Smith & Wesson Forum

Go Back   Smith & Wesson Forum > General Topics > Concealed Carry & Self Defense
o

Notices

Concealed Carry & Self Defense All aspects of Concealed and Open Carry, Home and Self Defense.


Reply
 
Thread Tools Display Modes
  #51  
Old 06-13-2018, 08:09 PM
K Frame Keith's Avatar
K Frame Keith K Frame Keith is offline
Member
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Feb 2010
Location: Pike County PA
Posts: 1,041
Likes: 1,745
Liked 2,026 Times in 644 Posts
Default

I've been playing around with the Remington RM380 that I purchased last year to carry while wearing a tux for our daughter's wedding. I was looking at the Ruger and S&W when Buds had a great sale combined with a rebate from Remington. The Rohbar pedigree helped me to make my decision as well. It's been perfectly reliable so far and has less felt recoil than any .380 I've experienced with the exception of the much larger Colt 1908 hammer less.
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #52  
Old 06-13-2018, 09:28 PM
jkmo jkmo is offline
Member
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Feb 2006
Location: Troy, IL
Posts: 492
Likes: 377
Liked 312 Times in 130 Posts
Default

Bought the wife a Tauras M380 revolver about 2 months ago as a j frame was too much recoil. Heavy da pull but it has smoothed up some after about 300 reds and dry fire a lot.

You can get a spring kit but have to knock out a roll pin in the grip to get the grip off. Haven't got there yet. Had to blue loctite the the rear sight screw and the crane screw but it is a pretty accurate for a small snub.

Uses moon clips but will shoot w/o just have to poke the empties.

Might want to take a look at it.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #53  
Old 06-13-2018, 10:05 PM
Engine49guy's Avatar
Engine49guy Engine49guy is offline
Member
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: May 2009
Location: South Florida
Posts: 7,770
Likes: 2,468
Liked 8,296 Times in 2,908 Posts
Default

My CCW evolution :
MK IV Series 80 Colt Commander
S&W Model 59
Mauser HSc .380
Stainless Walther PPK
Beretta 21A in 22lr
1st gen Ruger LCP
S&W Model 66-1 snub
Current CCW's are a S&W Model 37 or S&W 3953 in an OWB holster depending on climate.

A friend was showing off her S&W Bodyguard .380 recently and got me thinking
"Maybe a compact .380 pocket pistol would make a nice CCW ?"
Will it go round in circles , Will it fly high like a bird up in the sky ?

Last edited by Engine49guy; 06-13-2018 at 10:09 PM.
Reply With Quote
  #54  
Old 06-13-2018, 10:10 PM
Protected One's Avatar
Protected One Protected One is offline
Member
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Mar 2013
Location: Michigan
Posts: 3,400
Likes: 3,245
Liked 4,624 Times in 1,697 Posts
Default

Hard to argue with a J-frame for carry, yet my bodyguard 380 has over 1400 trouble free rounds through it, so I can't complain about it either.
__________________
Stay protected my friends.
Reply With Quote
The Following 4 Users Like Post:
  #55  
Old 06-13-2018, 10:24 PM
Old cop Old cop is offline
US Veteran
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Oct 2010
Posts: 7,783
Likes: 4,206
Liked 15,131 Times in 4,142 Posts
Default

My off duty gun evolution began in 1968 w/a Colt Cobra (still have it) then a variety of J frames until about a year ago when I picked up the no lock 340PD. I wanted the .380s to work b/c they’re so easy to carry as well as reasonably accurate for their intended purpose. I’ve spent a ton of money trying to get this right but it has to stop somewhere and I believe I’ve finally reached that point. I have a stubborn streak too, or so I’m told.
__________________
Old Cop
LEO (Ret.)
Reply With Quote
The Following 3 Users Like Post:
  #56  
Old 06-14-2018, 12:39 AM
atx357 atx357 is offline
Member
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Jun 2018
Posts: 88
Likes: 23
Liked 62 Times in 34 Posts
Default

I have two LCP's, put about 1K rounds through one of the and loved them both until I tried firing them one handed with a someone loose/limp wrist. I found that with a slightly loose wrist, both my LCPs would jam on the first round when the magazine is full. But both run well, even with a very loose grip if I only load 5 in the mag for 5+1. They are very accurate for what they are, but I know my j-frames will always go bang no matter what my grip is...so I went back to a j-frame as well. Also when i chrono'd my LCP's, it was a bit of a wakeup... a 95gr bullet at 850 fps vs 158gr bullet at 850 fps...38 wins by a pretty good margin.
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #57  
Old 06-14-2018, 10:37 AM
StephenWhoDat's Avatar
StephenWhoDat StephenWhoDat is offline
Member
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Feb 2017
Location: Louisiana
Posts: 561
Likes: 2,512
Liked 987 Times in 327 Posts
Default

The Remington RM380 is by far the best .380 pocket pistol on the market. And I've tried almost every one out there. The RM380 has an all metal frame, very little recoil, is reliable (600+ rounds through mine with no issues), and is actually pleasant to shoot. The LCP and the Bodyguard are not pleasant to shoot AT ALL. Give the little Remy a try. I think you'll be pleasantly surprised.
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #58  
Old 06-14-2018, 11:56 AM
Fastbolt's Avatar
Fastbolt Fastbolt is offline
Member
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Jul 2002
Location: CA Central Coast
Posts: 4,638
Likes: 915
Liked 6,591 Times in 2,191 Posts
Default

Old cop, just out of curiosity, did your LCP have the mag catch release the mag when you carried it in a front pocket holster? If so, did you carry anything else in that pocket, like the spare mag or a key fob?

Or, did you pocket carry it in a rear pocket? If you're right-handed, I could see sitting on the LCP, oriented for a RH draw (especially is using a soft holster), exposing the mag catch button to be "pressed".

If in the front pocket, and nothing else was present to depress the mag catch button, and your holster was the right type for the LCP (meaning not pressing against the mag catch button). I'd be on the phone to Ruger to ask them to have it checked. (I'd also ask the gun store from which you bought it to send it back on their shipping account, if possible, unless Ruger will front you the shipping label. )

I finally tried the "revised" LCP (produced post-Recall) after trying a friend's LCP, and having seen some come through our range. It was a blued/carbon steel slide model.

