Between my wife and I, we have most of the guns in the video and a few others. She prefers the S&W EZ in the Performance Center version. The difference from the standard EZ is very noticeable. I use the LCP Max with the extended magazine as my EDC. It functions great and with the 12+1 capacity I think covers any realistic situation I would ever encounter. I switched from micro-nines to .380 because the reduced recoil and noise and the noticeable improvement in accuracy and increased speed of accurate follow-up shots. Great video.
32 is no slouch. Beretta 81w thin LOK GRIPS. TALK ABOUT ACCURATE & quick follow ups.best I have in that department. Love it. Getting a 84 one day. When the time/price is right .like to try the EZ.Performance center is always a good thing.
What's your opinion on the S&W Performance Center Vs. and S&W M&P 2.0. I purchased the M&P 2.0 before the Performance Center version came out. After reading about the performance center I thought, is there any reason one would purchase the M&P 2.0 and not the Performance Center?
I have many good carry guns, in all the traditional calibers, but the original LCP has managed to be my carry gun most of the time, for the last dozen years. But, about two months ago the LCP Max took it's place. That was a well done video. Good job. Thanks.
@@LBExoticsFan The sights stick out waaayy more, and the grip is obviously longer and thicker. Don't let anyone lie and say they don't notice a difference. These might be acceptable to you, and those things do indeed make the gun easier to use. But that's no reason to lie and pretend like they have the same footprint. It's about tradeoffs. You don't gain the better useability without the downsides.
As a delivery driver, I'm in and out of other companies locations all day, some non-permissive, so max concealment is a must. I used to carry an original LCP. Great for concealment, lousy to shoot. Now have a G42. It's much more accurate for me and more comfortable to shoot, but it prints more and is harder to get out of a pocket quickly. I'm hoping the more rounded shape of the LCP Max will work better.
The LCP max wins for pocket carry. Easier to get out of the pocket if needed, and 4 more rounds. Ruger has been 100% reliable for feeding and firing. My only complaint is the slide doesn't always lock back.
LCP2 is a completely different gun than the original. I haven't shot the max yet. I drove delivery for about a decade and was in and out of customer homes all day. I miss it. I'd love to get back into something similar, just not moving heavy stuff my back can't handle anymore lol.
Thank you so much for this comparison! I inherited a .22LR Walther TPH from my Dad; it was his "carry it in my fishing vest" gun. It is very accurate and (with CCI Mini Mag 40-grainsolids) super reliable. It's a great farm gun, and I am used to the DA/SA and the upswept safety. Also, I owned a pre-WWII .32 acp Walther PPK (fantastic pistol...a one-hole shooter at 50 feet!), but I passed it on to my son as a family heirloom. Hence, for familiarity purposes, I was thinking of getting a .380 Walther PPK/S for a carry gun. But some friends were pushing me toward the Ruger LCP; however, I shot an original LCP, and I didn't care for the sights, the trigger, or how it sat in my hand. Yet this new LCP Max looks like it might be a game changer: a better trigger, a little more grip to grip, and still pocketable. Thanks again! Blessings to you, Dave
A huge advantage to 12 rnd magazine in the Max is the ability to get another finger on the grip. It really improves the shootability. The Max is my EDC
While I'm no Glock fanboy (and have yet to try the LCP Max), I have to admit the G42 is my favorite 380 overall when factoring both range practice and EDC. Even my current 380, the LCP 2 can be a bit uncomfortable at the range though it's REALLY easy to carry. Out of all the 380's I've tried the most enjoyable to shoot have been: 1. S&W EZ 2. Sig P232 3. Baikal 380 4. G42 5. Sig P238 6. Taurus Curve; funny, I know, but surprisingly fun and easy to shoot 7. LCP 2 8. LCP 9. Kahr CW380; I actually liked the LCP trigger more 10. Bersa Thunder; the extended beavertail liked to bite my hand with each shot 11. Walther PK380; pleasant to shoot but has the most awkward and pointless safety mechanism in history
I was never interested in .380's until I learned of the LCP Max. I always felt if I can carry a micro 9 that's slightly larger with the same or more capacity, why have one. Then the LCP Max came out and I acquired my first .380. The micro 9's that I have are the Sig P938,Max 9,and Taurus GX4. The LCP Max will now be added to my micro carry lineup
I have an LCP II which replaced my LCP (because of the trigger on the LCP), but I'm in the process of replacing the LCP II with the Max due to the higher capacity, sights, etc. Really nice review, probably one of the best and most comprehensive I've seen - keep up the good work!
I had a G42. It was ammo fussy. It shot well. The LCP Max is comparable in accuracy. Ruger nailed it with the LCP Max. I have a M&P bodyguard, 2 P3ATs and PT738 TCP. I can say with confidence The Max is the best of my group. The P3AT is what I go to for the lightest thinnest option. It has non existent sights though. I had a Walther PPK 380 not a S. Just nasty to shoot.
Out of my seven .380's the LCP Max is the very hardest to shoot well and least accurate of them all. The one I got shoots a good four to six inches low at only about fifteen yards and produces about a foot group. Partly because of the weird squishy trigger, but even from a rest is certainly not a tack driver. Good news is, it's not supposed to be. It's probably the easiest, lightest, and most concealable .380 I own and holds thirteen rounds with one in the pipe. Love the sights on it if it only shot to where I pointed them. Does what it's designed to do though. So, I like it. If it had an adjustable or taller rear sight, I'd have a lot higher opinion of it.
I just purchased a 380 auto for the first time in 20 yrs since I sold my Beretta 84B. I chose the Kahr CW380 because its the smallest of the bunch and I like the Kahr triggers and the grip feel of the Kahr. It was a toss up between the Kahr CW380 and the Ruger LCP Max and I chose the Kahr because the Kahr is plus p rated and the Ruger LCP Max is not per Ruger's instructions. The CW380 comes with a 6 round mag and u can also purchase a 7 round mag for it as well with a pinky extension which gives me 8 w/one in the pipe which is plenty for a pocket rocket and back up gun. Plus after shooting the Ruger and the Kahr the Kahr IMO shoots alot flatter and smoother then the LCP max. Thanks for another good review and y'all be safe!!
@@bill72pa the grips sleeve? Doesn't affect the holsters I use. I pocket carry mine use a couple different ones. The sleeve helps with the recoil. Reduces the sting
I tried almost all the .380s before landing on the original LCP w/the improved trigger. It’s the only one to be 100% reliable and small/light enough to have with me no matter how I’m dressed or where I’m going. I’ll wait on the Max to give the company time to work out any problems usually inherent in new models.
@@chrisgutzman4919 No upgrade, it’s the post 2013 LCP w/the slightly improved factory trigger & sights. I’ve owned it for years and never had a failure w/over 400 rounds of FMJ & HP self defense ammo.
i have the original lcp as well, and in i dunno, guessing 100-200 rounds never had a failure. my philosophy is these are not range guns so dont shoot them a lot. if you just must practice a lot, i'd get a 2nd one just to practice with and save the mileage on the carry one. anyways for whatever reason i cant hit jack with it. i think its the double action trigger. it the smallest and most reliable, but if i cant hit with it i'm not confident in it, other than maybe "get off me" 5 yds and in. my springfield hellcat is very small yet i can shoot it well with the much lighter trigger. the max is a bit on the large side for my tastes. but i need to get at least a lcp 2, so i can have the light trigger.
So I have been pocket carrying this beauty for about 18 months now. I have put over 800 rounds through it. I now use the 12 round mag full time, with the 10 round mag as back-up. Empty weight, with the factory pocket holster, is 11.68 oz. Add the 10 + 1 rounds, I see 15.38 oz on my digital kitchen scale. With the 12 + 1 configuration and factory holster, I see 16.08 oz. I wear Wrangler jeans pretty much always, and the front right pocket works for carry, its comfortable while I am in a vehicle, or at my desk. I forget its there when I'm at the grocery store ect. Late last year, I picked up a nifty little OWB holster from Tactical Scorpion Gear, TSG-LCP2-2 (option 2), it's for the LCPII, and the LCP Max fits in this awesome holster perfectly! The supplied, "tuck-it-in" style paddle is a bit difficult for me, but the belt attachment works flawlessly! I dont OWB the pistol often, but when I do this one is perfect! I have also replaced the stock pocket holster, back in June (2022), with one from Galco, PRO836B, and absolutely love this holster! With the 12 + 1 and this holster, I see 16.47 oz. Should have done it long ago! For pocket carry, I still believe that this pistol is the best option out there!
