When comparing the SIG Sauer P320 and Glock 19, it’s crucial to be thorough and cover any questions you might have. It’s the Ford versus Chevy of the firearms world, and you’ll find loyal followers in both camps.
These two firearms have significant differences, and we’ll address both their strengths and neutral features to help you make an informed decision if you are in the market for a new pistol.
Concealed Carry
Size and Weight Comparison
When it comes to concealed carry, the SIG P320 X Compact is similar in size to the Glock 19. Both guns hold 15 rounds with flush-fit magazines and are similar in weight. For the record, the Glock 19 weighs in at 23.63 ounces unloaded, and the SIG P320 tips the scales at 25.8 ounces unloaded.
However, the Glock 19 is ever so slightly easier to conceal due to its quarter-inch shorter grip. For those with larger hands, the shorter grip of the SIG P320 X Compact might be a disadvantage, which we’ll discuss further in the ergonomics section.
Concealment Challenges
The SIG P320 X Carry and Standard variants have longer grips, making them harder to conceal despite their two extra rounds of capacity. In my opinion, the added difficulty in concealment isn’t justified by the slight increase in capacity.
Capacity
Magazine Capacity
Both the SIG P320 X Compact and Glock 19 hold 15 rounds, but the SIG P320’s modular chassis design allows for easy grip module changes. This means you can switch out the grip for different P320 models, enhancing its versatility. This modularity is a standout feature of the SIG P320, allowing for easy customization and adaptability.
Ergonomics
Frame and Modularity
The Glock frames, particularly in Gen 4 and Gen 5 models, offer modularity with backstraps to adjust the grip size. The SIG P320 frames don’t have built-in modulators but are easily replaceable for around $50. This makes them a great option for customization without devaluing the firearm.
Grip Feel and Length
The standard SIG P320 grip fills the hand well, while the X series grip feels similar to a Glock. The SIG P320 X Compact has a shorter grip, making it less comfortable for larger hands compared to the Glock 19. The bore axis on the SIG P320 is higher, which affects the grip feel and overall handling.
Texture
Glock handgrip textures vary by generation, with Gen 3 being slick, Gen 4 a hybrid, and Gen 5 more aggressive. The SIG P320 has a consistent, effective texture across its models, comparable to the Glock Gen 5 in terms of grip security.
Manipulation and Serrations
The SIG P320 slides have better manipulation features with aggressive serrations and a chamfered front edge, making press checks and slide cycling easier compared to the Glock 19. Glock slides vary, with some models lacking forward serrations, but overall, the SIG P320’s slide design is superior.
Sights
The SIG P320 X series comes with Siglite night sights, which are effective but not exceptionally bright. Glock offers plastic sights or Ameriglo sights, the latter being superior with a bright orange front sight. The Ameriglo sights on Glock provide a better sight picture, but both brands offer reliable options.
Safety Features
Trigger Differences
Glock triggers vary by generation, with Gen 3 being stiff, Gen 4 a hybrid, and Gen 5 offering a rolling break. The SIG P320 has two trigger shoe options, flat and curved, with a feel similar to Glock Gen 4 triggers. Both brands offer decent triggers, but personal preference will dictate which is better for you.
Slide Lock
The SIG P320’s slide lock is smaller and less user-friendly than Glock’s, especially the Gen 5 models, which offer ambidextrous controls. Glock’s slide locks are easier to manipulate, giving them an edge in this area.
Magazine Release
The SIG P320’s magazine release is slightly better due to its metal magazines, providing a more positive release compared to Glock’s polymer magazines. However, the SIG P320 Compact’s shorter grip may hinder magazine drops for those with larger hands.
Quality and Aftermarket
Build Quality
Glock generally has better build quality, especially in its frames, which feel more robust compared to the SIG P320. The SIG‘s slides are well-made, but the frames feel cheaper and less durable.
Aftermarket Support
Glock leads in aftermarket support, but SIG is catching up. SIG appears to be supporting aftermarket manufacturers more actively, leading to a growing market for P320 accessories.
Aesthetics
Aesthetically, opinions on the SIG Sauer P320 and Glock 19 vary widely among firearm enthusiasts. The SIG P320 X Carry is often praised for its sleek and modern design, which many find visually appealing and well-balanced.
In contrast, the Glock 19, with its utilitarian and minimalist design, is seen as a classic that has remained largely unchanged, garnering respect for its functional aesthetics. To throw in my own two cents worth, when I think of Glock I immediately think of “block”. That doesn’t mean they are bad; they’re not. They’re just kind of blocky.
The SIG P320 Compact, similar in size to the Glock 19, also maintains a straightforward and clean look, making it competitive in terms of visual appeal to the SIG crowd.
Shooting Experience
Due to their bore axes, shooting these guns provides different experiences. The Glock 19 has a lower bore axis, resulting in a fast, almost violent slide cycle. The SIG P320 has more muzzle rise but less violent recoil. Newer shooters might find the SIG P320 easier to handle, while experienced shooters may prefer the Glock 19’s speed.
Cost Comparison
Glock 19s typically range from $500 to $620, while SIG P320s range from $544 to $780.
The SIG has a slight advantage in baseline models due to included sights, but Glock’s magazines are cheaper and more readily available. Both brands’ high-end models offer good value, but SIG’s modularity adds appeal.
A Sniper’s Opinion
I personally would choose the Glock because it’s lighter and has a ton of after market mods. I mostly love the rubber grip and forward mounted Surefire (to point, blind and shoot).”, says former Navy SEAL sniper course manager, and SOFREP News Team CEO, Brandon Webb
Conclusion
Both the SIG Sauer P320 and Glock 19 are excellent firearms with unique features. The Glock 19 excels in concealment, build quality, and aftermarket support, while the SIG P320 offers superior modularity and slide design. Your choice will depend on personal preferences, hand size, and specific needs. Both guns are reliable and capable, ensuring you can’t go wrong with either option.
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Disclaimer: SOFREP utilizes AI for image generation and article research. Occasionally, it’s like handing a chimpanzee the keys to your liquor cabinet. It’s not always perfect and if a mistake is made, we own up to it full stop. In a world where information comes at us in tidal waves, it is an important tool that helps us sift through the brass for live rounds.
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