Glock 42, 380 auto +P Buffalo Bore

[AK103K]

I dont think the issue is they dont open, just that they open to soon, and/or dont have the oomph to get enough penetration.

Its getting past that 12" barrier that seems to be the problem. Get one that does that reliably, especially out of the smaller .380's, and you'll be onto something.

 

[FireForged]

I'll never understand why people buy small guns, and then push the limits on ammo to get more power.

It makes much more sense to me to buy the power to begin with

Because some people are willing to make concessions for ease of carry. It doesnt mean they refuse to accept that the cartridge is marginal.. we accept that. If I can essentially boost the pistols performance for a couple of extra bucks per box of ammo, why not. The Glock42 is easily the most pleasant and unobtrusive pistol I have ever carried. Sometimes thats what you want and when its not... carry a full size 1911. That concept may seem strange to some people but clearly there are plenty of other people who accept the concept- else they would not be a dozen manufacturers selling small 380's.

the 42's are really not very much smaller than my 26's. Side by side on the table

oh come on... if you held one in your left hand and one is your right.. the difference is substantial. That difference is also very apparent when you make the comparison holstered. These are 2 very different carry guns when it comes to ease of carry.

 

[Gunfixr]

I think a 42 in 9mm mak would be pretty interesting. It's hotter than 380. All it would take is a barrel. All the pocket mak calibered guns are heavy blowback pistols, takes two men and a boy to pull back the slides.
That locked breech 42 would be a breeze to operate.
Would have a better trigger than the rest as well.