.380 is definitely picking up a lot of popularity lately, has a lot to do with the ammo getting better. I love my LCP Max even if its a back up depending on what I'm doing. If I'm going downtown to buy some gold my 10mm XDM is coming with me and the Max in my pocket lol
You shot the LCP Max really well. I couldn’t shoot it for anything so sold it and getting a G42. Already had a G19 and G26 and very confident with shooting them
The Max is actually fairly easy to rack, and the recoil is well managed. I find that it doesn't hurt my hand at all- unlike my original LCP and the LCPII. It's a brilliant small carry weapon.
I still have the original Kel-Tec 3-AT (.380) before Ruger brazenly copied it. One advantage, discomfort notwithstanding, is that the single stack models weigh less, and are therefore more comfortable 99.99% of the time that you are carrying it especially in warmer weather when you might be scantily clad! I could load the Max with six rounds and enjoy the comfort the one time I may have to shoot it to defend lives and limbs. I'll hold out hoping to find a gently used one at lower price!
The max is the best carry gun I ever owned . Mostly because of the ammo capacity and size. The only downside is it feels a little cheaper than other pocket pistols I own.
Just shot the Max the other weekend. This little gun is great! I got a "Spreaded out hand" size shot groups, drawing from the holster, rapid/stress shooting at 7 yards. Easy.
I can see you have not shot them very much. I belong to a club of Pocket gunners ever since the LCP first came out. Shoot them with frequency and you will find they are not harsh at all, Most expecially the WELL built Beretta Pico and the Kahr. Very mild to shoot. And you do not mention the fact that both of these guns will outlast the LCP's indefinitely, They will keep on Performing when the LCP's have long hit the dirt. However you have a good description of these gun. I advocate the LCP gen 2 over the Max. I just bought another one for a Truck Gun. I have owned at least 6 of them over the years. The good news is that they are reliable. Sights are not need for those that train diligently with point and shoot and Instinctive skills. Thank your for the review.
Nice review... My 2 cents had a PPK shot it fairly well but if it had dust or lint it jammed, they need to be cleaned and oiled. Traded it for Sig P230 which had better sights, better trigger and more carriable contours and shot it well also. Those two pistols are slightly more accurate because the barrels are fixed. Next I have Glocks and don't hate the sights like so many people do, they are easy for me to pick up and Glocks go bang when you pull the trigger. I also had an early original LCP and what a piece of garbage. Jammed like a rock band, sights are casting flaws, and the trigger was long hard and broke way late which is usually where I pull right. I never shot it well at all so I eventually traded it in on a Ruger Mk IV for my kids. Then I was in a pinch needed a pocket gun and grabbed an LCP II. What a massive improvement I was so pleasantly surprised. Trigger much much better lighter smoother and breaks sooner which for me matters. Real sights and it never jams. I added a Crimson-trace light, a 1 round mag extension and magguts spring for another one. Now I have 8 rounds and one in the pipe and shoot it better than I would have guessed was possible from a pocket pistol.... Just ordered an LCP Max can't wait 10 rounds better trigger, and night sights...
I had trouble with mine and read Ruger had excellent customer service so I contacted them sent it in and they replaced my slide and barrel. Had it back within a week.
Here's the truth - other than if I'm doing some type of training, CCW-competition shooting, perhaps even two-gun, I never, ever, EVER carry a spare mag or stripper (for the revolver) in daily use. The slide lock-back not working most likely wouldn't affect me unless it was a rare situation where I had to fire the ten or eleven rounds, and need the slide lockback to tell me to back away from the ongoing firefight. That's just not a situation I hope to ever be in if I'm not geared up for a warzone.
Thanks for the vid. I have several 380 pistols including the LCP, LCP 2, Kahr, Bersa, LCP Max, and Rock Island. I carry the LCP Max with the 12 rd mag since I got it. Surprisingly the Rock Island which is a 1911 design and the longest 380 I own is the most snappiest when shooting.
Excellent comparisons. I own the LCP Max and the P238. I previously owned the LCP II and had a continuous problem (no matter the shooter) with the magazine prematurely ejecting in my hand during live fire. Ruger fixed it once but the problem kept coming back so I got ride of it. The trouble was I really liked the LCP II design and when the LCP Max came out I had to have one. I've put about 500 rounds or so through mine to convince myself it is reliable. It is and now the LCP Max is my only viable deep conceal option. It is accurate, reliable, and comfortable to shoot.
@@papatorr3669 i had one of those and it jammed every other round. took kel tec a while to work the kinks out of that model, in kel tec fashion. lcp was reliable from day 1, plus the fit and finish doesn't look like it was made in russia. given the similar prices just dont see why you wouldn't get the lcp, it's just better. but if your kel tec works, guess it doesnt matter.
If you're going to do an ammo test with the LCP Max, I highly encourage you to try it with the Underwood Xtreme Penetrator and Xtrreme Defender. They're amazing even when used in short barrels like the Max. And their lighter projectiles are supposed to reduce snappiness as well.
I purchased some years back a Taurus TCP 380.. I was lucky I got one that was extremely reliable and accurate.. the first time at the range out of the box I put 400 rounds down range with no jams or stoppages.. accurate out to 50 ft then groups start to open up a little past that point but still can stay on target at 60 ft... Trigger is really good compared to most other micro 380... And the Taurus TCP has a slide stop last round hold open.. and it can be activated manually to hold the slide open.. lightweight decent sights once I added a little bright orange paint to the front and the notch in the rear.. I can get very nice groups at 30 to 40 ft... The Taurus TCP is discontinued.. and if I were to buy a micro 380 nowadays it definitely would be the LCP Max..10+1 cap .. and excellent trigger & sites .. hell I might pick one up anyway soon.. definitely would be nice for my right front pocket in the DeSantis Superfly pocket holster with velcro on flap to prevent printing
I own several of those and one that is constantly overlooked that is probably my favorite. A Colt Mustang Pocketlite. It gets overlooked almost every time for the Sig that is of course cheaper and thus more popular. But for an old 1911 guy the Colt Mustang is the IT of .380's. Mine is also very easy to shoot and very accurate. But it's a Colt, you pay a lot more for the name.
@@mikerose6618 I own both and like both, but the Mustang, at least in my case, is a much better looking, better feeling, and a whole bunch more accurate pistol. I also recently bought a Bersa Thunder and it's a tack driver too. Really feels good in the hand and easy to shoot, but a lot larger than the other two and not really what I'd consider a Pocket Pistol. The Bersa has an incredibly smooth trigger too that makes it easier to shoot well. Feels like a trigger you'd expect to find in a Smith & Wesson revolver.
A good and fair comparison is actually shooting the guns. I bought the Ruger Max. While it holds more rounds, it shoots miserably when compared to my Glock 42 with less rounds. The Glock just holds better, has a better trigger and the reliability is superb. I tried the max for a few weeks and I just can’t into it’s feel. I still prefer the Glock for ultra ccw use.
Was going to say you left the best for last - the Walther, but turns out to be quite the opposite except for beauty. A conspicuous absence is the Bersa Thunder 380 CC. Lacks the capacity of the the Ruger LCP Max but still find it appealing overall. Interesting how the S&W EZ is the largest just as the Shield Plus is among Micro 9s. Glad you're keeping this channel a no-politics zone.
I've got a regular Bersa Thunder and the LCP Max. I carry the Max because it's smaller and holds more rounds, but I love the DA/SA option of the Thunder. And it's accurate, in my experience. It's just a little too big and heavy for pocket carry.
I just bought the LCP Max. It is going to replace my S&W Bodyguard. I do also have a PPK made by S&W. I carried it while working as a private detective. It is an awesome and accurate pistol, but heavy and blowsback on your hand. The .380 is my preferred carry
I own an EZ in 9mm. It's worth mentioning that it's also easy to load by using a tab on the magazine, and there is also a loaded chamber indicator on the slide.
I love the glock trigger for a service pistol, but I think the absence of any takeup makes them useless as a carry pistol, which is why there are different triggers in the 365 and the 320 as an example. Now having said that, it urks me when people attempt to compare a Micro-9 to a Micro-380, pistols with 2 completely different purposes... Now I will admit that prior to the invention of the Micro-9 there was a gap that was often filled by 380 pistols, but like you said it's important to buy a pistol that fits the need (and the shooter). In my opinion people often buy without being fully educated and your videos serve this perpose. Thank you.
