I'm looking to add a .380 to my collection. I already own 2 Rugers (10/22 & LCR), and I had my sites set on buying a Ruger LCP .380 for a while now. I just recently heard of and started researching the Bersa Thunder Concealed Carry (CC) model, and I think it's a runner up. Anyone here shot, tried CC, or have any experience with both firearms that care to share their thoughts?
Ruger LCP vs Bersa Thunder Concealed Carry
- Thread starter Praxidike
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aarondhgraham
Member
The Bersa is bigger than the LCP,,,
The Bersa is bigger than the LCP,,,
It is 6" long by 4.5" high.
The LCP is 5.16" long by 3.6" high.
The Bersa CC is essentially a Bersa Thunder,,,
But with the high points smoothed out.
For instance the sights are low profile to prevent snagging on clothes,,,
The external hammer is also smaller for the same reason,,,
Bersa is 8+1 shots,,,
The LCP is 6+1 shots.
Recoil on my Bersa Thunder 380 is not severe at all,,,
I personally find my lady friends LCP to be a bit snappy.
Go to this website to read the Catalog specs for the Bersa CC
Go to this website to read the catalog specs for the LCP.
Personally, I like the Bersa a lot better than the LCP,,,
But if I were carrying in a pocket I would consider the LCP for it's smaller size.
Hope this helps,,,
Aarond
.
The Bersa is bigger than the LCP,,,
It is 6" long by 4.5" high.
The LCP is 5.16" long by 3.6" high.
The Bersa CC is essentially a Bersa Thunder,,,
But with the high points smoothed out.
For instance the sights are low profile to prevent snagging on clothes,,,
The external hammer is also smaller for the same reason,,,
Bersa is 8+1 shots,,,
The LCP is 6+1 shots.
Recoil on my Bersa Thunder 380 is not severe at all,,,
I personally find my lady friends LCP to be a bit snappy.
Go to this website to read the Catalog specs for the Bersa CC
Go to this website to read the catalog specs for the LCP.
Personally, I like the Bersa a lot better than the LCP,,,
But if I were carrying in a pocket I would consider the LCP for it's smaller size.
Hope this helps,,,
Aarond
.
I used to carry Bersa Thunder 380 and liked it very much for the full grip which made it a light shooter. I bought the CC version and it felt completely different. Becuase it had a smaller grip and shorter beaver tail, it became more painful for me to shoot. I sold it and bought the LCP. AS much as many have claimed that it has a snappy recoil, I found it more comfortable than the larger Bersa CC. The LCP also is ridiculously accurate for such a small gun. And small handguns are inherently inaccurate for the average shooter, which I am.
Cump
Member
I chose a Bersa
The Bersa 380 CC is noticeably smaller than the standard Thunder, but still holds an extra round. A little shorter barrel length, shorter beaver tail, and quite thinner (especially in the grip). I can pocket it in most of my pants, but usually carry appendix.
Yes, it is bigger than the lcp, but still easily concealable while having higher capacity and allowing a little more fps (from the difference in barrel length).
I also find the SA/DA trigger preferable to DAO. I'm more accurate with it than the lcp or lc9 because of the trigger. Mine has a clean break (for a $300 gun) and isn't too heavy.
There are a few negatives: 1) If you go with the Bersa, get in line for an extra mag or two. It took me about three months to find a couple. 2) Until it is broken in, you may have your share of FTFs. But it stopped for me at 200 rounds. 3) The finish doesn't seem as good as the Rugers.
The Bersa 380 CC is noticeably smaller than the standard Thunder, but still holds an extra round. A little shorter barrel length, shorter beaver tail, and quite thinner (especially in the grip). I can pocket it in most of my pants, but usually carry appendix.
Yes, it is bigger than the lcp, but still easily concealable while having higher capacity and allowing a little more fps (from the difference in barrel length).
I also find the SA/DA trigger preferable to DAO. I'm more accurate with it than the lcp or lc9 because of the trigger. Mine has a clean break (for a $300 gun) and isn't too heavy.
There are a few negatives: 1) If you go with the Bersa, get in line for an extra mag or two. It took me about three months to find a couple. 2) Until it is broken in, you may have your share of FTFs. But it stopped for me at 200 rounds. 3) The finish doesn't seem as good as the Rugers.
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I'm assuming the the grips on the lcp would be just as small if not even smaller no?
I like the Bersa. The CC model does have a shorter grip, which I don't like and have problems with (odd size fingers - long story), but I got some Pearce grip extenders to put on the magazines and solved that problem. The only issue with the grip extenders is that you lose one round capacity, but I've got a spare magazine if I need more rounds. And it is a little bing for pocket carry, but I don't carry that way anyhow. I'd suggest you find someone who can let you borrow (or rent) both and try them out. Any instructors/dealers with a "try before you buy" policy in your area? Call around, you might get lucky.
I have and carry daily a Ruger LCR .357. After just comparing the stats of my LCR to the Bersa, I see that the Bersa is actually small in size and weight than my current CCW, so I do not see weight or concealability as being an issue for me.