Despite the diminutive grip frame and rudimentary sights, I could run it through our normal off-duty qual course-of-fire and get fast, solid hits out to reasonable ranges. It wasn't a little pistol that could be reloaded quickly (and I have medium-sized hands), as juggling the itty bitty mags into the itty bitty grip frame wasn't as easy as loading my small 9's, .40's and .45's, and the slide not locking back on an empty mag didn't exactly help matters.

Handy little front pocket-holstered gun, though, especially when I was wearing jeans that had pockets too short and tight to let me pocket holster one of my many J-frames. It fed, fired and ejected the different JHP loads we normally had on hand, and what I bought at the store. Surprisingly accurate.

I liked it so much I ordered the stainless slide version from a local cop shop where I'd bought the first one, and it had the improved trigger pull and slightly better sights.

The only changes I made to either LCP was to use a trimmed robber grip sleeve (to cushion my middle finger knuckle) and put a dab of bright nail polish on the sights, to make it easier to see the little sights out past "close range". I use the Uncle Mike's No. 1 soft cloth pocket holsters for my pair of them.

That friend of mine who let me try his LCP? Well, I learned a little while ago that it had suffered a broken frame on each side of the rear frame pin. I don't know what he'll do with it, as since he's retired he can't buy any more off-roster handguns. (No more peace officer exemption.) Not sure Ruger could replace his gun with one with another one, unless they were willing to make a new one with the same serial number. Dunno. I told him to call Ruger and talk to them about it.

Why did his LCP frame break? Well, I'd not be surprised if it was because he shot the damned thing all the time on his rural property, at his own range, and has done so for the last few years. He's never used any "hot-rodded" ammo, but only good quality factory .380 ammo. Even so, I'd have to wonder if Ruger ever really intended for the LCP to be a gun that was constantly used for range work, instead of a "carried often/shot a little" sort of gun.
__________________
Ret LE Firearms inst & armorer

Last edited by Fastbolt; 06-14-2018 at 11:57 AM.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #59  
Old 06-14-2018, 12:09 PM
Buford57 Buford57 is offline
Member
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Feb 2006
Posts: 3,183
Likes: 398
Liked 5,022 Times in 1,625 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Old cop View Post
My current LCP, the one that keeps popping out the mag in my pocket, has been reliable w/over 200 rounds of FMJ & HP, and accurate out to 7 yards. It WAS the perfect package, and w/ a spare mag, gave me 14 just-in-case rounds (seven round b/u mag). During my LEO career I had to use my revolver to defend myself and know these scenearios develop without warning. Grabbing the LCP from my pocket in an emergency, and discovering it’s a one shot wonder b/c the mag popped out, is not something I’m interested in experiencing. I’m going to call Ruger to see what they will do.
The magazine issue was what turned me off to the old LC9 (not s). That was its only downside, but it stopped me. My 642 hasn't done that yet.
__________________
I need ammo, not a ride.

Last edited by Buford57; 06-14-2018 at 12:30 PM.
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #60  
Old 06-14-2018, 02:12 PM
growr growr is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Nov 2006
Location: Montana
Posts: 5,162
Likes: 3,433
Liked 6,245 Times in 2,061 Posts
Default

No matter how I try, I cannot get my M36 to drop the magazine....what am I doing wrong?

Randy
Reply With Quote
The Following 6 Users Like Post:
  #61  
Old 06-14-2018, 05:37 PM
hostler hostler is offline
Member
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Jan 2017
Location: Southcentral PA
Posts: 605
Likes: 173
Liked 968 Times in 367 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Old cop View Post
My current LCP, the one that keeps popping out the mag in my pocket, has been reliable w/over 200 rounds of FMJ & HP, and accurate out to 7 yards. It WAS the perfect package, and w/ a spare mag, gave me 14 just-in-case rounds (seven round b/u mag). During my LEO career I had to use my revolver to defend myself and know these scenearios develop without warning. Grabbing the LCP from my pocket in an emergency, and discovering it’s a one shot wonder b/c the mag popped out, is not something I’m interested in experiencing. I’m going to call Ruger to see what they will do.

Before you give up on the LCP, for $9 get a Pachmayr grip sleeve for it. The rubber grip is over 1/8" thick, it sort of protects the mag release. Actually one of MY criticisms of the grip sleeve is it makes getting to the mag release a little harder than I would like it to be but it may work well for you in protecting it.
Just a thought.
Reply With Quote
  #62  
Old 06-14-2018, 08:26 PM
Protected One's Avatar
Protected One Protected One is offline
Member
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Mar 2013
Location: Michigan
Posts: 3,400
Likes: 3,245
Liked 4,624 Times in 1,697 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by hostler View Post
Before you give up on the LCP, for $9 get a Pachmayr grip sleeve for it. The rubber grip is over 1/8" thick, it sort of protects the mag release. Actually one of MY criticisms of the grip sleeve is it makes getting to the mag release a little harder than I would like it to be but it may work well for you in protecting it.
Just a thought.
That's exactly what I put on my Bodyguard 380 and it works wonderfully. The intended purpose was to make the grip a little more "substantial", but I will take the bonus benefits too! Tearing away a bit of the rubber solves the accesability concern, and a drop of super glue on the front strap prevents any movement.
Attached Images
File Type: jpg Backup.jpg (112.2 KB, 56 views)
__________________
Stay protected my friends.

