A small change makes the world of a difference

When it comes to customizing your SIG Sauer P365 to fit your style, use case, and improve your shooting, an important thing to consider is the material of your grip module and inserts. The stock P365 comes standard with a high-resistance polymer frame, this lighter material may not be a good fit for you and your shooting style; your hands sweat, you could start to lose your grip, your accuracy can decrease, and it can be downright dangerous. When it comes to modifying your grip module, popular materials include steel or aluminum that provide a heavier, more rigid fee when compared to polymers. 

In this guide our team at ECM Precision will cover how the material of your grip module changes the feel of your firearm and why Aluminum grip modules might be the right choice for you.

Weight and The Balance of Recoil vs. Comfort

Grips are an overlooked upgrade for your firearm. However, there are a good amount of options out there for what type of grips to upgrade your firearm with, and you don’t want to choose the wrong ones. When it comes to determining the right material for your P365 Grip Module, understanding how weight impacts the performance and feel of your firearm is paramount. A heavier firearm absorbs more impact from each shot reducing the muzzle flip, however, it also transfers it into the user more, potentially “stinging” the user. When it comes to materials like high-resistance polymer, the low weight can cause a noticeable amount of muzzle flip, whereas steel deadens the recoil in exchange for a less comfortable firing experience. In the middle of those two poles sits Aluminum Grip Modules like the ECM R11. 

The R11 both has the weight to reduce perceived recoil, and still feel comfortable while firing. 

Recoil and Its Effect on Accuracy

As mentioned above, the reduced weight of polymer grip modules leads to more perceived recoil for a firearm user, which you do not. You want to draw your firearm from its holster, and nail your target. Muzzle flip has a large impact on how tight a user's shot groupings are, as the more erratic the gun moves, the harder it is to stay on target. 

While good grip technique can help mitigate the impact recoil has on one’s accuracy, one of the best ways to mitigate muzzle flip is to switch to solid metal frames. Weight balances out a firearm and absorbs more impact from each shot transferring it to the user, reducing muzzle flip. While many opt for heavier materials like steel or brass, aluminum offers many of the same accuracy benefits, without compromising comfort.

Is Aluminum the Right Material For You?

Ultimately determining what material you wish to have for the grip module of your P365 is up to personal preference, but looking at the factors above we can determine what material is best for common use cases. When it comes to lighter materials like polymers, they tend to be best suited for concealed carry, as they are light, affordable, and durable for their price point. Although the polymer frame will absorb shock poorly, in most personal defense situations, the closer distance lessens the need for perfect accuracy. 

At the other end of the spectrum, heavier grip modules like brass or steel deaden muzzle flip and help the user achieve pinpoint accuracy. Heavier, more aggressive grip modules are better suited for range and competition shooting as they aren’t as practical for day-to-day usage, but do have a moderate impact on shot accuracy, at the cost of discomfort with each shot. 

Finally we have Aluminum, which sits in the middle of these two material categories. Aluminum is light enough to be carried day-to-day practically, and also has enough heft to reduce muzzle flip and help improve accuracy, making aluminum grips a top choice for your everyday carry gun.

While it isn’t as light as polymers nor as hefty as steel, Aluminum is suited for most situations with some degree of practicality. Keep in mind that while it has the benefits of both materials, it has the downside all metal grip modules have, that being the uncomfortable stinging sensation after each shot.

Conclusion

Changing up the material of your pistol grip module can make a large impact on your comfortability and performance with your firearm. When it comes to purchasing a new grip module it’s very important to know how the material affects the feel and usage of your firearm. Heavier metals trade ergonomics and comfort for accuracy, whereas lighter polymers are lighter with increased muzzle flip in-turn. 

However, if you want a lighter material that doesn’t compromise your accuracy Aluminum Grip Modules may be for you. Whether you’re shopping for grip modules, inserts, or other firearm accessories it’s important to have a trustworthy, reliable supplier like ECM Precision.

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