What is the best 9mm Sig Sauer?

Written by Mark Buff, GunZee founder and CEO.

The perfect 9mm CCW balances concealability, capacity, and shootability. Sig Sauer offers several high quality concealed carry pistols in 9mm caliber—they disappear under clothing yet still bring enough ammo to get the job done.

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Why is 9mm popular?

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Why is 9mm so popular?

Here are a few of the main reasons why 9mm guns are popular choices for concealed carry:

Size and weight. 9mm guns and ammunition tend to be smaller and lighter than larger calibers like .45 and .40 S&W. This makes 9mm handguns generally more convenient and comfortable to carry concealed. Lighter guns are also less likely to sag a CCW holster or weigh down a belt.
Ammo capacity. The smaller size of 9mm rounds allows for higher ammo capacity in a similarly sized gun compared to larger calibers. More rounds available means more chances to land that important shot in a defensive encounter before having to reload.
Cost and availability. 9mm ammunition is one of the most commonly produced and sold handgun rounds in the USA. This vast supply makes 9mm rounds less expensive to buy, allowing for cheaper practice. The abundance of 9mm also makes it easier to find ammo, even if supplies are low.
Manageable recoil. Though not without recoil, 9mm chambered handguns tend to have softer shooting recoil than more powerful cartridges. Lower felt recoil makes it easier to make quick and accurate follow-up shots. It may also help smaller or less experienced shooters handle and shoot the gun effectively.
Stopping power. Modern 9mm bullet designs like hollow points have improved the rounds' ability to effectively stop threats. Though not as hard-hitting as larger calibers, most self-defense experts believe 9mm now offers adequate stopping power for concealed carry use if proper ammunition is used.

Sig Sauer is one of the most well-known manufacturers of 9mm handguns. With that being said, there is a wide variety to choose from, so how do you know which model best suits your needs?

We've picked the best 9mm Sig options for easy and reliable everyday carry.

Sig Sauer P365

Sig Sauer P365. Image source: https://www.sigsauer.com/p365-380.html

Features	Details
Overall length	5.8”
Barrel length	3.1”
Weight (unloaded)	17.8 oz
Width	1.0”
Capacity	10+1 rounds
Price (MSRP)	$499.99

The Sig Sauer P365 packs a 10+1 round capacity into a micro-compact pistol. At just 5.8 inches long and 1 inch wide, the nitron polymer-framed pistol conceals with ease. The high capacity for its tiny size comes thanks to a double-stack magazine configuration. A flush 10-round magazine keeps the P365 slim for carry purposes.

Despite the diminutive size, a textured polymer grip frame enables a secure hold and reasonable control. The nitrided carbon steel barrel and stainless steel slide assembly promote durability in the field. XRay3 day and night sights come standard to aid shooting in varied lighting.

A snag-free design, easily concealed size, striker-fired trigger, and the enviable reputation of Sig quality come together in the P365. This pistol presents a well-rounded micro-compact package optimized for discreet everyday carry, backed by Sig's proven reliability.

Sig Sauer P365XL

Features	Details
Overall length	6.6”
Barrel length	3.7”
Weight (unloaded)	18 oz
Width	1.0”
Capacity	12+1 rounds
Price (MSRP)	$599.99

The Sig Sauer P365XL expands the compact dimensions of the P365 micro pistol to boost handling and capacity. An elongated nitride-coated barrel and stainless steel slide come standard for enhanced aim and durability.

The frame gets stretched just enough to allow a full 3-finger grip, improved by undercuts and a more pronounced beavertail. The textured polymer frame soaks up recoil well despite the light 18-ounce weight.

While retaining a slim 1-inch width for carry concealment, 12-round flush-fit magazines boost firepower. Reliability holds up with consistent slide lockback thanks to the smooth internal striker assembly. The XL brings meaningful improvements in comfort and control over the P365 without a major sacrifice in concealability or reliability expected from Sig pistols.

Sig Sauer P229 Elite

P229 ELITE - COMPACT.

Image source: https://www.sigsauer.com/p229-elite-compact.html

Features	Details
Overall length	7.1”
Barrel length	3.9”
Weight (unloaded)	32 oz
Width	1.5”
Capacity	15+1 rounds
Price (MSRP)	$1,099.99

The P229 Elite Compact exemplifies Sig's remarkable accuracy and reliability in a concealable package. The one-piece ergonomic grips promote weapon retention through strings of rapid fire. A Short Reset Trigger enables faster return and follow-ups than typical DA/SA types while maintaining Sig's safety standards.

The pistol features a Nitron-finished stainless-steel slide and a black-anodized aluminum frame, making it a modern handgun with a light rail for mounting combat lights. The P229 Elite Compact is praised for its accuracy and smooth DA to SA transitions, making it a popular choice for personal defense and carry purposes. The pistol comes with two 15-round magazines.

At 32 ounces (unloaded), the P229 is too big for many folks. Then again, there are other shooters who love to pack full-size guns concealed.

Sig Sauer P226

Features	Details
Overall length	8.6”
Barrel length	4.4”
Weight (unloaded)	35 oz
Width	1.7”
Capacity	20+1 rounds
Price (MSRP)	$1,700.99

Although full-size guns are bulky, the Sig P226 shines as an optic-ready full-size 9mm well-suited for duty or home defense uses. A comfortable grip angle and control unit location enable smooth manipulation of ambidextrous controls using all trigger fingers. The frame sports aggressive texturing for positive weapon retention in any lighting conditions.

