380 Revolver Pistol - When it comes to self defense, some people prefer pistols while others prefer revolvers. The .380 ACP is not an everyday revolver caliber, but it offers many advantages, including low recoil, high reliability, and accuracy suitable for self-defense purposes. Can the 380 really pack that much power in such a small size? Let's find out!
While the 380 isn't the most accurate revolver out there, it's perfectly suited for self-defense and produces surprisingly tight groups despite the incredibly short barrel length. From a defensive 10-yard range, my average 5-shot group was just under 3.5”. It has decent accuracy out to 15 yards and I was even able to keep most shots on target from 25 yards. That's not an ideal level of accuracy for target shooting, but for self defense? It is more than acceptable.
380 Revolver Pistol
380 is a generally reliable revolver. I had no problem using the crescent mags, or "star clips" as Taurus calls them, even with cheap ammo. I would recommend always shooting with the included clips as I had some issues with rounds running out of them. Overall though, it is a very reliable revolver.
All Taurus Revolvers
The frame is made of aluminum alloy, while the barrel and barrel are made of steel. It is built to last and made with high quality craftsmanship. It is available in a wide range of colors and finishes, including glossy and matte blue, matte gold, and traditional light and dark gray. Since aluminum alloy is a softer material, it is prone to a bit of wear. While this only affects the aesthetics of the weapon, it is still something to consider.
The grip on the 380 is excellent. It is made of soft rubber and is very easy to hold. Since the 380 itself is so small, the grip is also smaller. However, it is still very comfortable and grippy. Although this revolver is double action only, it is still very controllable and aims naturally.
It comes standard with two smooth low profile sights. The front is fixed, while the rear is adjustable for windage. The rear sight is built into a slot in the top surface of the frame and aligns with the front sight to give you a better view. It also has a sloped hammer that rests flush with the frame, meaning no hammer spurs to get caught on clothing.
The trigger is fine. It's pretty heavy, but not bad for a double action revolver. At around 14 pounds, it is heavier than most double actions, even the Colt King Cobra. Although heavy, the pull is still smooth. Faster pulls give better consistency than slow pulls, but for self defense you probably don't want to take a slow pull anyway!
Taurus 380 Acp Revolver
The 380 has a few different innovative security mechanisms built into it. In addition to transfer bar security, it also features the Taurus Security System, or TSS. The TSS has a lock and mini key that disables the weapon when locked and not in use. This, along with a special plate that only pulls the hammer when the trigger is fully depressed, increases safety by reducing the chances of an accidental discharge.
The 380 has a 5-round capacity and includes five Stellar clips. These half-moon clamps hold the ammunition for easy removal and act as mini "speed loaders" that position cartridges the correct distance from the firing pin to ensure proper firing. They take a bit of getting used to and can be a little tricky to load and unload. Once you learn how to do it, the whole process becomes much simpler.
You can shoot the 380 without using the Stellar clips as long as your barrel is properly chambered. However, it is more difficult to eject rounds this way. If you want to use the clips but find it difficult, aftermarket Moon clip loaders and unloaders make it easier.
As part of Taurus' Ultra-Lite lineup, the 380 features a lightweight alloy frame. The company has designed the 380 specifically to keep both size and weight down. Some self defense revolvers can have a lot going for them, but not this one!
Sold Taurus 380 Revolver
The shorter length of the cartridge allows the barrel, and in turn the frame, to be much shorter than most. It weighs just under 16 oz and measures 5.95” overall, making it one of the most compact, lightweight, and easily concealable revolvers on the market.
Taurus knows how to keep recoil down. Despite its incredibly light weight and small size, the 380's recoil is very manageable for shooters of all sizes. It is a good low-recoil alternative to other revolvers that offer nearly half the recoil of those of similar weight. The grip wraps around the rear frame, further cushioning felt recoil, increasing control and allowing you to get faster follow-up shots.
The Taurus 380 MSRP for the relatively low price of $513, and some dealers even offer a lifetime warranty. If you're looking for a budget option, you can find a used 380 for around $350.
380 is excellent for concealed carry and self defense. To summarize, these are some of its best features:
Taurus 1007039320 Spectrum Double 380 Acp 2.8\
These features and more make the Taurus 380 revolver an excellent self-defense choice for shooters of all ages.
Richard Douglas is a longtime shooter, outdoor enthusiast, and technologist. He is the founder and publisher of
Pink 380 revolver, kuhl revolver, bakflip revolver, 380 revolver reviews, soul revolver, taurus 380 revolver holster, taurus 380 revolver moon clips, taurus 380 revolver for sale, taurus ultra lite 380 revolver holster, taurus 380 revolver, holmes hobbies revolver 380, revolver magazine
0 Comments