I agree about uneducated or lack of thought on purchases. I have large hands. I nought a weapon that was recommended by the sales person. At the counter it felt great. Semi real world . Sat on my bed one day and just put my hand down and grabbed. Undercut didn't allow my finger to get high. Finger groves/ more of a bump don't fit my hand. In the store I didn't notice as it was easy to adjust ones grip.expensive learning cure for me.
Great video. Informative, useful, and very well done. G42 (for purpose) and PPK/S (for collection) owner here who is now very heavily considering an LCP Max to add to the .380 stable. I fired the original LCP and immediately wrote it off, hated the trigger and feel of it. I liked the way the Bodyguard felt in my hand, thought the built in laser was a nice touch, but again, absolutely hated the trigger. The Glock just felt right, the Max seems to be in the same category as the Glock, but a little more concealable and with extra capacity...can't go wrong. Gotta get to the range and try one out.
I'm really enjoying your thoughtful, thorough videos. Isn't personal taste odd? A few years ago a family member gave me an LCP 2 for my 50th birthday, and I hated it so much I never carried it. Too small, too snappy, and I couldn't see the sights with a magnifying glass. I recently sold it for and got a Glock 42, and I could not be happier. I got some Big Dot sights put on and it's perfect for me. I'm glad you love the LCP line since they work well for you.
I don't believe the S&W EZ models were targeted for the CCW market. It can be used for such but I believe it was for primarily women and the elderly who had dismissed hand strength and needed something easy to operate for the home. Powerful enough to defend with but having less recoil than 9mm nato and other cartridges. To me it's an tool for those folks to defend the home with that's EZ and easy to use and most who own it don't carry it but have it at home.
Having large hands, I like the PPK/S with finger rest clips. But, I've used one for almost 50 yrs, before micros. I like the heft & bbl length. The recoil, for me, is fine. BTW, my PPK/S trigger is not serrated, and double action pull runs about 10 lbs.
I carried the original LCP for years based solely on size. Let’s face it, when talking about concealed carry we essentially mean ‘summer’ carry in skimpier clothing. Concealing my 1911 in winter presented no problem with printing under a heavy coat. The LCP was annoying to shoot and not very accurate. Reliability was intermittent until I switched to ball ammo at the recommendation of a Ruger factory tech, who told me the LCP would always have recurring issues with the Critical Defense ammo I was using. Racking this little gun was hateful, since a 50-round session at the range would occasionally pinch a bit of the web on my left hand. I swapped it for the LCP II recently and will be heading to the range soon for a Baptism of ‘Fire’ and hopefully ALL of these annoyances will fade.
I think you'll enjoy the LCPII more than the original LCP. I do. Sights, trigger, and feel are better for me. It's still kicks pretty good because it's so light and small but is still more comfortable than my orig LCP. I've had 100% reliability with both the orig LCP and the LCPII. Both had many, many dif brands and styles of hollow points through them. Both have had in excess of 1000 rounds through them. I settled on Underwoos Extreme Defender (Solid copper and looks like a Philips screwdriver head) as it creates nearly as much damage as a hollow point but is barrier blind and penetrates slightly better than hollow points do.
Possibly one of the only .380's I'd trust a few choice hollow-points to reliably expand due to the barrel length. This is why I went for the "xtreme defender" rounds for my .380
Not a single Bersa in the bunch? It seems everybody overlooks the fact that Bersa put out a double stack 380 back in 2015 called the thunder plus or combat plus, that are still manufactured today.
excellent presentation, enjoyed this video very much.............i am the owner of a EZ S&W 380 and am very satisfied with this weapon, especially racking the slide which to me was the most important reason to select this weapon...................
I've the 1st gen LCP. For the usual attire of T-shirt and shorts here in south Florida, it is lightweight and easy to conceal. It's a close-up and personal defensive weapon, so having "sights" worthy of target shooting aren't necessary. It's easy enough to carry an extra mag, as well.
If Glock 42 made it a double stack I would of went with it, but I have the LCP Max and super happy, you have actually reviewd a few of the pistols I ended up getting, I got into archery hunting and sold most my guns, after 15 years of archery and shooting these new pistols I found the love again to shoot, kinda wrong time to start shooting again with ammo prices. You're a damn great shot when you get the pistol zero'd good work, thumbs up here
People and manufacturers have really gone off on a weird tangent trying to make everything really powerful, +P rated. My favorite 380 round is a 70gr copper flat point, Sinter Fire/1776/Carbon City/Federal indoor range from the Ruger LCP Max at a chrono tested 1,000fps. Mild recoil and good terminal ballistics. About like a hot European .32acp 73gr at 1,000fps that Gecko used to load, only better. When your 380 starts to get too large and heavy, it's time to get a 9mm. Norma MHP 85gr copper hollow point 1300fps from a 3 inch barrel that expands to 70 caliber is so lightly loaded it barely cycles the slide of a full size service pistol but is pretty nice in a 17 to 19 oz Micro 9 and it's ballistically superior to any 380 that I know of. The Winchester Defense 115 at 1050fps from a 3 inch barrel is pretty mild also. Stop....looking for the most recoil you can find. There are no magic bullets and shot placement will rule the day. Some bullets may be better at shredding flesh and are better killers but ask yourself, are they better Stoppers? Is the "feral dog" you may be forced to shoot going to have any awareness of what your pocket pistol is loaded with? Just something to think about.
Thanks for this. The only thing I wish you'd included was a Colt Mustang. It's not polymer, but it is a tidy pocket pistol with a 1911 manual of arms and a better trigger than many of the polymer alternatives....
💛coffee & RUclips can't get enough! 25:33 video, never was hype/ego an issue! Smooth, consistent triggxx delivery start/finish. This is a fine 380 comparison, review!
I absolutely loved your insights into the Walther. I can't say that it was never on my radar, but at the same time I wouldn't have chased one down. Now? I think I'd skip it altogether as I'm not that much of a 'collector.'
I wonder if walther will ever do what bersa did with the thunder plus an make a double stack model as there is hardly any difference in the thickness of the grip, A modernised model of the ppk would probably be quite popular
IMO micro 9’s are tuff to shoot, very snappy and follow up shots are hard unless you train more often, which is why I parted ways with them if I’m going to be carrying micro it would have to be in .380
The instruction manual seems to indicate you can load a cartridge individually, but the slide held back without loading it from the magazine, which I am a 9 mm striker pistol that I have heard is contraindicated due to damaging the ejector extractor
The S&W is a single action only. It has a concealed hammer. It's break and reset are different than the striker fired pistols. I like its trigger. I also carry a DA/SA. I feel there is an advantage of the long first trigger press in a shoot/no shoot situation...more room for error under stress.
@@bholmes4250 I mostly carry revolvers now. But of the semiauto types, I have a Sig P229, bunch of Bersas mostly the Thunder Series.. 1st shot is DA, single action for the rest until or unless it is decocked. There are many out there CZ 75s Other Sigs Many Walthers including the PPK and PPKs Beretta 92 Series and 80 Series (and others) If you have money to burn HK USP I would start with a Bersa Thunder 380. They are inexpensive and, for me, they work and carry very well. They're not a bad looking gun either. They are reminiscent of a Walther PPK but they are not the same.
What about the Bersa Thunder Plus??? 15+1 rounds and the size of the Walther or the EZ and SA/DA. The Thunder also has after market laser support. My 380 choice by far.
Like to see a LCP MAX in high capacity 22 LR. Rim lock May be an issue. Maybe not. Have the LCP II 22 light rack with some “upgrades “(trigger, SS guide rod ,springs.was a good one right out of the box. A brick of older minimags with maybe 5 ammo relate malfunctions. That was before upgrading parts. No cleaning ,oiling needed. Nothing!pretty good. Use it as a fun gun for the most part. As a bonus,Galloway trigger gets rid of the aggravating magazine disconnect. Made a mid ride, kydex ,OWB HOLSTER FOR THE GUN & 3 more mags. .ulti clips.could swap to iwb. not a bad thing at all. 41 rounds & comfortable/light weight too. Qick on & off. Good little quick on off gun for early am walk & wait for bus in rural area. Highly recommend. Great as is ,max,maybe better..??..?
