As a black man, the first thing that pops in my mind when I see a white person with a shopping cart full of pork rib and watermelon is "It's true! Food has the power to break down racial divide." #equality
Yep we all do. It’s amazing how many points I agree with him on and how much I have come to respect our differences of opinion where we don’t. He even covered my position as to why I find it to be a positive for a cartridge to push a bullet to expansion and to the far side without much risk of penetrating the far side. He nailed it in a nutshell. I like the reduced risk of over penetration because it limits risk of hitting someone or something I don’t mean to. I comprehend why in hunting we are ant full pass through but we ain’t hunting people we just don’t want them trying to hurt us.
It is nice to watch a presenter, who is not wearing a tight t-shirt, and is not covered in lame tattoos. Also, he is not trying to tell me that I am a loser, if I do not agree with him. Thank you, for being an objective adult, who presents unbiased data.
I always wait in case the computers at Google are watching, which we know they are. Since I know I will watch it, I wait until it finishes so that Google/RUclips will not short him more than they already are.
I've watched a lot of the .380ACP videos from ShootingTheBull and I'll tell you it's a fascinating caliber. It really is the sensitive type when it comes to barrel length and bullet type. I'm really looking forward to seeing how other .380's handle the meat target.
I would think .380 ammo too expensive for teaching unless someone was specifically learning the .380 for carry or rather quickly move to 9mm after a short low recoil center-fire introduction.
@@McCaroni_Sup Yes. Nickels ideal but the brass ones will have to do nowadays. It is a bit hard to find nowadays though. My LCP2 has at least 500 rounds of Hornady through it (different times before covid lol). No issues at any point. I recommend the 7 round magazine because that extra litte grip genuinely does help with quick shot placement.
Thank you Paul for being Paul and not some tacticool Commando bullshit. Straight forward useful everyday information, nothing more nothing less... nothing better
No kidding. I have seen a bunch of videos about how HCD in .380 is a subpar round and then here comes Paul and his meat target and I'm convinced to stick with it for my edc pistol. Forget the ballistics gelatin, this is real world in the field data.
"It appears that adding an inch to your barrel makes a great deal of difference". That's what she said. 😂 Great video as usual, Paul. Keep them coming.
That's what I have on hand, but I had a problem with a round recently. I had never experienced this with any cartridge gun: hangfire. Just a click, then - as I was about to snap the slide back - it fired. I've had this when shooting muzzle loaders and a flash hole was getting dirty, but never had a single cartridge do this in my many decades of shooting. I'm just hoping it was a one time thing.
I wouldn't mind seeing the meat target replicated inside ballistic gel to see the potential of wound channels and the like, just something I find morbidly fascinating.
No. It does a different thing, and not as repeatably. If I could only have one bit of data, I would want controlled data. If I want to get a feel for how that data correlates to practical, I watch P.H. A long time ago, on JRB's channel, I said something about this, and Paul actually replied to me, and more or less said that's how he sees it too. (Also that I was wrong to think he was serious about the closing line. It's a deadpan joke, and I wasn't sure.) I can't remember the conversation verbatim, so I won't risk putting words in his mouth, but I think you will find that Paul values gel data too. He just isn't going to waste his time duplicating the type of test that others have down to a science. His videos are more about art and persuasion, and taking the hype out of the discussion.
Ballistic gel is great for testing base values as you said. I just like the meat target due to some of the extras like rib to rib etc. Of course ballistic gel is more scientific. Meat target tells some good info that ballistic gel doesn't tell.
I've noticed that even the viewer comment section of your videos, seem to be of much greater intelligence, than some of the other RUclips gun videos. I think this says a lot about you, Paul. Keep em coming...We all enjoy!!!!
To some wondering about Rock Island: I know nothing about the Rock Island in 380 but I recently purchased a Rock Island in a 10mm. It's the 5" tactical model with the accessory rail. I've shot around 250 rounds thru it trying different loads, sighting it in etc and so far, it has been 100% reliable and as far as accuracy, it's been great and even better. Nothing has shot bad just good and great with several different powders and 155, 165 and 180 grain bullets of a few different types and brands each. Fit and finish is good too for the price range of the gun. There is better I'm sure but for a lot more money. Of course quality can vary greatly inside different makes of guns. That's what I know about RIA.
fallenpatriot 79 Their 10mm 1911's are awesome guns. They eat anything and are very accurate. I shot the lid off a 20oz bottle on the 2nd shot at 50yds with the same model you have.
Good data for my LCP. My local range allows only paper targets, and (new rule) only at 10 yards. Makes it hard to do any creative testing on my own. Again, thank you!
Just got a S&W EZ 380 for my birthday from my incredible wife. It also has a 3 3/4 length barrel. I am very much satisfied with how quality defense ammo performs out of a barrel of that length. Thanks Paul!
I don't own any .380 ACP firearms, don't care much about the caliber, and probably won't ever buy a gun in that caliber, but I watch the video because it's a Paul Harrell video. Keep up the great work big dawg
I don't have even a little bit of interest in ever owning a .380, but it's a Paul Harrel video, so I'm happily watching after already hitting the like button. 😃
It's nice to have a gun that can be comfortably concealed in any clothing, which delivers adequate performance with the right ammo. Right now, nothing else gives you that in even close to as small a package. I can make good hits on 4" targets at any distance from contact to 40 yards consistently with my little TCP. Not quite as quickly as with a full size pistol, but not slow either. IMO for concealed carry on a budget, first gun is the gun you never have an excuse not to carry. Second gun is a little bigger, and more capable. Get a 380, then something like the S&W shield, and you will always have at least some gun on you. Also, if you are hiking, trimming weight is a nice thing about a tiny gun.
