Since 2016, the SIG Sauer P320 has been at the center of controversy, with more than 100 reports of unintentional discharges and at least 80 documented injuries. These incidents have led to lawsuits, law enforcement bans, and rising public concern over the safety of the firearm’s design.
Accidental Discharges and Injury Reports
Investigations by The Trace, The Washington Post, and other outlets have highlighted cases where the P320 allegedly discharged without a trigger pull. Some users report the firearm went off while holstered, during routine handling, or after being dropped—raising major safety and liability questions.
Lawsuits and Settlements
Gun owners and law enforcement officers have filed lawsuits claiming the P320’s design or manufacturing is defective. While some of these cases have been resolved through confidential settlements, others were dismissed. SIG Sauer continues to defend the gun’s safety, stating it meets all regulatory requirements and placing blame on user handling.
Design Features and Drop Safety Concerns
Critics have pointed to several risk factors in the P320’s design:
- No external manual safety
- A relatively light trigger pull
- Discharge potential when dropped at certain angles (as noted by the U.S. Department of Defense)
These features differ from many other duty pistols, which may include more robust mechanical safeguards against accidental discharge.
SIG Sauer’s Voluntary Upgrade Program
To address public concern, SIG Sauer launched a voluntary upgrade program that offers enhanced internal components, including trigger and striker redesigns. Although participation is optional, the program is available free to P320 owners.
Law Enforcement Response
Some police departments and training academies have restricted or banned use of the P320 in response to safety concerns. Police1 reports that the bans are largely precautionary, especially in training environments with new recruits who may be less experienced with striker-fired pistols.
Legal Implications and Injury Representation
Firearm-related injuries can be devastating—both physically and financially. When design flaws or manufacturing defects play a role, victims may have a right to pursue compensation through product liability claims.
At Catastrophic Injury Attorneys, we represent individuals seriously injured by dangerous or defective products, including firearms. If you’ve been harmed by a suspected firearm malfunction, contact us to discuss your legal options. Every case deserves a thorough review.
To learn more about how a personal injury lawyer can help in cases like this, visit our article here: What Does a Personal Injury Lawyer Do?
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