Thanks for showing us these .380 pistols. That was a very informative presentation. I have shot the Sig P238 and the Glock 42, and both are exceptional pistols with very little felt recoil. I have to say that the Sig P238 is the best built of these pistols in terms of materials, fit and finish. As strange as it sounds the Glock 42 is the only pistol of the pack that I know you can send out for an optics cut and that is the most appealing to me. Curious if anyone owns a Kel-Tec P32. To me that seems like an old school pocket pistol with almost little to no recoil.
I owned a P32, which I sold only because of my dumb tendency to make my gun collection a revolving door (not anymore!). But when I had it, it was the quintessential pocket pistol and really pleasant to shoot. I know 32 isn't as powerful as 380 but I still expected some bite since the pistol is so small. To my pleasant surprise that wasn't the case. As with many other guns I let go, I wish I still had that P32.
I've owned the P32 for a few years, I find it to be an exceptional micro pistol. It disappears in any clothing, and 7+1 rounds of 32acp can probably end 99.9% of most self defense situations.
@@markedman3990 Thanks for sharing. Just waiting for 2 things. First is availability and the second for the prices to come down on the P32 pistols. They look like an exceptional pocket pistol.
Yup, love the P32. Have Gen 1&2. My wife uses one as her ccw and the 10rd factory mag is awesome as an extra backup mag. Some fiocchi staggered with extreme defender rounds and ur well armed without worrying about rimlock, with semi-rimmed 32acp an all.
Very nice comparison / review. I have an LCP MAX and an LCP II. Do you have any insight into why the MAX makes a ping sound when dry fired instead of a solid click like the II and most other pistols? At first I thought mine had a defect but I’ve had zero problems with it and I can clearly hear it in yours too.
Love my LCP Max! Great sights and actually fits in my hand nicely. For me, it's hard to shoot a gun accurately, if it's too small. IMO, shot placement is key to stopping a threat. Xtreme Penetrator will get the job done. Go with what you can shoot accurately.
RUclips search “Kevin Costlow” .. that dude wasn’t even high in drugs , just went completely off the deep end. Scary how much lead be absorbed… Thankfully he didn’t have a gun in his hands.
This is the only good use case for the 380 and ruger is a genius for taking the p365 model for shoe horning double stack capacity into single stack size. None of the micro nines are really pocket sized. I use my kahr 380 as pocket carry every day in a non permissive business casual environment in a front pocket and mostly never worry about printing but occasionally do when sitting in front of customers. I'd never be able to conceal a p365 size in my pocket. Those millimeters count. Love the capacity and the feel but wish for better quality. Wished sig or Springfield would take those same double stack mags and rework then for the p238/p938/911's. Can you imagine the superior build and feel of an alloy frame with their single action triggers in this size?! I'd buy 4.
@@KawaCon right now I have a desantis,, leather holster where I removed the belt clip. If I was spending on it again, I'd get an Alabama front pocket kydex holster. It's slimmer and takes advantage of the slimmer profile of these micro 380's and micro 9's.
I carry a hellcat osp and i just bought the lcp max. Most consider the hellcat to be ridiculously small for a 9mm but i gotta tell you on my scale fully loaded the hellcat is around 23 oz while the loaded lcp max is just a hair of 14 oz. Which is also just a bit lighter than a charter arms undercover loaded with +p ammo. The lcp max has become my summertime pocket carry gun.
Can confirm, hated my Walther 380, loved it in 32. Can also confirm about the need for sights. My Kahr 380 is small enough to be hard to get an instantly perfect grip on, don't have to be very far away where point shooting is a problem, unlike with my larger pistols. Noticed the same exact thing with the Sig. I do recommend the Kahr often but never for a first gun - because of slide resistance. Also replace the magazine spring with Magguts for a better baseplate, or go with the optional extensions. The stock baseplate is not good. I know a number of new shooters in their 70s with arthritis and have no problem with the EZ. DAO is usually marketing term on striker pistols. The Kahr, Glock and S&W M&P (not the EZ) are all pre-set strikers. And Galloway for the win! Great video per usual!
I think the PP and PPK were designed for .32 in first place. But the european .32 were much hotter. Side by side the recoil feels the same as .380 with the hot .32 For example a normal S&B load is rated with 1050 fps with 73gr.
I can say this about my experience with my LCP I've owned for years now. It's the old one with bad trigger as everyone calls it. It's the LCP original edition. I have shot the LCP 2 and didn't care for it and didn't like the square blocky size of it. I've shot the M&P bodyguard by S&W. I've shot the Glock which I did like a lot, but felt it wasn't worth the $400 upgrade. Super smooth and clean gun. I have just gotten so use to a double action that I just don't like the striker fired as much. I either carry my LCP it my Taurus 856 38 special all the time. I just like them.
@@USArmy91222 I would consider that one, but wouldn't sell my baby. I love that little guy to much. My personal opinion. Go to an indoor gun range and rent the Glock, then rent the S&W 38 Air weight revolver.
Between my wife and I, we have most of the guns in the video and a few others. She prefers the S&W EZ in the Performance Center version. The difference from the standard EZ is very noticeable. I use the LCP Max with the extended magazine as my EDC. It functions great and with the 12+1 capacity I think covers any realistic situation I would ever encounter. I switched from micro-nines to .380 because the reduced recoil and noise and the noticeable improvement in accuracy and increased speed of accurate follow-up shots. Great video.
32 is no slouch. Beretta 81w thin LOK GRIPS. TALK ABOUT ACCURATE & quick follow ups.best I have in that department. Love it. Getting a 84 one day. When the time/price is right .like to try the EZ.Performance center is always a good thing.
What's your opinion on the S&W Performance Center Vs. and S&W M&P 2.0. I purchased the M&P 2.0 before the Performance Center version came out. After reading about the performance center I thought, is there any reason one would purchase the M&P 2.0 and not the Performance Center?
@@wbwills2 You better buy up as much .32 ammo you can because that's a dying caliber.
@@jerrkyd just the added expense of the PS
@@whatsup24_7 It's not as common but it's common enough that it's not really going anywhere.
I have many good carry guns, in all the traditional calibers, but the original LCP has managed to be my carry gun most of the time, for the last dozen years. But, about two months ago the LCP Max took it's place. That was a well done video. Good job. Thanks.
How’s the lcp max treated you as a daily carry since you got it? Is it noticeably bigger in your pocket or anywhere?
@@LBExoticsFanabsolutely not, lcp max feels like a damn cell phone in my pocket its king
@@kadricmartinez1081 lol you can't just handwave away reality and geometry. The max is simply bigger than the original and noticeably so.
@@LBExoticsFan The sights stick out waaayy more, and the grip is obviously longer and thicker. Don't let anyone lie and say they don't notice a difference. These might be acceptable to you, and those things do indeed make the gun easier to use. But that's no reason to lie and pretend like they have the same footprint. It's about tradeoffs. You don't gain the better useability without the downsides.
@@GlitteredUp4Easter that doesn’t negate the fact that the LCP max feels like a cell phone in my pocket like I stated
As a delivery driver, I'm in and out of other companies locations all day, some non-permissive, so max concealment is a must. I used to carry an original LCP. Great for concealment, lousy to shoot. Now have a G42. It's much more accurate for me and more comfortable to shoot, but it prints more and is harder to get out of a pocket quickly. I'm hoping the more rounded shape of the LCP Max will work better.
Update?
The LCP max wins for pocket carry. Easier to get out of the pocket if needed, and 4 more rounds. Ruger has been 100% reliable for feeding and firing. My only complaint is the slide doesn't always lock back.
LCP2 is a completely different gun than the original.
I haven't shot the max yet.
I drove delivery for about a decade and was in and out of customer homes all day.
I miss it.
I'd love to get back into something similar, just not moving heavy stuff my back can't handle anymore lol.
Check out the LCP2
I do the same thing definitely need to carry while delivering g42 for the win though least for me
Thank you so much for this comparison! I inherited a .22LR Walther TPH from my Dad; it was his "carry it in my fishing vest" gun. It is very accurate and (with CCI Mini Mag 40-grainsolids) super reliable. It's a great farm gun, and I am used to the DA/SA and the upswept safety. Also, I owned a pre-WWII .32 acp Walther PPK (fantastic pistol...a one-hole shooter at 50 feet!), but I passed it on to my son as a family heirloom. Hence, for familiarity purposes, I was thinking of getting a .380 Walther PPK/S for a carry gun. But some friends were pushing me toward the Ruger LCP; however, I shot an original LCP, and I didn't care for the sights, the trigger, or how it sat in my hand. Yet this new LCP Max looks like it might be a game changer: a better trigger, a little more grip to grip, and still pocketable. Thanks again!