There are some pretty small 9mm's out there... I don't carry yet, which is the main point of a .380. Working it in stages and want to be a bit more capable before I do. I have only owned full sized handguns up to this point and am trying to educate muself a bit more on what would be good carry guns for myself. Eying that Heizer PKO as a possible. Also already have a full size P320 - may just get the compact conversion kit for that, but I think I'd want safeties on a carry gun. Still learning
There are plenty of small 9mms, with the Rohrbaugh being the smallest that I am aware of. That is definitely pushing the edges of a gun that will beat itself to pieces and be hard to shoot well. It is now sold with minor changes as a Remington RM 380, and is probably better in that role. Carry what you will. It is better to carry anything than nothing, and better to carry adequate that you can afford, and find ammo for, than some unicorn you will maybe buy someday. I'd love to have a Boberg 9 or the Bond Arms version of it, but you can get a TCP for as cheap as $120, and it is a legitimately good and effective gun. The LCPII is a pretty good choice too.~$200 (original LCP's trigger breaks so far back that most can't shoot it well.) Just get and carry one of those while you are contemplating the perfect gun. You won't regret having it. $25 ish for a decent IWB holster, another $20 for a good pocket holster and you will always have a gun on you, that will never be annoying to carry. Put hornady critical defense in it, until someone tops that. I started carrying a full size PT-99 AF (Think M9) and frankly, I was able to carry it well concealed. (See my review video of the Alien Gear Holster)The thing is, you find reasons not to carry, when that is all you have. I think most of the glocks are both too thick and too heavy to be genuinely comfortable, so All the people I know who swear a g19 is the only gun that is enough gun (or the equivalent 1911 guy) don't actually carry them very often for very long. You can, but you won't. Get the smallest gun you can feel confident with, and practice with. Keep it. If you feel like you "need more gun", get that next. When you find that you don't really want to strap a sweaty brick on, you'll be glad you kept the small gun. I know the small 9mms don't seem that different from the small 380s, but they are just enough bigger that it crosses that line between genuinely forgetting you are carrying and being relieved to unstrap every day.
Here’s the thing with carrying a 380 acp. Most people carry a 380 for the small compact size. So really these longer barrel 380s are kind of pointless to me. Just go ahead and get a 9mm. BTW I carry a 380 ACP.
Paul your probably not going to read this but I just wanted to thank you for your content you have great tests for what you do your entertaining to watch and your straight to the point thanks for the great work man keep it up you deserve a lot more views and subscribers your one of my favorite RUclipsrs by far again thanks
Paul Harrell no problem keep up the good work man it's very entertaining could you do a review on your maverick 88 20 gauge that would be cool I'm considering getting one for my home it's not very big and it would be perfect for my home do you think this would be a good option
We have a two part series on 20 ga. shotguns where I use the maverick 88 Good gun, but I would recommend that if it's economically possible spend the money and get the Mossberg 500/590 series.
Paul's perspectives are unique and very well thought out. Obviously, he knows a little about scientific methods. And, he does it all with a great, nuanced sense of humor to boot! Would love to know the guy.
Great video Paul. Pretty much the exact same results between my wife's Kimber micro .380 and my favorite .380, the FEG AP. Also, everyone I know that has purchased a Baby Rock had major issues, except for one.
Another exxxxcelllent vid. Thanks for answering everyone’s what about barrel length question, Paul. ShooringtheBull did a comprehensive review on dozens of .380 ammo. Well worth checking out.
From what I've seen over the years of handgun ammo. .380 ACP, .38 special, and yes .357 Magnum is the 3 typical pistol caliber rounds that are the most sensitive to even small changes in barrel length as far as there performance. Even as little as half a inch or less. Not sure about carbine barrel lengths but at least typical conventional pistol lengths like 2" to 5 or 6".
Same thing happened to me. I went 20 gauge for home defense shotgun and .380 as my go to pistol round. I did have a Bersa Thunder as a back up I went to Walther PK .380
Those lower caliber guns will probably be just fine. Just don't stop plugging them with holes if they keep coming. Having a large caliber isn't a guarantee they'll go down either.
So using the Critical Defense ammo out of the slightly longer barrel it is possible to do the movie hero trick of holding a dead bad guy in front of you for protection. Though you could be in trouble if the bad guy shooter is using winchester white box ammo while you use a dead body as cover. Good thing Paul did this test so now I know. *In all seriousness thank you very much for these educational videos. They're awesome.*
Bullet placement is King however in pistol calibers and pistol velocities, penetration is paramount, two holes are better than one. I use FMJ in short barrel .380, that's how JM Browning intended it, and he knew what it was sufficient to kill men. Find the Ammo your pocket .380 feeds reliably and you shoot the best with and pick it regardless of bullet construction..
Great video series. Have had a fondness for the 380 ACP caliber since purchasing a Spanish made pistol as a young soldier to supplement my rifle while deployed. On the RIA 380, I voted with my wallet spent about $80 more for a SiG 238 over the RIA and my Sig even came with night sites.
