First Impressions of Patmos Arms Sig Sauer P320 Compact Lower Parts Kit
The Patmos Arms Sig Sauer P320 Compact Lower Parts Kit promises an affordable solution for completing or upgrading a P320 Fire Control Unit (FCU). As someone who’s built numerous AR-15s and customized several handguns over the past decade, I was intrigued by the prospect of a drop-safe upgrade for a pistol that’s known for its modularity. The kit is marketed as compatible with 9mm, .40 S&W, and .357 SIG P320 slides, suggesting broad versatility.
My initial interest stemmed from a desire to upgrade an older P320 FCU with enhanced safety features. The original FCU served me well, but I wanted the peace of mind offered by newer, drop-safe components. This kit seemed like a cost-effective way to achieve that.
Upon unboxing, I immediately noted the individual packaging of each component, a thoughtful touch that prevents scratches during shipping. The parts had a clean, matte black finish and felt solid in hand. While I’ve used OEM Sig Sauer parts extensively, I’ve also tinkered with components from Patmos Arms before in AR builds and found them to be reliable.
Compared to a complete Sig Sauer lower parts kit, which can be significantly more expensive, the Patmos Arms kit presented a compelling value proposition. Other aftermarket kits exist, but some lack the drop-safe features or have questionable reviews regarding fit and finish. The positive user feedback regarding fit and crispness swayed my decision. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping the Patmos Arms kit would deliver on its promises of OEM-like quality at a fraction of the price.
I was excited to potentially save money and breathe new life into my aging P320 FCU. If the Patmos Arms Sig Sauer P320 Compact Lower Parts Kit performed as advertised, it would be a game-changer for budget-conscious P320 owners.
Real-World Testing: Putting Patmos Arms Sig Sauer P320 Compact Lower Parts Kit to the Test
First Use Experience
My first range trip with the upgraded FCU was at my local outdoor range, under typical sunny, but slightly breezy conditions. I installed the Patmos Arms components into a P320 Compact frame and paired it with a 9mm slide. The first few magazines were fired at paper targets set at 10 yards to test basic functionality.
The trigger pull felt noticeably crisper and cleaner than the original FCU. There were no failures to feed or eject, and the pistol cycled flawlessly.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use (approximately 500 rounds per month), the Patmos Arms Sig Sauer P320 Compact Lower Parts Kit has held up remarkably well. I cleaned and lubricated the FCU after each range session. So far, there are no signs of significant wear or tear on any of the components.
The trigger pull has remained consistent, and the overall reliability of the pistol has not diminished. I’ve even used the pistol in a few practical shooting competitions. It has outperformed my expectations, proving to be a dependable and accurate platform. Compared to my previous experiences with other aftermarket parts, the Patmos Arms kit stands out for its consistent performance and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Patmos Arms Sig Sauer P320 Compact Lower Parts Kit
Specifications
The Patmos Arms Sig Sauer P320 Compact Lower Parts Kit includes all the necessary internal components to complete a P320 Fire Control Unit. It’s designed specifically for the P320 Compact model and is compatible with 9mm Luger, .40 S&W, and .357 SIG calibers. The kit features new, drop-safe components, addressing a known concern with earlier P320 models.
- Caliber: 9mm Luger, .40 S&W, .357 SIG. This compatibility makes the kit versatile for various P320 builds.
- Gun Make: SIG Sauer. This kit is designed explicitly for SIG Sauer P320 platforms, ensuring proper fitment.
- Gun Model: SIG Sauer P320 Compact. This kit fits the P320 Compact model, making it ideal for those who have a smaller sized P320.
- Color: Black. The parts have a matte black finish, which blends seamlessly with most P320 frames.
- Condition: New. The parts are brand new, unused, and come ready for installation.
These specifications are crucial because they determine the kit’s compatibility and intended use. The drop-safe feature is particularly important for safety-conscious users, adding an extra layer of protection against accidental discharge.