LCR = Height: 4.5, Weight: 17.1 oz, Width: 1.28. Bersa CC = Height: 4.5, Weight: 16.4 oz, Width: 1.0.
Are the standard Bersa .380 and the .380 cc magazines interchangeable? What problems did you have with the finish? Was the finish blued are duel blued/nickled?
I have a lcp and like its size for concealment but I would prefer a safety. Even with the long draw I don't feel safe all the time. Would check out sw bodyguard or sig p238 this time around. Personal preference , not down grading the lcp. Shoots fine but sight is almost non existent. Have a crimson trace on it but still like night sites better.
DanTheFarmer
Member
The standard Bersa Thunder uses 7 round magazines with a pinkie extension. The CC model uses an 8 round magazine with a flat bottom. Either will fit and work in both the standard and CC models though many claim that for carry purposes go with the magazine the pistol was designed for. I use the magazines and pistols interchangeably at the range without problems.
The listed dimensions for the standard and the CC aren't that much different but they feel different in my pocket. I'm comfortable pocket carrying the CC model while the standard model is much more noticeable. Try 'em out if you can because this is clearly a subjective judgement that works for me and may or may not for you.
Bersa makes a double stack Bersa Thunder Plus that holds 15 rounds and is just a bit fatter in the hand and also makes a less commonly seen 9 round extended single stack magazine for the standard model. This 9 round magazine looks a bit awkward to me but you get to form your own opinion!
Good Luck.
Dan
The listed dimensions for the standard and the CC aren't that much different but they feel different in my pocket. I'm comfortable pocket carrying the CC model while the standard model is much more noticeable. Try 'em out if you can because this is clearly a subjective judgement that works for me and may or may not for you.
Bersa makes a double stack Bersa Thunder Plus that holds 15 rounds and is just a bit fatter in the hand and also makes a less commonly seen 9 round extended single stack magazine for the standard model. This 9 round magazine looks a bit awkward to me but you get to form your own opinion!
Good Luck.
Dan
doc2rn
Member
I have owned both and the Bersa has its strong points. Have you looked at the Sig 238? I think you might like it as much as I do.
almherdfan
Member
I have owned & carried both. I wanted to love the LCP, but just couldn't make it work for me. It was a better pocket carry, but that was the only advantage.
The Bersa was better in every other aspect, from features, shooting comfort, accuracy, feel, etc.
That was a couple of years ago. Some folks say the newest LCP is much improved.
The Bersa was better in every other aspect, from features, shooting comfort, accuracy, feel, etc.
That was a couple of years ago. Some folks say the newest LCP is much improved.
onthehunt
Member
I've had a Bersa Thunder for over 12 years. Good gun with no problems. Since I bought my same size LC9 I don't carry the Thunder anymore..
I don't have direct experience with either, but I've been looking into them too. Just a couple of notes:
The LCP has an improved trigger and bigger sights for 2013.
The Bersa is getting into a size range that you may want to consider one of the smaller 9mm options, like a Kahr CM9 or CW9. (Not that I've heard much negative about the Bersa, and I'd buy one, just mentioning the size issue/options.)
The LCP has an improved trigger and bigger sights for 2013.
The Bersa is getting into a size range that you may want to consider one of the smaller 9mm options, like a Kahr CM9 or CW9. (Not that I've heard much negative about the Bersa, and I'd buy one, just mentioning the size issue/options.)
Cump
Member
Mine is the black on black, and my comment on the finish may have been unfair. The slide bluing is probably just a matter of personal preference. I like the Ruger's bluing a bit better, though the Bersa's is holding up fine. But the finish on the Bersa's aluminum frame can be scratched relatively easily (I put a small one on mine when I cut the tag off the trigger guard -- should have waited until I had scissors handy), and mine has a few places where the frame finish is uneven. Still, I haven't seen noticeable wear from holster or clothing. Not really an apples to apples comparison since the Ruger has a polymer frame.
I've read standard Thunder mags (even the Mecgars) can work but may not feed reliably. I decided to play it safe, though I might still test it.
In my previous post, I had a typo (now edited) stating the Bersa CC is larger than the LC9. I meant LCP. It's about the same dimensions as the LC9, though the Bersa feels better in the hand and holstered to me.
jad0110
Member
How do you plan to carry the gun? The LCP works pretty much anywhere (pocket, ankle, IWB/OWB, belly band, smartcarry/thunderwear, etc) , but the Bersa is more of a belt (IWB or OWB) gun.
In addition to the Bersa, you might also consider the CZ-83, available in .380 or 9x18 Makarov. I own the surplus version known as the Vz.82 (which I believe was only chambered for 9x18 Mak). Very nicely made, dependable, simple design, easy to take down, and it feels really good in my hands. It is a commie gun afterall, one of the few things the commies did right
. It is about the same length as the Bersa, but is a bit wider as it is a double stack design (12+1 capacity in my 9x18 Vz.82).
In addition to the Bersa, you might also consider the CZ-83, available in .380 or 9x18 Makarov. I own the surplus version known as the Vz.82 (which I believe was only chambered for 9x18 Mak). Very nicely made, dependable, simple design, easy to take down, and it feels really good in my hands. It is a commie gun afterall, one of the few things the commies did right
. It is about the same length as the Bersa, but is a bit wider as it is a double stack design (12+1 capacity in my 9x18 Vz.82).