Last edited by Protected One; 06-14-2018 at 08:30 PM.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #63  
Old 06-14-2018, 08:34 PM
garddogg56's Avatar
garddogg56 garddogg56 is offline
Member
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Dec 2015
Location: Maine
Posts: 1,048
Likes: 2,695
Liked 1,747 Times in 637 Posts
Default

I went from thirty years of J frames to a Bodyguard .380 then toyed with a P238 but the BG.380 gets all the pocket time with over 2000 rounds thru her no problems at all.I've tried the Hogue grip sleeve and find it hard to draw when carried IWB.
Attached Images
File Type: jpg IMG_0588.jpg (206.8 KB, 51 views)

Last edited by garddogg56; 06-14-2018 at 08:39 PM.
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #64  
Old 06-14-2018, 09:50 PM
pharmer's Avatar
pharmer pharmer is online now
Member
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Mar 2002
Location: Santo las nubes, Florida
Posts: 8,966
Likes: 9,178
Liked 14,619 Times in 4,680 Posts
Default

I have owned a couple great .380's over the years. I had a SS Sterling model 400, accurate and 100% reliable. Almost as big as the 6906 I currently carry. Sold it when the company went under in the late '80's. Had a Beretta 84, accurate, reliable and mag held 13. Bigger than my 6906. I have shot small .380's; NAA, Ruger LCP, KelTec 3AT. They're OK but I prefer a J frame given the choice. Now a 6906 with a dozen effective 9mm HP's, hubba-hubba (am I allowed to say that?). Joe
__________________
Wisdom chases me; I'm faster
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #65  
Old 06-14-2018, 11:07 PM
growr growr is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Nov 2006
Location: Montana
Posts: 5,162
Likes: 3,433
Liked 6,245 Times in 2,061 Posts
Default

No mention of the CZ 83 in .380 acp? What a great gun and so under-rated!

Randy
Reply With Quote
  #66  
Old 06-14-2018, 11:55 PM
Flyingfool Flyingfool is offline
Member
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Nov 2016
Location: Wisconsin
Posts: 542
Likes: 4
Liked 339 Times in 181 Posts
Default

My brothwr has had nothing but problems with his jamomatic LCP2. Double feeds randomly no matter ammunition used and multiple different mags. Also multiple differnt people firing it. He had zero problems with original LCP.

He has sent the LCP2 back to Ruger and came back working exacrly the same way. Total ****! I’m not sure he has sent it back to Ruger for a second time. But he now has zero confidence i the LCP2. So he will probably sell it or trade the piece of junk.
Reply With Quote
  #67  
Old 06-16-2018, 11:47 AM
Old cop Old cop is offline
US Veteran
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Oct 2010
Posts: 7,783
Likes: 4,206
Liked 15,131 Times in 4,142 Posts
Default Drop Safe?

Quote:
Originally Posted by Florida J Frame View Post
Ruger recalled the original LCP for this very reason and there have not been any recalls that I know of on the II so I doubt that this is accurate. If it worries you send Ruger an email from their website. They are quick to respond. How do we really know any handgun is truly drop safe?
While it didn’t happen often I did have my issued .38 come out of the holster once, hit the pavement and nothing happened. I’m relatively sure a revolver is safe to drop.
__________________
Old Cop
LEO (Ret.)
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #68  
Old 06-16-2018, 11:48 AM
squidsix squidsix is offline
Member
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Jan 2006
Location: Southern Maine
Posts: 3,527
Likes: 1,902
Liked 5,626 Times in 1,543 Posts
Default

Seriously, give these things a try. $200 each for this pair. Light, comfortable, reliable, accurate, inexpensive.
Attached Images
File Type: jpg image.jpg (112.7 KB, 96 views)
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #69  
Old 06-16-2018, 11:49 AM
Old cop Old cop is offline
US Veteran
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Oct 2010
Posts: 7,783
Likes: 4,206
Liked 15,131 Times in 4,142 Posts
Default Grip Sleeve

Quote:
Originally Posted by hostler View Post
Before you give up on the LCP, for $9 get a Pachmayr grip sleeve for it. The rubber grip is over 1/8" thick, it sort of protects the mag release. Actually one of MY criticisms of the grip sleeve is it makes getting to the mag release a little harder than I would like it to be but it may work well for you in protecting it.
Just a thought.
Thanks, I did put this grip sleeve on my gun quite awhile ago.
__________________
Old Cop
LEO (Ret.)
Reply With Quote
  #70  
Old 06-16-2018, 01:39 PM
Watchdog Watchdog is offline
Banned
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Apr 2013
Posts: 12,572
Likes: 21,054
Liked 32,463 Times in 7,773 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Old cop View Post
I’ve carried a J frame for almost 50 years but when the little .380s came out I was intrigued. Started w/Ruger, then S&W, Glock and Ruger LCP again. Every .380 has had some sort of reliability issue and that’s a no go for anything carried for self defense.
I'm curious...what was the reliability issue with the Glock 42? I've owned two 42s (one of which I never even fired). The one I did fire on a somewhat regular basis never failed to do what it was supposed to do. So I just wonder what went wrong with yours.
Reply With Quote
  #71  
Old 06-16-2018, 03:35 PM
Guevera Guevera is offline
Member
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Sep 2007
Posts: 768
Likes: 11
Liked 1,631 Times in 392 Posts
Default

In contrast to a lot of the people above, my interest in the .380 has increased. Back problems mean I can’t lug around a SW 3953 like I used to. What I have found instead is a stainless Walther / Smith & Wesson PPK, with a plus-one magazine extension so it uses a PPK/s magazine. The extension makes the pistol even nicer in the hand and recent developments in high-horsepower .380 ammunition make the cartridge a more viable choice, while the much-scorned beaver tail eliminates slide bite.

Above all, I find the PPK not only completely reliable but outrageously accurate, increasing my faith in its ability to protect me and my family. It rides in a Pocket Concealment Systems Holster and is ideal for summertime carry here in the undersea world of humid summer.

Last edited by Guevera; 06-16-2018 at 03:37 PM.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #72  
Old 06-16-2018, 03:58 PM
Mister X Mister X is offline
Member
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Apr 2010
Posts: 1,908
Likes: 414
Liked 2,249 Times in 1,032 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Guevera View Post
In contrast to a lot of the people above, my interest in the .380 has increased. Back problems mean I can’t lug around a SW 3953 like I used to. What I have found instead is a stainless Walther / Smith & Wesson PPK, with a plus-one magazine extension so it uses a PPK/s magazine. The extension makes the pistol even nicer in the hand and recent developments in high-horsepower .380 ammunition make the cartridge a more viable choice, while the much-scorned beaver tail eliminates slide bite.