Blessings to you,
Dave
Thank you.
A huge advantage to 12 rnd magazine in the Max is the ability to get another finger on the grip. It really improves the shootability. The Max is my EDC
While I'm no Glock fanboy (and have yet to try the LCP Max), I have to admit the G42 is my favorite 380 overall when factoring both range practice and EDC. Even my current 380, the LCP 2 can be a bit uncomfortable at the range though it's REALLY easy to carry.
Out of all the 380's I've tried the most enjoyable to shoot have been:
1. S&W EZ
2. Sig P232
3. Baikal 380
4. G42
5. Sig P238
6. Taurus Curve; funny, I know, but surprisingly fun and easy to shoot
7. LCP 2
8. LCP
9. Kahr CW380; I actually liked the LCP trigger more
10. Bersa Thunder; the extended beavertail liked to bite my hand with each shot
11. Walther PK380; pleasant to shoot but has the most awkward and pointless safety mechanism in history
You make great videos. A trillion things in the world to watch and I am watching this. Keep 'em coming.
I was never interested in .380's until I learned of the LCP Max. I always felt if I can carry a micro 9 that's slightly larger with the same or more capacity, why have one. Then the LCP Max came out and I acquired my first .380. The micro 9's that I have are the Sig P938,Max 9,and Taurus GX4. The LCP Max will now be added to my micro carry lineup
How do you like the GX4 ?
@@YO_HO_2EASY I like the GX4. No regrets.
Yes I was concerned about going smaller than 9mm as well but the lcp max is the perfect little package.
same lol
Where is the s/w bodyguard ? which probably beats most of the guns on your video.
I have an LCP II which replaced my LCP (because of the trigger on the LCP), but I'm in the process of replacing the LCP II with the Max due to the higher capacity, sights, etc. Really nice review, probably one of the best and most comprehensive I've seen - keep up the good work!
You can immediately feel the difference in your hand. It will put a smile on your face
I really like how you do the dimension comparisons of all height, weight, etc. pros and cons of each. Very good video.
Good solid comparison Mr Hammer Striker. Love the .380 ACP. Nice plug for Galloway Precision, my go-to for Ruger parts.
I had a G42. It was ammo fussy. It shot well. The LCP Max is comparable in accuracy. Ruger nailed it with the LCP Max. I have a M&P bodyguard, 2 P3ATs and PT738 TCP. I can say with confidence The Max is the best of my group. The P3AT is what I go to for the lightest thinnest option. It has non existent sights though. I had a Walther PPK 380 not a S. Just nasty to shoot.
Out of my seven .380's the LCP Max is the very hardest to shoot well and least accurate of them all. The one I got shoots a good four to six inches low at only about fifteen yards and produces about a foot group. Partly because of the weird squishy trigger, but even from a rest is certainly not a tack driver. Good news is, it's not supposed to be. It's probably the easiest, lightest, and most concealable .380 I own and holds thirteen rounds with one in the pipe. Love the sights on it if it only shot to where I pointed them. Does what it's designed to do though. So, I like it. If it had an adjustable or taller rear sight, I'd have a lot higher opinion of it.
Glock fixed this in 2018. It’s the most reliable and accurate .380 for its size.
How does recoil compare between the LCP Max and the G42?
I just purchased a 380 auto for the first time in 20 yrs since I sold my Beretta 84B. I chose the Kahr CW380 because its the smallest of the bunch and I like the Kahr triggers and the grip feel of the Kahr. It was a toss up between the Kahr CW380 and the Ruger LCP Max and I chose the Kahr because the Kahr is plus p rated and the Ruger LCP Max is not per Ruger's instructions. The CW380 comes with a 6 round mag and u can also purchase a 7 round mag for it as well with a pinky extension which gives me 8 w/one in the pipe which is plenty for a pocket rocket and back up gun. Plus after shooting the Ruger and the Kahr the Kahr IMO shoots alot flatter and smoother then the LCP max. Thanks for another good review and y'all be safe!!
My first and only 380 is the lcp max. Put a grip sleeve on it and that made a lot of difference.
@When The Many ....... Talon Grips Pro - love em.
Does this work with most holsters?
@@bill72pa the grips sleeve? Doesn't affect the holsters I use. I pocket carry mine use a couple different ones. The sleeve helps with the recoil. Reduces the sting
I tried almost all the .380s before landing on the original LCP w/the improved trigger. It’s the only one to be 100% reliable and small/light enough to have with me no matter how I’m dressed or where I’m going. I’ll wait on the Max to give the company time to work out any problems usually inherent in new models.
What trigger upgrade did you do to your LCP?
@@chrisgutzman4919 No upgrade, it’s the post 2013 LCP w/the slightly improved factory trigger & sights. I’ve owned it for years and never had a failure w/over 400 rounds of FMJ & HP self defense ammo.
@@Valorius Thx, I’m looking around for one as I type this.
i have the original lcp as well, and in i dunno, guessing 100-200 rounds never had a failure. my philosophy is these are not range guns so dont shoot them a lot. if you just must practice a lot, i'd get a 2nd one just to practice with and save the mileage on the carry one.
anyways for whatever reason i cant hit jack with it. i think its the double action trigger. it the smallest and most reliable, but if i cant hit with it i'm not confident in it, other than maybe "get off me" 5 yds and in. my springfield hellcat is very small yet i can shoot it well with the much lighter trigger. the max is a bit on the large side for my tastes. but i need to get at least a lcp 2, so i can have the light trigger.
MY LCP MAX has been 100% reliable with the 10 and 12 round magazine. Probably have about 1,000 rounds thru it.
So I have been pocket carrying this beauty for about 18 months now. I have put over 800 rounds through it. I now use the 12 round mag full time, with the 10 round mag as back-up.
Empty weight, with the factory pocket holster, is 11.68 oz. Add the 10 + 1 rounds, I see 15.38 oz on my digital kitchen scale. With the 12 + 1 configuration and factory holster, I see 16.08 oz.
I wear Wrangler jeans pretty much always, and the front right pocket works for carry, its comfortable while I am in a vehicle, or at my desk. I forget its there when I'm at the grocery store ect.
Late last year, I picked up a nifty little OWB holster from Tactical Scorpion Gear, TSG-LCP2-2 (option 2), it's for the LCPII, and the LCP Max fits in this awesome holster perfectly! The supplied, "tuck-it-in" style paddle is a bit difficult for me, but the belt attachment works flawlessly! I dont OWB the pistol often, but when I do this one is perfect!
I have also replaced the stock pocket holster, back in June (2022), with one from Galco, PRO836B, and absolutely love this holster! With the 12 + 1 and this holster, I see 16.47 oz. Should have done it long ago!
For pocket carry, I still believe that this pistol is the best option out there!
Great video. Excellent content. Am a bit surprised to see a small .380 vs small .380 without the M&P Bodyguard listed. Keep up the great videos.
I really appreciate comparison videos. Thank you
.380 is definitely picking up a lot of popularity lately, has a lot to do with the ammo getting better. I love my LCP Max even if its a back up depending on what I'm doing. If I'm going downtown to buy some gold my 10mm XDM is coming with me and the Max in my pocket lol
You shot the LCP Max really well. I couldn’t shoot it for anything so sold it and getting a G42. Already had a G19 and G26 and very confident with shooting them
The Max is actually fairly easy to rack, and the recoil is well managed. I find that it doesn't hurt my hand at all- unlike my original LCP and the LCPII. It's a brilliant small carry weapon.
Thank you for the comment. The wider grip is why I'm seriously considering getting this (the lcp2 is uncomfortable to me)
I still have the original Kel-Tec 3-AT (.380) before Ruger brazenly copied it. One advantage, discomfort notwithstanding, is that the single stack models weigh less, and are therefore more comfortable 99.99% of the time that you are carrying it especially in warmer weather when you might be scantily clad! I could load the Max with six rounds and enjoy the comfort the one time I may have to shoot it to defend lives and limbs. I'll hold out hoping to find a gently used one at lower price!
@@papatorr3669 I held them both today and the max felt so much better
@Titanium Man I got the lcp max and like it much better than the lcp2
The max is the best carry gun I ever owned . Mostly because of the ammo capacity and size. The only downside is it feels a little cheaper than other pocket pistols I own.
