I won't find fault in anyone's choices, because it's their evaluation, their situation, their choice. These conversations are thought-provoking and highly interesting to me, but I really have to wonder how many GG's really pay the price b/c of "not enough gun" or "not enough ammo." (NOTE: I do consider .22 and .25 would be pushing one's luck!!)
I'm not counting LEOs, and I'm not counting gang warfare, I'm talking about a GG who is accosted by BG(s). I have no stats handy, but believe Kleck and others have shown that most armed SD/HD incidents are resolved w/o shooting--the BG flees or surrenders at the sight of the GG's gun, or once the shooting starts.
All of the above leads me to conclude: carry what you like & enjoy, b/c you'll probably practice more & become more skillful with something you like. I'd say your .380 vs. .38SPL is a function of flatness & capacity vs. simplicity of use & heavier, more capable bullets. If I believed I would have to actually shoot it out decisively with 4-5 BGs, I'd select the .380 (of your two choices) & make it large capacity. In my situation, I don't expect to face that many; if I do, not all are armed & the unarmed ones will haul out once the shooting starts. So, my personal choice is .38SPL with heavy lead bullets to maximize penetration & bone structure damage if the bullet hits bone.
Doubtless, many disagree with me, but I view it this way. . .if you live a lifestyle where you know you NEED a handgun on you, I think you need to find a way to carry the most powerful, hi-cap auto you can. For those of us who live lifestyles in which gunfights will most likely never occur at all, the best gun is one we'll have with us & that we can use skillfully. Guys who carry 60+ rounds of ammo have my admiration for their focus & dedication. . . .but I have to ask why they're not carrying a semi- or full-auto rifle in their car?