[ARCHIVED THREAD] - Military Production M17 (Page 1 of 2)
Posted: 2/3/2023 7:47:06 PM EDT
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Oh, my wallet… SIG P320 POW M17 9MM I was wondering if they were going to offer these as a follow-on to the M18s. Glad to see them coming. |
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Quoted: Oooo, that is going to drive down the price of the surplus M17s as the sellers of these are likely to call them "surplus". It shouldn't. Anyone with half a brain should know that all real surplus are all tan and fall with a certain serial number range. But then again, there are ignorant/unscrupulous sellers and ignorant buyers out there too. |
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Finally ordered an M17 from Proven Arms & Outfitters. Great service, as always, and I'm glad SIG made these available through their LE/MIL program (although I'd like to see them available to everyone). Attached File I thought I'd share a few comparison photos with the commercial P320-M17, even though some have been posted here before. I'm approaching 3,000 rounds on my commercial pistol, and I found the subtle differences interesting, beyond the obvious markings and rear sight plate. My original pistol is a darker coyote tan, which I'm sure is just a color variation between batches, but the military version's color is a lot closer to the grip module. The M17 is on top and the P320-M17 on the bottom in each of these photos. Attached File I noticed that the angled sides of the breech block(?) on the military version are more pronounced, tapering inward towards the loaded chamber indicator as shown in this top view. One additional small difference is the flat spot on the top of the slide for the front sight dovetail. The dovetail cutout is about 0.2mm lower on the military slide, which in turn lowers / widens the flat area around it, so the front sight sits slightly lower. That could be a small production change over time, since my commercial pistol is about a year older. Attached File The difference in the weight of the two slides is noticeable. When I picked up the new M17 at my FFL and handled it for the first time, I could immediately tell that it's heavier. On my postal scale, the M17 slide (without barrel and recoil spring) weighs 13.2 oz, and the commercial slide weighs 11.8 oz. You can see the additional cutouts on the underside of the commercial slide. The deep channel at the rear probably accounts for most of the weight difference. Attached File The military barrel is marked with SIG's CAGE code and what I assume is a part number. Attached File Last small detail, probably insignificant, is that the military production barrel has a white dot on the bottom of the locking lug. Reminds me of the inspection dots on some other weapon components, like M4 bolts. Attached File My one minor issue with this pistol is that it has the same small hitch in the action as the commercial version when I cycle the slide by hand. It gets hung up about 1/8" out of battery if I reset the striker with a press check-style motion and needs a shake or tap to get it fully into battery. It also happens when I ride the slide forward after reassembling the pistol and rotating the takedown lever back into position. This bothered me on the commercial model, so I replaced the original recoil spring with a full size (orange marked) P320 spring, and the issue went away. I think this will clear itself up after I break in this new pistol, and it won't affect normal function at all, but it just seems odd, something I've never experienced with any other pistol model or brand. This pistol is going to get a Wilson Combat grip module, which I very much prefer over the factory grip, and then an X300U eventually when I have the spare funds. Looking forward to getting it out to the range. EDIT: The military production M17 and M18 also use the full size slide stop lever, rather than the smaller one on the commercial models. Even the original military issue pistols with the coyote controls used the full size lever, so I'm not sure why SIG chose to use the smaller one on the commercial pistols. One additional difference: The military production pistols have a green front night sight dot, while the two rear dots are orange. The commercial pistols have three green dots. |
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Quoted: Finally ordered an M17 from Proven Arms & Outfitters. Great service, as always, and I'm glad SIG made these available through their LE/MIL program (although I'd like to see them available to everyone). https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/27888/M17_01_jpg-2758270.JPG I thought I'd share a few comparison photos with the commercial P320-M17, even though some have been posted here before. I'm approaching 3,000 rounds on my commercial pistol, and I found the subtle differences interesting, beyond the obvious markings and rear sight plate. My original pistol is a darker coyote tan, which I'm sure is just a color variation between batches, but the military version's color is a lot closer to the grip module. The M17 is on top and the P320-M17 on the bottom in each of these photos. https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/27888/M17_02_jpg-2758275.JPG I noticed that the angled sides of the breech block(?) on the military version are more pronounced, tapering inward towards the loaded chamber indicator as shown in this top view. One additional small difference is the flat spot on the top of the slide for the front sight dovetail. The dovetail cutout is about 0.2mm lower on the military slide, which in turn lowers / widens the flat