A beefier, taller slide comes standard for improved durability and sight radius to extend effective range. Full-height slide serrations facilitate easy racking while aiding press checks. Thicker, height serration slides balance quick sight acquisition with weight-mitigating recoil for faster follow-up shots.

This is the largest and heaviest handgun on our list measuring in at 35 ounces and 8.6” in length, so proper concealment may require some garment accommodation. With that being said, the P226 presents an excellent option as an accurate, high-capacity full-size defensive pistol. The thinner slide profile cuts bulk without sacrificing ruggedness, which serves to improve concealability.

Sig Sauer P320

Features	Details
Overall length	7.2”
Barrel length	4.7”
Weight (unloaded)	29.4 oz
Width	1.3”
Capacity	17+1 rounds
Price (MSRP)	$679.99

The Sig Sauer P320 is a highly regarded striker-fired pistol known for its versatility and modularity. It offers a comfortable grip and is available in various sizes, such as the compact variant, making it suitable for different hand sizes and shooting preferences.

Ambidextrous slide releases and reversible mag catch cater to both dominant hands. White dot contrast sights connect quickly on target with little shine to spoil concealment. A smooth-rolling break sets at 6 pounds from the factory, and can be easily adjusted to user preference.

Additionally, its modularity sets it apart from other handguns, allowing users to easily customize and adapt the pistol to their specific needs. The P320 is also known for its reliability and accuracy, making it a popular choice for both professional and civilian use.

Sig Sauer P938

Features	Details
Overall length	5.9”
Barrel length	3.0”
Weight (unloaded)	16.0 oz
Width	1.1”
Capacity	6+1 rounds
Price (MSRP)	$699.99

The Sig Sauer P938 is a single-action, semi-automatic pistol built on the trusted P238 platform, delivering accuracy and reliability with duty-caliber performance. It has an aluminum alloy frame and stainless steel slide.

The P938 comes with two magazines: a flush 6-round magazine and a 7-round magazine with an extended finger grip. It is a lower-capacity handgun, which is an important factor to consider when making an informed purchase.

The frame and slide of the P938 are made of metal, providing durability and a solid feel. The grip panels are available in three kinds of wood, Hogue G-10 Extreme composite, or rubber wrap-around in the "Sport" model.

The P938 is often compared to a mini 1911 due to its design and operation. It has been praised for its accuracy, reliability, and ease of concealment.

Other notable features include SigLite night sights, checkered grip panels, and a beveled magazine well for smooth reloads. Despite the all-metal construction, the P938 maintains a relatively lightweight, slender profile at 1.1 inches in width, making it a great CCW option.

If you plan to carry your P938 or other CCW in the IWB position, get our memory foam padding and take your everyday carry comfort to the next level!

Sig Sauer FAQ

What is the most accurate 9mm Sig?

The most accurate 9mm Sig is widely considered to be the P210 Target model. With a heavy steel frame and 6-7 pound crisp single action trigger, sub-2-inch groups at 25 yards are common for competent marksmen. The P210 achieved legendary Olympic and target shooting fame for its precision manufacturing.

What is the best Sig Sauer concealed carry handgun?

The P365 and P365XL rank among the top Sig concealed carry options. Their micro-compact sizes enable easy covering by clothing, yet still deliver 10+1 and 12+1 9mm capacity respectively. Rounded edges prevent printing while extended grips and slides improve control over the miniscule P365.

Why do SEALs use the P226?

The SEALs utilize the P226 due to its combat-ready durability aided by steel construction, reliability in adverse conditions like sand or water exposure, and accuracy benefiting team operations. The high magazine capacity and controlled recoil ensure SEALs can rapidly deliver multiple accurate shots if needed—critical for their missions.

Which is better: P320 or P365?

The lightweight and concealable P365 holds the edge for civilian carry. But for duty or tactical use, the P320 stands superior given its standalone serialized trigger group, full-size capacity of over 20 rounds, and ruggedness to withstand high round counts and abuse that surpasses the micro-compact P365.

Which is better: Beretta or Sig?

The choice between Beretta and Sig comes down largely to personal choice over mechanics. Both deliver combat-grade reliability and accuracy. Sigs feature superior ergonomic grip angles for most, but Beretta's open slide design aids reliability when dirty. The Beretta remains a legend, but Sigs are being more frequently adopted by law enforcement and military groups.

Does the P229 offer wider slides and grip panel options?

The full-length grip P229 frame accommodates compact or wider slides. Rubber grips and longer grip panels easily swap with the stock plastic grips, enabling ergonomic customization.

What trigger actions are available for Sig concealed carry weapons?

Popular Sig concealed carry pistols feature double-action triggers for the first heavy pull and crisp single action for all subsequent shots. Short-reach trigger kits shorten trigger travel to enhance rapid fire once on target after the draw.

What sight options come on the P365 micro-compact carry pistol?

The P365 carry frame ships by default with X-ray night sights featuring a tritium vial and phosphor lamp. An optional removable night sight rear plate makes swapping to different height flip-up sights simple for those wanting blacked-out rears.

About the Author

Mark Buff is the founder and CEO of GunZee. He is an ardent firearms enthusiast and has been carrying concealed for more than 15 years. He created GunZee to solve his own problem: that of uncomfortable KYDEX holsters. His patented GunZee memory foam holster pad makes inside-the-waistband carry super comfortable.