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Selected Handgun Detail

Bersa
Model Thunder 380
Bersa Pistol Thunder 380 .380 Auto Variant-3
Scale To:
Gun Dimensions Width:1.4-in
Length:6.6-in Height:4.92-in
Barrel:3.5-in Weight:23-oz
Variant 3 of 5
Gun Rankings
  • Power Factor (90 grain bullet)88650
  • Recoil Factor (90 grain bullet)2.4 ft-lb
  • Total Capacity8 rounds
  • ConcealabilityGood
  • Defense Factor54%
Gun Specifications
Type:Pistol
Caliber:.380 Auto
Action:blowback operated semi-auto
Trigger:double-action (DA/SA)
Safety:slide mounted decock/hammer block
Magazine:7-round
Frame:aluminum alloy
Grip:black polymer
Sights:fixed blade front, floating notch rear
Notes:duotone finish
Manufacturer
Bersa SA
More Info
About the Gun

Known for their value and reliability, this series of pistols have become very popular in the US. Moderate pricing when they were first introduced led to speculation about their quality, but their reputation and popularity since has resulted in a higher price point today. Bersa Thunder-380 pistols use a simple blowback operation, with the return spring located around the barrel. The trigger double action, with an exposed hammer. The safety lever is located on the left side of the frame, and, when engaged, automatically decocks the hammer. There is also an internal firing pin safety, which blocks the firing pin unless the trigger is pressed.

Production

Production of this firearm began in the mid-1990s, with manufacturing continuing to the present day. It is produced by an Argentine company, primarily for civilian and law enforcement markets, with various finishes and configurations available over the years.

Market value
Last updated: 7/3/2025

The MSRP for a new firearm with these features is approximately $330. The current market value for a used one in 95% condition is around $250, depending on local demand and availability.

Cartridge Specifications
Cartridge: .380 Automatic
Alias: 9mm Browning Short
More Info
Ballistics for This Gun
Selected Bullet Mass:90 grains
MV:985 ft/sec ME:194 ft-lbs
Analysis

This compact semi-automatic in .380 Auto offers a solid option for concealed carry and personal defense. Its accuracy is commendable for a pistol in this class, delivering consistent performance at typical engagement distances. The ergonomic design ensures a comfortable grip for most hand sizes, enhancing control during firing. Reliability is a strong point, with the firearm functioning well across various ammunition types under standard conditions. However, maintenance can be somewhat cumbersome due to a design that requires careful attention to detail during disassembly and cleaning. Availability of replacement parts may pose a challenge for some users, potentially leading to delays in repairs. The trigger pull is crisp, averaging around 5-6 pounds in single-action mode, though the double-action pull is notably heavier. Felt recoil is moderate, manageable for most shooters, though those sensitive to kick may require additional practice to adapt.

User Rating
4 User Ratings
2 User Comments
User Comments

5 of 5 Stars
I agree great carry pistol
By BeatMaker on 12 Jan 2025
I brought this pistol to carry around for everyday protection. I take it to the range and was impressed on how reliable it is.

5 of 5 Stars
Great Little Gun
By R4002 on 25 Jul 2021
I carried (and still carry) the Thunder 380 CC (Thunder 380 Concealed Carry) version of the Thunder 380. I recently purchased a brand new regular Bersa Thunder 380 and I love it just as much as the Thunder 380CC. (The all-black version - black controls, matte black slide and frame.) The sights on the regular model are much more usable compared to the shaved down sights on the CC model. The finger rest on the magazine helps some too. It feels great in the hand....shoots a bit better than the 380CC (no doubt due to slightly bigger size and the much better sight picture). Something about these single stack 380s just feels right. One-handed shooting is nicer with the regular model. For the price ($250.00 new!) it's an excellent gun. It would be excellent gun for $350 or $400 new. I put it in the same league with the Beretta Cheetah series and the PP/PPK series. The regular version is a good looking pistol. Not the same lines as the PPK, but close.