Performance & Functionality
The Patmos Arms Sig Sauer P320 Compact Lower Parts Kit performs admirably, delivering a crisp and reliable trigger pull. The pistol’s overall accuracy remains consistent, and I experienced no malfunctions related to the upgraded FCU. The upgraded trigger pull provides for better accuracy overall.
The kit’s strengths lie in its ease of installation and reliable performance. While the trigger pull might not be match-grade, it’s a significant improvement over many stock P320 FCUs. The only area that could potentially be improved is offering different trigger shoe options (e.g., flat-faced) to cater to individual preferences. Overall, the kit meets and, in some ways, exceeds expectations, especially considering its price point.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Patmos Arms kit is excellent. The components feel robust and well-machined, instilling confidence in their longevity. Installation is relatively straightforward, even for those with limited gunsmithing experience.
There’s no noticeable learning curve; the pistol functions identically to a stock P320, but with a more refined trigger feel. The black finish matches the P320 frame seamlessly.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience thus far, the Patmos Arms Sig Sauer P320 Compact Lower Parts Kit appears to be highly durable. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential to maintain optimal performance. I anticipate the kit lasting for many years with proper care.
Disassembly and reassembly for cleaning are no different than a standard P320 FCU, making maintenance a breeze. Replacement of individual parts, if ever needed, should also be relatively simple.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Patmos Arms Sig Sauer P320 Compact Lower Parts Kit is primarily an internal upgrade and doesn’t directly affect external accessories. The kit’s compatibility with standard P320 frames means that users can still utilize a wide range of grips, holsters, and other accessories. The Patmos Arms Sig Sauer P320 Compact Lower Parts Kit is a compliment to any aftermarket slide or frame.
The kit doesn’t include any accessories, focusing solely on the internal FCU components. Users can further customize their P320 by swapping out the trigger shoe with aftermarket options that are compatible with the P320 platform.
Pros and Cons of Patmos Arms Sig Sauer P320 Compact Lower Parts Kit
Pros
- Affordable Price: Significantly cheaper than OEM Sig Sauer lower parts kits.
- Drop-Safe Components: Enhances safety and provides peace of mind.
- Improved Trigger Feel: Offers a crisper and cleaner trigger pull compared to stock FCUs.
- Easy Installation: Straightforward installation process, even for beginners.
- Broad Compatibility: Compatible with 9mm, .40 S&W, and .357 SIG P320 Compact models.
Cons
- No trigger shoe options available.
- Not match grade parts, but better than mil-spec.
Who Should Buy Patmos Arms Sig Sauer P320 Compact Lower Parts Kit?
The Patmos Arms Sig Sauer P320 Compact Lower Parts Kit is perfect for P320 owners looking to upgrade their FCU with drop-safe components without breaking the bank. It’s also ideal for those building a P320 from scratch or needing to replace worn-out parts. Competitive shooters seeking a match-grade trigger might want to explore other options, but for most users, this kit provides an excellent balance of performance and value.
Someone seeking a competition-grade trigger or those unwilling to perform basic gunsmithing should skip this product. Those should also avoid this product if they are not comfortable with the P320 platform. Must-have accessories for this kit include proper tools for disassembly and reassembly, as well as high-quality gun oil for lubrication.
Conclusion on Patmos Arms Sig Sauer P320 Compact Lower Parts Kit
The Patmos Arms Sig Sauer P320 Compact Lower Parts Kit is a fantastic value proposition. It delivers on its promises of affordability, enhanced safety, and improved trigger feel. The price is justified, especially considering the inclusion of drop-safe components and the overall quality of the parts.
I would wholeheartedly recommend it to any P320 owner looking to upgrade their FCU without spending a fortune. If you’re looking to breathe new life into your P320 or complete a new build, give the Patmos Arms Sig Sauer P320 Compact Lower Parts Kit a shot – you won’t be disappointed.