What is the best single-stack Sig Sauer?

Written by Mark Buff , GunZee founder and CEO.

Sig Sauer is well-known for crafting top-tier, polymer-framed pistols. Their single-stack handguns offer slim, compact design and reliable performance.

Quick links:

What is a single stack?

How to choose the right model?

If you carry your single-stack Sig or other pistol of choice in a rigid KYDEX holster, apply our holster pad and enjoy another level of CCW comfort!

What is a single stack?

The term “single stack” refers to a type of handgun magazine and, in some cases, the type of firearm that can accept a single stack magazine. Typically, micro and sub-compact handguns have a single-stack design since the grip is too narrow to accept a wider, double-stack magazine. Also, traditional 1911 design handguns are dubbed single-stack firearms.

In a single-stack magazine, the cartridges are stacked vertically in a single narrow column, allowing for a slimmer grip profile compared to double-stack magazines which stagger cartridges in two offset columns for higher capacity. The slimmer single-stack design prioritizes concealability and comfort over ammunition capacity.

The main downside of traditional single-stack firearms is a lower round count (typically fewer than 10 rounds). For those who value a slim profile above all else, it’s a sacrifice worth making.

Let’s highlight some of the best single-stack Sig Sauer pistols to help you determine which option is the best for your concealed carry needs.

Sig Sauer P238

Sig Sauer P238

Features	Details
Capacity	6 rounds
Caliber	.380 Auto
Barrel length	2.7”
Overall length	5.5”
Weight (unloaded)	15.2 oz
Sights	Siglite night sights

The P238 is Sig Sauer’s single-action semi-automatic pistol. It is an all-metal, compact pistol with an aluminum alloy frame and stainless steel slide. The P238 has a 1911-style single-action trigger and thumb safety along with a double-diamond wood or Hogue rubber grip.

This micro-compact pistol weighs just over 15 ounces unloaded, yet handles recoil very well for its size. Accuracy is excellent thanks to the Siglite night sights and single-action trigger pull. The magazine release is located on the left side of the firearm and is not reversible. It is made of metal and is of average size.

Though capacity is limited to 6 rounds of .380 ammunition, this thin, lightweight pistol excels as a deep concealment handgun for self-defense. It works best as a concealed carry gun for those who prefer an all-metal frame in a micro-compact size over polymer pistols.

This YouTube commenter loves his P238.

Sig Sauer P938

Sig Sauer P938.

Image source: https://www.sigsauer.com/p938-sas2b-micro-compact.html

Features	Details
Capacity	6+1 rounds
Caliber	9mm
Barrel length	3.0”
Overall length	5.9”
Weight (unloaded)	16 oz
Sights	Siglite night sights

The Sig Sauer P938 is constructed from durable aluminum for a lightweight 16-ounce carry weight unloaded, and offers single-stack versatility in an ultra-compact frame. The single-action trigger delivers a clean and crisp break for tight groupings downrange, while the slim grip frame enables shooters with smaller hands to achieve a firm grip.

An integrated beavertail wedge ensures high grip closeness to the bore axis, utilizing a high cut under the trigger guard to mitigate felt recoil. Available in manual safety and decocker-only models, the P938 provides single-action reliability and accuracy in a discreet, easily concealed package ready for everyday carry needs.

Despite its size, the P938 still manages 6+1 and 7+1 9mm capacity in compact and extended magazines respectively. It is an ideal subcompact 9mm for new shooters looking to gain proficiency in a compact platform before moving to a full-sized sidearm.

On a review of the P938 from the Firearms of America YouTube channel, the reviewer thinks the gun “works very well, it is very easy to operate, and is not hard to rack the slide at all.”

Sig Sauer P224

Features	Details
Capacity	6+1 rounds
Caliber	9mm
Barrel length	3.5”
Overall length	6.7”
Weight (unloaded)	29.4 oz
Sights	Contrast sights (tritium night sights optional)

The subcompact P224 has a shortened metal slide and grip to reduce overall size for easy concealment, yet retains the double-action/single-action functionality and open slide design of its larger P226 counterpart.

