For carry concealed, the .380 ACP has always had its loyal contingent. It’s one of those cartridges that handles well—light recoil, compact pistols, and just a good enough amount of stopping power to handle close-up threats. Simple to carry but reliable when it matters most, the .380 remains a favorite among new and old shooters alike who want an extremely high value placed on comfort and concealability. After examining performance, carry usability, and street feedback, here are the best .380 ACP pistols to consider this year.
10. CZ 83 .380 ACP
Though no longer produced, the CZ 83 still has a following that won’t let it go away. Renowned for its all-steel construction, solid weight, and longevity of reliability, it’s the kind of pistol passed down, not sold. These days, it’s becoming harder to locate one in good condition, but if you appreciate traditional manufacturing and vintage aesthetics, the CZ 83 is still on the list.
9. Glock G28 .380 Auto
The G28 offers everything shooters desire from Glock—simple controls, rugged reliability, and steadfast performance. With light recoil and a double-stack magazine, it is easy to shoot rapidly and remain on target. It may be more expensive than some others, but for Glock fans who want a lightweight .380, the G28 remains a trusted option.
8. Ruger LCP Max 75th Anniversary Stainless
Built for deep concealment, the LCP Max is slim, light, and quick to play. It is not a long-range gun, but at defensive ranges shoots much better than its small size would suggest. For those who prefer discretion without giving up performance, this gun is an easy pocket-carry option that delivers when time is critical.
7. Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0
The Bodyguard 2.0 is a hard, in-hand grip with short, compact length. It features a manual safety for people who need an added sense of security, plus a smooth break and ergonomic feel. For everyday carry users who want it small but substantial enough to handle with authority, the Bodyguard is a force to be reckoned with.
6. Smith & Wesson Performance Center M&P 380 Shield EZ M2.0
A more expensive iteration of the popular EZ line, this gun is focused on usability and accuracy. Its smooth-racking slide makes it especially appealing to shooters with problems with standard slides. It cycled smoothly in testing, and while some rough patches were encountered, these seemed more a function of shooter handling than the firearm itself.
5. Ruger LCP-C Custom
A more advanced version of the standard LCP, the Custom has improved sights and a superior trigger. It’s small enough to carry in a pocket but tough enough for everyday use. Its performance is better than its small size would indicate, and it is a good tool for self-defense as well as for the elimination of small pests in and around the home.
4. Smith & Wesson M&P 380 Shield EZ
The initial Shield EZ has built its reputation on ease of use and handleability. With light recoil and a smooth grip frame, it’s perfect for those who prioritize comfort rather than sheer power. While it won’t have the same punch as heavier calibers, its shootability and solid consistency place it among the top recommendations for day-to-day defense.
3. Bersa Thunder 380 Combat Plus
The Thunder 380 Combat Plus is proof positive that better doesn’t have to cost more. It has a pleasant trigger, large magazine capacity, and repeatable accuracy, and it delivers more than its price would suggest. The only flaw is that there is no extra magazine included, but that’s an easy fix for an otherwise quality pistol.
2. EAA Girsan MC 14T
What sets the MC 14T apart is its tip-up barrel, which makes loading and unloading much easier for shooters with less hand strength. It’s reliable, accurate, and user-friendly, with a thoughtful design that welcomes a wide range of shooters. That single factor alone makes it among the most accessible .380s out there.
1. Glock 42 .380 ACP
Leading the pack is the Glock 42, having been praised for its unmatched reliability in the subcompact .380 market. It’s tiny, easy to conceal, and shoots well for its compact size. Later versions allow it to simply consume hotter self-defense loads easily, making it even more of a winner. For those who want a pistol that provides concealability, dependability, and practicality for daily carry, the Glock 42 remains the best.
.380 ACP vs. Other Calibers
The .380 ACP has a unique position between the smaller .22 or .32 and the larger, high-powered 9mm. It offers more stopping power than the lesser bullets without being finicky to control like the heavier bullets. It can’t compete with the 9mm directly in raw performance, but its lower recoil and smaller pistol availability make it a nice, confidence-building gun to carry.
When a .380 is employed in self-defense, fit, recoil control, and ammunition selection are of equal concern to brand or price. The decreased recoil makes it easy for new shooters and tolerable for shooters with limited grip strength. Paired with good-quality hollow-point ammunition, the .380 offers consistent stopping power without an undue risk of overpenetration. At the end of the day, the best .380 is one you can comfortably carry, shoot, and trust to always work. The models showcased here are the most powerful and reliable that are currently available on the market for concealed carry in 2025.