380: JHP vs. FMJ?

[jsharmon7]

I did a search (to the best of INGO's ability) and didn't see the answer I was looking for. I just picked up an LCP and some Hornady Critical Defense. I got to thinking though, would FMJ be a better choice for penetration for this caliber? Winter clothing will be upon us in a few months and I'm wondering how well a .380 will penetrate. Any thoughts?

 

[MJ45]

Im curious to see opinions on this also. Ive pondered this myself since picking up a p238. Ive carried FMJ in it for the penetration factor, but carry JHP in all of my other carry calibers.

 

[45lcrevolver]

IMO I would say hp in a +p. I would look at the buffalo bore ammo. They make a 90 grain bullet go 1200 ftps for the 380 auto. I'm sure that's enough to go through a jacket and still get decent penetration and stopping power.

 

[jason867]

Buffalo Bores +P stuff might beat up a small gun like an lcp or keltec.

btw, there is no sammi spec for +P for 380acp. So take that as you will.

 

[MtnBiker6510]

When I picked up a couple .380's (Bersa Thunder & Kel-Tec P3AT), I did alot of research on that very matter. After reading many pages of information on .380's for defense I came to the conclusion that I'd rather have guaranteed stopping penetration versus more expansion. I'm confident I could stop a perp with 7 or 8 rounds. The only reason I've occasionally tried Bonded HP's is when I've been concerned about over-penetration when I've been at crowded areas & needed to take that into consideration. 75% of the time I carry FMJ in my .380's with an added bonus of guaranteed reliable feeding in my Kel-Tec which is normally finicky with hollow points. The Bersa eats everything.

 

[HDSilvrStreak]

Although I haven't done it, I have had one person recommend to me that I load every other round. Load 1 HP, followed by 1 FMJ, then 1 HP, then 1 FMJ, etc. That way, even if winter clothing/leather jacket is enough to stop the HP, you'll follow up with a FMJ round.

Like I said, it makes some sense in theory, but I've never bothered to do it.

 

[pudly]

Ruger says not to use +P ammo in the LCP.

I would recommend JHP in warmer weather. Cold weather is more personal preference.

 

[jason867]

The Bersa eats everything.

I only hear good things about bersas. And my bersa 9mm has been good to me!

I got a bersa thunder 22 on the way

 

[jwhite]

I like to go with FMJ in .380.. and anything above .380.. i would go with JHP

 

[Cygnus]

I use the Hornaday CD with my p3at. Feeds great never a problem, I started using it after reading about it having superior penetration to fmj .380. Something about the red tip stopping any clog and going through cloihing before expansion.

 

[indymadcaster]

Only shoot enough +p to check for reliability. Shoot cast or cheap flu for practice! +p will beat the crap out of smaller guns

 

[U.S. Patriot]

I have never owned a .380. From what I have gathered from the internet and other sources. A few people have said if you carry .380 or smaller caliber to carry FMJ ammo. To make sure you get maximum penetration, since a HP will mushroom and actually slow down penetration.

 

[WaltherFan]

I've got two 380s, an LCP & PPK. I carry Hornady CD in both of them. I think you will see in the video, penetration through winter clothes is not a concern of mine.

Hope this helps in your choice.

[ame]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uhXSTqV0CT4[/ame]

 

[jayeff]

I would only carry an LCP when it is warm and you're not wearing clothing that would conceal something more powerful like a 9mm or maybe a lightweight J frame .38/.357.
If I had to rely on the LCP I would carry Gold Dots or Win PD1s

 

[ghitch75]

these eats either one just fine.......i would think any gun that didn't it's got a problem....

 

[randyb]

BUG's: .380 ACP vs. .38 Sp - M4Carbine.net Forums
380 carry ammo - M4Carbine.net Forums
Tactical Forums: Login
Some good information there.

Bottom line in .380 I would stick with FMJ.

 

[paperboy]

My favorite LCP ammo is Remington Golden Sabres, they cycle fine and I have never had a FTE/FTF. At 102 Gr., I don't think you can go wrong....

 

[shooter521]

My favorite LCP ammo is Remington Golden Sabres, they cycle fine and I have never had a FTE/FTF. At 102 Gr., I don't think you can go wrong....

This is my preferred .380 defense load, as well. I don't believe in "one load for winter, one for summer".