PMCI - March 2021

variants of the P226 and P229 models. To date, SIG has close ties
with the P320 platform with all four branches of the military.
The latest in the evolution of the P320 platform comes
from the SIG custom shop in the form of the P320 AXG Scorpion
model.
Unlike most traditional striker fired pistols; SIG decided to go
a different route with this model. Building off the huge success
of the Tungsten infused frame of the Legion model, SIG took it
one step further by using an Alloy X-series Grip (AXG) frame. This
all-metal frame is the backbone to a complete custom version of
the mid-size P320 Carry model. With features usually only found
in the company’s elite Legion series, this new variant coated with
Flat Dark Earth (FDE) Cerakote is not only visually appealing to the
professional world but sized to be comfortable and convenient to
conceal for both the civilian and covert operations worlds. As soon
as SIG introduced this new model in late 2020, I had a request
filed to receive one of the first shipments for test and evaluation.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
Within a couple of weeks of my request, SIG had a sample of
the P320 AXG delivered to the office. When the box arrived, I
opened it up and pulled out a black Custom Works Case featuring
dual briefcase style locks. Upon opening this impressive looking
case, the pistol was nested neatly into its foam cut out with
one 17 round magazine inserted. Surrounding the gun were
two additional 17 round magazines, a certificate of authenticity,
the usually legal paperwork along with owner’s manual and a
beautiful SIG Custom Works challenge coin.
When I removed the pistol from the case, I first noticed
the weight. While not as overtly hefty and barrel heavy as the
Legion variant, it did clearly feel heavier than its M18 polymer
counterpart. When I indexed the pistol to full arm extension,
it seems to balance well in my hand and brought the sights
naturally to my eye line. The deep undercuts in the trigger guard
and the slim Hogue G10 Piranha grip panels made the pistol feel
as if it melted into my hand. Considering every P320 variant I
held until then featured grips molded into the frame, the AXG
Scorpion felt more like I was holding my Legion P229 hammer
fired pistol.
The skeleton flat trigger not only looked good but featured
the same smooth 6 lb trigger break and ridiculously short reset as
my Legion P320. I am a huge fan of the 90-degree trigger break
the flat trigger offers. As a firearms instructor, I have seen how
it helps eliminate trigger slop in new shooters. During rapid fire,
this aids in keeping the gun centered and on target much easier
and faster.
One specific item I carefully inspected was the magazine well.
This area was smoothly beveled on all four sides to accept not
only the standard 17 round magazines but the extended 21 round
magazines with the larger base plates as well. These are usually
not compatible with the standard P320 model but a huge plus
in being able to do so with the Scorpion. The same magazines I
regularly run with my Legion and M18 fit cleanly into the Scorpion
with no issues. This is a “must” option for me with any potential
carry gun as a ready reload. It was a huge understatement to say
I was looking forward to many upcoming range trips to break this
gun in and gather data.
FIREARMS - SIG SCORPION P320 AXG
pmcimagazine.com