This comparison examines two popular centerfire cartridges frequently used in personal defense and concealed carry firearms: the .380 Auto and the .38 Special. The .380 Auto, also known as 9x17mm Short or 9mm Browning Short, is a rimless, straight-walled cartridge offering a smaller, more compact profile ideal for smaller handguns. The .38 Special, a rimmed, straight-walled cartridge, typically provides more power and is commonly used in revolvers and some older semi-automatic pistols.
Choosing between these cartridges often involves balancing power with concealability. The .38 Special’s greater ballistic performance historically made it a standard for law enforcement and civilian self-defense. The .380 Auto’s compact size makes it a popular choice for pocket pistols and other easily concealed firearms, though it generally delivers less energy. Understanding the ballistic characteristics and suitable applications of each cartridge is critical for effective firearm selection and safe handling.