5 Most Common SIG P320 Problems You Must Know
The SIG P320 is a semi-automatic pistol. SIG Sauer has manufactured this gun with a modular design which you can configure with your choice of calibers and other options.
But, you may face some issues with the SIG P320. The most common SIG P320 problems are firing pin problem, ejector bending, trigger not resetting, takedown lever issue, and magazine movement.
Features & Specifications of SIG P320 Gun:
| Caliber | 9×19 mm, .357 SIG, .40 S&W, 10mm Auto, .45 ACP |
| Capacity | 10/14/17 |
| Barrel Length | 4.7 Inches |
| Weight | 29.4 Ounce (Unloaded) |
| Length | 8.0 Inches |
| Width | 1.4 Inches |
| Height | 5.5 Inches |
| Action Type | Short Recoil Operated, Locked Breech |
| Safety | Negligent Discharge Safety, Ambidextrous Thumb Safety, Drop Safety |
| Sights | Front Sight: Fixed Blade Iron SightRear Sight: Fixed Notch with Optional Tritium Night Sight |
Common SIG P320 Problems and Solutions
| Problems with SIG P320 | Solutions |
| Firing Pin Problem | Install a new firing pin or send the firearm to SIG Sauer. |
| Ejector Bending | Gently bend the ejector back into place using needle-nose pliers. |
| Trigger Not Resetting | Inspect the trigger bar and replace it if necessary |
| Takedown Lever Issue | Clean all components, remove excess grease, and lubricate the takedown components |
| Magazine Movement | Check magazines for bending or issues with followers and springs. |
1. Firing Pin Problem:
Numerous instances of firing pin problems resulted in injuries to people. Their SIG P320 pistols started firing without them pushing the trigger.
In rare instances, dropping the gun might trigger it. Additionally, there have been instances of this issue when the user attempted to holster it.
The Fix:
SIG Sauer released an optional upgrade for their P320 handgun in April 2023 to address safety concerns. The upgrade features a redesigned sear and a new firing pin safety system.
So, if you have bought the gun before the upgrade, you should install a new firing pin. If you send the gun back to SIG, they can fix it for you.
According to the manufacturer, the modification will stop the rifle from shooting when the trigger is not pushed.
2. Ejector Bending:
The ejector bending is one of the most common SIG P320 problems. It typically occurs when a 21-round full-size magazine is inserted firmly enough.
This might occur if the user tries to close the slide before the magazine is properly inserted in the slot. The ejector may drag on the slide if it is deformed. Your gun will lock up as a result of this.
The Fix:
You might try to bend the ejector back into place to solve the issue. You need to use needle nose pliers to accomplish this.
You should take care not to over-bend the ejector, though. This might make things even worse. Take the rifle to a gunsmith if you are uncomfortable bending the ejector back into place.
Another choice is to just swap out the ejector. For the P320, SIG Sauer supplies new ejectors.
3. Trigger Not Resetting:
A common problem with the SIG P320 gun is that the trigger does not want to reset sometimes. You can also notice the inconsistency with the split times.
When disassembling and reassembling the gun, you will notice that the trigger will not want to reset.
This problem might be brought on by a trigger bar spring that was distorted. The fire control system itself can also be flawed.
The Fix:
Make sure the trigger bar spring is not deformed or damaged by carefully inspecting it. If so, it might need to be changed.
To check for any obvious damage that might be preventing the trigger from resetting, remove the FCU from the frame. Make sure nothing is damaged and that everything is seated correctly.
Disconnect the takedown safety and take out the FCU. Now, you should manually operate the trigger to determine if it resets correctly when separated from the slide assembly.
4. Takedown Lever Issue:
During field stripping, the takedown lever is in charge of disengaging the takedown safety. Trigger pull difficulties may arise if the takedown safety is not seated correctly in the slide lock hole during reassembly.
It is possible for the SIG P320’s takedown safety to not seat properly due to tolerance variances. During reassembly, the factory lubrication may have an impact on how components move.
The Fix:
Follow these steps to fix the issue:
- Make sure that all of the parts are free of dirt and extra grease.
- Check the slide lock, takedown safety, and takedown lever for this problem.
- The regions where the takedown lever and takedown safety contact should be lubricated with a suitable firearm lubricant.
- Do not over-lubricate.
- Pay particular attention to how the takedown safety tab is seated into the slide lock hole’s center during reassembly.
- Before completely reassembling the gun, make sure it is seated correctly.
- After reassembly, test the system’s functionality. Look for binding or alignment problems.
5. Magazine Movement:
You might notice that the magazine of your SIG P320 is having some play. When filled, the movement becomes quite apparent.
The frame of the SIG P320 may already be somewhat flexible. There can be a little play or movement as a result. It is a regular problem because the magazine well is made to handle different magazine sizes.
A magazine’s fit could also be a little looser in some cases due to design differences.
The Fix:
You should observe the gun’s performance after firing 100 to 200 rounds. It is well known that SIG rifles can withstand some magazine movement without impairing operation.
Check the magazines for any indications of bending. Verify the condition of the magazine followers and springs.
You should also contact SIG Sauer customer service if you are still worried. They may inspect your P320 and offer a proper treatment.
User Feedback on SIG P320
The SIG P320 is commonly known for its unintentional discharge issue. Many people have experienced this problem. While some think that it is a user issue, SIG has offered an upgrade for the P320 models.
One user from the Handgun Forum has said that his SIG P320 fired in the holster. You can take a look at this video for an in-depth story.
People are still concerned about the SIG P320. As you can see in this post from NY Gun Forum, some have also defended the gun. Most people say that their SIG P320 has never had any big issues.
Top 3 Alternative Guns of SIG P320
Here are the best alternatives for the SIG P320:
- Walther PPQ M2
– The Walther PPQ M2 has a 15+1 round magazine capacity and a 9mm Parabellum chamber.
– It features a quick defense trigger system.
– The gun is quite accurate and has good ergonomics like the P320. - Canik TP9 Elite SC
– The Canik TP9 Elite SC features a striker-fired trigger system.
– It has a polymer frame and steel slide.
-Offers 12+1 round magazine capacity. - Smith & Wesson M&P 9
– Has a consistent trigger pull because of the striker-fired trigger.
– Supports 9mm Luger with a capacity ranging from 10 to 17 rounds.
– Comes with a three-dot, white, or night sights.
Read Also: Glock 42 vs SIG P365: Comparing the Micro-Compact Pistols
Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs]
What distinguishes the SIG P320 from the M17/M18?
The P320’s military variants are the M17 and M18. They differ in the coyote brown finish and the trigger.
What are the different models of the SIG P320?
There are 30 models. The significant ones are P320 Compact, Carry, Full-Size, XCompact Spectre, XCarry Spectre, and XFull-Size Spectre.
Why is the SIG P320’s design modular?
You may easily alter the grip size, caliber, and other components thanks to the modular design.
What accessories are available for the SIG P320?
You can find lasers, sights, lights, holsters, magazines, and compensators for the SIG P320.
What should I do if the cycling problem on my SIG P320 persists?
Make sure everything is properly cleaned and lubricated.
