Sig P365X Review & Specs (2026): Size, Capacity, Optics, Best Use
The Sig P365X is a compact 9mm pistol that combines the shorter grip of the P365 with the longer slide and optics-ready capability of the P365XL. It's designed for concealed carry with a focus on capacity, shootability, and modern features like red dot compatibility.
This review covers the P365X's specifications, how it compares to other P365 variants, optics options, and whether it's the right choice for concealed carry. Whether you're considering a P365X or curious about Sig's compact pistol lineup, understanding these factors will help you make an informed decision. For comparison with other compact pistols, see our Glock 43X review.
People often ask about the P365X because it offers a unique combination of features—compact grip with longer slide and optics capability—that appeals to many concealed carry shooters.
What Is the P365X?
The P365X is a variant of Sig's P365 platform that features the same short slide and barrel (3.1 inches) as the standard P365, but with the longer X grip module and 12-round flush-fit magazine. It also includes an optics-ready slide for mounting red dot sights.
This configuration creates a pistol that offers the same compact slide as the P365 but with an extended grip for better control and higher capacity (12-round flush vs 10-round flush). It's designed for shooters who want the compact slide with improved grip and modern features like optics capability.
The P365X comes standard with a flat trigger (unlike the curved trigger on some P365 models) and includes an optics-ready slide cut for popular red dot footprints like the Shield RMSC and Sig's own Romeo Zero.
Specs & Key Features
- Caliber: 9mm Luger
- Capacity: 12 rounds (standard flush-fit), 15 rounds (extended)
- Barrel Length: 3.1 inches
- Overall Length: ~6.0 inches
- Height: 4.8 inches (with flush magazine)
- Width: 1.1 inches
- Weight (unloaded): 20.7 ounces
- Trigger: Flat trigger (pull weight varies)
- Sights: X-Ray3 day/night sights
- Slide: Optics-ready with compact footprint (Shield RMSc/RomeoZero-style)
- Frame: Polymer with enhanced grip texture
- MSRP: Varies, typically $600-700
Size and Concealability
The P365X uses the same short slide and barrel (3.1 inches) as the standard P365, which helps with concealment. The longer X grip module (12-round flush vs 10-round flush) provides better control and capacity while still being relatively compact.
The grip is the primary factor in printing, and the X grip is longer than the standard P365 grip but still manageable for concealment. The compact slide length helps keep the overall profile small, making it easier to conceal than longer-slide variants like the P365XL.
At 1.1 inches wide and 20.7 ounces unloaded, the P365X is compact and lightweight, making it comfortable for all-day carry. The enhanced grip texture helps maintain control without being too aggressive against skin.
Capacity Options
The P365X comes with a 12-round flush-fit magazine standard, and it's compatible with 15-round extended magazines. The 12-round flush-fit capacity is higher than the standard P365's 10-round flush capacity, providing more rounds without extending the grip.
The 15-round magazine extends the grip length but provides maximum capacity. This allows you to customize capacity based on your needs—12 rounds flush for a good balance, or 15 rounds for maximum capacity.
Optics Options
The P365X comes with an optics-ready slide with compact footprint (Shield RMSc/RomeoZero-style). SIG describes it as "optic-ready with compact footprint." This footprint is compatible with several popular red dot sights including:
- Sig Sauer Romeo Zero
- Shield RMSc
- Holosun 407K/507K (with adapter plate required)
- Other compact footprint optics
Not every optic mounts directly—verify compatibility with your specific optic model. The optics-ready capability is a significant advantage for those who want to mount a red dot sight without aftermarket slide milling. Red dots can improve accuracy and speed, especially for shooters who train with them.
How It Compares to Other P365 Variants
P365X vs P365
The P365X uses the same short slide and barrel (3.1 inches) as the standard P365, but features the longer X grip module with 12-round flush-fit magazine (vs 10-round flush on standard P365). The P365X also includes optics-ready capability and flat trigger. The X offers better grip control and higher capacity while maintaining the same compact slide length.