Paul, thanks for keeping at it. Hopefully the Extreme Defender will come through. Everything else seems to not expand or expand too much, depending on who shoots it and what the target is. One tester says anything with an XTP bullet is at the top of his list. You've had problems getting it to expand. He was shooting gel, you shot meat. I think the meat and bones are a more realistic target. Then someone else loves the ballistic tips in gel. Your over expanded and didn't penetrate. Maybe the Underwood stuff can cause enough damage without expanding that you don't always have to worry whether it will expand or not.
I like the format of breaking the topic up into shorter (in this case 3) parts. Sometimes when everything is thrown into one long video I miss some info. I get better retention of info from shorter videos like this. Keep up the good work.
I thumbs up vids before because I full screen it on my tablet and sometimes I forget to give a thumbs up on great vids.plus I know Paul Harrell makes great vids.
This is a Paul Harrell channel FIRST......Meat Target action 01:16 in?! My only experience with Rock Island is my Rock Ultra FS HC (16+1 10mm) which so far has had zero issues. Thanks for continuing the presentations on .380 Paul, they’ve been very well done!!
Thank you for doing these videos Paul. Your videos have saved my Wife and I a lot of time and money trying to figure out a good ammo to use for carry and for practice. She carries the Bodyguard and I the PX4 Storm. You're an honorable Man.
Loving the .380 vids. I tend to carry my old Beretta 70S more often than not. Longer barrel but still fits in my pocket. It's my run to the store walk around the neighborhood carry. Loaded with Hornady CD.
Thanks for doing this for the little 380. I have a Rem 380 which I like and want to choose something that has a good chance of working and not over penetrating. You have the best gun channel in my opinion.
hi Paul another excellent video. When I carry a .380 with basically a 4 inch barrel I use Winchester white boy flat nose ball. Yes there is a hazard of overpenetration but I have always been skeptical of .380 expanding bullets due the the fear of under penetration. I can hear the screams about "using ball for self defense" and I understand fully. Frankly most 9mm Parabellum compact pistols (Kahr CW9) do lose a bit of "oomph" from the 9mm but the ammo is cheaper and somewhat easier to find at least for me. Never the less your simulated torso target is an excellent idea and shows practical real world results. LOVE your channel keep up the good work.
Thanks for the many different demonstrations. Most of my Christmas presents are boxes of ammo for my family and friends so I have taken Notes over the past few months to what produces the best results in your videos.
Look guys we have one of those “Fruitist” Social Justice Warriors here. Go eat some broccoli and leave fruit “murders” alone. Also make up your mind already, are avocados and tomatoes fruits or vegetables already?
Anyone else noticed the difference between Hickock45 and Paul Harrell in fire arms handling and respect? Paul Harrell doesn't throw them back at the table like Hickock45 does. He slams the dam things all the time on the table like they are some broke remote of your old tv. Sir Harrell treats these tools with respect and places them gently on the table.. each.. and.. every.. single.. damn.. time.. I love it. The knowledge and care for these dangerous tools should be copied by every person who handels weapons. Just like a samurai artist handles his sword with respect, sir Harrel does that with his guns. This really should be seen by everyone
i like the way you lay out information and compare the variables that can effect performance. i will check out more of your videos and look foward to more content 😎👍
Nice to see the generic white box performed pretty well with the longer barrel handgun. I think they would perform pretty Wel in a handgun with a 3.5” barrel like a Bersa thunder.
Thanks for answering my question of a couple days ago Paul. Looking forward to the Underwood / Lehigh info. Another choice for longer barrel .380 might be the Shield 380 EZ. Pretty amazing, posted yesterday, already 177 comments.
I can't remember if you've ever done an in depth look at the .32 ACP/7.65 Browning. My 74 year old mother doesn't like her 4" .38 Model 10 and the .380 she tried at the local range she had issues with the recoil, and the stiffer recoil spring so she had issues operating the slide. But she likes the KelTec P-32 I bought her, while she HATES my FEG AP765/Walther PP clone. I've been using the 73 gr Fiocchi FMJ's in my FEG for when I'm not carrying my BHP, and I got mom the 65 gr Federal JHP for her KelTec.
We have a video on .32 ACP and the Beretta model 3032 that I use in that video is, I my opinion, an excellent choice fr senior citizens or people with arthritis.
greylocke100 , I’ve a clot 1903 acp, that’s close to the same age as your mom. Shoots great, easy slide rack, fits a small hand nicely, my wife loves it. They are a little hard to find but you might try it.
well seems we have similar taste in weapons. Smaller older ladies need GUNS they can shoot. I do prefer ball in 7.65 /.32 acp though for penetration. I also carry a Browning Hi-power Practical model, 124 grain Gold dot hollowpoints.
A lot of 380s are blow back not a great choice for someone with weak hands the few 380 that aren't blow back are supposedly really nice to shoot. As for me I can't decide what's a "good gun" for some one else's needs i would like to just let then try as many as they want and see what there best with vs it's lethality
I've heard a guy say that a good Summer time set-up is a Micro Desert Eagle 380ACP loaded with Underwood Extreme Defender +p,in the back pocket,extra mag In the front left pocket.... He said that engagements with bad guys occur within nine feet,so two shots center mass,and two shots center,,head.. Winter time set-up is a Sig P365 with 12+1 Underwood Extreme Defender +p,in a Star holster,an extra 12 round mag In a Desantis horizontal mag pouch.... And join the Armed Citizens Defense Assoc.,or another quality group like it ! 👍
Thank you for sharing Paul. You are one of the most concise and thorough firearm content makers on the web. That being said I would like to recommend you potentially consider stepping up your game and purchasing or making or your own ballistic gel for these tests. I'm sure "Mac" or some of the other big firearm channels can help you source the material were you to have questions about its origin. Thanks again for the great videos.