Above all, I find the PPK not only completely reliable but outrageously accurate, increasing my faith in its ability to protect me and my family. It rides in a Pocket Concealment Systems Holster and is ideal for summertime carry here in the undersea world of humid summer.
If weight is the primary issue, I'm curious why you went with a PPK?

The PPK is actually a relatively heavy gun for a .380, especially considering its capacity. It is pretty much equivelant in weight with a Glock 26 that holds 10+1 rounds of 9mm, more weighty than most single-stack 9x19's and significantly heavier than the current crop of small .380 pistols.
Reply With Quote
  #73  
Old 06-16-2018, 04:52 PM
Old cop Old cop is offline
US Veteran
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Oct 2010
Posts: 7,783
Likes: 4,206
Liked 15,131 Times in 4,142 Posts
Default Glock 42

Quote:
Originally Posted by Watchdog View Post
I'm curious...what was the reliability issue with the Glock 42? I've owned two 42s (one of which I never even fired). The one I did fire on a somewhat regular basis never failed to do what it was supposed to do. So I just wonder what went wrong with yours.
I purchased the Glock 42 when they first came out and could not get through a single mag w/o some sort of malfunction. I sent it back to Glock but their attitude was: “Our guns don’t malfunction,” but I sent it back three times w/o a successful fix. They eventually refunded my money and I did not try any subsequent models of the 42.
__________________
Old Cop
LEO (Ret.)
Reply With Quote
  #74  
Old 06-16-2018, 05:02 PM
JayFramer JayFramer is offline
Banned
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Jul 2013
Posts: 4,596
Likes: 6,989
Liked 9,332 Times in 2,759 Posts
Default

I'd rather the snub, pard.

Drop the automatic.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #75  
Old 06-16-2018, 05:10 PM
Watchdog Watchdog is offline
Banned
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Apr 2013
Posts: 12,572
Likes: 21,054
Liked 32,463 Times in 7,773 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Old cop View Post
I purchased the Glock 42 when they first came out and could not get through a single mag w/o some sort of malfunction. I sent it back to Glock but their attitude was: “Our guns don’t malfunction,” but I sent it back three times w/o a successful fix. They eventually refunded my money and I did not try any subsequent models of the 42.
I appreciate your taking the time to answer.

I have to say this, though, and I'm not being funny or a smart aleck...but "some sort of malfunction" doesn't tell me anything.

Anyway, I'll just take it you were dissatisfied with the G42 and let it go at that.

Thanks again.
Reply With Quote
  #76  
Old 06-16-2018, 05:34 PM
sipowicz's Avatar
sipowicz sipowicz is offline
Member
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Aug 2005
Location: Gun lovin\' Hollywood Ca.
Posts: 10,238
Likes: 7,741
Liked 18,707 Times in 3,792 Posts
Default

I feel incredibly smart never having replaced my 442 with a .380 for even 1 day in 35 years of carry.
__________________
Thirty characters. Exactly...
Reply With Quote
The Following 3 Users Like Post:
  #77  
Old 06-16-2018, 05:56 PM
gman51 gman51 is offline
Member
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Feb 2012
Location: Just West of Houston
Posts: 3,468
Likes: 787
Liked 4,674 Times in 2,062 Posts
Default

This thread just reaffirms why I only carry a revolver. HMMM 5 measly shots fired from a revolver beats a 1st round jam with a semi auto, that carries perhaps 7 rounds or more, every time.

I really don't understand why the price of the 380 ammo has remained so high since there sure are a boat load of 380 handguns being shot everyday.

Personally after trying so many handguns for carry protection I have landed on the 44 spl revolver for daily carry. IMO All around the 44 spl is a good round and I can even pocket carry the Bull Dog all day long without any problems. Over 2000 rounds through this inexpensive Bull Dog and not one hick up.

Personally I never could get interested in a semi auto maker that said their gun needed a 300-500 break in before it was reliable. IMO That's just a poorly made gun. I don't think I ever saw a revolver that the manual said it needed a break in period to be reliable.
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #78  
Old 06-16-2018, 06:42 PM
Guevera Guevera is offline
Member
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Sep 2007
Posts: 768
Likes: 11
Liked 1,631 Times in 392 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Mister X View Post
If weight is the primary issue, I'm curious why you went with a PPK?
The PPK is actually a relatively heavy gun for a .380, especially considering its capacity. It is pretty much equivelant in weight with a Glock 26 that holds 10+1 rounds of 9mm, more weighty than most single-stack 9x19's and significantly heavier than the current crop of small .380 pistols.

I don't own any pants with pockets that I can carry a Glock 26 around in.
Reply With Quote
  #79  
Old 06-16-2018, 06:45 PM
625-7's Avatar
625-7 625-7 is online now
Member
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Mar 2016
Location: Somewhere in Pennsylvania
Posts: 739
Likes: 4,617
Liked 1,043 Times in 442 Posts
Default Colt Govt. 380

Carried at least once a week. Bought new back in the 90's, never once had any problem cycling or carrying. Carried in a Mil Tech holster with the extra mag pouch. Would rather bet my life on the 625 with the 45 in longer cartridge but the little 380 concealles better and has proven itself
__________________
Retired trap shooter
Reply With Quote
  #80  
Old 06-16-2018, 07:04 PM
gman51 gman51 is offline
Member
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Feb 2012
Location: Just West of Houston
Posts: 3,468
Likes: 787
Liked 4,674 Times in 2,062 Posts
Default

Charter Bull Dog 44 spl.
Finish is smooth and machining is very good close tolerance fit. I can shake the gun with no noise.

I did file down the front sight because the gun shot low from 10 yards with reloads. I also painted front sight fluorescent pink. Gun shoots poa if I do my part.

Double action trigger is smooth action around 12.5lb. The single action is actually very light around 2.5.

After shooting 100 rounds of reloads my trigger finger did have a rubbed spot from the trigger. This only happened one time for some reason.

It weighs 19 oz. empty....22 oz. loaded with the full 5 rounds.
Attached Images
File Type: jpg charter44spl 009.JPG (204.8 KB, 61 views)
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #81  
Old 06-16-2018, 09:44 PM
Old cop Old cop is offline
US Veteran
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Oct 2010
Posts: 7,783
Likes: 4,206
Liked 15,131 Times in 4,142 Posts
Default G42 Malfunctions

Quote:
Originally Posted by Watchdog View Post
I appreciate your taking the time to answer.

