I also get the impression some are pushing the BG2, which is nearly double the price a bit too hard in this thread. I have both and actually had more issues with my BG2 than the LCP Max, though the BG2 is a bit tamer to shoot, but not by much. Both smacked my trigger finger to the point that it wasn't much fun after a only a few mags in practice. In contrast, I can shoot sub to micro compact 9mm all day without discomfort if I had unlimited ammo. My BG2 also had a mag issue, shot way left out of the box and the grand canyon width rear sights were not helpful if you liked placing precise shots. In the end, I had to replace the sights to get my BG2 to shoot accurately enough for my liking, which drove up the price even more. I get it, neither are designed for long distance accuracy, but I still prefer having the ability to do so.

At under $200, the LCP Max is a good price for a very concealable and reliable 380 if you just need something. If this is going to be your first pocket 380, the BG2 is not worth the extra cost if you're at all budget conscious. Most people would be better served by using the savings for some shooting gloves and extra ammo for practice to get acclimated. You really need to shoot more than just one mag or even one box per year if you're expecting to use either of these effectively when the time comes.