area around it, so the front sight sits slightly lower. That could be a small production change over time, since my commercial pistol is about a year older. https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/27888/M17_03_jpg-2758284.JPG The difference in the weight of the two slides is noticeable. When I picked up the new M17 at my FFL and handled it for the first time, I could immediately tell that it's heavier. On my postal scale, the M17 slide (without barrel and recoil spring) weighs 13.2 oz, and the commercial slide weighs 11.8 oz. You can see the additional cutouts on the underside of the commercial slide. The deep channel at the rear probably accounts for most of the weight difference. https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/27888/M17_04_jpg-2758287.JPG The military barrel is marked with SIG's CAGE code and what I assume is a part number. https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/27888/M17_05_jpg-2758301.JPG Last small detail, probably insignificant, is that the military production barrel has a white dot on the bottom of the locking lug. Reminds me of the inspection dots on some other weapon components, like M4 bolts. https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/27888/M17_06_jpg-2758303.JPG My one minor issue with this pistol is that it has the same small hitch in the action as the commercial version when I cycle the slide by hand. It gets hung up about 1/8" out of battery if I reset the striker with a press check-style motion and needs a shake or tap to get it fully into battery. It also happens when I ride the slide forward after reassembling the pistol and rotating the takedown lever back into position. This bothered me on the commercial model, so I replaced the original recoil spring with a full size (orange marked) P320 spring, and the issue went away. I think this will clear itself up after I break in this new pistol, and it won't affect normal function at all, but it just seems odd, something I've never experienced with any other pistol model or brand. This pistol is going to get a Wilson Combat grip module, which I very much prefer over the factory grip, and then an X300U eventually when I have the spare funds. Looking forward to getting it out to the range. Good information and a very nice pistol. Regards |
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Quoted: I noticed that the angled sides of the breech block(?) on the military version are more pronounced, tapering inward towards the loaded chamber indicator as shown in this top view. Last small detail, probably insignificant, is that the military production barrel has a white dot on the bottom of the locking lug. Reminds me of the inspection dots on some other weapon components, like M4 bolts. My one minor issue with this pistol is that it has the same small hitch in the action as the commercial version when I cycle the slide by hand. It gets hung up about 1/8" out of battery if I reset the striker with a press check-style motion and needs a shake or tap to get it fully into battery. It also happens when I ride the slide forward after reassembling the pistol and rotating the takedown lever back into position. This bothered me on the commercial model, so I replaced the original recoil spring with a full size (orange marked) P320 spring, and the issue went away. I think this will clear itself up after I break in this new pistol, and it won't affect normal function at all, but it just seems odd, something I've never experienced with any other pistol model or brand. . Great write up brother! I wanted to comment on the above excerpts from your post. The reason they mark the military barrels is for quick reference and verification on the line. The military version barrels are pre-tensioned barrels. Basically that means they have a “match grade” lockup. It is supposed to be that way. Sig got away from this on the civilian versions because so many “uninformed” people were complaining about it, that they just dropped it. My Legion did the same thing. Both my POW M18s and my POW M17 are the same. They will loosen up some over time, but this will not be a problem during firing. Trust me, you want lockup like this. Fun fact….. watch the rear of your slide, without a magazine in, while dry firing. You won’t see the slide movement that occurs in the civil version because of the lockup.   Cp |
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Quoted: Great write up brother! Cp Very interesting. Your shooting bona fides are beyond question.  One of my buddies in the guard has a civilian M17 and he has not been all that impressed with it. Last year he shot one of the MAC region guard championships and just crushed it with his issue M17. He basically said the civ version and mil version are different. I knew about the extra lightening cuts but didn't think about the lockup on the barrels. My civilian 320/M17 does the exact same thing that you mentioned and my 365XL does as well. Back of the slide moves around when dry firing, I always thought that was odd. |
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I have a Civilian version as well and have a Romeo 2 mounted on it. I personally haven’t had any issues with it as far as accuracy or reliability. It has been a very solid and highly accurate Gun. I have been shooting it since 2019 and probably have about 8000+ rounds through it. I have only replaced the recoil spring, but that was out of preventive maintenance more than anything. The slide has always moved slightly upward when the trigger is pulled without a magazine inserted, but I have not noticed it affecting anything. Just my personal experience, but I don’t have an issue with either one. Cp. |
