I got there too, just at an earlier age. Been thru most 380s out there and here is what I think.
I never liked shooting 9mm unless out of bigger pistols. 92FS and G17 sized. I still like some bigger 40SW and 45ACP pistols better. We are at a great time, with those in the manufacturing sector realizing some of us don’t want to carry a 9mm, and there are some good 380s that are soft shooters.
My pick is the G42. I carry with a flush 6 round mag and GEE Plate base plates to help lock it in since it’s just a tad smaller than my hands want. A Vickers Tactical +2 adds length for AIWB or shoulder holster carry and easy gripping.
SW Shield EZ 380 is nice. I didn’t like it much, but other speak highly of it. If it wasn’t for the G42, I might put some more time into it.
LCP Max, is just a bigger LCPII and I can’t shoot either pass 7 yards to save my life. And most folks over at Ruger Forum feel about the same way. But other do not and that the best thing about having choices, something for someone.
Sig P365 OR 380. I always thought the 365 would have been best as a 380, but it was a wrong choice for me. I didn’t see lesser recoil than my 9mm version.
Like most others have said, small 380s just aren’t fun to shoot nor are they accurate. I prefer a larger pistol in 380, just so I can shoot it.
I wouldn’t think too much about it or worry too much. Most of the times, I have a SW 43c in my pocket. It’s 22lr and I’m very accurate with it. Looking to get a 317 when my crazy life calms down a bit. If all I can or want to shoot is a 22lr, then it’s no one else’s problem nor business. My edc doesn’t have to pass Delta Force Recon Team 38 torture tests. It doesn’t have to be a the latest or greatest. It just have to what I will carry daily want to shoot regularly.