P365X vs P365XL
The key difference is barrel/slide length: P365X has a 3.1-inch barrel while P365XL has a 3.7-inch barrel. The grip is broadly similar X/XL size depending on configuration (both typically use 12-round flush magazines). The P365X is more concealable due to the shorter slide, while the XL offers a longer sight radius.
P365X vs P365 Macro
The P365 Macro is larger overall with a longer grip and higher capacity (17 rounds). The X is more concealable but offers less capacity. Choose based on whether concealment or capacity is the priority.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- • Good concealability (compact slide)
- • Optics-ready slide
- • Same compact slide as standard P365
- • Good capacity (12-round flush, 15-round extended)
- • Flat trigger (preferred by many)
- • P365 platform reputation (varies by production era and user experience)
- • Good aftermarket support
Cons
- • Higher price than standard P365
- • Optics-ready adds cost if not using
- • 12-round flush capacity (same as XL, but shorter slide)
- • May be too small for larger hands
- • Sig's proprietary rail (limited light options)
Who Should (and Shouldn't) Choose It
Best For
- • Concealed carry where maximum concealability is priority
- • Those who want optics capability
- • Shooters who prefer longer sight radius
- • Those who want P365 reliability with modern features
- • Shooters with small to medium hands
Consider Alternatives If
- • You need maximum capacity (choose P365XL or Macro)
- • Budget is primary concern (standard P365)
- • You have very large hands
- • You don't want optics capability
- • You prefer curved trigger
Sig P365X FAQ
What's the difference between P365X and P365XL?
The key difference is barrel/slide length: P365X has a 3.1-inch barrel while P365XL has a 3.7-inch barrel. The grip is broadly similar X/XL size depending on configuration (both typically use 12-round flush magazines). The P365X is more concealable due to the shorter slide, while the XL offers a longer sight radius.
Is the P365X good for concealed carry?
Yes, the P365X is good for concealed carry. Its compact slide (3.1 inches) helps with concealment, and the X grip provides good control and 12-round capacity. The optics-ready capability and good capacity options make it a modern, capable concealed carry pistol.
What red dots fit the P365X?
The P365X uses a compact footprint (Shield RMSc/RomeoZero-style). Compatible optics include Sig Romeo Zero, Shield RMSc, and Holosun 407K/507K (with adapter plate required). Not every optic mounts directly—always verify compatibility with your specific optic model.
Is the P365X reliable?
The P365X is part of the P365 platform, which has a generally positive reputation for reliability in concealed carry use, though platform reputation varies by production era and user experience. As with any firearm, proper maintenance and quality ammunition are important. Individual examples may vary.
Can you use P365XL magazines in P365X?
Yes, P365X is compatible with P365XL magazines (12-round and 15-round). The magazines will extend past the grip, but they function properly. This allows you to customize capacity based on your needs.
Is the P365X worth the extra cost over P365?
That depends on whether you value the longer slide, optics-ready capability, and flat trigger. If you want optics capability or prefer the longer sight radius, the P365X is worth it. If you don't need these features, the standard P365 may be better value.
Safety Considerations
Ammunition Compatibility
The P365X is designed for standard pressure 9mm Luger ammunition. It can handle +P ammunition, but frequent use may accelerate wear. Always use ammunition that meets SAAMI specifications.
Optics Installation
When installing a red dot sight, ensure proper installation and torque specifications. Improper installation can affect reliability and zero retention. Follow manufacturer guidelines and consider professional installation if unsure.
Magazine Compatibility
While P365X is compatible with P365XL magazines, test all magazines for reliability. Some magazines may work better than others, and extended magazines should be tested before relying on them for defensive use.
Bottom Line
The Sig P365X is a good concealed carry pistol that combines the compact slide (3.1 inches) of the standard P365 with the longer X grip module and 12-round flush capacity. It's ideal for shooters who want the compact slide with improved grip control and modern features like optics capability.
It's best for concealed carry where compact slide length is the priority, those who want optics capability, and shooters who prefer the extended grip for better control. The P365X offers a good balance of size, capacity, and features.
If you need maximum capacity or have very large hands, consider the P365XL or Macro. If budget is the primary concern or you don't need optics capability, the standard P365 may be better value. For most concealed carry shooters, the P365X offers an excellent combination of features and concealability.