Personally, I think the meat target is more demonstrative of a rounds capability. Seems everyone does the gel shots, I'm glad Paul came up with the meat target!
I'm a .380 fan. Not for primary defense....but for ultra light weight pocket carry. Because it's never good to be unarmed, and my LCP fits beautifully in my summertime cargo shorts.
My pocket carry is a S&W M&P Bodyguard 380 loaded with Hornady Critical Defense ballistic tip. They seem to do very well with good overall expansion in this weapon. Plus there isn't a lot of concern of over penetration. Carry the same thing in my 9mm compact and full frame semi automatics.
Yea, yea....he's the Bob Ross of shooting,Yea, yea....why doesn't he have more subscribers,Yea, yea...this is my favorite gun channel,Yea, yea...Paul Harrell for president,Yea, yea....I see Paul Harrell and hit like...Just getting the same posts written in every video posted for the last year out of the way.Nice vid Paul. Always excellent presentations.
Paul Harrell's grocery clerk thoughts... "I guess he just REALLY likes pork ribs and watermelon"
And oranges when watermelon is out of season.
Lol. The grocer probably thinks Paul is a light skinned black person.
Plot Twist: Paul owns a grocery store.
As a black man, the first thing that pops in my mind when I see a white person with a shopping cart full of pork rib and watermelon is "It's true! Food has the power to break down racial divide." #equality
I wonder what Paul does with all those ribs when he's done shooting them up.
Got a smoker ... Just saying.
Just trying to watch as much of Paul's older videos since we don't have him anymore. Truly miss you Paul!!
Yep we all do. It’s amazing how many points I agree with him on and how much I have come to respect our differences of opinion where we don’t. He even covered my position as to why I find it to be a positive for a cartridge to push a bullet to expansion and to the far side without much risk of penetrating the far side. He nailed it in a nutshell. I like the reduced risk of over penetration because it limits risk of hitting someone or something I don’t mean to. I comprehend why in hunting we are ant full pass through but we ain’t hunting people we just don’t want them trying to hurt us.
It is nice to watch a presenter, who is not wearing a tight t-shirt, and is not covered in lame tattoos. Also, he is not trying to tell me that I am a loser, if I do not agree with him. Thank you, for being an objective adult, who presents unbiased data.
Thanks.
Those are called cookie cutters
FYI, this comment still applies 👍
Paul’s insults are much more creative
Clicking the "Like" button before watching the video, because, you KNOW it ain't gonna be crap!
Paul Harrell, delivering good videos, every time!
I always wait in case the computers at Google are watching, which we know they are.
Since I know I will watch it, I wait until it finishes so that Google/RUclips will not short him more than they already are.
paul and mike u sitting in a tree
AMEN!
@@mikes_.5_cent Point taken, mike. I think I will wait until the video plays, in the future. I don't trust Google at all.
@@mikes_.5_cent Good point
I like these 380 ACP vids
I've watched a lot of the .380ACP videos from ShootingTheBull and I'll tell you it's a fascinating caliber. It really is the sensitive type when it comes to barrel length and bullet type. I'm really looking forward to seeing how other .380's handle the meat target.
For me, it's an entry level plinker caliber. It's useful for teaching new shooters. As a defense round....not my thing.YMMV
I would think .380 ammo too expensive for teaching unless someone was specifically learning the .380 for carry or rather quickly move to 9mm after a short low recoil center-fire introduction.
Glad to know that the Hornady Critical Defense rounds that I keep loaded in my LCP2 deliver the desired results. Thanks again, Paul...
Do they feed reliably in the LCP II?
@@McCaroni_Sup Yes. Nickels ideal but the brass ones will have to do nowadays. It is a bit hard to find nowadays though.
My LCP2 has at least 500 rounds of Hornady through it (different times before covid lol). No issues at any point. I recommend the 7 round magazine because that extra litte grip genuinely does help with quick shot placement.
Thank you Paul for being Paul and not some tacticool Commando bullshit. Straight forward useful everyday information, nothing more nothing less... nothing better
No kidding. I have seen a bunch of videos about how HCD in .380 is a subpar round and then here comes Paul and his meat target and I'm convinced to stick with it for my edc pistol. Forget the ballistics gelatin, this is real world in the field data.
THE NEW AND IMPROVED FLEECE BULLET STOP.
Doku I chuckled when he said that. I don't know how he keeps a straight face.
Doku thumbs up on the avatar love it!!
"It appears that adding an inch to your barrel makes a great deal of difference".
That's what she said. 😂
Great video as usual, Paul. Keep them coming.
Keith Campbell hmmm, it only matters if you have a short barrel to start with 😲
She's a loose woman.
Mine always said my barrel was plenty long enough ... She just wished I had a bigger caliber! 😁
Tony Sid, like a twizzler. xD
it may be short, but at least it's skinny.
Really appreciate the .380 test series. Two of my carry weapons are in .380, barrel lengths similar to what you are using. Big help Paul, many thanks!
