New toy :Bersa 380 Auto, snake loads?

**k_rad** · 05-31-2011, 08:33 PM

Picked up a new little Bersa 380 auto in the duotone. http://www.bersa.com/images/pistols/thun380lt_dt_lg.jpg

thun380lt_sat_th.jpg
Mostly for snake protection but also as a just-in-case I suprise any deepwoods weed growers that aren't happy to see me

during deer season. And also because I was missing not having a side arm and it was so cute and soooo damn cheap! Question is: Are snake loads legal? and does anybody know a good grain size brand for the 38?

**inchr48** · 06-01-2011, 05:51 AM

I bought one a while back used from the Cabela's Gun Library just like that. When I was checking my turkey gun for "zero" I cranked off a round with the Bersa Thunder at 30 yards, and did a head shot on my turkey target. It was Aguila HP's, but don't remember the weight. Corbon DPX (Barnes all copper) is a great carry load too.

I can't speak for CA, but can't see why you couldn't have a snake load up front if you wanted. Make sure they will load and eject for you in case you need more than 1 shot.

**k_rad** · 06-03-2011, 09:13 AM

Snake loads ? no one? Bruce and Rogsworld weren't you guys making your own?
KR

**Shmave23** · 06-03-2011, 09:30 AM

Kevin I will ask my friend where he gets his at. I still have some snake shot for my .38 special that he gave me last year.

-Dave

**rogsworld** · 06-04-2011, 09:24 AM

If you want to go lead free it's gonna be hard finding small enough steel shot to load in that little case. I doubt they would cycle as well.

**k_rad** · 06-04-2011, 05:16 PM

Thank you Dave I appreciate it. I didn't really think of that Rog... I knew should go with the 9 but man this gun shoots so great for me! The trigger pull is perfect... I pulled off a 2" group at 25 ft. single handed out of 14 rounds! I guess I could just go straight copper solids like Incher suggested...

**inchr48** · 06-06-2011, 05:31 AM

If you reload (or have a friend that does), I've seen recipes for shotshell loads using 9MM shot capsules, #9 shot, and 3-4 grains of powder. No factory made option available in 380 that I know of. These are sweet little pistols, and I really like the look of the duo-tone version (not the picture you posted).

**rogsworld** · 06-06-2011, 08:14 AM

Yes you can load them yourself but they probably would not cycle in an auto. They are meant for revolvers

**Rick** · 06-10-2011, 01:42 PM

I load my own for .38/.357, .44 and .45 Colt for my revolvers using the Speer capsules, and I use #12 shot. It makes a much denser pattern and just shred snake heads at 10 feet or so. I've had them not even squirm or twitch after getting hit with it.

**#1Predator** · 06-10-2011, 06:21 PM

Originally Posted by k_rad

Snake loads ? no one? Bruce and Rogsworld weren't you guys making your own?
KR

Snake loads are legal. As far as I know, there aren't any companies (CCI, Federal, etc.) that load them for .380ACP. FYI - a fishing license is required to "take" (hunt, pursue, catch, capture or kill) any fish, reptile or amphibian. Rattlesnakes are the exception to this requirement, for obvious reasons.

**k_rad** · 06-10-2011, 07:11 PM

Originally Posted by #1Predator

Snake loads are legal. As far as I know, there aren't any companies (CCI, Federal, etc.) that load them for .380ACP. FYI - a fishing license is required to "take" (hunt, pursue, catch, capture or kill) any fish, reptile or amphibian. Rattlesnakes are the exception to this requirement, for obvious reasons.

Thanks #1 I guess I got confused about there being no "non-lead" snake loads available(in .380 anyway) as apposed to no snake loads period... thanks all. Once again JHO is like a hunting buddy who knows all the answers...they may not always be the answer you wanted(LOL) but you'll allways get an answer...