Firearm: SIG Sauer P320 XCompact (MSRP: $679.99)
We’re returning to the SIG Sauer P320 XCompact in this episode to cover one of the features that got overlooked previously. SIG’s unique fire-control group, first seen in the hammer-fired P250, allows the user to easily remove the serialized part and transfer it into a different grip frame. With the P250, it was touted as a way to change calibers and handgun size; with the P320 the focus has been more on fitting the pistol properly to the hand and keeping it there.
One advantage of the removable fire-control group is that it allows the frame to be a separate item not legally considered a firearm – if you grab a soldering iron and try your hand at stippling, doing a lousy job means you’re out $50. You haven’t ruined a pistol, nor will your mistakes require extensive gunsmith intervention. We’re starting to see aftermarket grips like those from Wilson Combat and Amend2 – which allow you to use P365 magazines with a P320 slide.
On its own, the P320 XCompact is still a great choice for concealed carry. With 15-round capacity, three-finger grip and accessory rail, the P320 is large enough to handle the duties of a full-size gun at a slightly more carry-friendly size. Add in the X-series additions of XRAY3 night sights, excellent flat-face trigger and rear optic plate, and clearly the XCompact is designed to run well on the range, too. As with many other firearms of this type, it can make use of larger-capacity magazines designed for its bigger brother, from the standard 17-round version that protrudes slightly to a 21-round variant that protrudes significantly.
Add in the 800-pound gorilla of being the current U.S. military sidearm – and gaining acceptance across the U.S. and abroad as both a duty and carry pistol – and finding accessories for the P320 is easy. Well, once the current firearm sales frenzy settles down a bit, that is. Aftermarket parts are plentiful; more are entering the market seemingly each day, and it’s a safe bet that interest in the P320 isn’t going to subside anytime soon.
Holster: N8 Tactical KO-1 (MSRP: $34.99)
As we mentioned above, there are a lot of options for the SIG P320, and one of the newest holster options is the N8 Tactical KO-1. Representing the company’s first all-Kydex model, the KO-1 is a study in minimalism, with single-sheet construction and twin retention screws. The polymer clip is adjustable for cant, and can be worn kidney position inside-the-waistband or for appendix carry.
One area to note on the P320 holster, though, is the optics cut. While the KO-1 has a great sight channel for the standard iron sights, the holster does impinge on the mounting area of the slide. If you’re planning on adding a Romeo 1 Pro or other red dot sight, another holster fit built for a red-dot-equipped pistol will be necessary.
Flashlight: LA Police Gear Recon Rechargeable (MSRP: $69.99)
Rounding out this utilitarian kit is an LA Police Gear Recon Rechargeable flashlight. Offering up to 1,000 lumens with an impressive 2-hour run time, the Recon Rechargeable uses an 18650 battery that’s replenished via a standard micro-USB charging cable accessed by removing the tailcap. Four modes are available – high, medium, low and strobe – with selection of each mode accomplished in sequence by pressing the tailcap.
The Recon Rechargeable comes with a lanyard, nylon sheath, USB cable and extra tailcap button and O-ring. There’s a pocket clip for daily carry and the light is water- and drop-resistant. At 5.75 inches long and 3.2 ounce weight, it’s a little on the larger side, but certainly not excessive. If you’re looking for a basic, bright light it’s a solid choice.
