I’ve had the chance to test out a wide variety of firearms. Two models that frequently catch the eye of enthusiasts are the Sig P320 Vs HK VP9.
Both are top contenders in their class and choosing between them can be a bit of a head-scratcher. So, I took them into the field to see which one came out on top. Let’s dive into the details of each gun and see how they stack up.
| Feature | SIG P320 | HK VP9 |
| Caliber | 9mm | 9x19mm |
| Action Type | Striker Fired DAO | Striker Fired |
| Trigger Pull | 5.5 – 7.5 lbs | 5.4 lbs |
| Overall Length | 7.2 inches | 7.34 inches |
| Barrel Length | 3.9 inches | 4.09 inches |
| Weight with Magazine | 26.0 oz | 25.56 oz |
Overview of Sig P320
The SIG P320 is a versatile and reliable striker-fired pistol widely recognized for its modular design and ease of customization.
Specs
- Caliber: 9mm
- Action Type: Striker Fired DAO (Double Action Only)
- Trigger Pull D5.5 – 7.5 lbs
- Overall Length: 7.2 inches
- Overall Height: 5.3 inches
- Overall Width: 1.4 inches
- Barrel Length: 3.9 inches
- Sight Radius: 5.8 inches
- Weight with Magazine: 26.0 oz
- Magazine Capacity: 15 Rounds
- Sights: SIGLITE Night Sights
- Grips: Interchangeable Polymer
- Frame Finish: Black Polymer
- Slide Finish: Nitron
Overview of HK VP9
The HK VP9 stands out for its ergonomic design and user-friendly features, making it a favorite among shooters who prioritize comfort and control.
Specs
- Caliber: 9x19mm
- Length: 7.34 inches
- Height: 5.41 inches
- Width: 1.32 inches
- Barrel: 4.09 inches, Polygonal, 6 grooves, right-hand twist, 1 in 9.8 inches
- Sight Radius: 6.38 inches
- Sights: 3-dot luminous
- Trigger Pull: 5.4 lbs
- Weight: 25.56 oz. (with empty magazine)
- Finish: Black frame / black oxide slide
- Capacity: 15+1
Features Comparison: SIG P320 VS HK VP9
1. Ergonomics and Grip
SIG P320
The SIG P320’s grip is a game-changer in terms of modularity. With its interchangeable grip modules, I can switch between small, medium, and large sizes.
This versatility is brilliant, especially when I’m tailoring the gun to different hand sizes or shooting scenarios. While somewhat sandpapery, the grip texture provides a solid grasp without being too aggressive.
HK VP9
The HK VP9 takes a different route. It offers removable backstraps and side panels, allowing a custom fit to the shooter’s hand.
This level of customization is not as comprehensive as the P320, but it’s effective. The grip feels a bit more refined in my hands, with a hard plastic texture that grips well under pressure, though it feels slicker than the P320 when not gripped tightly.
Winner
When comparing the two, the SIG P320 edges out, particularly due to its unparalleled modularity.
Being able to completely swap out the grip module for a different size or style is a significant advantage, especially for shooters who use their guns in varied settings or have multiple users with different hand sizes.
2. Trigger Mechanism
SIG P320
The SIG P320’s trigger has a unique feel, with a light take-up followed by a bit of creep before breaking in a rolling motion.
The reset is short and crisp, allowing for quick follow-up shots. This rolling break is something I find suits my shooting style, as it provides a smooth, predictable trigger pull each time.
HK VP9
The HK VP9’s trigger, on the other hand, is a more traditional striker-fired setup. It has a light take-up leading to a firm wall, after which the trigger breaks cleanly.
The reset is longer, but it’s tactile and returns right to the wall, ready for the next shot. This hard wall trigger is a classic design many shooters will be familiar with.
Winner
In this head-to-head, the HK VP9’s trigger wins out, but only by a hair.
The clean break and tactile reset of the VP9’s trigger, compared to the rolling break of the P320, makes it a slightly better option for those who prefer a traditional striker-fired trigger pull.
3. Slide Manipulation and Sights
SIG P320
The SIG P320’s slide features forward cocking serrations, making it easy to manipulate. The slide has a chamfer with a hard edge, which is efficient but not as comfortable as it could be.
