LGW

Hi, I have been thinking about trying to find one of the (discontinued) Taurus 9mm Instant Backup revolvers; 16 oz. in titanium and slightly smaller than a j-frame. It may take a lot of practice to become proficient with 9mm ammo in a small light pistol. Is there any reason not to use 380 ACP in 9mm revolvers? Thanks, Larry in New Mexico

Bill Caldwell

Did this revolver use moon clips? .380 is around .020 smaller in dia. than a 9x19. If the cartridges don't fall thru the clips or get under the extractor, if that may be the case I'd use them. But......Given the choice I'd Reload the 9x19 light. 380s' will cost as much or more than 9x19.......All things considered, 380s' in a 9x19 aint such a good idea.

Bill Caldwell

George Bruce

If I remember correctly, the two cartridges are shaped differently. One is a straight wall cartridge and the other tapers slightly. I don't remember which is which. So, I wouldn't try it. Far better to load some 9mm a little light, if that is what you want.

zullo74

George,
You don't remember correctly! The .380 Auto as it's known in this country is the 9mm Short (Kurz) in Europe. It is 9x17mm. The 9mm Luger is the 9x19mm (9mm NATO). They are the same shape and could very easily be fired in a 9mm revolver that uses moon clips. Such is not the case in a semi-auto as the .380 Auto round is too short to headspace on the mouth of the cartridge in a 9mm Luger chamber and will most likely not fire or will have a very light primer strike if it does. In the revolver, it is similar to using .38 Spl's. in a .357 Magnum. They work, but not with optimum accuracy.