I have to say this, though, and I'm not being funny or a smart aleck...but "some sort of malfunction" doesn't tell me anything.

Anyway, I'll just take it you were dissatisfied with the G42 and let it go at that.

Thanks again.
Apologies, I should have been more specific but the G42 ran the gammot of malfunctions from stovepipe, fail to extract and fail to eject. This was every mag and every time at the range. I had others shoot it and everyone experienced the same thing. Glock made some modifications to their initial design and I’m told the problems have been corrected, but I lost confidence. I did learn a valuable lesson though, and that was NEVER to purchase a new weapon design the first year it comes out.
__________________
Old Cop
LEO (Ret.)

Last edited by Old cop; 06-16-2018 at 09:48 PM.
Reply With Quote
  #82  
Old 06-16-2018, 10:09 PM
GoDevil Man's Avatar
GoDevil Man GoDevil Man is offline
Member
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Feb 2017
Location: Nebraska
Posts: 136
Likes: 79
Liked 130 Times in 61 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by StephenWhoDat View Post
The Remington RM380 is by far the best .380 pocket pistol on the market. And I've tried almost every one out there. The RM380 has an all metal frame, very little recoil, is reliable (600+ rounds through mine with no issues), and is actually pleasant to shoot.
We love our RM 380. Wife bought hers a year after it released. Wish I would have bought another one for me last winter when they were selling for stupid crazy low prices after rebate. I don't religiously count rounds but it has probably around 900 and no issues, other then a little metal wear inside underneath the slide. Today I went to the range, heated up the Smith 27–2, then let it cool while I shot about 70 through the RM380 practicing for a pocket pistol shoot I'm gonna run in July. went five for six on plates at 6 yards two or three times, had a perfect six for six once, never shot worse than four for six. I'm no Hickok 45 but I wasn't shooting slowly. Just takes a little more time to line up the sights than the six-inch Smith. I recommend the reduced trigger pull springs from Galloway precision. They make that trigger much more enjoyable.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #83  
Old 06-16-2018, 10:51 PM
Rastoff's Avatar
Rastoff Rastoff is offline
Member
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Dec 2011
Location: So Cal (Near Edwards AFB)
Posts: 14,710
Likes: 2,926
Liked 17,102 Times in 6,271 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by M29since14 View Post
I have yet to see one that is reliable, and I’ve seen a lot of them. I’ve heard about reliable ones, mainly on the internet, but never seen it.
This mirrors my experience exactly.
  • Because they're small, people buy them for concealed carry.
  • Because they're anemic, the recoil spring is light which makes them easy to rack so, lots of women get them.
  • Because I'm a CCW instructor, I see them a lot.

I have yet to see one make it through my class without a malfunction. This is sad because the shooting portion of my class is only 35 rounds. ANY gun should be able to go 35 rounds without a malfunction. But the .380Auto doesn't seem to make muster.

The LCP is the worst of the bunch. Terrible trigger and mediocre to horrible accuracy. This is probably due to the fact that it has only a suggestion of sights. Some people call it a belly gun. Well, if you stick it in someone's belly, it won't fire because the slide will likely be pushed out of battery. So it's really a 2' gun.

I would take any revolver over the .380Auto.
__________________
Freedom isn't free.
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #84  
Old 06-17-2018, 12:35 AM
Flyingfool Flyingfool is offline
Member
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Nov 2016
Location: Wisconsin
Posts: 542
Likes: 4
Liked 339 Times in 181 Posts
Default

The two most unreliable guns I have seen in My defensive classes over the last two years. 1) .380 autos and 2) 1911’s

Just observation to date. Maybe that will change as I gain more experience.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #85  
Old 06-17-2018, 11:41 AM
Ziggy2525's Avatar
Ziggy2525 Ziggy2525 is offline
Member
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Jan 2016
Posts: 1,530
Likes: 624
Liked 3,247 Times in 1,007 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Rastoff View Post
This mirrors my experience exactly.
  • Because they're small, people buy them for concealed carry.
  • Because they're anemic, the recoil spring is light which makes them easy to rack so, lots of women get them.
  • Because I'm a CCW instructor, I see them a lot.
...

The LCP is the worst of the bunch. Terrible trigger and mediocre to horrible accuracy. This is probably due to the fact that it has only a suggestion of sights. Some people call it a belly gun. Well, if you stick it in someone's belly, it won't fire because the slide will likely be pushed out of battery. So it's really a 2' gun.

I would take any revolver over the .380Auto.
As an owner, my experience has been different. I have a couple LCP Gen 2's with the stainless slide. I use one as a range gun and one for everyday pocket carry.

Normally I shoot a Glock or S&W revolver at the range, but once a month I pull the carry LCP out of my pocket and put a dozen rounds through it to make sure it's working. Then I put 100 through the range LCP firing a regular course of fire I practice with. I haven't been counting religiously, but I've got somewhere between 1,500 to 2,000 rounds through the range LCP. I haven't had a malfunction yet with either the carry LCP or the range LCP. You never know what the future holds, but so far so good.
__________________
Vegan by proxy.

Last edited by Ziggy2525; 06-17-2018 at 11:43 AM.
Reply With Quote
  #86  
Old 06-17-2018, 12:41 PM
Old cop Old cop is offline
US Veteran
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Oct 2010
Posts: 7,783
Likes: 4,206
Liked 15,131 Times in 4,142 Posts
Default LCP Carry

Quote:
Originally Posted by Fastbolt View Post
Old cop, just out of curiosity, did your LCP have the mag catch release the mag when you carried it in a front pocket holster? If so, did you carry anything else in that pocket, like the spare mag or a key fob?

Or, did you pocket carry it in a rear pocket? If you're right-handed, I could see sitting on the LCP, oriented for a RH draw (especially is using a soft holster), exposing the mag catch button to be "pressed".