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Quoted: Great write up brother! I wanted to comment on the above excerpts from your post. The reason they mark the military barrels is for quick reference and verification on the line. The military version barrels are pre-tensioned barrels. Basically that means they have a “match grade” lockup. It is supposed to be that way. Sig got away from this on the civilian versions because so many “uninformed” people were complaining about it, that they just dropped it. My Legion did the same thing. Both my POW M18s and my POW M17 are the same. They will loosen up some over time, but this will not be a problem during firing. Trust me, you want lockup like this. Fun fact….. watch the rear of your slide, without a magazine in, while dry firing. You won’t see the slide movement that occurs in the civil version because of the lockup. https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img923/9116/x6VbTG.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img922/5084/DyHHzT.jpg Cp The x series grip and Romeo2 look great on that. |
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Quoted: Great write up brother! I wanted to comment on the above excerpts from your post. The reason they mark the military barrels is for quick reference and verification on the line. The military version barrels are pre-tensioned barrels. Basically that means they have a “match grade” lockup. It is supposed to be that way. Sig got away from this on the civilian versions because so many “uninformed” people were complaining about it, that they just dropped it. My Legion did the same thing. Both my POW M18s and my POW M17 are the same. They will loosen up some over time, but this will not be a problem during firing. Trust me, you want lockup like this. Fun fact….. watch the rear of your slide, without a magazine in, while dry firing. You won’t see the slide movement that occurs in the civil version because of the lockup. Quoted: Great write up brother! I wanted to comment on the above excerpts from your post. The reason they mark the military barrels is for quick reference and verification on the line. The military version barrels are pre-tensioned barrels. Basically that means they have a “match grade” lockup. It is supposed to be that way. Sig got away from this on the civilian versions because so many “uninformed” people were complaining about it, that they just dropped it. My Legion did the same thing. Both my POW M18s and my POW M17 are the same. They will loosen up some over time, but this will not be a problem during firing. Trust me, you want lockup like this. Fun fact….. watch the rear of your slide, without a magazine in, while dry firing. You won’t see the slide movement that occurs in the civil version because of the lockup. Thanks! That makes complete sense about the barrel, thanks a lot for explaining that. I had no doubt it would function reliably in live fire and would break in / loosen up a little, but it's great to hear the reason behind that and makes me appreciate this model even more. The "hitch" in the slide action does feel different from my commercial M17, which felt like the original recoil spring was underpowered and too easy to cycle, while this new M17 feels like the lockup is very tight and needs a little extra force to go into battery. I see that now about the slide not moving during drive fire - I'm familiar with that with the other P320 models and wasn't concerned about it, but it's very interesting to see the difference with this military model. All this will definitely push me towards buying the military production M18 in the near future while they're still available... Quoted: I have a Civilian version as well and have a Romeo 2 mounted on it. I personally haven’t had any issues with it as far as accuracy or reliability. It has been a very solid and highly accurate Gun. I have been shooting it since 2019 and probably have about 8000+ rounds through it. I have only replaced the recoil spring, but that was out of preventive maintenance more than anything. I've been perfectly happy with my commercial M17 and M18 as well. They are both more accurate than I am, have functioned reliably, and are responsible for me shifting away from Glocks. I plan to continue training with my P320-M17 and only occasionally shooting the new M17 as my dedicated HD pistol. Quoted: The x series grip and Romeo2 look great on that. That's SIG's new RomeoM17. I'm really looking forward to that optic hitting the market, it appears to address my misgivings about investing in other options out there (enclosed emitter, works with standard height sights, and... looks cool). Quoted: I have to agree. That frame looks great. Is that a Compact X grip frame? Did it come with the safety cut outs? I believe that's the X-Carry grip, and I can't find any indication that SIG offers a version with safety cut outs. However, my understanding is that they've offered SOCOM a conversion kit with the grip module and magwell, so maybe they've started producing a manual safety version. It's also very easy to convert with basic hobby tools (drill, Xacto, and files - I don't like the brute force Dremel method). I've converted two WC grips myself. |
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I had an X-grip, it was better than the OEM grip, but just "OK." I really like the Brouwer M1811 grip on my commercial M18. My son has one on his commercial M17, and he's since added grip tape.  Attached File |
