I too came to the same conclusion once I found out that
THE John Moses Browning was the designer of the .380. (he's not known for ineffective guns) Here is a link to a site that compares multiple calibers:
380 ACP Ammo for Sale - AmmoToGo.com. This is where I go to determine which .380 I want. "I" chose lower penetration but greater expansion to reduce collateral injuries. Their prices are a little high, so I go to this site for my purchases:
Bulk Ammo for Sale Online Free Shipping Available. Their prices are competitive but if you get a membership, there's a small discount and free shipping. Free shipping allows for periodic purchases without getting raped on shipping.
I see a pattern with your "and is just so mechanical and boringly efficient it doesn't do anything for me". I'm pretty sure you used similar wording on why the Tenere got sent away.
Of course, I'm the opposite. Knowing something will work
every time gets me excited.
Of those three, that would have been my choice also. But the little things that you mentioned not liking is why I went with the Shield.