best 380 acp ammo Top Recommendations for .380 ACP Plinking and Self-Defense Rounds

best 380 acp ammo, Looking for the best .380 ACP ammunition for plinking or self-

defense? These carefully chosen selections showcase the round’s full potential and

provide reliable performance for a variety of needs.

For many years, the .380 ACP was not a popular choice for home defense or

concealed carry. However, its reputation is evolving, and more shooters are

considering it for personal protection.

best 380 acp ammo

The challenge lies in the sheer variety of .380 ACP ammunition available—how do

you determine which is the best option for your defense needs?

Let’s explore some of the top picks for .380 ACP ammunition and break down the

key factors to consider when selecting the right ammo for self-defense.

Best .380 ACP Self-Defense Ammunition

Discover reliable and effective options tailored for self-defense scenarios. These

rounds are designed to maximize stopping power and provide consistent

performance, ensuring peace of mind when it matters most.

1. Hornady Critical Defense 90 Grain FTX – Editor’s Pick for Defense Ammo

Hornady’s Critical Defense line utilizes a polymer Flex Tip (FTX) designed to

enhance controlled expansion while preventing premature expansion upon impact.

Performance Highlights

Expansion: Delivers nearly half an inch of expansion, ensuring effective stopping power. best 380 acp ammo
Penetration: Tested median penetration depth of 13.5 inches, meeting defensive performance standards.

Another notable feature is Hornady’s packaging—offering 25 rounds per box

instead of the standard 20, providing excellent value alongside exceptional performance.

Summary 380 acp self defence ammo

Hornady’s Critical Defense .380 ACP round combines reliable performance, controlled expansion, and affordability, making it a standout choice for self-defense.

What’s your take on Hornady’s defensive .380 round? Share your rating below!

Best Value Protection: Sig Sauer 90 Grain V-Crown

In ammunition tests conducted by Chris Baker at Lucky Gunner, the Sig Sauer 90 Grain V-Crown proved to be a highly effective choice for self-defense.

Performance Highlights cheapest 380 acp ammo online

Expansion: Consistently expands to half an inch, providing reliable stopping power. best 380 acp ammo
Penetration: Typically achieves just around the 12-inch minimum penetration depth recommended for defensive rounds.

This round offers an excellent balance of performance and value, making it a solid choice for protection.

Additional Considerations for Ammo Testing

It’s important to note that these ammunition tests are conducted with four layers of clothing, which can differ from real-world scenarios.

Hornady American Gunner .380 ACP

This round features a well-penetrating XTP projectile, known for controlled expansion. best 380 acp ammo

Expansion: Gradually enlarges as it travels through the body, providing effective wound channels.
Reliability: While it doesn’t match the 100% expansion reliability of Hornady Critical Defense FTX, it fully meets FBI penetration depth standards.
Value: The standout appeal of Hornady American Gunner lies in its affordability and wide availability, making it a practical choice for self-defense.

Editor’s Pick for Target Practice and Plinking: Sellier & Bellot 92 Grain FMJ

For range practice and plinking, the Sellier & Bellot 92 Grain FMJ stands out as a top choice. It offers consistent performance, excellent affordability, and reliable availability, ensuring an enjoyable and productive range session.