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I like the Wilson Combat grip. I have a M-18 and have just picked up the M-17. I got them both from Proven Arms. The M-17 seems to have a better trigger than the M-18. I think I am going to try and pick up a SIG carry X grip module next. The 1811 grip module looks interesting, but it looks to be slick on the sides. I also might install a flat trigger. Over all I think I like the platform. Regards |
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Quoted: I had an X-grip, it was better than the OEM grip, but just "OK." I really like the Brouwer M1811 grip on my commercial M18. My son has one on his commercial M17, and he's since added grip tape. https://www.brouwersolutions.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/DSC_7905-Edit-800x534.jpg https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/18978/M17_1811_jpeg-2760713.JPG Brouwer also offers an aluminum oxide finish standard now and if you have one without it they can add it to the grip as well. I like that option personally but it may be to aggressive for some. Wilson makes a great grip as well. It’s a little small for my hands though. Again personal choice. It’s great to have so many options though! Cp |
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Quoted: Finally ordered an M17 from Proven Arms & Outfitters. Great service, as always, and I'm glad SIG made these available through their LE/MIL program (although I'd like to see them available to everyone). https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/27888/M17_01_jpg-2758270.JPG I thought I'd share a few comparison photos with the commercial P320-M17, even though some have been posted here before. I'm approaching 3,000 rounds on my commercial pistol, and I found the subtle differences interesting, beyond the obvious markings and rear sight plate. My original pistol is a darker coyote tan, which I'm sure is just a color variation between batches, but the military version's color is a lot closer to the grip module. The M17 is on top and the P320-M17 on the bottom in each of these photos. https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/27888/M17_02_jpg-2758275.JPG I noticed that the angled sides of the breech block(?) on the military version are more pronounced, tapering inward towards the loaded chamber indicator as shown in this top view. One additional small difference is the flat spot on the top of the slide for the front sight dovetail. The dovetail cutout is about 0.2mm lower on the military slide, which in turn lowers / widens the flat area around it, so the front sight sits slightly lower. That could be a small production change over time, since my commercial pistol is about a year older. https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/27888/M17_03_jpg-2758284.JPG The difference in the weight of the two slides is noticeable. When I picked up the new M17 at my FFL and handled it for the first time, I could immediately tell that it's heavier. On my postal scale, the M17 slide (without barrel and recoil spring) weighs 13.2 oz, and the commercial slide weighs 11.8 oz. You can see the additional cutouts on the underside of the commercial slide. The deep channel at the rear probably accounts for most of the weight difference. https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/27888/M17_04_jpg-2758287.JPG The military barrel is marked with SIG's CAGE code and what I assume is a part number. https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/27888/M17_05_jpg-2758301.JPG Last small detail, probably insignificant, is that the military production barrel has a white dot on the bottom of the locking lug. Reminds me of the inspection dots on some other weapon components, like M4 bolts. https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/27888/M17_06_jpg-2758303.JPG My one minor issue with this pistol is that it has the same small hitch in the action as the commercial version when I cycle the slide by hand. It gets hung up about 1/8" out of battery if I reset the striker with a press check-style motion and needs a shake or tap to get it fully into battery. It also happens when I ride the slide forward after reassembling the pistol and rotating the takedown lever back into position. This bothered me on the commercial model, so I replaced the original recoil spring with a full size (orange marked) P320 spring, and the issue went away. I think this will clear itself up after I break in this new pistol, and it won't affect normal function at all, but it just seems odd, something I've never experienced with any other pistol model or brand. This pistol is going to get a Wilson Combat grip module, which I very much prefer over the factory grip, and then an X300U eventually when I have the spare funds. Looking forward to getting it out to the range. Thanks, |
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Quoted: I like the Wilson Combat grip. I have a M-18 and have just picked up the M-17. I got them both from Proven Arms. The M-17 seems to have a better trigger than the M-18. I think I am going to try and pick up a SIG carry X grip module next. The 1811 grip module looks interesting, but it looks to be slick on the sides. I also might install a flat trigger. Over all I think I like the platform. Regards I use the X series full on my P320 M17 and really like it. I also have the magwell and grip weight. The extra weight really makes it a flat and soft shooter. On mine I used a safety delete pin and got rid of the manual safety. I also recommend the skeletonized flat x series trigger. It is fantastic. On another note, I really want to pick up one of each of the POW mil variants. I keep buying other stuff instead  . Just picked up a Glock 47 and Sig MK25. 
