS has an LCP II right now with a blue patterned frame for $179.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: jimmy123x,
 
Posts: 21421 | Registered: June 12, 2005Reply With QuoteReport This Post
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I've had the S&W Bodyguard 380 and an LCP. Still own/carry the LCP. Really hard to beat, especially considering value.
 
Posts: 1740 | Registered: November 07, 2015Reply With QuoteReport This Post
Road Dog
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Without hesitation I’d get the LCP. I added a
Stainless guide rod and increase recoil spring to help with recoil. I love mine.
 
Posts: 3478 | Location: Southwest Indiana | Registered: December 12, 2004Reply With QuoteReport This Post
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I’m a 9mm guy and have several that I carry. However, sometimes I want something very small & light that’s still easy to shoot. When I do I carry a Glock 42.



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Posts: 1741 | Location: Alexandria, VA | Registered: December 09, 2009Reply With QuoteReport This Post
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I have the LCP & a P238, in 380. Both are easy to carry, though capabilities are limited. Of course, better than nothing.

I kinda drift to my S&W PD-340 scandium J-Frame too, light, only 5 dependable shots, 38 SPCL +p is enough.

Yeah, easier in the cooler months. I do like variety. The ‘standard’ for me is my H&K p2000sk in 40, a little more capable, reliable.
 
Posts: 6483 | Location: WI | Registered: February 29, 2012Reply With QuoteReport This Post
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Picture of fpuhan
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I'm reading a lot of love for the LCP! And one knock on the Taurus. Thank you!

Another one that crossed my path was the Kel-Tec P32. No, it's not a .380, and maybe I'm really pushing this "almost invisible" gun thing, but at 6.6 oz. and only 5.1" long, it's smaller than the rest.

The LCP still seems to be the standout, but I'm weighing all options...




You can't truly call yourself "peaceful" unless you are capable of great violence. If you're not capable of great violence, you're not peaceful, you're harmless.

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Posts: 2857 | Location: Peoples Republic of North Virginia | Registered: December 04, 2015Reply With QuoteReport This Post
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My first suggestion is to stick with what you got and find the right IWB holster.. with the right holster and the small 9mms you already have you should get to the point where you have to check sometimes to remind yourself you are carrying...

Now if you are determined to drop down... I think Ruger is the way to go... with that said, what about the Sig P238 Spartan II Micro?


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Posts: 4441 | Location: Greenville, SC | Registered: January 30, 2017Reply With QuoteReport This Post
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I started with the beretta Pico. Inexpensive, modular, reliable, hammer fired DAO and very accurate. Great to carry and snag free. The biggest problem was the magazine release. I don’t mind paddle style but on this I had to use both hands to operate so I felt it wasn’t right.

Picked up a Remington rm380. I like the metal frame and DAO hammer, snag free and inexpensive. Easy to shoot and accurate. Upgraded a few parts thanks to a member here and could definitely recommend it.
 
Posts: 1790 | Location: Central Florida | Registered: August 08, 2008Reply With QuoteReport This Post
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WITH you
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I have the Ruger LC9s Pro. It is very small and compact and really shoots!

That said, I've been on an "old school" .380 spree buying both a Walther PPK/S and SIG P232 in a month.




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Posts: 23581 | Location: Gainesville, GA | Registered: October 11, 2005Reply With QuoteReport This Post
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I had an LCP in the front pocket of my suit at my daughter's wedding. Do it.
 
Posts: 17293 | Location: Lexington, KY | Registered: October 15, 2006Reply With QuoteReport This Post
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I pocket carry my LCP when nothing else will conceal well for me, I am comfortable enough with the caliber for those occasions, as the old saying goes ".380 is not much, but I've yet to find someone willing to be shot with one".


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Posts: 13727 | Location: Michigan | Registered: July 10, 2004Reply With QuoteReport This Post
Baroque Bloke
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I love my aluminum frame SIG P238. And this is the SigForum. Smile

BTW – I’m usually drawn to the most expensive version of anything, but I think the best P238 is the least expensive model, the Nitron. It needs better grips, but I’d replace the grips on ANY P238 model with Hogue checkered G10 grips.



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Posts: 9600 | Location: San Diego | Registered: July 26, 2014Reply With QuoteReport This Post
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Picture of PASig
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I have the Kahr CW380 and love it. In a DeSantis Nemesis pocket holster it carries well and doesn't seem too heavy to me.

quote:
Originally posted by fpuhan:


Another one that crossed my path was the Kel-Tec P32



I pocket carried one for years and would recommend if you wanted to go .32 ACP

It's VERY flat and light and perfect for pocket carry and fun to shoot as well, it's enjoyable compared to the P3AT which I owned years ago for a short time and didn't like. The P32 also locks back on empty which most .380 pocket pistols do not do.


 
Posts: 34973 | Location: Pennsylvania | Registered: November 12, 2007Reply With QuoteReport This Post
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I can relate to the OP's situation. I have pinched nerves in my back, with back pain of course. And My physical dimensions are about the same as the OP's (5'10"-150 lbs)

Starting about 3 years ago, wearing an IWB or even an outside holster on my right hip puts pressure on my hip, seemingly increasing my back pain. Wearing a leather holster doesn't hurt as much as a kydex holster. I have tried pocket carry, which I do not like (drawing while seated?), appendix, and always consider strong side carry the best.

I have the Ruger LCPII, and often carry it on my hip, the small footprint doesn't bother my back. It has been totally reliable , and I carry 2 extra magazines with me. But this is a pistol that requires a holster due to the light trigger.

The quality of the Ruger is far better than the Kel Tec, as I've had the 3AT also.

I won't go into other calibers, as the OP asked about .380', perhaps consider the Ruger LC380 or the SW EZ 380.


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Posts: 6673 | Location: Near the Metropolis of Tightsqueeze, Va | Registered: February 18, 2007Reply With QuoteReport This Post
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quote:
Originally posted by Pipe Smoker:
I love my aluminum frame SIG P238. And this is the SigForum. Smile

BTW – I’m usually drawn to the most expensive version of anything, but I think the best P238 is the least expensive model, the Nitron. It needs better grips, but I’d replace the grips on ANY P238 model with Hogue checkered G10 grips.


I considered the P238 before I sprang for the P938. Then, I didn't want .380. Now, because it's nearly the same size, that's the reason I'm not considering it again.

Maybe a better way of stating it is to say I'm looking for a BUG. One that becomes nearly invisible when on one's person.




You can't truly call yourself "peaceful" unless you are capable of great violence. If you're not capable of great violence, you're not peaceful, you're harmless.

NRA Benefactor/Patriot Member
 
Posts: 2857 | Location: Peoples Republic of North Virginia | Registered: December 04, 2015Reply With QuoteReport This Post
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Had an LCP,LCP2 and finally a Glock 42. Never had any problems with the LCPs but the G42 for me is easier to shoot.
 
Posts: 2351 | Location: Florida | Registered: March 01, 2012Reply With QuoteReport This Post
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