9mm vs .380 ACP: Which Is Better for Concealed Carry?

.380 ACP is a shorter, lower-recoil cartridge used in very small pocket pistols. 9mm is more powerful, usually cheaper per round, and fits subcompact pistols that are only slightly larger. The two use similar-diameter bullets but are not interchangeable.

At a Glance

	9mm Luger	.380 ACP
Other names	9x19mm, 9mm Parabellum	.380 Auto, 9mm Kurz, 9x17mm
Common bullet weights (our listings)	115, 124, 147 gr	90, 95 gr
Typical pistols	Compact and full-size	Pocket pistols
Recoil	More	Less
Cost per round	Usually lower	Usually higher
Shop	9mm ammo	.380 ACP ammo

9mm vs .380 ACP Ballistics

Factory figures for comparable practice and defensive loads in each caliber.

Load key: FMJ = full metal jacket; JHP = jacketed hollow point.

Load (Federal data)	Velocity (fps) muzzle / @50 yd	Energy (ft-lb) muzzle / @50 yd
Federal American Eagle (AE9DP) 9mm Luger 115 gr FMJ	1180 / 1048	356 / 280
Federal Premium HST (P9HST2S) 9mm Luger 147 gr HST JHP	1000 / 953	326 / 297
Federal American Eagle (AE380AP) 380 Auto 95 gr FMJ	980 / 899	203 / 170
Federal Premium HST (P380HST1S) 380 Auto 99 gr HST JHP	935 / 875	192 / 168

Figures are as published by Federal Premium on each product page (checked October 30, 2026). Federal lists handgun figures from a 3.75 or 4-inch test barrel. Velocity from your own barrel will differ.

Size and Concealment

.380 pistols such as the Ruger LCP and SIG P238 are among the smallest centerfire pistols. Micro 9mm pistols are now close in size, so the gap is smaller than it used to be.

Recoil

.380 is easier on the hands, which helps shooters sensitive to recoil. Very light pocket pistols can still feel snappy.

Defensive Loads

9mm offers more energy and a wider choice of defensive loads. For .380, choose a load designed for it, such as Hornady Critical Defense or Federal HST Micro, and test it in your pistol.

Cost

.380 is usually more expensive per round than 9mm because it is made in smaller volume.

Shop Both

9mm ammo | .380 ACP ammo | semi-auto pistols. Compare current cost per round in our Ammo Price Index, see every cartridge in our ammo caliber chart.

Orders of $500 or more ship free; ammunition orders under $500 ship for $15.99. Ammunition is not returnable. Some states and cities restrict ammo purchases or shipments, so read our ammo and magazine laws by state before ordering. Tactical Surplus USA has been selling firearms, ammunition and gear since 2022.

FAQ

Can I shoot .380 in a 9mm gun?

No. Only fire the cartridge marked on your barrel.

Is .380 enough for self-defense?

Many people carry .380 in pocket pistols. Choose a quality defensive load and practice with your pistol.

Why is .380 more expensive than 9mm?

It is made in smaller volume than 9mm.

How much more powerful is 9mm than .380?

In Federal's published figures, its 115 grain 9mm FMJ lists 356 ft-lb at the muzzle and its 95 grain .380 FMJ lists 203 ft-lb.

Is .380 the same as 9mm Short?

Yes. .380 ACP is also called .380 Auto, 9mm Kurz and 9x17mm. It is not 9mm Luger.

Which is better for a beginner?

9mm in a compact pistol is often easier to shoot well than a tiny .380, and practice ammo costs less.