Amid growing scrutiny over the Sig Sauer P320 pistol platform, the firearms manufacturer released a strong statement reaffirming confidence in the weapon’s safety and reliability. The response follows multiple lawsuits alleging unintentional discharges, a temporary Air Force suspension, and a controversial memo from ICE suggesting a shift to Glock sidearms.
Sig Sauer’s July 29 statement directly addressed concerns sparked by a leaked internal DHS memo that appeared to end ICE’s authorization to carry any P320 models. The company clarified that “DHS has never raised any safety concerns about the P320” and confirmed that ICE has extended its contract with Sig Sauer for another two years. Sig also urged ICE to publicly release all testing data on the platform.
The statement followed a separate July 22 report noting that Air Force Global Strike Command had paused use of the M18 pistol, a P320 variant, after a fatal incident involving an Airman at F.E. Warren Air Force Base. Sig Sauer described the response as standard procedure and stated that the M17 and M18 remain in active use across all branches of the U.S. military.
“Contrary to several online reports,” the company said, “(P320 based) M17 and M18 pistols remain on active duty… defending freedom around the world.” Sig also expressed full cooperation with the Air Force’s investigation and emphasized its commitment to supporting military personnel.
As legal and public attention continues, Sig Sauer highlighted what it described as misinformation and sensationalism surrounding the pistol. The company reaffirmed its commitment to safety, stating, “The P320 CANNOT, under any circumstances, discharge without the trigger first being moved to the rear,” citing extensive testing by the U.S. military, federal and state law enforcement, and independent labs.
The state of New Hampshire recently passed additional legal protections for Sig Sauer, enhancing its defense under the federal Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA), as lawsuits continue to target the pistol platform.
