The problems with the .380 in my tests generally involve heavy cloth. .38 spl. has the same problem because you're using a cartridge that lacks the velocity to exceed it's expansion threshold by much, especially from the short barrel of a P3AT. Also I'll mention once again that I don't know why, but bullets that pass with flying colors elsewhee seem to run into problems when they hit my denim. I like it that way. Speer SB .38 +P is an example.

I struck out getting some .380 Golden Sabres yesterday, but intend to test them at some point in the future.