SIG Sauer P320 Compact
SIG Sauer · Pistol · In Production · 2014
Also known as: P320 Compact, P320C
Overview
The SIG Sauer P320 Compact is the compact-frame variant of the modular P320 striker-fired pistol platform. Introduced alongside the full-size P320 in 2014, the Compact features a shortened 99mm barrel and compact grip module that reduces overall length to 183mm and height to 135mm while maintaining a 15+1 capacity in 9mm. Built around the same serialized stainless steel fire control unit as all P320 variants, the Compact shares the platform's hallmark modularity, allowing the FCU to be swapped between different grip sizes and caliber conversions without regulatory paperwork. The polymer grip module is available in small, medium, and large sizes, and the Nitron-finished stainless steel slide includes front and rear serrations. Weighing 731 grams unloaded, the P320 Compact offers a balance between concealability and shootability that has made it one of the most popular configurations in the P320 family. The compact slide and barrel assembly served as the basis for the military M18 variant adopted by all branches of the U.S. armed forces.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 731 g (25.8 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 937 g (33.1 oz) |
| Overall Length | 183 mm (7.20") |
| Barrel Length | 99 mm (3.90") |
| Height | 135 mm (5.31") |
| Width | 33 mm (1.30") |
| Sight Radius | 147 mm (5.79") |
| Action Type | Short Recoil |
| Firing Mechanism | Striker Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Trigger Pull | 29 N (6.5 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 15 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 355 m/s (1165 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 470 J (347 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 50 m (55 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 1600 m (1750 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 254 mm (10.00") |
| Number of Grooves | 6 |
| Frame Material | Polymer |
| Slide Material | Stainless Steel |
| Barrel Material | Carbon Steel |
| Finish | Nitron |
Calibers
- 9x19mm Parabellum · primary · 9mm NATO — also known as 9mm Luger, 9mm NATO, 9x19mm
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Striker Safety, Disconnect Safety
- Features: Modular Fire Control Unit, Modular Grip System, Accessory Rail, Contrast Sights, Interchangeable Grip Sizes, Reversible Mag Release, Nitron Finish, Three Point Takedown, Front Rear Slide Serrations, Compact Slide, Compact Grip
Variants
- SIG Sauer P320 Nitron Compact — Finish Variant
- SIG Sauer P320 X-Compact — Enhanced
Base model
Service history
Operators
- United States Army · adopted 2017 · as M18
- U.S. Law Enforcement (Various Departments)
- Civilian Concealed Carry Shooters
Conflicts
- War in Afghanistan (2001-2021)
- Operation Inherent Resolve (2014-present)
Production
Production years: 2014-present
One of the most popular P320 configurations; the compact slide/barrel served as the basis for the M18 military variant with over 100,000 M18 units procured
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Designer: Ethan Lessard
Notes
The P320 Compact uses the same serialized fire control unit as all P320 variants, meaning it can be converted to full-size, carry, subcompact, or X-Series configurations by simply swapping the grip module and slide assembly. The compact barrel and slide are also compatible with the carry-length grip module, creating the popular 'Compact/Carry' hybrid configuration. The standard P320 Compact ships with contrast sights, though SIGLITE night sights are available as an upgrade. The three-point takedown system requires magazine removal and locking the slide back before disassembly. The Compact frame was the starting point for the M18 military variant, which adds an ambidextrous manual thumb safety and coyote tan finish. Available in 9mm, .40 S&W, and .357 SIG with corresponding magazine capacities of 15, 13, and 13 rounds respectively. MSRP is approximately $580-$650.
Background
The P320 Compact's compact slide and barrel dimensions were chosen as the basis for the M18 military compact sidearm variant that won the Modular Handgun System competition alongside the full-size M17. The U.S. Marine Corps in particular gravitated toward the M18 compact variant, making it the first new sidearm adopted by the Marines in decades. The Compact's versatility and modularity have made it a favorite among both civilian concealed carriers and law enforcement agencies seeking a duty-size pistol that can also serve in a plainclothes role.