What makes a great gun? I’m always asked this question. And while the answer is complicated, I think one of the best ways to find the solution is to try a whole bunch of them and see what sticks in your mind. Hence: this Sig Sauer P320 Compact review.The Sig Sauer P320 Compact definitely caught my attention. Known for its versatility and reliability, this compact version of the P320 line is a popular choice among enthusiasts and professionals alike.My personal journey with the P320 Compact began as part of my ongoing search for the best firearms that balanced everyday carry convenience with uncompromised performance. The P320 Compact, with its striker-fired system and modular design, promised just that. But does it deliver? Let's dive into our Sig Sauer P320 Compact review.
Sig P320 Compact Specs
Upon first glance, the Sig Sauer P320 Compact exudes a sense of robustness and quality. Its sleek black finish, unlike the more traditional blued guns, has a certain allure that doesn't just look good - it feels premium, too.
- Attribute: P320 Compact
- SKU: 320C-9-B
- Caliber: 9mm Luger
- Mags Included: (2) 15rd Steel Mag
- Sights: Steel 3-dot Contrast Sights
- Threaded Barrel: No
- Pistol Size: Compact
- Overall Length: 7.2 in [183 mm]
- Overall Width: 1.3 in [34 mm]
- Height: 5.3 in [135 mm]
- Barrel Length: 3.9 in
- Weight: 25.8 oz [731 g]
- Sight Radius: 5.8 in [147 mm]
- Accessory Rail: M1913
- Trigger Action: Striker
- Trigger Type: Standard Curved
- Grip Module: Compact Polymer Medium
- Barrel Material: Carbon Steel
- Frame Finish: Stainless Steel
- Frame Material: Stainless Steel
- Slide Finish: Nitron
- Slide Material: Stainless Steel
- Optic Ready: No
This isn't a firearm that fades into the background; it stands out with a design that's both modern and functional.
SIG P320 COMPACT GRIP
Ergonomically, the P320 Compact is a winner. The grip, adorned with a well-crafted stippling job, feels secure and comfortable in hand. It's clear that Sig Sauer paid close attention to the ergonomic needs of shooters. Whether you're right or left-handed, the ambidextrous slide release on this pistol is a thoughtful addition, making it more accessible for a wider range of shooters. As a lefty myself, I appreciate this level of inclusivity in design.
SIG SAUER P320 COMPACT: PERFORMANCE AND SHOOTING EXPERIENCE
Performance-wise, the Sig Sauer P320 Compact is a reliable workhorse. At the range, this pistol shows off its true colors. Its accuracy is exceptional, likely a contributing factor to its adoption by the military. The large dot sights are a boon, especially for those of us whose eyes aren't what they used to be.
SIG P320 COMPACT TRIGGER
The trigger on the P320 Compact deserves a special mention. With a short takeup before hitting the wall and a crisp pull, it offers a satisfying shooting experience. The reset is short and sweet, making follow-up shots quick and efficient. This kind of trigger performance enhances the shooting experience significantly, providing both confidence and comfort.
SIG P320 COMPACT: BORE AXIS ISSUE
However, it's not all smooth sailing. The P320 Compact does have a slightly higher bore axis, leading to more muzzle flip than some other 9mm models. While this isn't a deal-breaker, it's something to consider if you prefer a flatter shooting experience. Personally, I found it manageable and not overly disruptive to my shooting.
RECOIL
In terms of recoil, the P320 Compact handles it admirably. Yes, there's a noticeable kick – it's a compact 9mm, after all. But it's not unwieldy. The gun's design seems to absorb a good portion of the recoil, making it comfortable for extended shooting sessions.
SIG SAUER P320 COMPACT: MODULARITY AND CUSTOMIZATION
One of the most touted features of the Sig Sauer P320 Compact is its modularity. This is not just a marketing gimmick; it’s a game-changer in the world of firearms. The heart of this system is the fire control unit (FCU), which is the gun's serialized component. Around this, you can swap out frames, barrels, and slides to tailor the gun to your specific needs.
SIG SAUER P320 COMPACT: MAINTENANCE AND DURABILITY
Maintaining the P320 Compact is as effortless as using it. Field stripping the firearm is a simple and tool-free process, crucial for regular maintenance and cleaning. The takedown is intuitive, involving locking the slide back, rotating the takedown lever, and then releasing the slide. From there, you can easily remove the barrel and recoil spring for cleaning.
