re: Doing a CC class soon. Need to start looking at pocket 380s

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I don't plan on using a holster; I would much rather one of those small 380s the size of my iPhone that I can just keep in my pocket. I haven't been shopping around yet, but wanted to get some suggestions of what brands/models I should be looking at. Trying to stay under $500

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The Ruger LCP should be the starting point from which to deviate.

Walther PPK is going to be all steel and heavier, but it is a classic .380 pistol and probably the mother of the vast majority of blowback pistols today.

Having answered your original question, have you looked at the subcompact 9mm and .40 offerings from Kahr and Kel-tec? We're talking just a little (a smidgeon) more gun, in a full power caliber. Ruger LC-9 might also fit the bill here.

Pocket holster is, in my mind, not optional for pocket carry and you should leave room in your budget for a good one, although they are not terribly expensive.

I am also in the market for a pocket 380. I have narrowed it down to the Ruger LCP and the S&W Bodyguard 380. Both have long trigger pulls. The LCP does not remain open when the mag empties and has terrible sights. The BG380 does remain open when the mag empties and has nice sights and a built in laser.

The BG380 fit better in my hand. I have not seen one for sale lately, but the next time I find one, I am going to get it. I have seen it from $300 to $420. It is definitely worth a look.

Sig p238

Except the 238

TTT,
Disclaimer:In my mind, the 380 is NOT my preferred caliber choice for cc/self defense. Having said that, I do own and cc a 380, but only when a larger gun/caliber can't be carried.

My 380 is a Kel-Tec P3-AT. From reading the 'net, KT seems to have a spotty record for quality control. Nevertheless, mine has been 100% spotless. I'd put the DiamondBack and Taurus 380's in the same category. I think the Bersa and Walther are good guns, but they're too big for pocket carry. To me, 380's are for pocket carry. If one's going to carry a gun on their waist, I'd get one of the small 9mm's.

The next step up in quality would be the S&W, Ruger LCP, and Kahr's. If I were looking for a new pocket carry 380, I'd try to wait a while and get the new Kahr CW380. If pushed for time, I'd look at the S&W or Ruger.

Except for the Sig 238, all pocket sized 380's will have a LONG and heavy DAO trigger pull. Most will NOT have an external safety lever. The 238 is prolly beyond your price range. I think the 238 should be carried cocked and locked. Personally, I worry about the 238's cocked hammer having the potential to catch on something during the draw. For pocket carry, I prefer the smooth contour of the other 380's or even the shrouded hammer of a 38 Spec revolver.

Having said that, don't forget about a 5 shot snubbie 38 Special. They make a good pocket gun, as well.

Be sure you get a nice pocket holster. For safety concerns, I want a holster that will completely cover the trigger. Early on I bought one of the clips, but have never used it. Desantis makes some nice, inexpensive, synthetic pocket holsters. I carry my Kel Tec in this holster and have been VERY happy w/ it: LINK I use this holster to carry a Kel Tec PF9 in my right front pocket. LINK

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I think the 238 should be carried cocked and locked

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Wise man

They do actually Uway. It's called the CW380. I don't know why they didn't call it a CM but regardless it's comparable to PM-CM in 9mm. It's cheaper to make and only comes with one mag. But it's $320 and is the best pocket 380 out there.

EDIT: you covered it. Nice

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slightly bigger

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It's 25% bigger.