Browse the web for a short time, and you'll find scores of quality .380 handguns available for under $400. But which ones are the best for self-defense and more?
The group of .380-caliber handguns have long been a favorite choice concealed carry license holders. The .380 is large enough to stop an attacker in self-defense and small enough to comfortably concealed carry for extended periods.
The creation of the .380 ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol), or .380 Auto as it's known to many, pistol round was the doing of John Browning. And the rimless, straight-walled cartridge has been popular as an IWB, a scaled-down backup, or shoulder holster option with countless gun users over the years.
The six affordable choices listed here are some of the best .380 ACP pistols under $500. These picks are great for both men and women.
They don't have to be a true "pocket pistol," but most are compact or subcompact enough for your typical American to carry comfortably.
The Best .380 ACP Handguns Under $500
Smith & Wesson Bodyguard
Cabela's
The Smith & Wesson Bodyguard .380 is a dependable, solid weapon at an affordable price. This compact and lightweight .380 semi-auto handgun is loaded with features for fast and reliable shooting. The 6+1 capacity magazine and integrated laser night sights give shooters plenty of accuracy and shot capability, while the polymer grip gives shooters a steady hold to go along with the clean, crisp trigger pull. The Bodyguard also features a drift-adjustable rear sight for consistent accuracy out of what's a particularly small barrel length.
The Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard is hard to find for less than $400, so this earlier version is your best bet.
Ruger LCP
Cabela's
The Ruger LCP .380 has a smooth, compact design that makes it comfortable to carry for long periods of time. The frame is made from strong glass-filled nylon and hardened alloy steel. The Ruger LCP's low-profile sights and compatibility with integrated laser sights offer increased accuracy and consistent results on the shooting range. And its 6+1 round magazine capacity gives shooters plenty of shots. At less than $400, the LCP is a nice choice for those who prefer comfort and reliability over the bulk and size of larger handguns.
They've since come out with the Ruger LCP II, which also comes in at below $400.
Taurus 738 TCP
Cabela's
The Taurus 738 TCP .380 is a little carry pistol that packs a big punch. It's lightweight, compact and comfortable to hold. The lightweight frame is made from a durable polymer, and the components are made from stainless steel and titanium. With a price tag of under $250, it's hard to find a better carry option at such a great price.
Walther PK380
Cabela's
The Walther PK380 is a low-profile .380 that's perfect for shooters who want a small concealed carry gun. The PK380's slim grip and small slide are perfect for female shooters. Standout features of this gun include manual safety blocks, three-dot polymer, and an ambidextrous magazine release. The PK380 is available with a double or section trigger.
Kahr CW3833
Cabela's
The Kahr CW3833 semi-automatic handgun is a smooth, double-action .380. Its patented offset barrel and ergonomic grips give shooters better control and positioning with their shots. This small gun also has a cocking-cam trigger system that controls the passive safety and firing pin to ensure smooth action.
Glock 42
Sportsman's Warehouse
The Glock 42 is a slim, highly concealable, striker-fired pistol that shares plenty of design features with the full-size Glock line. Load it up with some hollow-point ammo and a quality holster and you have durable and reliable polymer frame gun you can count on when you need it.
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