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Quoted: I asked this in another M17/M18 thread: How do you get one of the Mil M18s without being Mil or LEO? Thanks, Quoted: Quoted: Finally ordered an M17 from Proven Arms & Outfitters. Great service, as always, and I'm glad SIG made these available through their LE/MIL program (although I'd like to see them available to everyone). https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/27888/M17_01_jpg-2758270.JPG I thought I'd share a few comparison photos with the commercial P320-M17, even though some have been posted here before. I'm approaching 3,000 rounds on my commercial pistol, and I found the subtle differences interesting, beyond the obvious markings and rear sight plate. My original pistol is a darker coyote tan, which I'm sure is just a color variation between batches, but the military version's color is a lot closer to the grip module. The M17 is on top and the P320-M17 on the bottom in each of these photos. https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/27888/M17_02_jpg-2758275.JPG I noticed that the angled sides of the breech block(?) on the military version are more pronounced, tapering inward towards the loaded chamber indicator as shown in this top view. One additional small difference is the flat spot on the top of the slide for the front sight dovetail. The dovetail cutout is about 0.2mm lower on the military slide, which in turn lowers / widens the flat area around it, so the front sight sits slightly lower. That could be a small production change over time, since my commercial pistol is about a year older. https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/27888/M17_03_jpg-2758284.JPG The difference in the weight of the two slides is noticeable. When I picked up the new M17 at my FFL and handled it for the first time, I could immediately tell that it's heavier. On my postal scale, the M17 slide (without barrel and recoil spring) weighs 13.2 oz, and the commercial slide weighs 11.8 oz. You can see the additional cutouts on the underside of the commercial slide. The deep channel at the rear probably accounts for most of the weight difference. https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/27888/M17_04_jpg-2758287.JPG The military barrel is marked with SIG's CAGE code and what I assume is a part number. https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/27888/M17_05_jpg-2758301.JPG Last small detail, probably insignificant, is that the military production barrel has a white dot on the bottom of the locking lug. Reminds me of the inspection dots on some other weapon components, like M4 bolts. https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/27888/M17_06_jpg-2758303.JPG My one minor issue with this pistol is that it has the same small hitch in the action as the commercial version when I cycle the slide by hand. It gets hung up about 1/8" out of battery if I reset the striker with a press check-style motion and needs a shake or tap to get it fully into battery. It also happens when I ride the slide forward after reassembling the pistol and rotating the takedown lever back into position. This bothered me on the commercial model, so I replaced the original recoil spring with a full size (orange marked) P320 spring, and the issue went away. I think this will clear itself up after I break in this new pistol, and it won't affect normal function at all, but it just seems odd, something I've never experienced with any other pistol model or brand. This pistol is going to get a Wilson Combat grip module, which I very much prefer over the factory grip, and then an X300U eventually when I have the spare funds. Looking forward to getting it out to the range. Thanks, |
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Quoted: I asked this in another M17/M18 thread: How do you get one of the Mil M18s without being Mil or LEO? The basic answer is that you’re going to have to find a military or LE individual who is offering one for sale secondhand. SIG requires their Armed Professional Program (law enforcement) dealers to get proof of MIL/LE status to sell these pistols to an individual. If you see these pistols for sale on Gunbroker or the Equipment Exchange here (or on other forums), that should mean that they were bought from a LE dealer and are being sold secondhand by a qualified individual. I’d recommend watching this forum’s EE. They show up fairly regularly, but people are charging extra for them because they’re harder to get. |
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Quoted: The basic answer is that you're going to have to find a military or LE individual who is offering one for sale secondhand. SIG requires their Armed Professional Program (law enforcement) dealers to get proof of MIL/LE status to sell these pistols to an individual. If you see these pistols for sale on Gunbroker or the Equipment Exchange here (or on other forums), that should mean that they were bought from a LE dealer and are being sold secondhand by a qualified individual. I'd recommend watching this forum's EE. They show up fairly regularly, but people are charging extra for them because they're harder to get. Quoted: Quoted: I asked this in another M17/M18 thread: How do you get one of the Mil M18s without being Mil or LEO? The basic answer is that you're going to have to find a military or LE individual who is offering one for sale secondhand. SIG requires their Armed Professional Program (law enforcement) dealers to get proof of MIL/LE status to sell these pistols to an individual. If you see these pistols for sale on Gunbroker or the Equipment Exchange here (or on other forums), that should mean that they were bought from a LE dealer and are being sold secondhand by a qualified individual. I'd recommend watching this forum's EE. They show up fairly regularly, but people are charging extra for them because they're harder to get. |
