- Handguns
- April 22, 2025
Best .380 Handguns for Women
When it comes to personal protection, the .380 ACP is a popular caliber for women seeking a balance between manageable recoil, concealability, and effective self-defense. Whether you're a first-time gun owner or an experienced shooter looking for an everyday carry (EDC) option, a .380 handgun can provide comfort and confidence.
Below are our best 5 picks for the best .380 pistols for women based on size, ergonomics, reliability, and user-friendliness.
1. Smith & Wesson M&P Shield EZ .380
🔹 Capacity: 8+1
🔹 Barrel Length: 3.675"
🔹 Weight: 18.5 oz
🔹 Barrel Length: 3.675"
🔹 Weight: 18.5 oz
Why It’s Great for Women:
- Easy-rack slide designed for low hand strength
- Comfortable grip with textured panels
- Built-in grip safety for added peace of mind
The Shield EZ is a favorite among female shooters due to its smooth trigger pull and slide that’s incredibly easy to manipulate—ideal for beginners and seasoned shooters alike.
2. Glock 42
🔹 Capacity: 6+1
🔹 Barrel Length: 3.25"
🔹 Weight: 13.76 oz
🔹 Barrel Length: 3.25"
🔹 Weight: 13.76 oz
Why It’s Great for Women:
- Slim, lightweight, and easy to conceal
- Simple, no-nonsense Glock operation
- Recoil is surprisingly soft for its size
The Glock 42 is a classic go-to for women who want a no-frills, ultra-reliable pistol that fits comfortably in a purse, waistband, or pocket.
3. Ruger LCP Max
🔹 Capacity: 10+1
🔹 Barrel Length: 2.75"
🔹 Weight: 10.6 oz
🔹 Barrel Length: 2.75"
🔹 Weight: 10.6 oz
Why It’s Great for Women:
- Ultra-lightweight and compact
- High capacity for a micro-compact .380
- Great for deep concealment and pocket carry
The Ruger LCP Max is small enough to disappear in nearly any holster or handbag, making it perfect for women who prioritize lightweight, minimalist carry options.
4. Sig Sauer P238
🔹 Capacity: 6+1
🔹 Barrel Length: 2.7"
🔹 Weight: 15.2 oz
🔹 Barrel Length: 2.7"
🔹 Weight: 15.2 oz
Why It’s Great for Women:
- 1911-style single-action trigger with smooth pull
- Elegant design with several stylish color options
- All-metal frame feels solid yet manageable
The Sig P238 combines form and function with eye-catching designs and performance you can trust. It’s ideal for women who prefer an all-metal feel and classic styling.
5. Walther PK380
🔹 Capacity: 8+1
🔹 Barrel Length: 3.66"
🔹 Weight: 18 oz
🔹 Barrel Length: 3.66"
🔹 Weight: 18 oz
Why It’s Great for Women:
- Large, comfortable grip with minimal recoil
- Easy-to-rack slide and ambidextrous controls
- Great for range use and EDC alike
The Walther PK380 is perfect for women who want a softer-shooting pistol that doesn’t compromise on size or comfort. It's slightly larger but still concealable with the right holster.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best .380 handgun for concealed carry comes down to personal preference, comfort, and confidence. Women should look for a pistol that fits their hand, is easy to operate, and feels comfortable to carry daily.
Whether you're new to firearms or simply want something more compact and user-friendly, these top-rated .380 pistols offer a great mix of concealability, safety, and reliability.