Would you rather...

[ray h]

My pocket carry solution swings between my 38 J frame with +p ammo and my Glock 42 loaded with Underwood +p. I also have a gen 1 LCP that never gets carried anymore since getting the G42.
The G42 has a longer barrel ( 3.25" ) which really does make the Underwood +p ballistics better than standard pressure 38s from a 2" snubby and pretty much equal to many 38+p. That said, I carry the 38 as much as I do the G42 just because I really like it. It's hard to explain, the 42 has been 100% reliable, has much better sights, is easier to shoot, I'm accurate with it, it holds more and the rounds are functionally equal in effectiveness but still I prefer the 38 sometimes, and I think that's OK to carry something just because you like it.

[ray h]

What if reliability is the most important factor to a person?

Then get a reliable gun, either a reliable semi auto or a reliable revolver.

[cham09]

11 rounds of .380 for sure. More chances to hit a vital organ or vessel, which is what stops the threat ultimately.

[PAMedic=F|A=]

I'm still not convinced 380 auto is an effective round. .38 spec or 9 mm seems to be my minimum.


So I'd go with the 5.

But, it seems I am in the minority.

[RockIsland]

I'm still not convinced 380 auto is an effective round.

Ask Archduke Ferdinand and his wife about that.

[Qtrborecrazy]

He who runs out of ammo first loses!

[Walleye Hunter]

He who runs out of ammo first loses!

If and when I start to run low, I'm using what's left to go take someone else's.

[ScotsGuards]

Someone mentioned the delivery system. That factors in a great deal for me. The only .380 pistol I have is a classic Mauser HSC. A cool piece to be sure but not one I'd carry every day. My EDC is an S&W Model 337 Airlight in .38Spl. It's durable, reliable and muli-purpose.

[Czech]

I'd prefer the additional rounds if they were good hollow points

[DMG]

38 +p isnt much hotter than 380+p so 380