Weighing just under 30 ounces unloaded, the P224 is lightweight and versatile enough for uses ranging from a backup sidearm for police officers to a personal defense firearm for permit holders seeking firepower in a small, easy-to-carry package.

Despite reduced size, accuracy and shootability remain on par with duty-sized Sig Sauers. Accessory rails, tritium night sights, and extended magazines are also available for enhanced performance.

While suitable for concealed carry, the P224's truncated grip makes it better matched for shooters with smaller hands rather than those who require a full-size grip to control recoil effectively.

Sig Sauer P225

Features	Details
Capacity	8+1 rounds
Caliber	9mm
Barrel length	3.9”
Overall length	6.6”
Weight (unloaded)	20.5 oz
Sights	Windage adjustable iron sights

Originally designed in the 1970s for concealed carry police and civilian use, the Sig Sauer P225 is a historic and versatile single-stack 9mm. The all-metal frame showcases Sig's early ingenuity, maximizing accuracy in a compact and lightweight package.

The double-action/single-action functionality provides accurate shot placement thanks to a single-action trigger pull under 5 lbs when cocked. With an 8-round capacity and manual safety, the P225 established an impressive blueprint for concealed carry pistols to follow.

While manageable for most thanks to its ergonomic grip and durable steel frame, the P225 is an excellent option for concealed carriers with smaller hands seeking an accurate 9mm.

Sig Sauer P290RS

Features	Details
Capacity	6+1 rounds
Caliber	9mm
Barrel length	2.9”
Overall length	5.5”
Weight (unloaded)	20.5”
Sights	Contrast sights (night sights optional)

The Sig Sauer P290RS packs firepower into a remarkably small, lightweight package. Built on a streamlined polymer frame with a stainless steel slide, this 9mm pistol weighs less than 20 ounces unloaded yet delivers major stopping power from its double action/single action trigger.

The short barrel and grip enable the ultimate concealability, making the P290RS built to disappear under clothing with ease. Despite its diminished size, ergonomic checkering and an integrated finger grip extension on the 6-round magazine keep this micro-compact both shootable and controllable.

Low-profile SIGLITE night sights and an integrated accessory rail show the P290RS means business. The prioritization of compact, lightweight carry makes the P290RS an excellent concealed carry handgun for new permit holders and petite shooters.

How do I choose the right single-stack Sig Sauer?

Here are some of the important factors to consider when deciding which single-stack Sig is right for you:

Intended use. Will this be a deep concealment piece or a nightstand home defense gun? Daily carry places a premium on comfort and concealability, while a firearm used strictly for home protection will have different needs.
Shooting performance. A slimmer grip can slightly affect overall control. Test models to find the best fit for your hand size and recoil management needs. A longer sight radius can also improve accuracy.
Power. The smaller size and thinner profile of a single-stack pistol means less capacity and inherently lower power compared to full-size counterparts.
Capacity. Magazine size typically ranges from 6 to 10 bullets depending on the model. Consider the magazine size that best suits your needs for EDC or home defense.
Customization. Grip add-ons, sight options, rail mounts, and other customization capabilities may be an important consideration. Subcompacts have fewer accessory options than full-size Sigs.

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Sig Sauer FAQ

Which Sig does the FBI use?

The FBI uses the Sig Sauer P228 as a standard sidearm for their agents. This slim 9mm pistol builds on the acclaimed P226 model. It features a shortened slide and grip to enhance concealability while still offering a substantial 12+1 capacity that surpasses many compact handguns on the market.

Agents count on the P228 for robust stopping power and handling while qualifying in difficult concealed carry positions without compromising draw speed or weapon retention interactions. Its DA/SA functionality, familiar controls, and compatibility with existing holster systems make the P228 an excellent choice to replace the outgoing Smith & Wesson 3rd generation pistols still used by some FBI teams.

What is the thinnest 9mm single stack pistol?

