Differences between .380 ACP and 9mm
Contents
.380 ACP vs. 9mm Luger
The **.380 ACP** (Automatic Colt Pistol) and the **9mm Luger** (also known as 9x19mm Parabellum) are two of the most popular centerfire pistol cartridges in the world.[1] While both cartridges fire a projectile of the same .355-inch (9mm) diameter, they have significant differences in case size, power, and application.[1][2] The 9mm Luger, developed in 1902, is the standard service pistol cartridge for NATO forces and is widely used by law enforcement and civilians globally.[3] The .380 ACP, introduced by John Browning in 1908, was designed for smaller, simpler blowback pistols and remains a popular choice for compact concealed carry firearms.[3][4]
Comparison Table
| Category | .380 ACP | 9mm Luger |
|---|---|---|
| Bullet Diameter | .355 in (9.0 mm) | .355 in (9.0 mm) |
| Case Length | .680 in (17.3 mm) | .754 in (19.2 mm) |
| Overall Length | .984 in (25.0 mm) | 1.169 in (29.7 mm) |
| Typical Bullet Weight | 85–100 gr (5.5–6.5 g) | 115–147 gr (7.5–9.5 g) |
| Typical[4] Muzzle Velocity | 950–1,000 ft/s (290–300 m/s) | 1,100–1,250 ft/s (340–380 m/s) |
| Typical Muzzle[3] Energy | 180–200 ft⋅lbf (240–270 J) | 330–400 ft⋅lbf (450–540 J) |
| [1][3]| 21,500 psi | 35,000 psi |
Ballistics and Performance[4]
The primary difference in performance stems from the 9mm Luger's larger case, which holds more propellant and operates at a significantly higher pressure. This results in the 9mm having[5][4] a higher muzzle velocity and more muzzle energy than the .380 ACP. A typical 9mm round can have[1] roughly double the muzzle energy of a comparable .380 ACP round. This energy advantage contributes[1] to the 9mm's greater potential for stopping power, deeper penetration, and a flatter trajectory over distance. While modern self-defense ammunition[2] has improved the terminal performance of the .380 ACP, the 9mm Luger is generally considered more effective ballistically.
Recoil and Controllability[2]
A significant advantage of the .380 ACP is its lower felt recoil. With lighter bullets and lower pressure, the .380 ACP generates substantially less recoil than a 9mm, sometimes estimated at around 50% less. This makes it an attractive[1] option for recoil-sensitive shooters, beginners, or those with less hand strength. The reduced recoil can allow[3] for faster and more accurate follow-up shots, particularly in the very small, lightweight pistols often chambered for this cartridge. While the recoil of a 9mm is[3] widely considered manageable, especially in larger handguns, it is noticeably more forceful than the .380 ACP.
Firearm Size and Application[3]
The smaller overall length and lower operating pressure of the .380 ACP allow for the design of smaller and lighter handguns, often called "pocket pistols." These firearms are typically[3][5] easier to conceal than most 9mm pistols, making the .380 ACP a popular choice for deep concealment or for users who prioritize portability. While advancements have led[3] to the creation of very compact 9mm pistols (subcompacts), a firearm chambered in .380 ACP can generally be made smaller and lighter. The larger size of 9mm handguns[3] often allows for a larger magazine capacity.
Ammunition Cost and Availability
Ammunition for 9mm Luger is generally less expensive and more widely available than .380 ACP ammunition. Due to its status as a NATO[5] and global military standard, 9mm ammunition is produced in massive quantities, which lowers the cost for consumers. The .380 ACP, while popular, does not see the same production volume, often resulting in a higher price per round for practice and self-defense loads.[5]
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 "cyasupply.com". Retrieved November 09, 2025.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 "usconcealedcarry.com". Retrieved November 09, 2025.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 3.6 3.7 3.8 3.9 "ultimatereloader.com". Retrieved November 09, 2025.
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 "targetbarn.com". Retrieved November 09, 2025.
- ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 "academy.com". Retrieved November 09, 2025.