SIG P320 COMPACT: LONG-TERM DURABILITY INSIGHTS
In terms of durability, the P320 Compact has proven itself over the time I’ve had it. The finish has held up admirably against the usual wear and tear, maintaining its sleek look despite rigorous use. Internally, the firearm shows no signs of premature wear. This resilience is a testament to Sig Sauer’s commitment to quality in manufacturing.
SIG SAUER P320 COMPACT: CONCEALED CARRY CONSIDERATIONS
For those considering the P320 Compact for concealed carry, there's a lot to like. Its compact size strikes a balance between being small enough for concealment and large enough to maintain good shootability. With an overall length of 7.2 inches and a height of 5.3 inches, it fits comfortably under a jacket or in an IWB holster without printing significantly.
The weight, at around 26 ounces (empty magazine), is manageable for all-day carry. It's heavy enough to aid in recoil management yet light enough not to be burdensome. This balance is crucial for a concealed carry firearm, as comfort directly impacts the likelihood of carrying it daily.
However, the high bore axis does come into play here again. While it's a minor issue on the range, when carrying concealed, it can make the firearm feel top-heavy. This is something I've adjusted to over time, but it's worth noting for those new to the P320 Compact or to concealed carry in general.
SIG P320 COMPACT: IS IT A CCW WINNER?
In conclusion, the Sig Sauer P320 Compact is an excellent choice for concealed carry. It's comfortable to carry, easy to conceal, and doesn’t compromise on performance. For anyone looking for a compact firearm that ticks all these boxes, the P320 Compact is certainly worth considering.
SIG SAUER P320 COMPACT: PROS AND CONS FROM PERSONAL EXPERIENCE
In my hands-on experience with the Sig Sauer P320 Compact, several features stand out.The modularity is a clear winner. The ability to customize the firearm for different roles – be it concealed carry or home defense – without purchasing a new gun is a significant advantage. The ergonomic design and the ambidextrous slide release also make it a comfortable choice for a wide range of shooters.Performance-wise, the P320 Compact is impressively accurate and reliable. The trigger mechanism, with its crisp break and short reset, makes for a satisfying shooting experience. Furthermore, the large dot sights significantly aid in quick target acquisition.
However, the gun is not without its drawbacks. As I mentioned before, the higher bore axis results in a noticeable muzzle flip, which might be off-putting for some shooters, especially those used to firearms with a lower bore axis. Additionally, while the weight is ideal for recoil management, it might feel a bit heavy for some users when used for extended periods of concealed carry.
SIG SAUER P320 COMPACT: MILITARY ADOPTION: A VOTE OF CONFIDENCE
The adoption of the P320 by the U.S. military as the M17 and M18 speaks volumes about the capabilities of this manufacturer. This transition from the Beretta to the P320 highlights the company’s ability to adhere to reliability, durability, and versatility – qualities that the military deeply values.For civilian users, this military adoption serves as a strong endorsement. It helps assure us that the P320 Compact can withstand rigorous use and perform reliably under various conditions. It's a testament to the firearm's design and functionality, reinforcing its suitability for personal defense, range shooting, and even professional use.
SIG SAUER P320 COMPACT: FINAL THOUGHTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
After extensive use and thorough examination, my verdict on the Sig Sauer P320 Compact is overwhelmingly positive. It's a well-built, reliable, and versatile firearm that caters to a wide range of shooting needs. The balance it strikes between concealability and performance makes it an excellent choice for everyday carry, while its accuracy and modularity make it suitable for recreational and professional shooting.I would recommend the P320 Compact to anyone looking for a compact firearm that doesn't compromise on performance. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or new to concealed carry, this firearm has a lot to offer. Its ease of use, combined with the ability to customize, makes it a valuable addition to any firearm collection.
Concluding, the Sig Sauer P320 Compact is more than just a compact firearm; it's a versatile platform that meets various shooting needs. Its military-grade reliability, combined with civilian-friendly features, makes it a top contender in its category. While it may have some minor drawbacks, its advantages far outweigh them.
In the world of compact firearms, the Sig Sauer P320 Compact stands out for its innovative design, reliability, and adaptability. It's a firearm that not only meets the expectations but, in many aspects, surpasses them. For those in search of a compact, versatile handgun, the P320 Compact is a choice you won't regret.
Make sure to match your favorite EDC firearm with one of the best Sig Sauer P320 Compact holsters on the market. If you don’t have the right carry option for your handgun, what exactly is the point of carrying?
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