AMT Backup .380 ACP Stainless Micro Pistol, Early El Monte Single-Action, 2.5 in Fixed Barrel, 5+1 Capacity
This early El Monte, CA–marked AMT Backup is a stainless, single-action .380 ACP micro pistol with a fixed 2.5 in barrel and straight-blowback operation. Compact dimensions, a heel-release magazine catch, and very low-profile fixed sights define this example. It comes with two 5-round magazines, the factory manual, and a soft zippered case.
The slide is marked "CAL .380 9MM KURZ – BACK UP – EL MONTE, CALIF." and "STAINLESS – MADE IN U.S.A." The right side of the frame carries the AMT logo and "EL MONTE, CA," aligning it with the sought-after early-production configuration.
Built entirely of stainless steel, this Backup pairs a smooth trigger shoe with manual and grip safeties. The top rib is serrated to cut glare, and the slide has rear vertical cocking serrations. Black Lexan factory grip panels complete the original look.
Despite its micro footprint—approximately 4.25 in long and 3.48 in high—it offers a 5+1 capacity in .380 ACP. Unloaded weight is about 18 oz, balancing shootability with discreet carry dimensions.
Condition
Overall Condition: Very good condition, showing only light, superficial signs of prior handling or use.
Bore Overall Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Bore Rifling: Excellent Rifling - Sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: The pistol remains in great shape with minor scratches and small blemishes visible from handling and storage.
What’s Included
- AMT .22/.380 Backup manual
- Two 5-round single-stack magazines with finger-rest floorplates
- Soft zippered pistol case
This Backup features the early single-action-only mechanism with a fixed barrel for consistent barrel-to-frame alignment. The straight-blowback system is paired with a compact 2.5 in barrel, contributing to its minimal size and straightforward operation.
Dimensions are notably compact—approximately 4.25 in in length and 3.48 in in height—with an unloaded weight near 18 oz. The factory capacity is 5+1 rounds, and the heel-type magazine catch reflects the model’s original European-style release.
Sighting equipment is intentionally low-profile, using an integral front blade and a simple fixed rear notch. A serrated top rib helps reduce glare, while rear vertical cocking serrations aid in purchase on the stainless slide.
Construction is all stainless steel, including the slide and frame, finished in stainless throughout. The pistol retains its black Lexan factory grip panels and is marked "EL MONTE, CA," identifying it with the earlier production location in the United States.