I'm glad you tried the Hornady. It's what I have been using in my LCP
That's what I have on hand, but I had a problem with a round recently. I had never experienced this with any cartridge gun: hangfire. Just a click, then - as I was about to snap the slide back - it fired. I've had this when shooting muzzle loaders and a flash hole was getting dirty, but never had a single cartridge do this in my many decades of shooting. I'm just hoping it was a one time thing.
That’s my choice too.
@@mothman-jz8ug that’s scary
Clearly the most level headed and well-reasoned evaluator of firearms I have encountered on You Tube. I really enjoy your videos Sir!
This dude shoots and teaches about guns like Bob Ross would paint a masterpiece 😋 Awesome vids
Bob Ross really knew his subject matter and avoided modern day modern-art terminology which was and is, often total hogwash.
Paul's meat target sure beats ballistic gel for testing.
I wouldn't mind seeing the meat target replicated inside ballistic gel to see the potential of wound channels and the like, just something I find morbidly fascinating.
No. It does a different thing, and not as repeatably. If I could only have one bit of data, I would want controlled data. If I want to get a feel for how that data correlates to practical, I watch P.H. A long time ago, on JRB's channel, I said something about this, and Paul actually replied to me, and more or less said that's how he sees it too. (Also that I was wrong to think he was serious about the closing line. It's a deadpan joke, and I wasn't sure.) I can't remember the conversation verbatim, so I won't risk putting words in his mouth, but I think you will find that Paul values gel data too. He just isn't going to waste his time duplicating the type of test that others have down to a science. His videos are more about art and persuasion, and taking the hype out of the discussion.
Ballistic gel is great for testing base values as you said. I just like the meat target due to some of the extras like rib to rib etc. Of course ballistic gel is more scientific. Meat target tells some good info that ballistic gel doesn't tell.
Human bodies have as much, or more variation as meat targets. This demonstration in more valuable than gelatin.
I FEEEL that it is more real world relavant.
I've never been attacked by gelatin or paper plates.
I've noticed that even the viewer comment section of your videos, seem to be of much greater intelligence, than some of the other RUclips gun videos. I think this says a lot about you, Paul. Keep em coming...We all enjoy!!!!
Not true some of us are ignorant af 😆😆 lol but still love Mr. Harrell's content none the less.
Comments more about Harold worship than the subject at hand.
Great video Paul. Reaffirms my choice of Hornaday critical defense for my little .380
I don't get who would thumbs down a Paul video. Informative yet with that awesome dry humour, they just rock.
Thank you paul
Probably an anti-gunner.
My guess is someone from the California Watermelon Rights Group.
Probably a tight Tshirt wearing, soy-boy 😂
To some wondering about Rock Island: I know nothing about the Rock Island in 380 but I recently purchased a Rock Island in a 10mm. It's the 5" tactical model with the accessory rail. I've shot around 250 rounds thru it trying different loads, sighting it in etc and so far, it has been 100% reliable and as far as accuracy, it's been great and even better. Nothing has shot bad just good and great with several different powders and 155, 165 and 180 grain bullets of a few different types and brands each. Fit and finish is good too for the price range of the gun. There is better I'm sure but for a lot more money. Of course quality can vary greatly inside different makes of guns. That's what I know about RIA.
fallenpatriot 79 Their 10mm 1911's are awesome guns. They eat anything and are very accurate. I shot the lid off a 20oz bottle on the 2nd shot at 50yds with the same model you have.
Oh yay, Paul Harrell vid and it's almost the weekend!
mate its friday night in australia, whats not to love!
Thanks for continuing this series, Paul. I’m considering moving from the Critical Defense to either HST or V-Crown in my little Taurus 738.
Good data for my LCP. My local range allows only paper targets, and (new rule) only at 10 yards. Makes it hard to do any creative testing on my own. Again, thank you!
You're spoiling us Paul
Just got a S&W EZ 380 for my birthday from my incredible wife. It also has a 3 3/4 length barrel. I am very much satisfied with how quality defense ammo performs out of a barrel of that length. Thanks Paul!
I don't own any .380 ACP firearms, don't care much about the caliber, and probably won't ever buy a gun in that caliber, but I watch the video because it's a Paul Harrell video. Keep up the great work big dawg
I don't have even a little bit of interest in ever owning a .380, but it's a Paul Harrel video, so I'm happily watching after already hitting the like button. 😃
LastEarBender- what if you found a .380 that fit your hand better than any other pistol?
It's nice to have a gun that can be comfortably concealed in any clothing, which delivers adequate performance with the right ammo. Right now, nothing else gives you that in even close to as small a package. I can make good hits on 4" targets at any distance from contact to 40 yards consistently with my little TCP. Not quite as quickly as with a full size pistol, but not slow either. IMO for concealed carry on a budget, first gun is the gun you never have an excuse not to carry. Second gun is a little bigger, and more capable. Get a 380, then something like the S&W shield, and you will always have at least some gun on you. Also, if you are hiking, trimming weight is a nice thing about a tiny gun.
There are some pretty small 9mm's out there...