Just shot the Max the other weekend. This little gun is great! I got a "Spreaded out hand" size shot groups, drawing from the holster, rapid/stress shooting at 7 yards. Easy.
The best video I've seen on this subject! I'm sure you have helped a lot of people make a decision.
Bersa Thunder 380CC. The safety of a DA/SA with reliability and reasonable price point. Diamondback DB9 gen 4 for it's size.
Just got mine today! Reviews are like yours or priceless for guys who can't borrow a rent one! Thank you for providing this valuable resource.
I can see you have not shot them very much. I belong to a club of Pocket gunners ever since the LCP first came out. Shoot them with frequency and you will find they are not harsh at all, Most expecially the WELL built Beretta Pico and the Kahr. Very mild to shoot. And you do not mention the fact that both of these guns will outlast the LCP's indefinitely, They will keep on Performing when the LCP's have long hit the dirt. However you have a good description of these gun. I advocate the LCP gen 2 over the Max. I just bought another one for a Truck Gun. I have owned at least 6 of them over the years. The good news is that they are reliable. Sights are not need for those that train diligently with point and shoot and Instinctive skills. Thank your for the review.
Nice review... My 2 cents had a PPK shot it fairly well but if it had dust or lint it jammed, they need to be cleaned and oiled. Traded it for Sig P230 which had better sights, better trigger and more carriable contours and shot it well also. Those two pistols are slightly more accurate because the barrels are fixed. Next I have Glocks and don't hate the sights like so many people do, they are easy for me to pick up and Glocks go bang when you pull the trigger.
I also had an early original LCP and what a piece of garbage. Jammed like a rock band, sights are casting flaws, and the trigger was long hard and broke way late which is usually where I pull right. I never shot it well at all so I eventually traded it in on a Ruger Mk IV for my kids. Then I was in a pinch needed a pocket gun and grabbed an LCP II. What a massive improvement I was so pleasantly surprised. Trigger much much better lighter smoother and breaks sooner which for me matters. Real sights and it never jams. I added a Crimson-trace light, a 1 round mag extension and magguts spring for another one. Now I have 8 rounds and one in the pipe and shoot it better than I would have guessed was possible from a pocket pistol....
Just ordered an LCP Max can't wait 10 rounds better trigger, and night sights...
Love my LCP MAX! And my slide release works.
Mine too, I've seen other videos claiming it doesn't, but mine works fine.
I had trouble with mine and read Ruger had excellent customer service so I contacted them sent it in and they replaced my slide and barrel. Had it back within a week.
Here's the truth - other than if I'm doing some type of training, CCW-competition shooting, perhaps even two-gun, I never, ever, EVER carry a spare mag or stripper (for the revolver) in daily use. The slide lock-back not working most likely wouldn't affect me unless it was a rare situation where I had to fire the ten or eleven rounds, and need the slide lockback to tell me to back away from the ongoing firefight. That's just not a situation I hope to ever be in if I'm not geared up for a warzone.
Great job reviewing the best options in .380 !
Thanks for the vid.
I have several 380 pistols
including the LCP, LCP 2,
Kahr, Bersa, LCP Max, and
Rock Island.
I carry the LCP Max with the
12 rd mag since I got it.
Surprisingly the Rock Island
which is a 1911 design and
the longest 380 I own is the
most snappiest when shooting.
Excellent comparisons. I own the LCP Max and the P238. I previously owned the LCP II and had a continuous problem (no matter the shooter) with the magazine prematurely ejecting in my hand during live fire. Ruger fixed it once but the problem kept coming back so I got ride of it. The trouble was I really liked the LCP II design and when the LCP Max came out I had to have one. I've put about 500 rounds or so through mine to convince myself it is reliable. It is and now the LCP Max is my only viable deep conceal option. It is accurate, reliable, and comfortable to shoot.
My "LCP 1" works great! It's the original Kel-Tec 3-AT, not the Ruger copycat version!
@@papatorr3669 i had one of those and it jammed every other round. took kel tec a while to work the kinks out of that model, in kel tec fashion. lcp was reliable from day 1, plus the fit and finish doesn't look like it was made in russia. given the similar prices just dont see why you wouldn't get the lcp, it's just better. but if your kel tec works, guess it doesnt matter.
A very good objective review of 380 pistols, side by side with pros and cons of each
Man watching your videos is gonna make me buy an LCP Max I swear
If you're going to do an ammo test with the LCP Max, I highly encourage you to try it with the Underwood Xtreme Penetrator and Xtrreme Defender. They're amazing even when used in short barrels like the Max. And their lighter projectiles are supposed to reduce snappiness as well.
Surprisingly although i use defender ammo it has been more snappy to me. I will keep using it though as I think higher velocity is worth i8t
Thanks for giving an honest comparison. Since I can read dimensions and weights easily enough, your subjective opinions were what interested me.
I purchased some years back a Taurus TCP 380.. I was lucky I got one that was extremely reliable and accurate.. the first time at the range out of the box I put 400 rounds down range with no jams or stoppages.. accurate out to 50 ft then groups start to open up a little past that point but still can stay on target at 60 ft... Trigger is really good compared to most other micro 380... And the Taurus TCP has a slide stop last round hold open.. and it can be activated manually to hold the slide open.. lightweight decent sights once I added a little bright orange paint to the front and the notch in the rear.. I can get very nice groups at 30 to 40 ft... The Taurus TCP is discontinued.. and if I were to buy a micro 380 nowadays it definitely would be the LCP Max..10+1 cap .. and excellent trigger & sites .. hell I might pick one up anyway soon.. definitely would be nice for my right front pocket in the DeSantis Superfly pocket holster with velcro on flap to prevent printing
I own several of those and one that is constantly overlooked that is probably my favorite. A Colt Mustang Pocketlite. It gets overlooked almost every time for the Sig that is of course cheaper and thus more popular. But for an old 1911 guy the Colt Mustang is the IT of .380's. Mine is also very easy to shoot and very accurate. But it's a Colt, you pay a lot more for the name.
I have a colt pocket lite too and I love it. May grab the LCP max for the 10+1 though
@@mikerose6618 I own both and like both, but the Mustang, at least in my case, is a much better looking, better feeling, and a whole bunch more accurate pistol. I also recently bought a Bersa Thunder and it's a tack driver too. Really feels good in the hand and easy to shoot, but a lot larger than the other two and not really what I'd consider a Pocket Pistol. The Bersa has an incredibly smooth trigger too that makes it easier to shoot well. Feels like a trigger you'd expect to find in a Smith & Wesson revolver.
@@mikerose6618 The Colt is a lot more gun, I own one of those too. The big benefit with the Ruger is that it doesn't weigh anything and its size.
Hammer Striker- I saw this video a year after you made it. I own or have shot a few of these and I have to say, this was a really good video.
A good and fair comparison is actually shooting the guns. I bought the Ruger Max. While it holds more rounds, it shoots miserably when compared to my Glock 42 with less rounds. The Glock just holds better, has a better trigger and the reliability is superb. I tried the max for a few weeks and I just can’t into it’s feel. I still prefer the Glock for ultra ccw use.
Was going to say you left the best for last - the Walther, but turns out to be quite the opposite except for beauty. A conspicuous absence is the Bersa Thunder 380 CC. Lacks the capacity of the the Ruger LCP Max but still find it appealing overall. Interesting how the S&W EZ is the largest just as the Shield Plus is among Micro 9s. Glad you're keeping this channel a no-politics zone.
I've got a regular Bersa Thunder and the LCP Max. I carry the Max because it's smaller and holds more rounds, but I love the DA/SA option of the Thunder. And it's accurate, in my experience. It's just a little too big and heavy for pocket carry.
Bersa has came out with the Thunder Plus double stack.
I just bought the LCP Max. It is going to replace my S&W Bodyguard. I do also have a PPK made by S&W. I carried it while working as a private detective. It is an awesome and accurate pistol, but heavy and blowsback on your hand. The .380 is my preferred carry
Very good recap of a few models I'm considering, and a couple I hadn't considered before.
Nice review! Helpful comments on the Walther.
I own the Kahr CW 380. I find it's size a double edged sword super easy to conceal but so small it's a little hard to manipulate the controls.
How’s the reliability on that one? It’s much nicer looking than the lcp max.
I own an EZ in 9mm. It's worth mentioning that it's also easy to load by using a tab on the magazine, and there is also a loaded chamber indicator on the slide.
