SIG Sauer P320 Under Fire: The Truth Behind the Lawsuits, Injuries, and Legal Fallout
Aug 3rd 2025
? What’s Going On With the SIG P320?
The SIG Sauer P320, once touted as the future of modular handguns and adopted as the M17/M18 by the U.S. military, is now the center of an escalating controversy. From uncommanded discharges to multi-million dollar lawsuits and even temporary bans by law enforcement, the P320 is making headlines—and not for the right reasons.
As a leading firearms dealer staying ahead of the curve, we’re breaking down what you need to know about the current fallout surrounding the P320—and what it means for gun owners, departments, and buyers.
? The P320: A Quick Overview
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Manufacturer: SIG Sauer
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Launched: 2014
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Calibers: 9mm, .357 SIG, .40 S&W, .45 ACP
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Claim to Fame: Modular chassis system and military adoption as M17/M18
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Known Issue: Potential for accidental discharges without trigger pull
Initially praised for its innovation, the P320 became SIG’s flagship striker-fired pistol. It quickly gained traction with military contracts and civilian buyers—but since 2017, it's also been plagued with claims of firing while holstered or at rest, prompting lawsuits and safety upgrades.
⚖️ 2025 Fallout: Lawsuits, Injuries, and Government Action
✅ Major Legal Developments:
? June 2025 – Georgia Officer Wins $2.35 Million
A jury awarded a Georgia law enforcement officer $2.35M after his holstered P320 discharged and struck him in the leg without him ever touching the trigger.
? August 1, 2025 – ICE Officer Lawsuit Revived
A federal appeals court ruled that an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer’s lawsuit must move forward. The agent claims his SIG P320 fired while holstered, and the court said expert testimony on design defects is admissible.
? July 28, 2025 – Houston Officer Sues After Injury
A Houston police officer joined the growing list of plaintiffs after a holstered P320 discharged into his ankle. He alleges the weapon fired due to design flaws—not operator error.
? Law Enforcement Agencies Back Away
U.S. Air Force Global Strike Command Pauses Use of M18s
After an airman's death and growing safety concerns, the Air Force has suspended the use of P320-based M18 pistols in certain commands. Personnel are temporarily switching to rifles as all sidearms undergo inspection.
Other Agencies Reconsider
Police departments in multiple states are reviewing the safety of P320s in duty use. Some have halted further purchases pending internal reviews and ongoing litigation.
?️ New Hampshire Passes Immunity Law for SIG Sauer
In May 2025, SIG Sauer’s home state passed a controversial law shielding the company from liability lawsuits related to the external safety features (or lack thereof) of its pistols. This came amid mounting lawsuits and public scrutiny.
Critics argue this move prioritizes SIG’s legal defense over public safety. Plaintiffs' attorneys say the law undercuts accountability for serious injuries.
? Why Is the P320 Controversial?
The central issue lies in the P320's lack of a manual safety in most configurations and alleged defects in the striker system. While SIG insists the pistol is safe and has passed rigorous testing, dozens of officers, federal agents, and civilians claim their P320s fired without trigger pulls.
Notable Complaints Include:
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Firing while holstered
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Firing while being reholstered
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Trigger actuation from external pressure via holsters or gear
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Discharges during physical activity without trigger interaction
SIG offered a voluntary upgrade in 2017, adding a lighter trigger and mechanical disconnector—but it hasn’t stopped the lawsuits.
? Trending Now: P320 Lawsuit Searches and Public Interest
With Google Trends showing sharp spikes for terms like:
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"SIG P320 accidental discharge"
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"P320 lawsuit 2025"
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"M18 pistol banned"
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"SIG Sauer immunity law"
It’s clear that this story isn’t going away.
Gun owners, LEOs, and legal observers alike are closely watching new developments, making this topic a high-value SEO opportunity for anyone in the firearms industry.
? What Does This Mean for Buyers?
Should You Avoid the P320?
That depends.
If you already own a P320, check if your model was part of the 2017 upgrade program. If not, SIG may still offer it free of charge. Consider holster type, carry method, and situational use—especially if it’s your primary duty weapon.
Should You Buy a P320 Now?
For civilians, the P320 still offers modularity, accuracy, and reliability—but the stigma of ongoing lawsuits may impact resale value, department approval, and training policies.
For agencies, a cost-benefit analysis of safety concerns, liability exposure, and existing sidearm alternatives (like the Glock 17/19 or M&P 2.0) is warranted.
? Key Dates to Watch
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Aug 2017 | SIG issues voluntary safety upgrade after drop-fire claims |
| May 23, 2025 | NH passes law shielding SIG from liability |
| June 2025 | $2.35M awarded in Georgia P320 holstered discharge case |
| July 28, 2025 | Houston officer sues after uncommanded ankle injury |
| Aug 1, 2025 | Appeals court revives ICE agent’s P320 lawsuit |
| July 2025 | Air Force suspends M18 use in Global Strike Command |
? Final Thoughts: What Happens Next?
The SIG P320's design may remain unchanged for now, but public pressure, court rulings, and agency policies will likely determine its long-term future.
For now, the P320 remains both one of the most advanced and most debated pistols in modern history.
As this story develops, we’ll keep our readers and customers up to date with honest, real-world information—grounded in safety, transparency, and respect for the 2A community.
? Share Your Thoughts
Have you experienced any issues with the P320? Are you considering switching sidearms?
Drop your comments below—or contact us directly if you’re looking for safe, duty-ready alternatives.