I don't carry yet, which is the main point of a .380. Working it in stages and want to be a bit more capable before I do. I have only owned full sized handguns up to this point and am trying to educate muself a bit more on what would be good carry guns for myself. Eying that Heizer PKO as a possible. Also already have a full size P320 - may just get the compact conversion kit for that, but I think I'd want safeties on a carry gun. Still learning
There are plenty of small 9mms, with the Rohrbaugh being the smallest that I am aware of. That is definitely pushing the edges of a gun that will beat itself to pieces and be hard to shoot well. It is now sold with minor changes as a Remington RM 380, and is probably better in that role. Carry what you will. It is better to carry anything than nothing, and better to carry adequate that you can afford, and find ammo for, than some unicorn you will maybe buy someday. I'd love to have a Boberg 9 or the Bond Arms version of it, but you can get a TCP for as cheap as $120, and it is a legitimately good and effective gun. The LCPII is a pretty good choice too.~$200 (original LCP's trigger breaks so far back that most can't shoot it well.) Just get and carry one of those while you are contemplating the perfect gun. You won't regret having it. $25 ish for a decent IWB holster, another $20 for a good pocket holster and you will always have a gun on you, that will never be annoying to carry. Put hornady critical defense in it, until someone tops that.
I started carrying a full size PT-99 AF (Think M9) and frankly, I was able to carry it well concealed. (See my review video of the Alien Gear Holster)The thing is, you find reasons not to carry, when that is all you have. I think most of the glocks are both too thick and too heavy to be genuinely comfortable, so All the people I know who swear a g19 is the only gun that is enough gun (or the equivalent 1911 guy) don't actually carry them very often for very long. You can, but you won't. Get the smallest gun you can feel confident with, and practice with. Keep it. If you feel like you "need more gun", get that next. When you find that you don't really want to strap a sweaty brick on, you'll be glad you kept the small gun. I know the small 9mms don't seem that different from the small 380s, but they are just enough bigger that it crosses that line between genuinely forgetting you are carrying and being relieved to unstrap every day.
Interesting- thanks for the feedback, amigo. Will actually check into that.
Here’s the thing with carrying a 380 acp. Most people carry a 380 for the small compact size. So really these longer barrel 380s are kind of pointless to me. Just go ahead and get a 9mm. BTW I carry a 380 ACP.
I so agree on that. If I'm going to carry a larger gun, I'll just go with 9mm. The advantage of .380 is in the tiny size of my Bodyguard 380.
Though you may opt for a 380 pistol with a slightly longer barrel you are still getting a handgun that is thinner and has less recoil than a 9mm
Just found this channel and can't stop watching his videos, lol This gentleman is great.
Paul your probably not going to read this but I just wanted to thank you for your content you have great tests for what you do your entertaining to watch and your straight to the point thanks for the great work man keep it up you deserve a lot more views and subscribers your one of my favorite RUclipsrs by far again thanks
Thanks. And I try to read all the comments.
Paul Harrell no problem keep up the good work man it's very entertaining could you do a review on your maverick 88 20 gauge that would be cool I'm considering getting one for my home it's not very big and it would be perfect for my home do you think this would be a good option
We have a two part series on 20 ga. shotguns where I use the maverick 88 Good gun, but I would recommend that if it's economically possible spend the money and get the Mossberg 500/590 series.
Paul Harrell OK that's cool thanks for the info also could you maybe do a video on ceracoat and duracoat
Thanks for making the 380 acp ammunition part 3 video.
Paul's perspectives are unique and very well thought out. Obviously, he knows a little about scientific methods. And, he does it all with a great, nuanced sense of humor to boot! Would love to know the guy.
I'm really excited that we'll finally get to see what the Xtreme Defender ammo can do to the meat target.
Dennis me too
Thanks for the Critical Defense review.
I now know way more about .380ACP than I probably ever would otherwise.
Agreed. I'm now actually considering it for home defense because of this "light shedding" video.
Great video Paul. Pretty much the exact same results between my wife's Kimber micro .380 and my favorite .380, the FEG AP. Also, everyone I know that has purchased a Baby Rock had major issues, except for one.
Another exxxxcelllent vid. Thanks for answering everyone’s what about barrel length question, Paul. ShooringtheBull did a comprehensive review on dozens of .380 ammo. Well worth checking out.
Paul Harrel = everything that was good about 90’s gun culture meets 2018.
From what I've seen over the years of handgun ammo. .380 ACP, .38 special, and yes .357 Magnum is the 3 typical pistol caliber rounds that are the most sensitive to even small changes in barrel length as far as there performance. Even as little as half a inch or less. Not sure about carbine barrel lengths but at least typical conventional pistol lengths like 2" to 5 or 6".
Great video as always!!
We need more Kentucky quality videos!! 😉
.380 part three. Love it. What I shoot now. I am a weak and feeble old man.
Unfortunately, in my old age I have become recoil sensitive, so, I have a Bersa Thunder...has never failed me, not once...
Same thing happened to me. I went 20 gauge for home defense shotgun and .380 as my go to pistol round. I did have a Bersa Thunder as a back up I went to Walther PK .380
Old lady here recoil sensitive to WWB in .380 but finds the CD easier on the hands, buys for that reason.
Those lower caliber guns will probably be just fine. Just don't stop plugging them with holes if they keep coming. Having a large caliber isn't a guarantee they'll go down either.
I’m a simple man. See Paul Harrell video - I like.
Notarget1337
The formula for this comment is a trope becoming more and more common lately. Is it in reference to something?
MoreAmerican it’s from Parks and Recreation
Honestly tired of this comment on every single RUclips page
I have zero use or desire for anything chambered in .380 ACP but I'm a fan of Paul Harrell so I'm watching this whole .380 series lol
Thank you, sir. Informative and well presented, as always.