The SIGLITE Night Sights on the P320 are a standout, offering excellent visibility in various lighting conditions. These sights are so good that they often don’t need replacing.
HK VP9
The HK VP9 also comes with forward cocking serrations and a slide design that’s chamfered and filleted at the top, providing a slightly more comfortable grip.
The luminescent sights on the VP9 are decent, but they’re not as advanced as the P320’s. The sight picture is a bit outdated, and I often find myself considering aftermarket options.
Winner
The SIG P320 takes the lead in this category. The superior SIGLITE Night Sights, combined with the effective slide design, make it a better choice compared to the HK VP9, especially when considering visibility in low-light conditions and ease of slide manipulation.
4. Aftermarket Support and Customization
SIG P320
The SIG P320 shines in the aftermarket support department. It’s catching up fast to some of the more established names in terms of the variety of accessories and custom parts available.
From grip modules to triggers and beyond, the P320 offers an extensive range of customization options, making it a highly adaptable platform for different shooting needs and preferences.
HK VP9
While the HK VP9 is a fantastic firearm, it lags behind the P320 in aftermarket support. There are fewer customization options available, which can limit how much you can modify or personalize the pistol.
This doesn’t detract from its performance but does mean you have fewer choices when it comes to making the VP9 your own.
Winner
In this category, the SIG P320 is the clear winner. Its growing aftermarket ecosystem means you can tailor the P320 to your specific needs and preferences to a greater degree than the VP9.
This flexibility is a significant advantage, especially for shooters who like to tweak and personalize their firearms.
Pros & Cons: SIG P320
Pros
- Highly modular design with interchangeable grip modules.
- Extensive aftermarket support for customization.
- SIGLITE Night Sights offer excellent low-light visibility.
- Versatile for various hand sizes and shooting scenarios.
Cons
- Slightly heavier compared to the HK VP9.
Pros & Cons: HK VP9
Pros
- Superior material quality and build feel.
- Ergonomic design with customizable grips.
- Slightly lighter, offering a slight edge in concealment.
- Generally comfortable for those with larger hands.
Cons
- Limited aftermarket options compared to SIG P320.
Similarities Between SIG P320 & HK VP9
- Both have a 9mm caliber.
- Striker-fired action type in both models.
- Similar overall length and height dimensions.
- Both have a magazine capacity of 15 rounds.
- Each offers night sight options.
- Both models are popular among law enforcement and civilian shooters.
Differences Between SIG P320 & HK VP9
- HK VP9 is slightly lighter than SIG P320.
- HK VP9’s polymer quality feels superior to SIG P320.
- SIG P320 offers more aftermarket customization options.
- SIG P320’s trigger has a rolling break, VP9 has a hard wall trigger.
- HK VP9’s grip customization is limited to backstraps and side panels.
- SIG P320 has more comprehensive safety features.
- VP9’s magazine release is a toggle-style, unlike P320’s push-button.
- VP9’s slide lock is more accessible for smaller hands than P320’s.
- SIG P320 generally has better out-of-the-box sights compared to VP9.
Final Verdict
After thorough testing and consideration, I’ve reached a conclusion in the SIG P320 vs HK VP9 debate. While both guns exhibit remarkable qualities and have their unique strengths, P320 edges out slightly as my top pick.
It’s a close call, but the P320 resonates more with my preferences and shooting style. The deciding factors were the overall feel, performance in various conditions, and how the gun catered to different shooting scenarios.
FAQ’s
Is HK VP9 better than Glock?
The HK VP9 and Glock are both excellent, but the HK VP9 is often preferred for adding accessories like lights or lasers.
What gun compares to HK VP9?
The HK VP9 compares closely with the Glock 19, with both being accurate and reliable. The HK VP9 has a slightly better trigger and a unique magazine release.
Is HK VP9 worth it?
Yes, the HK VP9 is worth it. It’s highly reliable, performs well in various situations, and is a trustworthy choice for personal defense.
What is the SIG P320 equivalent to?
The SIG P320 is often compared to the Glock 19. Both have similar barrel lengths and striker-fired triggers, but the P320 tends to have a slightly more refined trigger.