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Quoted: I take it asking a mil friend to buy one for me is a no-no? Yeah, it's kind of a no-no. |
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Quoted: Quoted: I take it asking a mil friend to buy one for me is a no-no? Yeah, it's kind of a no-no. |
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Quoted: Maybe the better question is: Is it worth the trouble vs. just buying the civi M18 from Academy/Buds/LGS or wherever? Depends on your use case, IMO. If you're a hardcore military collector, they are likely worth the scratch to put in a collection. Otherwise, I'd be hardpressed to make the argument. |
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Quoted: Maybe the better question is: Is it worth the trouble vs. just buying the civi M18 from Academy/Buds/LGS or wherever? I think the differences are more noticeable with the M17, because of the heavier slide and full power recoil spring. I don’t have the military production M18, but I think the difference between that one and the commercial M18 would be less noticeable, since I think the slide and recoil spring are the same other than the optic mount and rear sight (plus the markings). In my mind, that means the real difference that you’re paying a lot more for is the barrel, with its tighter pre-tensioned lock up. I have a commercial M18, and I love it. I’m fortunate that the military production models are only ~$100 more for me to purchase. If I had to pay $300+ extra to get one on the secondhand market, I don’t think the M18 differences would be worth it to me, personally. |
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Quoted: Depends on your use case, IMO. If you're a hardcore military collector, they are likely worth the scratch to put in a collection. Otherwise, I'd be hardpressed to make the argument. Quoted: I think the differences are more noticeable with the M17, because of the heavier slide and full power recoil spring. I don't have the military production M18, but I think the difference between that one and the commercial M18 would be less noticeable, since I think the slide and recoil spring are the same other than the optic mount and rear sight (plus the markings). In my mind, that means the real difference that you're paying a lot more for is the barrel, with its tighter pre-tensioned lock up. I have a commercial M18, and I love it. I'm fortunate that the military production models are only ~$100 more for me to purchase. If I had to pay $300+ extra to get one on the secondhand market, I don't think the M18 differences would be worth it to me, personally. |
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Quoted: Finally ordered an M17 from Proven Arms & Outfitters. Great service, as always, and I'm glad SIG made these available through their LE/MIL program (although I'd like to see them available to everyone). https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/27888/M17_01_jpg-2758270.JPG I thought I'd share a few comparison photos with the commercial P320-M17, even though some have been posted here before. I'm approaching 3,000 rounds on my commercial pistol, and I found the subtle differences interesting, beyond the obvious markings and rear sight plate. My original pistol is a darker coyote tan, which I'm sure is just a color variation between batches, but the military version's color is a lot closer to the grip module. The M17 is on top and the P320-M17 on the bottom in each of these photos. https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/27888/M17_02_jpg-2758275.JPG I noticed that the angled sides of the breech block(?) on the military version are more pronounced, tapering inward towards the loaded chamber indicator as shown in this top view. One additional small difference is the flat spot on the top of the slide for the front sight dovetail. The dovetail cutout is about 0.2mm lower on the military slide, which in turn lowers / widens the flat area around it, so the front sight sits slightly lower. That could be a small production change over time, since my commercial pistol is about a year older. https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/27888/M17_03_jpg-2758284.JPG The difference in the weight of the two slides is noticeable. When I picked up the new M17 at my FFL and handled it for the first time, I could immediately tell that it's heavier. On my postal scale, the M17 slide (without barrel and recoil spring) weighs 13.2 oz, and the commercial slide weighs 11.8 oz. You can see the additional cutouts on the underside of the commercial slide. The deep channel at the rear probably accounts for most of the weight difference. https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/27888/M17_04_jpg-2758287.JPG The military barrel is marked with SIG's CAGE code and what I assume is a part number. https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/27888/M17_05_jpg-2758301.JPG Last small detail, probably insignificant, is that the military production barrel has a white dot on the