If in the front pocket, and nothing else was present to depress the mag catch button, and your holster was the right type for the LCP (meaning not pressing against the mag catch button). I'd be on the phone to Ruger to ask them to have it checked. (I'd also ask the gun store from which you bought it to send it back on their shipping account, if possible, unless Ruger will front you the shipping label. )

I finally tried the "revised" LCP (produced post-Recall) after trying a friend's LCP, and having seen some come through our range. It was a blued/carbon steel slide model.

Despite the diminutive grip frame and rudimentary sights, I could run it through our normal off-duty qual course-of-fire and get fast, solid hits out to reasonable ranges. It wasn't a little pistol that could be reloaded quickly (and I have medium-sized hands), as juggling the itty bitty mags into the itty bitty grip frame wasn't as easy as loading my small 9's, .40's and .45's, and the slide not locking back on an empty mag didn't exactly help matters.

Handy little front pocket-holstered gun, though, especially when I was wearing jeans that had pockets too short and tight to let me pocket holster one of my many J-frames. It fed, fired and ejected the different JHP loads we normally had on hand, and what I bought at the store. Surprisingly accurate.

I liked it so much I ordered the stainless slide version from a local cop shop where I'd bought the first one, and it had the improved trigger pull and slightly better sights.

The only changes I made to either LCP was to use a trimmed robber grip sleeve (to cushion my middle finger knuckle) and put a dab of bright nail polish on the sights, to make it easier to see the little sights out past "close range". I use the Uncle Mike's No. 1 soft cloth pocket holsters for my pair of them.

That friend of mine who let me try his LCP? Well, I learned a little while ago that it had suffered a broken frame on each side of the rear frame pin. I don't know what he'll do with it, as since he's retired he can't buy any more off-roster handguns. (No more peace officer exemption.) Not sure Ruger could replace his gun with one with another one, unless they were willing to make a new one with the same serial number. Dunno. I told him to call Ruger and talk to them about it.

Why did his LCP frame break? Well, I'd not be surprised if it was because he shot the damned thing all the time on his rural property, at his own range, and has done so for the last few years. He's never used any "hot-rodded" ammo, but only good quality factory .380 ammo. Even so, I'd have to wonder if Ruger ever really intended for the LCP to be a gun that was constantly used for range work, instead of a "carried often/shot a little" sort of gun.

My LCP was carried in my left front (I’m a leftie) pocket w/nothing else in that pocket. A spare mag was carried in the watch pocket of my jeans. I’ve never carried in my back pocket or anywhere else except the L/F pocket in the cloth pocket holster provided by Ruger. I’ve tried other pocket holsters but they made no difference w/respect to the mag coming lose now and then. I have added the Hogue rubber grip sleeve to the gun but made no other changes other than some front sight paint.
__________________
Old Cop
LEO (Ret.)

Last edited by Old cop; 06-17-2018 at 12:43 PM.
Reply With Quote
  #87  
Old 06-17-2018, 05:04 PM
Rastoff's Avatar
Rastoff Rastoff is offline
Member
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Dec 2011
Location: So Cal (Near Edwards AFB)
Posts: 14,710
Likes: 2,926
Liked 17,102 Times in 6,271 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Flyingfool View Post
The two most unreliable guns I have seen in My defensive classes over the last two years. 1) .380 autos and 2) 1911’s
Interesting. My top two are:
  1. .380Auto (any brand)
  2. Glock (any caliber)
I've seen every kind/type/caliber fail. Yes, even a revolver (light strikes).
__________________
Freedom isn't free.
Reply With Quote
  #88  
Old 06-17-2018, 05:37 PM
eb07 eb07 is offline
Member
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Sep 2012
Location: Arizona
Posts: 2,232
Likes: 2,809
Liked 5,794 Times in 1,452 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Rastoff View Post
Interesting. My top two are:
  1. .380Auto (any brand)
  2. Glock (any caliber)
I've seen every kind/type/caliber fail. Yes, even a revolver (light strikes).
380s and 1911s here too.

I carry a charter bulldog.

I run blocks in pistol courses that run 3-500 rounds. Ran them in rain. In mud in heat. Have never seen ANY stock block (Glock) fail. The ones that fail all gave cheap aftermarket mags. Aftermarket triggers or barrels. I didn’t clean or lube my 17 for 7k as a test.

I have taken more classes in the last 25 years than I can count. All starting with gun site. And shoot comps both steel and bullet golf. Blocks are the most reliable firearms I have ever encountered.
Reply With Quote
  #89  
Old 06-17-2018, 06:00 PM
Old cop Old cop is offline
US Veteran
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Oct 2010
Posts: 7,783
Likes: 4,206
Liked 15,131 Times in 4,142 Posts
Default

I really appreciate everyone weighing in w/their experiences. I purchased the 340PD at considerable expernse b/c I was going to be my EDC and was the lightest revolver on the market. I haven’t shot it much, about 100 rounds, preferring to use my Model 37 for practice, and my Model 60 for extended range sessions. I keep it loaded with some version of the +P 158 grain FBI hollowpoint b/c I used that round on the street and it works.
__________________
Old Cop
LEO (Ret.)
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #90  
Old 06-17-2018, 06:24 PM
Mister X Mister X is offline
Member
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Apr 2010
Posts: 1,908
Likes: 414
Liked 2,249 Times in 1,032 Posts
Default

I was considering a micro .380 for certain niche use(when I'm in tropical climates) and I've looked over countless videos, reviews and comments on just about every .380 out there and pretty much every one has enough negative feedback on them to make me leery. None demonstrate the consistent documented reliability I want to see. The only exception MIGHT be the current production Glock 42 since it seems as if they have most of the problems worked out. However, the G42 is relatively large for a .380, so it kind of defeats the purpose for me since it doesn't offer any size and weight advantage over an s&w airweight. Plus, I'm kind of on the fence regarding .380 being adequate for defensive purposes. The smallest autoloader I currently own is the G26 and it has proven reliable although I rarely carry it since I favor the snubby.
Reply With Quote
  #91  
Old 06-17-2018, 06:31 PM
Fastbolt's Avatar
Fastbolt Fastbolt is offline
Member
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Jul 2002
Location: CA Central Coast
Posts: 4,638
Likes: 915
Liked 6,591 Times in 2,191 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Old cop View Post
I really appreciate everyone weighing in w/their experiences. I purchased the 340PD at considerable expernse b/c I was going to be my EDC and was the lightest revolver on the market. I haven’t shot it much, about 100 rounds, preferring to use my Model 37 for practice, and my Model 60 for extended range sessions. I keep it loaded with some version of the +P 158 grain FBI hollowpoint b/c I used that round on the street and it works.
Have you checked the LSWCHP +P load you're using to see if there's any bullet pull with it? Fired 4 rounds and checked the 5th for bullet movement, at least a couple of times? (Page 12 of the New Model revolver manual.)

