Traded my 438 for a Semi-auto Pistol

[davidmcw]

I wanted a pocket carry pistol. Compared the Ruger LCP, Taurus TCP, S&W Bodyguard 380 and a Kel-Tec P-3AT. Of the four the Taurus clearly had the best trigger. I also like the lock back on an empty magazine. The S&W was about $100 more expensive and I thought the trigger was very heavy. I cleaned and lubed the Taurus and shot two mags thru the TCP. Result? 50% stove pipes or FTF! Back to the shop I bought it from. The polished the feed ramp and sent me on my way. At home I could not get the pistol to chamber a cartridge. I lost all confidence in the Taurus, no matter if it started to shoot great after 200 rounds. Back to the shop where I was able to exchange the TCP for a Bodyguard 380. Weather has been very wet for several days but I was able to clean and lube the BG380 and run two mags thru it. The BG380 shot perfectly. All the other reasonably priced 380's are full of compromises. The BG380 has features of the "big" pistols, it's just reduced in size. Hope to get to the indoor range soon. I'll report back then.

 

[Dragon88]

I think you'll regret letting that 438 go, but I'm glad you have a functioning pistol for the time being.

 

[Smee78]

Now you have learned the Taurus lesson, I also think you will miss that 438 unless you have other replacements.

 

[davidmcw]

Yeah, I loved the 438 but it was too big for pocket carry. Would you clarify "for the time being"? Don't you expect the BG 380 to last very long? I have a Model 10-5 from '66. Such a smooth, light trigger. 45 years old and just getting better. Guess I can't expect that type of service from a polymer gun?