The handgun market is dominated by several compact carry pistols, each with new and innovative features. Among them, the Sig P320 and the Glock 19 shine as intuitive pistols suited for critical self-defense and accurate shooting. However, things get tougher when you need to strictly choose a specific option. A comprehensive Sig P320 vs Glock 19 comparison yields insights on ergonomics, sights, accuracy, recoil, and reliability that will help you pinpoint the ideal gun for yourself. Let us explore these aspects below.
Sig P320 VS Glock 19 Size
The Sig P320 has a heavier frame than the Glock 19. The largest of all Sig P320 variants is 5.5 inches tall, 8 inches long, and 1.4 inches wide. The Glock 19 Gen5 variant is 7.36 inches in length and 4.99 inches tall. The Sig P320 model closest in size to the G19 is the P320 Compact. It is 7.2 inches long, 5.2 inches tall, and 1.4 inches wide with a 3.9-inch barrel.
The table below compares the size of the compact and full-size Sig P320 models and the Glock 19 Gen 5.
| Specs | Glock 19 | SIG P320 Full Size | SIG P320 Compact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight without mag | 21.4 | 29.5 | 24 |
| Weight with an empty mag | 23.9 | 29.4 | 26.7 |
| Weight with a full mag (in Oz) | 29.4 | 36.6 | 33.3 |
| Height (in inches) | 4.99 | 5.5 | 5.3 |
| Length (in inches) | 6.99 | 8 | 7.2 |
| Grip width (in inches) | 1.18 | 1.33 | 1.4 |
| Width of slide (in inches) | 1 | 4.7 | 1.05 |
| Mag capacity | 15+1 | 17+1 | 15+1 |
| Sights | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Modular grip | No | Yes | Yes |
| Caliber | 9mm Luger | 9mm Luger | 9mm Luger |
| Caliber conversion | No | Yes | Yes |
| Trigger shape | Slightly curved | Flat | Flat |
Sig P320 VS Glock 19 Ergonomics
When looking at the gun ergonomically, the Sig P320 proves to be superior to the Glock 19. This is largely due to its modular framework, which allows you to swap the slide, barrel, and Fire Control Unit of the gun. You can modify the pistol's size and grip to fit your needs.
This high level of modularity is not observable in the Glock 19. Although it is comfortable enough for many, the design is more utilitarian. For example, the finger grooves enforce a specificity to the grip, and it otherwise requires modification. It makes the pistol just well enough to cater to immediate needs.
Differences in Magazine Capacity and Caliber
The Glock 19 has a magazine capacity of 15+1 rounds with the standard mag. P320 has a slightly more significant capacity, at 17+1 rounds with the standard mag. Capacity is extendable, no matter the pistol. You can use a smaller 10-round magazine for the G19 if you don't need much capacity or increase it to 17, 19, 24, 31, and even 33 rounds.
Among the various Sig P320 models, the P320 9mm Extended Magazine gives you a 30-round magazine capacity. You can use P320 Compact with a 15-round magazine or P320-M17/M18 9mm for a 21-round magazine.
Trigger Action
Both the Glock 19 and the Sig P320 have a striker-fired trigger. However, there is a difference in how it works. In the Sig P320, the trigger is cocked at rest. When you pull the trigger, it will not draw the striker backward to any specific distance but will only release it. A sear keeps the striker under constant spring tension.
In the Glock 19, the trigger bar engages the back portion of the firing pin, so the pin does not move forward. When you pull the trigger rearward, the trigger bar lowers down the safety ramp and the firing pin launches. The trigger bar then moves upward and re-engages the firing pin.
Another difference is in the shape of the trigger. While the SIG P320-XTENMAX has a flat trigger, the Glock 19 has a curved trigger. What you choose depends on your personal preferences.
Sights and Optics
When it comes to sights and optics, the Sig P320's stock sights score higher than the Glock 19's plastic sights. The P320 has Siglite night sights installed. They offer increased visibility in dim light. The green front sight contributes to brightness. The SIG cuts are all compatible with its proprietary red dot optic, the ROMEO X PRO, or Leupold DPP optics. The latest Pro Cut is also compatible with Trijicon RMR cut optics.
The Glock 19's factory sights can easily break under force, and so should be replaced with aftermarket Glock sights. However, the latest G19 Gen5 MOS GLOCK enhances the gun with a Modular Optic System (MOS). The slide of the G19 is precision machined for a mounting system. It is compatible with many popular optic sights.
Sig P320 VS Glock 19 Accuracy
There is no clear winner when we compare Sig P320 vs. Glock 19 for accuracy. This is because of the similarity in the length of the barrel and sight radius and the striker-fired design of the trigger.
A common observation is that the P320 gives better results in precision tests with tight grouping than the Glock 19. The G19 shows impressive accuracy at short distances, especially within 25 yards. Some factors that facilitate Sig P320's accuracy include a light trigger, smooth trigger pull, custom grip, and less violent recoil associated with muzzle flip.
The G19's accuracy comes as a result of the improved Marksman Barrel for enhanced rifling, aggressive texture, and less recoil impulse. Keep in mind that the Glock 19 is built for reliability more than accuracy. So, it has built-in tolerances, which reduces its accuracy but makes it the perfect gun to shoot in any dire condition.
Differences in Recoil Management
The ability to manage recoil is more in the Sig P320 than the Glock 19. The G19 is more compact than the P320, which naturally increases the felt recoil. However, with continued practice, proper grip, and stance, the ability to control recoil increases, and you can keep your rounds on target. If you want to make your experience better, do not forget to replace the recoil spring after every 5,000 to 8,000 rounds with the factory (not aftermarket) spring.
The higher weight and design of the Sig P320 distribute the recoil impulse throughout the gun. The muzzle rise is not as aggressive as the Glock 19. Moreover, the unique grip angle due to the modular design enables you to have tight control over the pistol and feel less impact of the muzzle rise.
Suitability for Concealed Carry
Both the Sig P320 and the Glock 19 are suitable for CCW. Between them, the Glock 19, with its smaller size, is more appropriate for concealed carry than the P320. The greater width, length, and barrel size of the Sig P320 make it a chunkier gun. If you really want to go with Sig Sauer, the P320 RXP Compact model will be ideal for CCW.
The Glock 19 is quite a popular gun for discrete carry and home defense. The compact design and the 9mm cartridge make it a reliable weapon for everyday use. Police officers and law enforcement authorities have used it for duty and undercover guns for many decades.
Sig P320 Vs. Glock 19: Which One to Choose?
The choice between Sig P320 and Glock 19 depends on several key things. These include how the grip of the gun feels in your hand, the extent of recoil you can handle, your usual shooting range, capacity requirement, and if you want a concealed-carry weapon.
The P320 is more customizable than the G19. You can experiment with its different models based on your carry method and other requirements. The Glock 19 is a proven, reliable gun for extended-duty use. It may not feel as ergonomic as the P320, but that does not make it less reliable and versatile, mainly because of the vast aftermarket support.
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