If you don't have it, here's a link to it at the factory website: http://snwcdnprod.azureedge.net/site...6560000_WC.pdf
__________________
Ret LE Firearms inst & armorer
Reply With Quote
  #92  
Old 06-17-2018, 06:45 PM
Ziggy2525's Avatar
Ziggy2525 Ziggy2525 is offline
Member
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Jan 2016
Posts: 1,530
Likes: 624
Liked 3,247 Times in 1,007 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Mister X View Post
I was considering a micro .380 for certain niche use(when I'm in tropical climates) and I've looked over countless videos, reviews and comments on just about every .380 out there and pretty much every one has enough negative feedback on them to make me leery. None demonstrate the consistent documented reliability I want to see. The only exception MIGHT be the current production Glock 42 since it seems as if they have most of the problems worked out. However, the G42 is relatively large for a .380, so it kind of defeats the purpose for me since it doesn't offer any size and weight advantage over an s&w airweight. Plus, I'm kind of on the fence regarding .380 being adequate for defensive purposes. The smallest autoloader I currently own is the G26 and it has proven reliable although I rarely carry it since I favor the snubby.
I have/had a few .380's. The ones that have been totally reliable have been my LCP's and my Sig P290RS. I had a couple Glock 42's and a Taurus TCP that had issues. The Glock's went back three times before they worked correctly. The TCP never has worked correctly. The TCP is worthless for anything other than a paperweight.

I've seen complaints and praises for each of those models.

I've come to the conclusion that all micro .380's are right at the margins of what will work in a locked breech semi-auto (I think that's the correct term) with commercial .380 pistol rounds. IMO, it's not a matter picking the right brand of .380. It's finding a specific pistol. More probably work than don't, but the failure rates for all of them seem to be pretty high.

That's been my experience. YMMV.
__________________
Vegan by proxy.
Reply With Quote
  #93  
Old 06-17-2018, 10:46 PM
Narragansett's Avatar
Narragansett Narragansett is offline
SWCA Member
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Aug 2013
Location: Rhode Island
Posts: 6,656
Likes: 26,395
Liked 36,123 Times in 4,524 Posts
Default

I used to carry a Glock 36. Still have it, and never had a problem. I am not fond of semi autos for being as reliable as a revolver, and not a fan of the 380, although I have had one for 30+ years. In an auto, I want 45 acp. The Glock 36 fills the bill
Reply With Quote
  #94  
Old 06-18-2018, 07:59 AM
Old cop Old cop is offline
US Veteran
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Oct 2010
Posts: 7,783
Likes: 4,206
Liked 15,131 Times in 4,142 Posts
Default Bullet Pull

Quote:
Originally Posted by Fastbolt View Post
Have you checked the LSWCHP +P load you're using to see if there's any bullet pull with it? Fired 4 rounds and checked the 5th for bullet movement, at least a couple of times? (Page 12 of the New Model revolver manual.)

If you don't have it, here's a link to it at the factory website: http://snwcdnprod.azureedge.net/site...6560000_WC.pdf
I have checked it and called S&W before buying it. I’ve also fired it several times, using my carry load, at the range and no problem so far. My understanding was the bullet pull thing only applied to magnum rounds.
__________________
Old Cop
LEO (Ret.)
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #95  
Old 06-18-2018, 09:28 AM
CCHGN's Avatar
CCHGN CCHGN is offline
Member
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: May 2018
Location: Pensacola Fl
Posts: 244
Likes: 220
Liked 365 Times in 133 Posts
Default

My Grandpa and his generation had it right. Revolver is the safest and most reliable pocket carry.

__________________
USMC Life-GOA IDPA A10051

Last edited by CCHGN; 06-18-2018 at 10:47 AM.
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #96  
Old 06-23-2018, 11:04 PM
Echo40's Avatar
Echo40 Echo40 is offline
Member
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Sep 2017
Posts: 3,797
Likes: 7,509
Liked 7,270 Times in 2,479 Posts
Default

Threads like these make me glad that I decided against replacing my PPK/S with one of the newer micro .380 pocket pistols such as the LCP.

Sure, it may be heavy for a .380 by today's standards, and it isn't chambered in a certain overrated cartridge of similar dimensions, but it just plain works, and the thing is a tank which can handle even the hottest of loads, (Yeah, I know some of you are snickering, but there are .380 ACP loads out there which are comparable to .38 Special +P and 9x18 Makarov.) so I have no pressing need to replace it as my EDC.
Reply With Quote
  #97  
Old 06-23-2018, 11:51 PM
BC38's Avatar
BC38 BC38 is online now
Member
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Nov 2013
Location: Spokane, WA
Posts: 13,476
Likes: 1,146
Liked 18,402 Times in 7,281 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Dirty Harry Callahan View Post
Threads like these make me glad that I decided against replacing my PPK/S with one of the newer micro .380 pocket pistols such as the LCP.

Sure, it may be heavy for a .380 by today's standards, and it isn't chambered in a certain overrated cartridge of similar dimensions, but it just plain works, and the thing is a tank which can handle even the hottest of loads, (Yeah, I know some of you are snickering, but there are .380 ACP loads out there which are comparable to .38 Special +P and 9x18 Makarov.) so I have no pressing need to replace it as my EDC.
I like hearing your praise of the PPK.
I just bought a Bersa Thunder 380CC - which is a near clone of the PPK. I haven't shot it yet, but the PPK-ish design, weight, and dimensions appealed to me. In another thread there has been a lot of good said about the little Bersas so I'm thinking it will become a regular part of my CCW stable - for all the reasons you cited.

