Please Read Join Us Contribute!

Selected Handgun Detail

Smith & Wesson
Model SW380
Smith & Wesson Pistol SW380 .380 Auto Variant-1
Scale To:
Gun Dimensions Width:1-in
Length:6-in Height:4-in
Barrel:3-in Weight:14-oz
1 Variant
Gun Rankings
  • Power Factor (90 grain bullet)85590
  • Recoil Factor (90 grain bullet)3.72 ft-lb
  • Total Capacity7 rounds
  • ConcealabilityGood
  • Defense Factor54%
Gun Specifications
Type:Pistol
Caliber:.380 Auto
Action:recoil operated semi-automatic
Trigger:striker single-action (SA)
Safety:no manual safety
Magazine:6-round
Frame:black polymer
Grip:integrated polymer
Sights:guttersnipe-style channel
Notes:Sigma series
Manufacturer
Smith & Wesson
More Info
About the Gun

The SW380 is a subcompact, polymer-framed, striker-fired pistol of single-stack configuration. It uses a black polymer frame with minimal texturing and a dark-finished zinc-alloy (Zamak) slide. There is no accessory rail. The design is a straight-blowback system rather than the locked-breech operation of the larger Sigma models. The trigger is a long pre-set striker pull.

Production

Production ran from 1995/1996 through 2000.

Market value
Last updated: 8/19/2026

MSRP at production was around $300–$310. Current used market value for examples in good to very good condition ranges $150–$250.

Cartridge Specifications
Cartridge: .380 Automatic
Alias: 9mm Browning Short
More Info
Ballistics for This Gun
Selected Bullet Mass:90 grains
MV:951 ft/sec ME:181 ft-lbs
Analysis

Smith & Wesson introduced the SW380 in the mid-1990s as a pocket-sized companion to the full-size Sigma series, aimed at the growing concealed-carry market. Unlike the larger 9 mm and .40 S&W Sigmas, it employs a simple straight-blowback design with a lightweight zinc-alloy slide to keep size and cost down. The model featured rudimentary sights and a unique magazine-retention system integrated into the grip. Production was relatively short-lived, and the pistol is remembered as an inexpensive, limited-service-life defensive option rather than a high-round-count duty gun. It was discontinued as the company shifted focus to other compact designs.

User Rating
2 User Ratings
3 User Comments
User Comments

5 of 5 Stars
So Surprised
By WoltersR1 on 12 Apr 2025
I bought my gun off an auction sight. When it arrived it was in awesome condition. I applied a little oil and went right to the range. This gun shoots fantastic. I don't plan on shooting it a lot but love the way it handles. This is a keeper.

0 of 5 Stars
Great Backup
By jhill008 on 16 Aug 2020
I don't know what kind of counterfeit the other guy had but I bought mine when they first came out and have never had a misfire or jamb. I've carried this in an ankle holster, front pocket, back pocket, IWB holster, inside suit jacket, suit jacket pocket, It goes anywhere. This is just the kind of backup for any normal person. Remember this isn't a range pistol or marksmanship competitor. It's getting 7 rounds into your target at close range. Try it before you dismiss it. Just don't use a copy.

1 of 5 Stars
SW 380 - Not good
By leejinks on 09 Feb 2018
I really hate to give negative reviews, but the copy of the SW 380 that I experienced is worthless. Compared to other guns I own or have shot, the SW380's finish leaves a lot to be desired. It is small and light, but that's where the positives end. The most frustrating thing about it for me was that it jammed just about every other shot. I'm not sure I ever got through an entire magazine without a malfunction. My other .380's have been flawless (nearly) with the same ammo. I'm really hoping someone can provide a more positive review for this gun.