In the ever-evolving world of handguns, finding a pistol that balances everyday concealability with the high-performance demands of serious shooters can be quite the conundrum. Enter the Sig Sauer P320 XCompact, a handgun that promises to bridge the gap between a concealable, everyday carry (EDC) piece and a range-friendly firearm with full-size handling and capacity. This article provides an in-depth review of the Sig Sauer P320 XCompact, examining its features, performance, and place in the current firearms landscape.
Built for the Modern Shooter
The Sig Sauer P320 line has garnered attention for its modular design and has even gone so far as to win the coveted U.S. military’s MHS (Modular Handgun System) contract with a variant known as the M17. Within this lineage, the P320 XCompact stands out for its thoughtful design geared towards EDC without sacrificing the shootability that Sig Sauer pistols are known for.
The XCompact sports a 3.6-inch barrel neatly housed in a compact slide that rides atop a carry-size grip module with a beavertail. Despite its smaller frame, it maintains a respectable capacity of 15 rounds of 9mm, putting it squarely in the category of a “do-it-all” pistol. The gun features Sig’s X-series flat trigger, which is a significant upgrade from the standard curved P320 trigger and arguably one of the best stock triggers on the EDC market today.
Ergonomics and Performance
Getting hands-on with the P320 XCompact reveals why this pistol has become a popular choice among firearm enthusiasts. Its reduced footprint does not detract from the ergonomic comfort Sig pistols are known for. The high undercut on the trigger guard and deep beavertail allow for a high and tight grip, while the redesigned grip module fits a broad range of hand sizes comfortably.
On the range, the P320 XCompact performs admirably. The flat trigger breaks cleanly at approximately 6 pounds and has a tactile and audible reset. When it comes to accuracy, the XCompact is more akin to its full-sized brethren than a typical micro-compact. The pistol comes equipped with Sig Sauer’s X-RAY3 day/night sights, which offer a clear and fast sight picture.
Notably for firearms news, Sig Sauer is addressing the needs of the optics-friendly crowd with the R2 Optic Ready option that offers a factory slide cut to fit the Sig Romeo1Pro, Leupold DeltaPoint Pro, and other popular red dot sights, without the need for adaptor plates. This feature is a nod to the growing trend of red dot sights on EDC handguns for their faster target acquisition and improved accuracy.
Potential Concerns and Considerations
No firearm is without possible drawbacks. Some users have expressed desire for a slightly smaller grip for deeper concealment, although aftermarket solutions are available. The gun, while moderately priced for its category, may still be out of reach for budget-conscious shooters.
However, the main contention that might exist is not regarding the gun itself, but rather the P320 series’ reported drop safety concerns that surfaced a few years ago. It is important to note that Sig Sauer has since corrected these issues and considers the XCompact safe and reliable, having undergone extensive drop testing to meet industry standards.
Conclusion: A Balance Well Achieved
The Sig Sauer P320 XCompact demonstrates itself as a leading contender in the crowded EDC market by excellently blending concealability with the range performance of a full-size pistol. It stands out amongst competitors by offering red dot readiness, a high capacity for its size, and a commendable factory trigger.
In a rapidly changing firearms landscape, staying informed through comprehensive firearms news and ammo reviews is crucial. With the P320 XCompact, Sig Sauer shows that it is listening to the modern shooter’s demands, striking a balance between daily practicality and desired capabilities.
For enthusiasts looking for a reliable and versatile EDC option, the Sig Sauer P320 XCompact delivers on its promises with little compromise. As always, prospective buyers should handle and shoot the XCompact if possible to ensure it meets their personal preferences and carry needs. But for many, the P320 XCompact may just be the perfect fit in the quest for one pistol that adeptly manages the dual roles of concealed carry and range enjoyment.