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Also known as: .380 Auto, 9mm Short, 9x17mm
Common uses: Self-Defense
| Type | pistol (centerfire) |
| Typical load | 95gr Norma Range & Training FMJ |
| Muzzle velocity | 984 fps |
| Muzzle energy | 204 ft-lb |
| Stored G1 ballistic coefficient | 0.118 |
| Case length | 17.3 mm |
| Overall length | 0.98 in |
| Listed maximum pressure | 21500 PSI |
| Common twist rate | 1:16" |
| Range (yd) | Velocity (fps) | Energy (ft-lb) | Drop (in) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 984 | 204 | -1.5 |
| 50 | 911 | 175 | -0.9 |
| 100 | 853 | 154 | -10.8 |
| 150 | 803 | 136 | -32.7 |
The listed uses do not identify an explicit big-game hunting role, so deer- and elk-sized energy references aren't shown. Evaluate the named load using its available source data and any displayed trajectory, then verify the result for the listed target, competition, defensive, tactical, or duty context.
Published BCs depend on a reference drag model and stated velocity conditions. A source review does not independently measure a BC. Understanding BC sources
Your barrel, ammunition lot, and conditions will differ — always verify against the manufacturer's data and your own firearm.
The .380 ACP is a standard chambering for compact concealed-carry pistols, valued for enabling small, lightweight guns on simple blowback actions with manageable recoil. It sits below the 9mm Luger in power, and modern jacketed hollow-point loads have improved its defensive performance from short barrels.
Designed by John Moses Browning and introduced by Colt in 1908, the .380 ACP was created as a compact, low-recoil cartridge for small blowback-operated semi-automatic pistols that do not require a locked breech. It is a rimless, straight-walled round that headspaces on the case mouth, and it was adopted as a standard service pistol cartridge by at least five European nations before World War II. It is also known as the 9mm Kurz, 9mm Corto, and 9x17mm.
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