Thank you Paul.
Now I have to go back and re-watch these .380 ammo presentations. So glad they are available. Thank you for your work.
So using the Critical Defense ammo out of the slightly longer barrel it is possible to do the movie hero trick of holding a dead bad guy in front of you for protection. Though you could be in trouble if the bad guy shooter is using winchester white box ammo while you use a dead body as cover. Good thing Paul did this test so now I know.
*In all seriousness thank you very much for these educational videos. They're awesome.*
As long as the bad guy is wearing a tshirt you'll be fine.
Just want to say I just discovered your videos and they scratch my itch with firearms. Thanks so much!
Bullet placement is King however in pistol calibers and pistol velocities, penetration is paramount, two holes are better than one. I use FMJ in short barrel .380, that's how JM Browning intended it, and he knew what it was sufficient to kill men. Find the Ammo your pocket .380 feeds reliably and you shoot the best with and pick it regardless of bullet construction..
Great video series. Have had a fondness for the 380 ACP caliber since purchasing a Spanish made pistol as a young soldier to supplement my rifle while deployed. On the RIA 380, I voted with my wallet spent about $80 more for a SiG 238 over the RIA and my Sig even came with night sites.
Sunshine? Breeze? Blue skies? This your prime time, Paul.....
Paul, thanks for keeping at it. Hopefully the Extreme Defender will come through. Everything else seems to not expand or expand too much, depending on who shoots it and what the target is. One tester says anything with an XTP bullet is at the top of his list. You've had problems getting it to expand. He was shooting gel, you shot meat. I think the meat and bones are a more realistic target. Then someone else loves the ballistic tips in gel. Your over expanded and didn't penetrate. Maybe the Underwood stuff can cause enough damage without expanding that you don't always have to worry whether it will expand or not.
I love these 380 reviews very informational.
I like the format of breaking the topic up into shorter (in this case 3) parts. Sometimes when everything is thrown into one long video I miss some info. I get better retention of info from shorter videos like this. Keep up the good work.
I thumbs up vids before because I full screen it on my tablet and sometimes I forget to give a thumbs up on great vids.plus I know Paul Harrell makes great vids.
The sun is shining, two cups of coffee inside me and a Paul Harrell vid to watch. Can one desire too much of a good thing?
This is a Paul Harrell channel FIRST......Meat Target action 01:16 in?! My only experience with Rock Island is my Rock Ultra FS HC (16+1 10mm) which so far has had zero issues. Thanks for continuing the presentations on .380 Paul, they’ve been very well done!!
He skipped the usual accuracy and velocity segments.
Well in all fairness he did cover that in a previous video, but still!
It would appear his gun had no failures to function. The issue appears to be that short barrels steal too much umph!
But the Rock Island had the longer barrel, and he said he was having issues with it.
I thought the same thing. "Whoa! Meat target!" Completely took me by surprise
Thank you for doing these videos Paul. Your videos have saved my Wife and I a lot of time and money trying to figure out a good ammo to use for carry and for practice. She carries the Bodyguard and I the PX4 Storm. You're an honorable Man.
LOL I was just typing a request for the Extreme defender and your comment came over the speaker. Thanks for the great vids paul.
Thanks Mr. Harrell and friends! Great information as always
P238 for the WIN!
Loving the .380 vids. I tend to carry my old Beretta 70S more often than not. Longer barrel but still fits in my pocket. It's my run to the store walk around the neighborhood carry. Loaded with Hornady CD.
Thanks for doing this for the little 380. I have a Rem 380 which I like and want to choose something that has a good chance of working and not over penetrating. You have the best gun channel in my opinion.
Both video's very informative. Thanks Mr. Harrell for your insight. With .380 I'm comfortable w/ a good FMJ out of my LCP.
hi Paul another excellent video. When I carry a .380 with basically a 4 inch barrel I use Winchester white boy flat nose ball. Yes there is a hazard of overpenetration but I have always been skeptical of .380 expanding bullets due the the fear of under penetration. I can hear the screams about "using ball for self defense" and I understand fully. Frankly most 9mm Parabellum compact pistols (Kahr CW9) do lose a bit of "oomph" from the 9mm but the ammo is cheaper and somewhat easier to find at least for me. Never the less your simulated torso target is an excellent idea and shows practical real world results. LOVE your channel keep up the good work.
We have a video on 9MM and .380 fmj ammo. I shoot the meat target with the WWB FMJ flat nose .380
Love the .380ACP info!!
Good info Paul, since I am in the market for a pocket gun for the summer.
Thanks
This is a very popular pocket gun and your extensive detail was sorely needed.
I really like this series on .380acp!
Thanks for the many different demonstrations. Most of my Christmas presents are boxes of ammo for my family and friends so I have taken Notes over the past few months to what produces the best results in your videos.
Thank you for your hard work to inform us.
Paul Harrell is an utter savage. WATERMELONS HAVE FEELINGS TOO!
Brandan Gaspar
Holy?
Look guys we have one of those “Fruitist” Social Justice Warriors here. Go eat some broccoli and leave fruit “murders” alone. Also make up your mind already, are avocados and tomatoes fruits or vegetables already?