bottom of the locking lug. Reminds me of the inspection dots on some other weapon components, like M4 bolts. https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/27888/M17_06_jpg-2758303.JPG My one minor issue with this pistol is that it has the same small hitch in the action as the commercial version when I cycle the slide by hand. It gets hung up about 1/8" out of battery if I reset the striker with a press check-style motion and needs a shake or tap to get it fully into battery. It also happens when I ride the slide forward after reassembling the pistol and rotating the takedown lever back into position. This bothered me on the commercial model, so I replaced the original recoil spring with a full size (orange marked) P320 spring, and the issue went away. I think this will clear itself up after I break in this new pistol, and it won't affect normal function at all, but it just seems odd, something I've never experienced with any other pistol model or brand. This pistol is going to get a Wilson Combat grip module, which I very much prefer over the factory grip, and then an X300U eventually when I have the spare funds. Looking forward to getting it out to the range. Great photos. The heft of the slide is not all that surprising when you consider the M1152 load is pretty dang hot. SAAMI spec for 9mm is 35,000 PSI and +P is 38,500 PSI. M1152 is 39,700 PSI. Out of curiousity does the military M17 barrel fit in the commercial slide? As far as the hitch in the slide I think my commercial M17 did that when new. It's got a lot rounds down the pipe and has a 14lb 1911 spring installed. Smooth as butter now  I think I'll have to snag a POW M17 just because. |
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Quoted: Great photos. The heft of the slide is not all that surprising when you consider the M1152 load is pretty dang hot. SAAMI spec for 9mm is 35,000 PSI and +P is 38,500 PSI. M1152 is 39,700 PSI. Out of curiousity does the military M17 barrel fit in the commercial slide? As far as the hitch in the slide I think my commercial M17 did that when new. It's got a lot rounds down the pipe and has a 14lb 1911 spring installed. Smooth as butter now I broke mine in by starting off with 100 rounds of M1152. It’s definitely hot stuff. I shot some through my commercial M18 as well, but I didn’t enjoy that as much. I’ll check out the barrel fit in the commercial slide when I have a chance. I’ve posted about the commercial M17 slide hitch a couple times, so apologies if you’ve already read this. My assessment is that the slightly weaker recoil spring they put in the commercial M17 (to accommodate ammunition of varying quality) has a little trouble overcoming the friction in the slide / barrel when the pistol is new. I replaced mine with a standard full sized P320 recoil spring assembly, and the hitch went away. It functions perfectly, although I only use factory brass ammo from the major brands. |
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Quoted: I bought my M18 last Friday from Academy Sports in Franklin. Haven't had a chance to shoot it yet nor even take pics of it.  Is there a way to find out when it was manufactured?Stock pic from AS: https://academy.scene7.com/is/image/academy/20452585? You will have to call SIG SAUER (603-610-3000) or message their Customer Service. |
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Quoted: I bought my M18 last Friday from Academy Sports in Franklin. Haven't had a chance to shoot it yet nor even take pics of it. Is there a way to find out when it was manufactured?Stock pic from AS: https://academy.scene7.com/is/image/academy/20452585? Might I ask why you are inquiring? Just wondering. Also pretty sure all of mine have a date of manufacture on the label, end of box it came in. Cp |
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Quoted: Might I ask why you are inquiring? Just wondering. Also pretty sure all of mine have a date of manufacture on the label, end of box it came in. Cp Quoted: Quoted: I bought my M18 last Friday from Academy Sports in Franklin. Haven't had a chance to shoot it yet nor even take pics of it. Is there a way to find out when it was manufactured?Stock pic from AS: https://academy.scene7.com/is/image/academy/20452585? Might I ask why you are inquiring? Just wondering. Also pretty sure all of mine have a date of manufacture on the label, end of box it came in. Cp 
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Quoted: I bought my M18 last Friday from Academy Sports in Franklin. Haven't had a chance to shoot it yet nor even take pics of it. Is there a way to find out when it was manufactured?Stock pic from AS: https://academy.scene7.com/is/image/academy/20452585? That picture is not a TC M18. |
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Quoted: That picture is not a TC M18. Quoted: Quoted: I bought my M18 last Friday from Academy Sports in Franklin. Haven't had a chance to shoot it yet nor even take pics of it. Is there a way to find out when it was manufactured?Stock pic from AS: https://academy.scene7.com/is/image/academy/20452585? That picture is not a TC M18. |
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Picked up a TC s/n M18. Now I need to get a matching M17. Still keeping the P320 versions as well. My P320 M17 doesn’t really look like the mil issue gun anymore and I’m going to do a similar theme with my P320 M18. The M18 will remain in the factory configuration and so will an M17 if I pick one up.  