The thinnest 9mm single stack is the SIG Sauer P938, at just over 1 inch wide. By utilizing lightweight aluminum alloy frames paired with steel slides, single action triggers, and just 6+1 standard capacity, the P938 minimizes bulk while still packing respectable 9mm firepower and trademark Sig accuracy into an easily concealable package.

Reducing moving parts needed for double action functionality helps the P938 claim top honors for avoiding printing, making it a popular choice for discreet IWB carry.

Which gun is better: the Glock 43 or the Sig P365?

The Glock 43 and Sig P365 are both excellent striker-fired pistols for concealed carry. The Glock offers a smooth, light trigger pull, and reliable function, while the slightly larger P365 features a higher 12+1 capacity with excellent control and accuracy in a reliably compact package.

For deep concealment, the Glock 43's slimmer profile may have an edge, but the P365 gives up little in shootability for its size. In just over an ounce more weight, the Sig packs impressive firepower with great shootability.

Which is the best Sig Sauer for concealed carry?

The P365 is considered one of the best Sig Sauer concealed carry handguns thanks to its petite size paired with class-leading 10+1 flush magazine capacity.

The combination of a compact build, superior firepower, and easy handling in a lightweight snag-free package redefines expectations of what a concealable 9mm can offer.

What is the best Sig gun for home defense?

Full-sized P226 and P229 Sig Sauer pistols chambered in high velocity 9mm or .40 S&W offer ideal capacity exceeding 15+1 rounds, as well as tack-driving accuracy and modular accessories to handle close-quarters defensive scenarios.

What grip size is ideal for female concealed carriers?

An excellent grip for women's concealed carrying balances comfort and shootability against concealability. Slimmer grips around 1 inch wide with a maximum hand spacing of 2.8-3 inches work well for petite hands while allowing a full 3-finger hold.

Compact grips with integrated finger grooves also help mitigate recoil while keeping the profile slim enough to avoid printing under clothing.

What kind of safeties should a good CCW gun have?

To minimize risk, an optimal concealed carry gun should feature both a drop safety to prevent firing during impacts and:

Manual thumb safety for enhanced control against unintentional discharge
Grip safety that requires proper hand positioning to fire
Loaded chamber indicator allowing tactile or visual confirmation of round readiness
Integrated trigger safety to block firing pin action unless trigger is fully pressed

Why is the Sig P365 so popular?

Despite micro-compact dimensions, the P365 delivers 10-round magazine capacity in a flush-fitting magazine, with a slick snag-free profile, and excellent ergonomics and concealability—a previously unattainable balance earning it widespread popularity.

Do Sig Sauer pistols have good grips for control and comfort?

Many Sig Sauer pistol models are designed with excellent, comfortable grips to enhance shooter control. Aggressive grip textures, optimized grip angles, and ergonomic curves allow a solid yet comfortable full-hand hold. This tighter non-slip grip lets the shooter more easily manage recoil for faster follow-up shots. The P365 concealed carry model has an excellent, comfortable grip design allowing secure control in a micro-compact platform.

What sight options are available on Sig pistols?

Many popular Sig Sauer handgun models come optics ready for easy mounting of reflex sights from partners like Leupold and Romeo. Iron sights on duty models feature glowing tritium vials for low-light visibility. The P320-M18 variant has distinct XRAY3 Day/Night iron sights. Some consumers add aftermarket fiber optics or Charger rear sights for enhanced sight pictures.

What holsters work best for carrying Sig Sauer P365 pistols?

The hugely popular Sig P365 concealed carry pistol has inspired great holster options for everyday carry. Durable KYDEX or hybrid leather/KYDEX IWB holsters retain their shape for a smooth draw while protecting the P365’s optics cut slide from sharp edges. Many top brands now offer P365-specific holsters that securely carry this pistol while avoiding potential slide bite.

Which single stack is the best handgun for women?

The P238 and P938 Sig Sauer models are excellent choices for female shooters looking for an easy-to-handle and conceal single-stack handgun. Their slim, lightweight polymer frames and smooth recoil make them comfortable picks that are still powerful enough for personal protection.

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.