OptimusPrime
Member
For shooting, I liked the LCP a little better. For carrying options, the LCP is definitely better than the Bersa.
My opinion.
My opinion.
weblance
Member
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I HAD 2 LCPs and currently have the standard Bersa Thunder 380. I had reliability issues with the LCP, that after extensive Fluff&Buff pretty much went away. It wasnt fun to shoot. I realize it isnt a range gun, but I never enjoyed it. It was accurate, and easy to carry in the pocket. My Thunder has been perfect right out of the box. It has a nice trigger and hit easily at 25 yards. It has more felt recoil than my Sig P238, but the Sig operates differently. I think you should look at the new Ruger LC380. Its NOT the LCP, but looks like the Ruger LC9. If you want a larger 380 like the Bersa, then the LC380 is in that size range.
This is kind of an odd comparison to me. The Bersa thunder is so much bigger than the LCP. If you need a really small gun get the LCP. If you can get something as big as the Bersa then I think there are a number of other options that are that size that are worth considering.
huntsman
Member
^ yeah I thought the new LC380 vs Bersa would be a better comparison, IMHO the LCP shines when pocket carry is desired. now if you're hanging a gun on the belt one of the afore mentioned models AND the LCP would be a sweet way to roll and wouldn't break the bank.
I wasn't wanting a size comparison to each other, but I just wanted to know what everyone's was with both were. I ended up just buying a pf11. I didn't like the small size of the .380 ruger, and the bersa was more than I wanted to spend at local dealer. Like i already mentioned, I've been pocket and IWB carrying a good sized LCR comfortablely without a problem.
Deer_Freak
Member.
Personally if I am going to carry a gun as large as the Bersa Thunder I am going to get something larger than a .380. The Kimber Ultra II is about the same size in 45 acp. There are literally dozens of guns the same size as the thunder in a larger caliber. I have shot a thunder and it is both accurate and reliable.
Given the statement above the Ruger kicks the snot out of the Thunder. You can easily carry the Ruger in your pocket or in a ankle holster. The Thunder is not so easy to carry. It appears that you want a gun that is easy to carry. The LCP is easy to carry and it is far superior to any gun that remains in your safe.
Given the statement above the Ruger kicks the snot out of the Thunder. You can easily carry the Ruger in your pocket or in a ankle holster. The Thunder is not so easy to carry. It appears that you want a gun that is easy to carry. The LCP is easy to carry and it is far superior to any gun that remains in your safe.
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MedWheeler
Member
Praxidike, I assume you mean a P11? If so, good choice. I don't have that one, but I carry the "slim sister", the PF9..
Phaedrus/69
Member
I would have to concur with Deer_Freak. The Bersa is a fine gun but it's as large as many smaller 9mms. Bersa's own BP9CC is almost as small, and a Beretta Nano is about the same size as the Bersa .380. I would rather have a small 9mm than a large .380. The Ruger is in another class of small. I haven't fired one so I can't say anything about it beyond what I've heard. The guys at the LGS say it's no fun to shoot, and that's not hard to believe at all. It's probably one of those guns that will be carried a lot and shot a little. But it's so small that you can carry it where any larger gun would probably be left at home.
I'm eager to see the new Beretta PICO when it comes out. I'm not a big fan of little guns nor of the .380, but it's a good looking design.
I'm eager to see the new Beretta PICO when it comes out. I'm not a big fan of little guns nor of the .380, but it's a good looking design.
Deer_Freak
Member.
I own a Kel Tec P-3AT. It is not fun to shoot. It was a jam o matic when I got it. After 5 months of shipping it back and forth Kel Tec finally got it shooting right. It has broke twice since then and it requires a lot of maintenance. The recoil springs and rod are only good for 500 rounds. The takedown pin broke on my Kel Tec.
I can shoot the Kel Tec very well right now but it took a year of plinking to used to the cut down sights on the Kel Tec. You might have the same experience with the Ruger. The upside is very few SD encounters happen at 25 yards. Most SD situations are close range affairs at ranges of less than 10 yards.
I can shoot the Kel Tec very well right now but it took a year of plinking to used to the cut down sights on the Kel Tec. You might have the same experience with the Ruger. The upside is very few SD encounters happen at 25 yards. Most SD situations are close range affairs at ranges of less than 10 yards.
Yes, I meant the p11. I held it side by side with the pf9, and it it was dam near the same size and weight. Yes, it was a tad thicker, but not by much. I really do not get why some people fuss about the difference of the two when the differences aren't really all that noticeable at all.
I was under the impression that they where the same gun other than the p11 being a double stack, but I found that to be incorrect. I did research after I brought it and seen that the no one liked the long trigger pull compared to the pf9... It's not a range or target gun, so that doesn't matter to me either.
I liked the bersa and the ppk a lot better, but they both were more expensive that the p11. The price, small size and weight, the ability to carry 12 +1 rounds, and the fact that I can share ammo with my xd9 is the reason why I choose this over the .380s.
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