Last edited by BC38; 06-23-2018 at 11:52 PM.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #98  
Old 06-24-2018, 12:30 PM
Fastbolt's Avatar
Fastbolt Fastbolt is offline
Member
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Jul 2002
Location: CA Central Coast
Posts: 4,638
Likes: 915
Liked 6,591 Times in 2,191 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Old cop View Post
I have checked it and called S&W before buying it. I’ve also fired it several times, using my carry load, at the range and no problem so far. My understanding was the bullet pull thing only applied to magnum rounds.
The lighter bullet weight warning was about lighter weight Magnum loads using bullets lighter than 120gr, due to the faster burning powders and hotter gases produced in some of those loads (risk of cylinder throat and face erosion of the titanium cylinder with the lighter loads).

Bullet pull may occur just because of the ultra light weight, the increased recoil effect and the quality control used for the crimping.

Lead bullets may not be held as securely under recoil as jacketed bullets when it comes to crimping and heavy recoil. We were told that's why the 342 Airlites had their barrels marked for "+P Jacketed".

Of course, strange things can happen when we least expect it. We once had a guy use a European brand of 158gr LRN .38 Spl in his all-steel M36 snub during a range qual, and he was experiencing consistent bullets jumping forward to bind the cylinder. Annoyed the hell out of him. He apaprently tho9ught he save a few bucks by using those rounds for the range. Guess the QC of the crimping in those rounds wasn't sufficient.

FWIW, I checked my first M&P 340 for bullet pull with both Magnum and +P loads, including some 158gr LSWCHP +P, even though that model is heavier than the PD's and Airlite's. I also checked my second M&P 340 with the +P loads I like to carry. Depending on the grips I used, my M&P 340's weigh either 13.3oz or 14.3oz. The only loads that exhibited bullet pull in my gun, in my hands, was a couple of the Magnum loads. Neither of the all-lead LSWCHP loads have exhibited bullet pull when I've checked them.
__________________
Ret LE Firearms inst & armorer

Last edited by Fastbolt; 06-24-2018 at 12:33 PM.
Reply With Quote
  #99  
Old 06-24-2018, 02:27 PM
straightshooter1's Avatar
straightshooter1 straightshooter1 is offline
US Veteran
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Dec 2003
Location: TampaBay
Posts: 2,558
Likes: 526
Liked 2,632 Times in 970 Posts
Default

I have carried the J-Frame, mostly a light weight, for self-defense now for almost fifty years. I had a short period where I carried the Kahr Psomethingerother, but I came back to the J.

My latest love is the Ruger LCR, I have one, my wife has one and I have a second one, a three inch with the adjustable sights I take with me when going off for more than a few days (carries as well as a two inch under my T-shirt).

But my right hand is getting wimpy. It hurts like the devil after shooting (hurts pretty much after anything or nothing at all).

My VA Ortho guy says it's arthritis and a bad tendon. He is gonna re-route the tendon thru my thumb and clean out the arthritis. Will be in a cast 6 weeks and he's gonna do it in the early fall (if I don't chicken out).

So it really hurts to shoot my J-Frames. It hurts less to shoot my Glock 43, but it still smarts.

My buddy had a near new Glock 42 with the Trijicon HD sites (I put them on all my autos) and sold it to me with three mags for $400.

I admit to being skeptical of the accuracy and power. I bought a LOT of Hornady Critical Defense and started going to the range.

Accuracy was great, especially shooting fast (for an old guy) at relatively short distances. Gun fit my hand well and it was really easy to keep it on target. It always went "Bang!" and never failed to function like it should.

But the best thing, for me at least, was the real absence of felt recoil. It felt like I was shooting a .22 or close to it. No pain at all, even when shooting a couple hundred rounds (which I could no longer even think of doing with the J-Frames).

I bought a Clip-Draw for it and carefully insert it onto my jeans/shorts waist band just right of my belly button, let the T-shirt fall and it simply disappears.

I have read of a number of guys who use the trigger guard holsters (Mic-style) AND the Clip Draw, but I just can't figure a way to do that and get the gun out and ready to use in a reasonable time though I have tried several times to make the two work together.

Anyway, the Glock 42 is a hand saver (maybe better described as a pain saver) for me.

Bob

Last edited by straightshooter1; 06-24-2018 at 02:30 PM.
Reply With Quote
  #100  
Old 06-24-2018, 02:46 PM
Triathloncoach's Avatar
Triathloncoach Triathloncoach is offline
Member
Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me Giving Up - .380 Is A Bust For Me  
Join Date: Jul 2014
Location: Orlando
Posts: 1,526
Likes: 3,407
Liked 2,206 Times in 788 Posts
Default

I have a LCP. One magazine, Remington 380 Self Defense Ammo only. Almost 500 rounds with zero issues.
Attached Images
File Type: jpg C84981D0-F00D-4943-9742-1D2E9B178BE7.jpg (92.0 KB, 22 views)
File Type: jpeg 6746C3B7-8A86-492C-B207-674EB85E3708.jpeg (64.1 KB, 25 views)
__________________
Just hanging with my dogs
Reply With Quote
Reply

Thread Tools
Display Modes

Posting Rules
Forum Jump

Similar Threads
Thread Thread Starter Forum Replies Last Post
Bargain or Bust? glowe S&W Antiques 33 04-21-2018 12:52 AM
Ww2 Austrian bust chuck303 Accessories/Misc - For Sale or Trade 1 06-08-2016 07:42 PM
Another out-of-town NYC firearm bust mc5aw The Lounge 12 01-17-2012 12:54 AM
I Could Bust A Button!!! R Cubed The Lounge 37 11-02-2009 05:13 PM
Tulsa or BUST handejector S&W Hand Ejectors: 1896 to 1961 9 10-16-2007 07:43 AM

Powered by vBadvanced CMPS v3.2.3
smith-wessonforum.com tested by Norton Internet Security smith-wessonforum.com tested by McAfee Internet Security

All times are GMT -4. The time now is 07:16 PM.


Smith-WessonForum.com is not affiliated with Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation (NASDAQ Global Select: SWHC)