P320 TRUTH

The Air Force found 191 individual M18s that had unexpected “discrepancies,” including wear marks on components of the guns’ internal safety mechanisms. Those weapons are being pulled out of service until repairs are completed. Does SIG SAUER have concerns about so many individual guns bearing unexpected wear marks?

• No.  The USAF Global Strike Command (AFGSC) senior leadership assured SIG SAUER that the identified discrepancies did not affect the function or safety of the 191 individual M18s. 

Can you explain what may be causing these internal issues with the weapon?

• The statement provided does not explain or speculate on the causation of the wear noted.  It is possible that the 191EA M18s mentioned could have been exposed to higher round counts or dry-fire repetitions than the other 7,779 pistols.  Additionally, it is unknown if these pistols were maintained according to the parts replacement schedule.  This information has not been shared with SIG SAUER, but we are happy to assist the AFGSC in any way possible to help determine outlying factors that could have contributed to any additional wear.  As with all products, wear and tear from normal use is to be expected.  SIG SAUER reminds all its customers to review the recommended maintenance schedule in their respective product manuals. 

Will SIG SAUER cover the costs of these necessary repairs?

• SIG SAUER is currently under contract with the US Military to provide M17/M18 pistols and support for the system.  We will continue to work closely with the USAF Global Strike Command to ensure that all M18 pistols are properly maintained according to the contract’s parts replacement schedule. 

Is the company considering changes to the design or manufacturing processes of the M17/M18 given the findings of this review?

• The P320, M17, and M18 are the most proven pistols in history and have never experienced any wear that would affect function or safety throughout our rigorous durability testing.  The USAF confirmed that “a review of weapon discharges in AFGSC showed that none were attributed to weapons malfunction."