Bersa Thunder 380

The Bersa Thunder 380 is a semi-automatic pistol produced by Argentine manufacturer Bersa S.A., first introduced in 1995.

Key Features

• Caliber: .380 ACP (also known as 9×17 mm Browning Short)

• Action: Blowback-operated, double-action / single-action (DA/SA)

• Capacity: Typically 8 rounds in a single-stack magazine +1 in the chamber; variants exist (e.g. “Plus” version with higher capacity) Dimensions & Weight:
  • Barrel length: ~ 3.5 in (≈ 89 mm)
    • Overall length: ~ 6.6 in (≈ 168 mm) 
    • Unloaded weight: ~ 20 oz (≈ 560 g)

• Frame & Materials: Aluminum alloy frame to reduce weight, steel slide & barrel

• Safety Features:
  • Manual safety / decocker mounted on slide
    • Magazine disconnect safety (prevents firing without magazine)
    • In some models, an integral key-operated trigger lock, inertial firing pin block, etc.Sights: Fixed 3-dot style sights, dovetailed for potential adjustment or replacement

Uses & Reputation

• The Thunder 380 is often marketed as a concealed carry or self-defense firearm, due to its compact size and manageable weight.

• Because of its blowback design and fixed barrel, it has potential for decent inherent accuracy (as fixed barrels often reduce certain mechanical variances).

• Its trigger (particularly in double-action mode) is considered acceptable or good for its class by many reviewers, though some criticisms target the safety/decocker lever being somewhat stiff or awkward for some users.

• Some reported drawbacks include occasional cycling or feeding issues (especially with certain magazines or ammunition), and user dislike for the added safeties (magazine disconnect, integral lock) which may impede rapid use in defensive scenarios.

Variants

• Bersa Thunder 380 Plus: a variant using a double-stack magazine to increase capacity (e.g. 15+1)

• Bersa Thunder 380 CC (Concealed Carry): a lighter, more compact version tailored for easier concealment