I love the glock trigger for a service pistol, but I think the absence of any takeup makes them useless as a carry pistol, which is why there are different triggers in the 365 and the 320 as an example. Now having said that, it urks me when people attempt to compare a Micro-9 to a Micro-380, pistols with 2 completely different purposes... Now I will admit that prior to the invention of the Micro-9 there was a gap that was often filled by 380 pistols, but like you said it's important to buy a pistol that fits the need (and the shooter). In my opinion people often buy without being fully educated and your videos serve this perpose. Thank you.
I agree about uneducated or lack of thought on purchases. I have large hands. I nought a weapon that was recommended by the sales person. At the counter it felt great. Semi real world . Sat on my bed one day and just put my hand down and grabbed. Undercut didn't allow my finger to get high. Finger groves/ more of a bump don't fit my hand. In the store I didn't notice as it was easy to adjust ones grip.expensive learning cure for me.
Great video. Informative, useful, and very well done.
G42 (for purpose) and PPK/S (for collection) owner here who is now very heavily considering an LCP Max to add to the .380 stable. I fired the original LCP and immediately wrote it off, hated the trigger and feel of it. I liked the way the Bodyguard felt in my hand, thought the built in laser was a nice touch, but again, absolutely hated the trigger. The Glock just felt right, the Max seems to be in the same category as the Glock, but a little more concealable and with extra capacity...can't go wrong. Gotta get to the range and try one out.
Thanks for the comprehensive review.
I'm really enjoying your thoughtful, thorough videos. Isn't personal taste odd? A few years ago a family member gave me an LCP 2 for my 50th birthday, and I hated it so much I never carried it. Too small, too snappy, and I couldn't see the sights with a magnifying glass. I recently sold it for and got a Glock 42, and I could not be happier. I got some Big Dot sights put on and it's perfect for me. I'm glad you love the LCP line since they work well for you.
Good video👍
I don't believe the S&W EZ models were targeted for the CCW market. It can be used for such but I believe it was for primarily women and the elderly who had dismissed hand strength and needed something easy to operate for the home. Powerful enough to defend with but having less recoil than 9mm nato and other cartridges. To me it's an tool for those folks to defend the home with that's EZ and easy to use and most who own it don't carry it but have it at home.
I could drag out the Dremel tool and fix that mag base plate problem in about 30 seconds! 12:26
excellent vid.............thank you!😊
Having large hands, I like the PPK/S with finger rest clips. But, I've used one for almost 50 yrs, before micros. I like the heft & bbl length. The recoil, for me, is fine.
BTW, my PPK/S trigger is not serrated, and double action pull runs about 10 lbs.
I carried the original LCP for years based solely on size. Let’s face it, when talking about concealed carry we essentially mean ‘summer’ carry in skimpier clothing. Concealing my 1911 in winter presented no problem with printing under a heavy coat.
The LCP was annoying to shoot and not very accurate. Reliability was intermittent until I switched to ball ammo at the recommendation of a Ruger factory tech, who told me the LCP would always have recurring issues with the Critical Defense ammo I was using. Racking this little gun was hateful, since a 50-round session at the range would occasionally pinch a bit of the web on my left hand.
I swapped it for the LCP II recently and will be heading to the range soon for a Baptism of ‘Fire’ and hopefully ALL of these annoyances will fade.
I think you'll enjoy the LCPII more than the original LCP. I do. Sights, trigger, and feel are better for me. It's still kicks pretty good because it's so light and small but is still more comfortable than my orig LCP. I've had 100% reliability with both the orig LCP and the LCPII. Both had many, many dif brands and styles of hollow points through them. Both have had in excess of 1000 rounds through them. I settled on Underwoos Extreme Defender (Solid copper and looks like a Philips screwdriver head) as it creates nearly as much damage as a hollow point but is barrier blind and penetrates slightly better than hollow points do.
The S&W EZ has also a longer barrel with 3.7 inches and gives you more velocity than most of the pocket guns.
Possibly one of the only .380's I'd trust a few choice hollow-points to reliably expand due to the barrel length. This is why I went for the "xtreme defender" rounds for my .380
Very good comparison. Thank you for that.
This was a great overview, thanks!
Not a single Bersa in the bunch? It seems everybody overlooks the fact that Bersa put out a double stack 380 back in 2015 called the thunder plus or combat plus, that are still manufactured today.
Really appreciate the video. A lot of information in all the right points. Thanks.
excellent presentation, enjoyed this video very much.............i am the owner of a EZ S&W 380 and am very satisfied with this weapon, especially racking the slide which to me was the most important reason to select this weapon...................
No Bodyguard? Your comments on sights are spot on. Saying you don't need sights, "It's a belly gun" is just foolish.
I've the 1st gen LCP. For the usual attire of T-shirt and shorts here in south Florida, it is lightweight and easy to conceal. It's a close-up and personal defensive weapon, so having "sights" worthy of target shooting aren't necessary. It's easy enough to carry an extra mag, as well.
If Glock 42 made it a double stack I would of went with it, but I have the LCP Max and super happy, you have actually reviewd a few of the pistols I ended up getting, I got into archery hunting and sold most my guns, after 15 years of archery and shooting these new pistols I found the love again to shoot, kinda wrong time to start shooting again with ammo prices. You're a damn great shot when you get the pistol zero'd good work, thumbs up here
Fantastic size comparison! Thank you it was exactly what I needed for the LCP models 🥰🥰🥰
People and manufacturers have really gone off on a weird tangent trying to make everything really powerful, +P rated. My favorite 380 round is a 70gr copper flat point, Sinter Fire/1776/Carbon City/Federal indoor range from the Ruger LCP Max at a chrono tested 1,000fps. Mild recoil and good terminal ballistics. About like a hot European .32acp 73gr at 1,000fps that Gecko used to load, only better.
When your 380 starts to get too large and heavy, it's time to get a 9mm. Norma MHP 85gr copper hollow point 1300fps from a 3 inch barrel that expands to 70 caliber is so lightly loaded it barely cycles the slide of a full size service pistol but is pretty nice in a 17 to 19 oz Micro 9 and it's ballistically superior to any 380 that I know of. The Winchester Defense 115 at 1050fps from a 3 inch barrel is pretty mild also. Stop....looking for the most recoil you can find. There are no magic bullets and shot placement will rule the day.
Some bullets may be better at shredding flesh and are better killers but ask yourself, are they better Stoppers? Is the "feral dog" you may be forced to shoot going to have any awareness of what your pocket pistol is loaded with? Just something to think about.
Outstanding video. Simply outstanding
Thanks. Splendid review.
Awesome video! Extremely well done!
I wish the 15-shot Bersa Thunder Plus had been included in this video.
Thank you for such an in depth review of the crowd. Good advice, but I believe only the Kahr is on the CA list. My 10 day wait is up in 3 days.
Doesn’t it count that it only comes with a single 10 mag?
Thanks for this. The only thing I wish you'd included was a Colt Mustang. It's not polymer, but it is a tidy pocket pistol with a 1911 manual of arms and a better trigger than many of the polymer alternatives....
There is a polymer Mustang. It's called the Mustang LCP. I have one. It's my daily carry.
@@billysherman2702 :-) Well then. "My" (carry) Colt Mustang is apparently behind the times!
Basicly the same thing as the sig shown. Wife has the Kimber micro and loves it. She can drive tacks with it.
@@davidhudson1290 Yes, it is an accurate and pleasant to shoot pocket pistol.
💛coffee & RUclips can't get enough! 25:33 video, never was hype/ego an issue! Smooth, consistent triggxx delivery start/finish. This is a fine 380 comparison, review!
I absolutely loved your insights into the Walther. I can't say that it was never on my radar, but at the same time I wouldn't have chased one down. Now? I think I'd skip it altogether as I'm not that much of a 'collector.'
Assuming you are going to conceal carry, I would choose a carry method then shop for the gun. Thanks for sharing.
I wonder if walther will ever do what bersa did with the thunder plus an make a double stack model as there is hardly any difference in the thickness of the grip,
A modernised model of the ppk would probably be quite popular
IMO micro 9’s are tuff to shoot, very snappy and follow up shots are hard unless you train more often, which is why I parted ways with them if I’m going to be carrying micro it would have to be in .380
The instruction manual seems to indicate you can load a cartridge individually, but the slide held back without loading it from the magazine, which I am a 9 mm striker pistol that I have heard is contraindicated due to damaging the ejector extractor
The LCP 2 22lr doublestack coming soon. Ruger is killin' it.
