A concealable pistol with good firepower is something that many shooters desire. Sig Sauer is a major brand that produces such versatile and compact guns. Two of its models, SIG P230 and SIG P365, particularly stand out for their minimalist, refined designs and accuracy. If you've been wanting to invest in one of them but cannot make a choice, this SIG P230 vs. P365 comparison is here to guide you. Besides comparison, it will also prove insightful if you want to learn more about the compact weapons produced by the company.
SIG P230 Vs. P365: Specs
The major specifications of the P230 and P365 are given below to help you understand their size and weight.| Feature (Measurement in Inches) | SIG P230 | SIG P365 |
| Type of Gun | Semi-Automatic | Semi-Automatic |
| Caliber | .32 ACP / .380 ACP | 9MM Luger (Also Available in .380 ACP) |
| Weight (OZ.) | 18.5 | 18.5 |
| Length | 6.6 | 5.8 |
| Height | 4.7 | 4.3 |
| Width | 1.2 | 1.0 |
| Barrel’s Length | 3.6 | 3.1 |
| Action Type | Double Action or Single Action (DA/SA) | Striker-Fired |
| Safety | Manual | Manual Safety is Optional |
| Sights | Fixed Sights | XRAY3 Day or Night Sights |
SIG P230 Vs. P365 Capacity
The differences in capacities are apparent. Sig Sauer P230 can hold 8 + 1 rounds for .32 ACP. With .380 ACP, it can hold 7 + 1 rounds. In contrast, SIG P365 chambered in 9mm Luger holds a 10-round flush fit magazine and a 10-round extended magazine. The capacity can be bumped up to 13 or 16 rounds with a 12-round or 15-round extended magazine.
If you need a gun with good firepower during emergencies, P365 will be a better option than P230. P230 will best serve as a backup.
Differences in Trigger
Mechanism SIG P230 was designed before P365. As a result, its trigger mechanism isn't as advanced or comfortable as the latter. The double-action trigger is heavier than the double-action/single-action trigger of P365.
P230's trigger pull weight is 10 lbs., making it heavier than the P365's 6 lbs trigger pull weight. So, it's hard to achieve a crisp trigger on P230 compared to P365.
The trigger of both models is machined from stock. However, the trigger action for P365 is better. It has some takeup, a dull break, and a clear wall. The trigger contributes much to the accuracy of the gun while running it.
In contrast to the P365's optional ambidextrous manual safety, the P230 has a decocking lever. It also has an external hammer for added protection and control.
Differences in Accuracy
The accuracy of both SIG P230 and P365 is good despite having different designs. SIG P230 has a fixed barrel for better accuracy and less recoil. This feature contributes to shot-to-shot consistency. Also, the trigger offers greater control, which makes accuracy easier to achieve. Moreover, you can boost the precision of the pistol using aftermarket sights.
If you don't need bullseye-match accuracy for a micro compact gun, P365 will appeal to you. You can grip it tightly and be sure of firing accurate shots at 10, 15, 20, and even 50-yard distances.
The improved design of the trigger, with a smooth pull and clean break, also allows you to fire accurate shots. Additionally, the rear sights are pushed far back in P365, which increases its sight radius and adds to its accuracy.
Reliability between SIG P230 Vs. P365
There are no big differences between the reliability of P230 and P365. The former comes with full-size night sights and functions flawlessly. Other features that contribute to its reliability include the fixed barrel design, a thick yet comfortable grip, and reduced recoil absorption. There are no major issues related to jamming and misfires. P230's blowback action is also simple, leading to a consistent operation.
SIG P365 is also quite reliable and shows no ejection or firing issues. Using it, you can fire 200 rounds straight. It has even shown a great performance during torture test, which involves firing over 100,000 rounds. The gun malfunctioned only two times.
Note that to minimize reliability issues with P230 and P365, you should clean the gun after firing. Also, ensure you have a proper grip.
Recoil Differences
SIG P230 has a comfortable recoil because of its fixed barrel design. Its low-profile, lightweight alloy frame and wood or polymer grips also contribute to recoil management. The rear strap and stocks spread the forces of recoil over a bigger area in the hands. This leads to a comfortable shooting experience.
Similarly, Sig Sauer P365's recoil is also manageable, but for a different reason. It is designed to offer a firm grip even when using a flush magazine with a handle. The ergonomics of the grip are suitable for people with small hands, especially women, and the moderate weight makes the shooting comfortable for me.
You can easily shoot 200 rounds without feeling any soreness. The gun's ergonomics thus help in lesser recoil and accurate shooting. This is impressive, mainly because P365 is smaller than P230.
Variations in the Ergonomics of the SIG P365 and P230
When talking of ergonomics, the major focus is on the size of the gun, how controllable it is, and the grip design. P230 has a lightweight frame and a comfortable grip. The lightweight design makes handling easier. Also, the magazine release and safety controls are user-friendly and intuitive. The only downside is the heavy trigger pull, which is stiff.
SIG P365 has a contoured grip, leading to a secure hold. Even with flush-fit magazines, it is easy to get a proper hold. The textured grip offers traction but is not abrasive.
However, the grip is far better for people with small hands. Users with larger hands may find it difficult to obtain a firmer hold. The magazine release of this pistol is triangular in shape. You can reach and activate it easily. Although it allows one-handed operation, you may feel the recoil impulse while firing, especially in your weak hand.
Differences in Concealability
Both P365 and P230 are ideal for concealed carry. However, since the P365 is a subcompact pistol and the P230 is a compact gun, the former is more suited for CCW. It has a pint-sized stature but a double-digit capacity. This, combined with the user's ability to upgrade its grip, slides, and triggers, makes it the perfect choice as a concealed-carry weapon.
The SIG P230's narrow frame also conceals it. Still, its size is slightly larger than P365. A good Inside-the-waistband (IWB) holster will make it easy for you to cover these guns entirely.
Final Take on SIG P230 Vs. P365
SIG P230 and P365 have unique advantages for different users. With a fixed-barrel design that mitigates recoil, the P230 is a capable backup gun. It is also a concealable gun with reasonable accuracy. But with a heavier trigger pull and less capacity than most semi-auto options, you are limited.
The structure of the P365 is updated. This consists of a trigger system with less projection and a higher-capacity magazine. It can be held properly, and you get a comfortable shoot experience from it. The small size allows for more concealability with a good IWB holster. It has many aftermarket options available, so you can tailor it to your likes. In the end, no specific gun scores way more than the other. P230 is a more traditionally designed gun, while P365 is a modern and upgraded version. You should try out both and see which suits you better.
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