Dirty Bird Guns & Ammo is thrilled to launch a new FAQ blog series, and as part of this series, they are featuring SIG Sauer, a brand synonymous with quality and precision in the firearms world. This series is crafted for enthusiasts, customers, and newcomers alike, offering clear, third-person insights into their history, products, and specifics. Each post will tackle a range of queries, presented in a straightforward question-and-answer format, starting with the essentials and branching into detailed product information. Here’s the first installment, packed with everything readers need to know about Sig, brought to you by Dirty Bird Guns & Ammo.
Table of Contents
What is SIG Sauer?
SIG Sauer is a globally recognized firearms manufacturer celebrated for its high-quality pistols, rifles, and accessories. The brand emerged from a partnership between Schweizerische Industrie Gesellschaft (SIG), a Swiss company founded in 1853, and J.P. Sauer & Sohn, a German firm, in the 1970s. Today, they are best known through its American arm, SIG Sauer Inc., which produces firearms trusted by military, law enforcement, and civilian shooters worldwide.
Who owns SIG Sauer?
SIG Sauer is owned by Lüke & Ortmeier Holding Gruppe, or L&O Holding, a German conglomerate with a strong foothold in the firearms industry. Led by entrepreneurs Michael Lüke and Thomas Ortmeier, this family-run group oversees multiple brands, with SIG Sauer standing out as a flagship operation, particularly thriving in the U.S. market.

Is SIG Sauer a good brand?
Yes, they are widely considered an excellent brand, earning accolades for its reliability, accuracy, and craftsmanship. Its products, like the P320 (chosen by the U.S. Army) and the concealable P365, showcase a blend of Swiss precision and American innovation. While occasional critiques arise—such as past P320 drop-safety concerns—its overall reputation remains stellar among shooters.
What country is SIG Sauer from?
SIG Sauer originates from Switzerland, where SIG began as a wagon manufacturer before shifting to firearms in the 19th century. The collaboration with Germany’s J.P. Sauer & Sohn cemented its Swiss-German heritage, but its modern prominence is tied to the United States, where they drive the brand forward.
Where is Sig made?
Most firearms are manufactured in the United States, primarily at the company’s facility in Newington, New Hampshire. Though its early production was rooted in Switzerland and Germany, SIG Sauer Inc. has taken over to meet U.S. demand, with some optics or components occasionally sourced internationally.
How to know when my Sig was manufactured?
To determine manufacturing date, owners can check the serial number by contacting customer service directly for an exact answer. Alternatively, online forums and unofficial guides estimate production years based on serial number patterns, though these lack official precision. Older European-made models may also bear date codes or proof marks.
When will California get the SIG Sauer P365 X-Macro?
There’s no set date for the P365 X-Macro to join California’s approved handgun roster. The state’s strict regulations require specific safety features, and as of March 2025, it’s not listed. SIG may eventually submit a compliant version, but approval timelines remain unpredictable.
Is P365 in .380 caliber?
Yes, they produce the P365-380, chambered in .380 ACP. This variant offers the same compact design as the 9mm P365 but with reduced recoil, making it ideal for shooters seeking a gentler concealed-carry option.
Does the P365XL have recoil reduction?
The P365XL lacks a dedicated recoil reduction mechanism like a compensator, but its longer slide and barrel naturally mitigate recoil compared to the standard P365. Coupled with an ergonomic grip, it provides a manageable shooting experience for a subcompact 9mm.
How to clean a P365?
To clean a P365, users should first ensure it’s unloaded, then lock the slide back, rotate the takedown lever, and remove the slide. The barrel and recoil spring can then be extracted, cleaned with solvent, and brushed out. A light lubrication and reassembly complete the process, keeping it in top shape.
How to clean a P320?
Cleaning a P320 follows a similar routine. After verifying it’s unloaded, users remove the magazine, lock the slide, and turn the takedown lever to release it. The barrel and recoil spring are then cleaned with solvent and a bore brush, lightly oiled, and reassembled, ensuring the modular fire control unit stays debris-free.
How to turn off a Romeo 5?
The SIG Sauer Romeo 5 red dot sight features motion activation, turning on with movement and off after about two minutes of stillness—no manual “off” button exists. To save battery, users can store it motion-free or cycle the brightness settings down.
How much is a P365, P320, P226, P229?
Pricing for models varies. The P365 typically ranges from $500 to $600, the P320 from $550 to $700, and the larger P226 and P229 from $900 to $1,200, depending on configurations. Readers can check Dirty Bird Guns & Ammo for current pricing and availability.
Who makes SIG Sauer scopes?
SIG rafts its own scopes through its Electro-Optics division in Oregon. The Romeo and Tango lines, among others, are designed to pair seamlessly with SIG firearms, offering durability and precision.
Does SIG Sauer make a revolver?
No, SIG Sauer does not produce revolvers. The company specializes in semi-automatic pistols and rifles, leaving revolvers to its distant past under J.P. Sauer & Sohn’s earlier ventures.
Which SIG Sauer goes off by itself?
The P320 drew attention in 2017 when early versions could discharge if dropped at specific angles. SIG resolved this with a free upgrade program, enhancing the trigger system. Upgraded P320s are now deemed safe, though the issue lingers in some discussions.
Does the P365 have a safety?
The standard P365 lacks a manual thumb safety, featuring only a trigger safety in its striker-fired design. SIG Sauer offers an optional manual safety variant, available upon request for those who prefer it.
Why is the P320 illegal in California?
The P320 isn’t banned in California but isn’t on the state’s approved roster due to missing features like a loaded chamber indicator or magazine disconnect. Law enforcement can access exempt models, but civilian sales of new units are restricted unless certified.
Where is the safety on a P365?
For P365 models with the optional manual safety, it’s positioned on the frame above the trigger guard, designed for ambidextrous use. Without this option, the pistol relies solely on its internal trigger safety.
Dirty Bird Guns & Ammo hopes this FAQ series opener answers key questions about Sig. Stay tuned for more installments exploring additional topics and products from this iconic brand!