What will the capacity be?
The S&W is a single action only. It has a concealed hammer. It's break and reset are different than the striker fired pistols. I like its trigger. I also carry a DA/SA. I feel there is an advantage of the long first trigger press in a shoot/no shoot situation...more room for error under stress.
What DA/SA do you carry?...I've been wanting to get one but they are usually to big to be my carry weapon
@@bholmes4250 I mostly carry revolvers now. But of the semiauto types, I have a Sig P229, bunch of Bersas mostly the Thunder Series.. 1st shot is DA, single action for the rest until or unless it is decocked.
There are many out there
CZ 75s
Other Sigs
Many Walthers including the PPK and PPKs
Beretta 92 Series and 80 Series (and others)
If you have money to burn HK USP
I would start with a Bersa Thunder 380. They are inexpensive and, for me, they work and carry very well. They're not a bad looking gun either. They are reminiscent of a Walther PPK but they are not the same.
What about the Bersa Thunder Plus??? 15+1 rounds and the size of the Walther or the EZ and SA/DA. The Thunder also has after market laser support. My 380 choice by far.
Great review!
Shot the lcp and lcp max, still carry the bodyguard during the week and the EZ on the weekend.
Great Vid! 4/2022 just picked up a LCP MAX. 350.00 Love it in my front pocket. Comes with a pocket holster also!
Like to see a LCP MAX in high capacity 22 LR. Rim lock May be an issue. Maybe not. Have the LCP II 22 light rack with some “upgrades “(trigger, SS guide rod ,springs.was a good one right out of the box. A brick of older minimags with maybe 5 ammo relate malfunctions. That was before upgrading parts. No cleaning ,oiling needed. Nothing!pretty good. Use it as a fun gun for the most part. As a bonus,Galloway trigger gets rid of the aggravating magazine disconnect. Made a mid ride, kydex ,OWB HOLSTER FOR THE GUN & 3 more mags. .ulti clips.could swap to iwb. not a bad thing at all. 41 rounds & comfortable/light weight too. Qick on & off. Good little quick on off gun for early am walk & wait for bus in rural area. Highly recommend. Great as is ,max,maybe better..??..?
Awesome video!
Thanks for showing us these .380 pistols. That was a very informative presentation.
I have shot the Sig P238 and the Glock 42, and both are exceptional pistols with very little felt recoil. I have to say that the Sig P238 is the best built of these pistols in terms of materials, fit and finish.
As strange as it sounds the Glock 42 is the only pistol of the pack that I know you can send out for an optics cut and that is the most appealing to me.
Curious if anyone owns a Kel-Tec P32. To me that seems like an old school pocket pistol with almost little to no recoil.
I owned a P32, which I sold only because of my dumb tendency to make my gun collection a revolving door (not anymore!). But when I had it, it was the quintessential pocket pistol and really pleasant to shoot. I know 32 isn't as powerful as 380 but I still expected some bite since the pistol is so small. To my pleasant surprise that wasn't the case. As with many other guns I let go, I wish I still had that P32.
I've owned the P32 for a few years, I find it to be an exceptional micro pistol. It disappears in any clothing, and 7+1 rounds of 32acp can probably end 99.9% of most self defense situations.
@@markedman3990 Thanks for sharing. Just waiting for 2 things. First is availability and the second for the prices to come down on the P32 pistols. They look like an exceptional pocket pistol.
@@Quality_Guru I'm hoping I'll still be able to buy 32acp ammo! Right now I can't find it anywhere!...no matter what the price.
Yup, love the P32. Have Gen 1&2. My wife uses one as her ccw and the 10rd factory mag is awesome as an extra backup mag. Some fiocchi staggered with extreme defender rounds and ur well armed without worrying about rimlock, with semi-rimmed 32acp an all.
Very nice comparison / review. I have an LCP MAX and an LCP II. Do you have any insight into why the MAX makes a ping sound when dry fired instead of a solid click like the II and most other pistols? At first I thought mine had a defect but I’ve had zero problems with it and I can clearly hear it in yours too.
See Scootch review.....he actually laughs and calls it the "C" note (music scale)......
Great videos 😁. Merry Christmas too you and God bless ⛄
You omitted the S&W .380 Bodyguard. It's a 6+1 autoloader nearly as small as the LCP.
Love my LCP Max! Great sights and actually fits in my hand nicely. For me, it's hard to shoot a gun accurately, if it's too small. IMO, shot placement is key to stopping a threat. Xtreme Penetrator will get the job done. Go with what you can shoot accurately.
RUclips search “Kevin Costlow” .. that dude wasn’t even high in drugs , just went completely off the deep end. Scary how much lead be absorbed… Thankfully he didn’t have a gun in his hands.
Indeed ! You're feeding it the perfect load. 👍
This is the only good use case for the 380 and ruger is a genius for taking the p365 model for shoe horning double stack capacity into single stack size. None of the micro nines are really pocket sized. I use my kahr 380 as pocket carry every day in a non permissive business casual environment in a front pocket and mostly never worry about printing but occasionally do when sitting in front of customers. I'd never be able to conceal a p365 size in my pocket. Those millimeters count. Love the capacity and the feel but wish for better quality. Wished sig or Springfield would take those same double stack mags and rework then for the p238/p938/911's. Can you imagine the superior build and feel of an alloy frame with their single action triggers in this size?! I'd buy 4.
What is your choice for a pocket holster?
@@KawaCon right now I have a desantis,, leather holster where I removed the belt clip. If I was spending on it again, I'd get an Alabama front pocket kydex holster. It's slimmer and takes advantage of the slimmer profile of these micro 380's and micro 9's.
I carry a hellcat osp and i just bought the lcp max. Most consider the hellcat to be ridiculously small for a 9mm but i gotta tell you on my scale fully loaded the hellcat is around 23 oz while the loaded lcp max is just a hair of 14 oz. Which is also just a bit lighter than a charter arms undercover loaded with +p ammo. The lcp max has become my summertime pocket carry gun.
LCP; Two fingers on the grip. Extreme Dangling Pinky Syndrome! The Diamondback db380 looks intriguing perhaps a future review
Love my Glock 42. Holds perfect in my hand, utterly dependable, and a great pocket carry gun.
If Glock ever makes a 10 round G42 then I will drop whatever it is I'm doing and head straight to my LGS the second they get one in stock.
@@mig50cc And again it was deleted. Bias from the channel I presume.
@Chuck Green I have not deleted any comments from you. I only delete comments with excessive profanity, bigotry or attempting prohibited activities.
Can confirm, hated my Walther 380, loved it in 32.
Can also confirm about the need for sights. My Kahr 380 is small enough to be hard to get an instantly perfect grip on, don't have to be very far away where point shooting is a problem, unlike with my larger pistols. Noticed the same exact thing with the Sig.
I do recommend the Kahr often but never for a first gun - because of slide resistance. Also replace the magazine spring with Magguts for a better baseplate, or go with the optional extensions. The stock baseplate is not good.
I know a number of new shooters in their 70s with arthritis and have no problem with the EZ.
DAO is usually marketing term on striker pistols. The Kahr, Glock and S&W M&P (not the EZ) are all pre-set strikers.
And Galloway for the win!
Great video per usual!
I think the PP and PPK were designed for .32 in first place. But the european .32 were much hotter. Side by side the recoil feels the same as .380 with the hot .32 For example a normal S&B load is rated with 1050 fps with 73gr.
Great review. Thanks👍!
Good review Brother.
I can say this about my experience with my LCP I've owned for years now. It's the old one with bad trigger as everyone calls it. It's the LCP original edition. I have shot the LCP 2 and didn't care for it and didn't like the square blocky size of it. I've shot the M&P bodyguard by S&W. I've shot the Glock which I did like a lot, but felt it wasn't worth the $400 upgrade. Super smooth and clean gun. I have just gotten so use to a double action that I just don't like the striker fired as much. I either carry my LCP it my Taurus 856 38 special all the time. I just like them.
i also have the original lcp, never had a single malfunction of any kind it's been flawless..lately i've been interested in
the Glock 42 though 🤔
@@USArmy91222 I would consider that one, but wouldn't sell my baby. I love that little guy to much. My personal opinion. Go to an indoor gun range and rent the Glock, then rent the S&W 38 Air weight revolver.
Very informative. You remind me of Mishaco when he educates us on the AKs.