Anyone else noticed the difference between Hickock45 and Paul Harrell in fire arms handling and respect? Paul Harrell doesn't throw them back at the table like Hickock45 does. He slams the dam things all the time on the table like they are some broke remote of your old tv. Sir Harrell treats these tools with respect and places them gently on the table.. each.. and.. every.. single.. damn.. time.. I love it. The knowledge and care for these dangerous tools should be copied by every person who handels weapons. Just like a samurai artist handles his sword with respect, sir Harrel does that with his guns. This really should be seen by everyone
I’m a big fan of the meat target Paul. Love your channel.
i like the way you lay out information and compare the variables that can effect performance. i will check out more of your videos and look foward to more content 😎👍
I really could listen to him talk all day
Good video. Thank you.
Another great video
Gotta love Paul.
Thanks for the quick and concise video.
Well done, as always
Interesting as an LCP2 lover. These videos make sense to me.
Nice to see the generic white box performed pretty well with the longer barrel handgun. I think they would perform pretty Wel in a handgun with a 3.5” barrel like a Bersa thunder.
Great job! You’re answering a lot of my questions about the 380 acp. I’m looking forward to part 4!!
Thanks for answering my question of a couple days ago Paul. Looking forward to the Underwood / Lehigh info. Another choice for longer barrel .380 might be the Shield 380 EZ.
Pretty amazing, posted yesterday, already 177 comments.
These 380 tests are great!
Best Firearms Channel on RUclips Thanks Paul 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
Awesome video Paul and greetings from NH 👋🏻
I can't remember if you've ever done an in depth look at the .32 ACP/7.65 Browning. My 74 year old mother doesn't like her 4" .38 Model 10 and the .380 she tried at the local range she had issues with the recoil, and the stiffer recoil spring so she had issues operating the slide. But she likes the KelTec P-32 I bought her, while she HATES my FEG AP765/Walther PP clone. I've been using the 73 gr Fiocchi FMJ's in my FEG for when I'm not carrying my BHP, and I got mom the 65 gr Federal JHP for her KelTec.
We have a video on .32 ACP and the Beretta model 3032 that I use in that video is, I my opinion, an excellent choice fr senior citizens or people with arthritis.
greylocke100 , I’ve a clot 1903 acp, that’s close to the same age as your mom. Shoots great, easy slide rack, fits a small hand nicely, my wife loves it. They are a little hard to find but you might try it.
Part two would be great.
well seems we have similar taste in weapons. Smaller older ladies need GUNS they can shoot. I do prefer ball in 7.65 /.32 acp though for penetration. I also carry a Browning Hi-power Practical model, 124 grain Gold dot hollowpoints.
A lot of 380s are blow back not a great choice for someone with weak hands the few 380 that aren't blow back are supposedly really nice to shoot. As for me I can't decide what's a "good gun" for some one else's needs i would like to just let then try as many as they want and see what there best with vs it's lethality
The saddest part of Friday is at the end of Paul's video when you realize that you have to wait another week to see a new one.
Thanks Paul! This series is very informative, I appreciate your efforts. I'm looking forward to the rest of the story :)
I want a Paul Harrell T-shirt.
High tech fleece hoodie.
i get home to see paul harrell so im a happy man
I love the 380 video series -!- Wife just picked up the new M&P Shield 380, Very Interesting video's -!- Keep up the good work!
I've heard a guy say that a good Summer time set-up is a Micro Desert Eagle 380ACP loaded with Underwood Extreme Defender +p,in the back pocket,extra mag In the front left pocket....
He said that engagements with bad guys occur within nine feet,so two shots center mass,and two shots center,,head..
Winter time set-up is a Sig P365 with 12+1 Underwood Extreme Defender +p,in a Star holster,an extra 12 round mag In a Desantis horizontal mag pouch....
And join the Armed Citizens Defense Assoc.,or another quality group like it !
👍
Thank you for sharing Paul. You are one of the most concise and thorough firearm content makers on the web. That being said I would like to recommend you potentially consider stepping up your game and purchasing or making or your own ballistic gel for these tests. I'm sure "Mac" or some of the other big firearm channels can help you source the material were you to have questions about its origin. Thanks again for the great videos.
Personally, I think the meat target is more demonstrative of a rounds capability. Seems everyone does the gel shots, I'm glad Paul came up with the meat target!
@@kenhelmers2603 I agree, Ken. His meat targets are unique.
I'm a .380 fan. Not for primary defense....but for ultra light weight pocket carry. Because it's never good to be unarmed, and my LCP fits beautifully in my summertime cargo shorts.
When packing a .380 you need a minimum of 3inch barrel. Thats why the ppks with its 3.3 inch barrel is so popular.
My pocket carry is a S&W M&P Bodyguard 380 loaded with Hornady Critical Defense ballistic tip. They seem to do very well with good overall expansion in this weapon. Plus there isn't a lot of concern of over penetration. Carry the same thing in my 9mm compact and full frame semi automatics.
So glad I found your channel recently, your videos are amazing and so informative! Cheers from Canada!
Thank you for another great video. An awesome way to start the weekend !!!
Yea, yea....he's the Bob Ross of shooting,Yea, yea....why doesn't he have more subscribers,Yea, yea...this is my favorite gun channel,Yea, yea...Paul Harrell for president,Yea, yea....I see Paul Harrell and hit like...Just getting the same posts written in every video posted for the last year out of the way.Nice vid Paul. Always excellent presentations.
Interesting test, Thanks Paul.