The Sig Sauer P320 has rapidly become a favorite among both law enforcement and civilian shooters, and the addition of an optic further enhances its versatility and performance. This in-depth guide explores everything you need to know about the Sig P320 with an optic, from choosing the right optic to mastering its use.
Understanding the Sig P320's Optic-Ready Platform
The Sig P320's popularity stems from its modularity and adaptability. The optic-ready versions are specifically designed to accommodate a wide range of red dot sights (RDS) without requiring modifications like milling the slide. This makes adding an optic a relatively straightforward process, a significant advantage over pistols requiring custom work. Key features of the optic-ready P320 include:
- Pre-cut slide: The slide comes pre-milled with a mounting plate, simplifying installation and ensuring a secure fit for the chosen optic.
- Variety of optic cuts: Different P320 models offer various optic cuts to accommodate different footprint sizes (e.g., Trijicon RMR, Leupold DeltaPoint Pro, Holosun). This ensures compatibility with a broad range of optics.
- Co-witness options: Many optic-ready P320s allow for co-witnessing, meaning the iron sights remain visible even with the optic mounted. This provides a backup sighting system should the optic malfunction.
Choosing the Right Optic for Your P320
Selecting the correct optic is crucial. Consider these factors:
- Footprint: Ensure the optic's footprint is compatible with your P320 model's slide cut.
- Weight: Heavier optics can affect the balance of the pistol.
- Battery life: A long battery life is essential for reliability.
- Durability: The optic needs to withstand recoil and potential drops.
- Magnification: Most users opt for a non-magnified red dot for close-quarters situations, though some prefer a low-magnification option for longer ranges.
Popular Optic Choices for P320:
| Optic Model | Footprint | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trijicon RMR | RMR | Rugged, reliable, excellent clarity | Relatively expensive, shorter battery life |
| Leupold DeltaPoint Pro | DPP | Excellent clarity, good battery life | Can be more expensive than other options |
| Holosun 507C/507K | Various | Affordable, good battery life, robust | Some users report less clarity than others |
| Shield RMSc | RMSc | Compact, lightweight, good battery life | Smaller window than some other options |
Installing Your Optic on a Sig P320
While the process is generally straightforward, proper installation is key. Improper installation can lead to malfunctions or even injury. Refer to your optic's and your P320's instruction manuals. Key steps generally include:
- Preparing the mounting plate: Some optics require specific mounting plates. Ensure you have the correct one.
- Mounting the optic: Securely attach the optic to the mounting plate.
- Attaching the plate to the slide: Carefully align and fasten the plate to the pre-cut slide.
- Zeroing the optic: This critical step ensures the optic is properly sighted-in for accurate shooting.
Mastering the Sig P320 with Optic
Once the optic is installed, practice is essential to master its use. Dry firing (with an unloaded firearm and dummy rounds) allows for familiarization without expending ammunition. Moving onto live fire exercises helps refine your shooting technique with the added optic.
Sight Picture and Aiming
The sight picture with an RDS is different than traditional iron sights. Focus on the red dot, aligning it with your target. Proper head positioning and consistent grip are crucial for accuracy.
Zeroing Your Optic
Zeroing is the process of adjusting the optic to ensure it's accurately aligned with your pistol's barrel. This involves firing test shots at various distances and making adjustments until the point of impact aligns with the point of aim. Different optics have different adjustment mechanisms.
Case Study: Law Enforcement Adoption of the Sig P320 with Optic
Many law enforcement agencies have adopted the Sig P320 with an optic due to its improved accuracy and target acquisition capabilities, particularly in high-stress situations. The added speed and precision offered by the red dot sight can be critical in self-defense or law enforcement scenarios. These agencies often select robust and reliable optics with long battery life for enhanced reliability.
Conclusion: The Sig P320 with Optic – A Powerful Combination
The Sig P320 with an optic represents a significant advancement in handgun technology. Its modular design, combined with the enhanced accuracy and speed provided by red dot sights, makes it a highly versatile and effective firearm for both self-defense and competitive shooting. However, remember that proper selection, installation, and practice are crucial for safe and effective use.