We have been trained to think that all 9mm striker-firer pistols need to have a polymer frame. The truth is metal frame, 9mm strike-firer pistols have always been a thing. The first—the original 9mm pistol—was the Luger P-08 introduced in 1908. Since I’ve been concealed carrying the most common metal frame striker-firer pistol was the Kahr K and MK steel frames guns. The weight the steel added to the Kahr pistols made shooting them more comfortable. Within the past few years, I can think of a bunch of metal-frame striker-firer pistols that have been introduced: The Walther PDP Steel Frame series, the RIA STK100 line and SIG with the AXG grip module for the P320 series guns.
This is the parts where I segue into the SIG P320. I’ve wanted to like the P320 but I had a hard time shooting the P320 with ease. I tried the M17 model and quickly moved up the P320 food chain to the XSeries with the tungsten-infused polymer grip module and the flat-face trigger. The XSeries was better, but I still needed to pay attention to perform well with the gun. And that was odd, because a handgun that I can shoot well—exceptionally well—without having to pay too much attention to detail is the SIG P226 Nitron. That grip was made for my hand. I wasn’t that jazzed when I heard about the P320 being given the AXG treatment. What the hell, third time’s a charm, right?
AXG Pro Details
The P320 AGX Pro, like all P320 series pistols, features a trigger mechanism which is the serial numbered part that can be placed into any P320 grip module. AXG stands for Alloy XSeries Grip, which is an all-metal frame module.
The AXG module because it is made of aluminum gives the AXG Pro more weight. The grip also looks like more like an old-school SIG. The AXG module gives the pistol heft; about 5.8 ounces more compared to the polymer-frame P320. The P320 AXG Pro also uses an XSeries trigger module, which has a flat-face trigger that breaks at 90 degrees and is fast to reset.
In hand It feels like a classic SIG pistol, but with flatter grip sides, a nice trigger guard undercut and an extended beavertail. Hogue G10 grip inserts are fitted into the grip module’s side panels and backstrap. The texture of the G10 is checkered and not overly grippy. The front grip strap is checkered, too. You can easily hang on to this pistol when shooting it fast. A detachable metal mag well allows for smooth and fast reloads. The mag well can easily be removed if you so choose. There is a picatinny rail to mount a tactical light for boogie man verification at night.
The slide has three oblong slots on the left and right sides of the slide and one slot topside. Front and rear serrations—as well as the slots—make manipulating the slide for use or a press check easy and secure. The slide is relieved of more metal on the muzzle. Some of the added weight from the frame was lost with these slide cutouts.
The sights consist of SIG XRAY 3 Day/Night sights, which feature a three-dot tritium inserts. The front sight dot is larger than the two rear sights dots; the contrast in size is appreciated. The rear of the slide, just forward from the rear sight, is cut for an optic. Delta Point Pro, Trijicon RMR or Sig’s own ROMEO1, 2 and X red dots all fit the foot print.
A large, round magazine button dumps an empty mag with authority. The mags are fitted with Henning Group aluminum base pads that are compatible with the mag well. Remove their mag well and you can use any SIG 17-round magazine.
The ambidextrous slide stop sticks out from the frame enough so the thumb of your firing hand can manipulate it. The take down lever is easy to rotate and field strip the pistol or change grip module.
Flinging Lead
Training and defense rounds with a mix of bullet weights and types were used: Defender Ammunition 115-grain FMJs and Remington Golden Saber with a 147-grain BJHP.
I shot targets at 15 yards to satisfy that square range requirement, but I really wanted to see how the AXG Pro ran in fast shooting, like the Mozambique Drill (two to the body and one to the head) at 7 yards. First, the accuracy stuff.
My best group measured 0.6 inches with the Remington Golden Saber 147-grain BJHP ammo. The Defender 115-grain FMJs had a best group that measured 0.9 inches. Yeah, that checked that box alright. Now the fast stuff.
Going full speed Mozambique on the target, the first two shots were quick and smooth. The full metal guide rod ensures the AXG Pro slide cycles smoothly. The added weight helps with fast recoil recovery. The precise head shot atop the A-zone was easy to accomplish. The mag well assisted on reloads with smoothness.
Yet Another P320?
The AXG Pro is easy to shoot well and I think I have found a striker-fire compliment to this P320. I’ll keep and sell all my other P320’s to pay for it. I prefer the AXG grip module over the other P320’s I’ve tried. I’ve changed my mind about the model with this one.
- Model: SIG Sauer P320 AXG Pro
- Caliber: 9mm
- Action: Semi-automatic
- Trigger: Striker-fire
- Overall Length: 8.2 in.
- Overall Height: 5.5 in.
- Overall Width: 1.6 in.
- Barrel Length: 4.7 in.
- Capacity: 17+1
- Weight Unloaded: 35.4 oz.
- Finish: Hard coat anodized
- Grips: Textured G10
- Sights: XRAY3 Day/Night sights, optic ready
- Street Price: $1,000
Rating
Fit and finish *****
The AXG Pro looks badass with the slide cut outs and matte black finish.
Reliability *****
Chewed through all the ammo with no hitches and it likes to be run hard.
Accuracy *****
At 15 yards, the smallest group measured 0.6 inches; yeah that will do.
Handling & Comfort *****
Smooth cycling, fast to reload, user friendly sights, comfortable grip angle and nice trigger; that’s checks a lot of boxes. The XSeries trigger module and aluminum grip module play nice together.
Overall ****
The P320 AGX Pro can pull double duty as a competition pistol or defense gun, though due to it being a full-size gun, concealed carry is more difficult. It’s pricey but worth working overtime for.
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