Best .380 ammo for your carry gun

[brawler1588]

Thanks to you all for all your responses to my pocket carry i decided to go with the lcp just because of the size i liked how it fit now i am just wondering what you guys trust your life with in you .380

[huggybear44]

I like the Winchester 85 gr HP Silvertip

[Les]

Speer Gold Dot.

[Jeff]

Gold dot for me too.

[Spydermonkey]

When I did carry my P3AT I used Corbon DPX. I also happened into a bunch of Magtech Guardian Gold at a disgustingly low price a few years ago and have quite a surplus. I would have no issue carrying the Magtech, in fact I did for a while. The round opened up and penetrated nicely in several non-scientific backyard tests. It claims to be +P loading, but there is no such thing according to SAAMI specs. It has a noticeably more stout recoil than the average ammo I've run through it.


ETA: I dunno about what is the "best" .380 rd. With the small pocket autos sometimes being finicky, and most modern defensive ammo being about equal, I think it comes down to what properly functions in your gun and what you feel comfortable carrying. Some guys don't feel comfortable carrying any kind of JHP and feel it is better to carry FMJ in that size round or smaller to ensure good penetration. If it feeds properly in your gun and you're comfortable with it, I say carry what you want.

[brawler1588]

has anyone tried the hornady critical defense 380 ammo

[ECU Pirates]

has anyone tried the hornady critical defense 380 ammo

That's what I carry in a BG .380. I think it's the ammo the LAPD approved for back up carry in the body guard.

[nydave]

Dont know if they are the best but I carry Federal Hydra-Shock JHP Premium Personal Defense. Work well in my gun but have not shot anything but paper with them so cant really say they are the best.

[whauburger]

has anyone tried the hornady critical defense 380 ammo

Thats what my LCP is always loaded with.

[quadturbo]

has anyone tried the hornady critical defense 380 ammo

Ive heard this is the best 380 round but cant find it anywhere locally

[Yodamage]

I run Cor-Bon DPX in my .380 , my 9mm and also in my .357. Love the stuff for defensive use.

[EnfieldGuy]

I also like the silvertip reliable performer and mushrooms well....

[timmyp]

.45

[Hickok]

The Hornady Critical Defense works best with good expansion. I had no expansion on a few other types of hollowpoint ammunition. The .380 goes less than 1000 fps usually in a 90 grain bullet weight. The LAPD issue the CD for the BG.

[rpf427]

My vote is for the Hornady Critical Defense. Has been in my P238 and PPK/S since ever. Purchased mine in Davis in Goshen, but my local(middletown) Gander always has them also.