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My P320-M17 definitely isn’t going anywhere. It’s reliable, accurate, comfortable to shoot, and I got it for a great price. I’ll continue to train with it and will beat it up with a high round count, while I’ll just shoot my military production M17 from time to time while dedicating it for HD. Having said that, I’m mildly concerned that my new M17 seems to be shooting consistently 2-3 inches low using the same combat hold sight picture as my commercial M17 (which is dead on point of aim). I think I just may not be used to the fat factory grip and need to switch it to a Wilson Combat or X-Series grip module. |
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Quoted: That picture is not a TC M18. Quoted: Quoted: I bought my M18 last Friday from Academy Sports in Franklin. Haven't had a chance to shoot it yet nor even take pics of it. Is there a way to find out when it was manufactured?Stock pic from AS: https://academy.scene7.com/is/image/academy/20452585? That picture is not a TC M18. The pic also shows a serial number that is not a commercial M18. Wrong type of engraving as the serial number should start M18 and be rollmarked and not dot marked, and is missing the UID at the end. |
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Quoted: Picked up a TC s/n M18. Now I need to get a matching M17. Still keeping the P320 versions as well. My P320 M17 doesn’t really look like the mil issue gun anymore and I’m going to do a similar theme with my P320 M18. The M18 will remain in the factory configuration and so will an M17 if I pick one up. https://i.imgur.com/Ha8s5i1.jpg https://i.imgur.com/gB15p6w.jpg Even though your commercial M17 doesn't look like the mil issue gun, it looks a hell of a lot better. 
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Quoted: The pic also shows a serial number that is not a commercial M18. Wrong type of engraving as the serial number should start M18 and be rollmarked and not dot marked, and is missing the UID at the end. True, but that’s a stock image from SIG’s own product listing for the commercial M18. They probably just mocked up a pistol when they announced the new model before starting regular production, or maybe they have some sort of non-functional FCU that they use for photo shoots. |
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Quoted: My P320-M17 definitely isn't going anywhere. It's reliable, accurate, comfortable to shoot, and I got it for a great price. I'll continue to train with it and will beat it up with a high round count, while I'll just shoot my military production M17 from time to time while dedicating it for HD. Having said that, I'm mildly concerned that my new M17 seems to be shooting consistently 2-3 inches low using the same combat hold sight picture as my commercial M17 (which is dead on point of aim). I think I just may not be used to the fat factory grip and need to switch it to a Wilson Combat or X-Series grip module.
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Quoted: The pic also shows a serial number that is not a commercial M18. Wrong type of engraving as the serial number should start M18 and be rollmarked and not dot marked, and is missing the UID at the end. Quoted: Quoted: Quoted: I bought my M18 last Friday from Academy Sports in Franklin. Haven't had a chance to shoot it yet nor even take pics of it. Is there a way to find out when it was manufactured?Stock pic from AS: https://academy.scene7.com/is/image/academy/20452585? That picture is not a TC M18. The pic also shows a serial number that is not a commercial M18. Wrong type of engraving as the serial number should start M18 and be rollmarked and not dot marked, and is missing the UID at the end. My M18's serial number is M18A087xxx. It also has a computer scan image (IUD?) at the end of the serial number. |
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Quoted: Both my M11-A1 and M18 shoot left about 3 inches at 15 yards or so. You might want to consider swapping out the M18 trigger for SIG’s flat trigger. Not too difficult to do at home, but definitely watch a couple videos, because it’s a little “fiddlely.” I find that the flat trigger helps me with a more consistent reward pull to avoid sideways pressure that may throw off your point of impact. |
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Quoted: You might want to consider swapping out the M18 trigger for SIG’s flat trigger. Not too difficult to do at home, but definitely watch a couple videos, because it’s a little “fiddlely.” I find that the flat trigger helps me with a more consistent reward pull to avoid sideways pressure that may throw off your point of impact. Quoted: Quoted: Both my M11-A1 and M18 shoot left about 3 inches at 15 yards or so. You might want to consider swapping out the M18 trigger for SIG’s flat trigger. Not too difficult to do at home, but definitely watch a couple videos, because it’s a little “fiddlely.” I find that the flat trigger helps me with a more consistent reward pull to avoid sideways pressure that may throw off your point of impact. Flat trigger is a must! 
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