By R.K. Campbell | Contributing Editor
When SIG introduced the P 365 FUSE 9mm pistol I was interested enough to obtain one of the first available, and I’m glad I did.
The P 365 is a favorite of mine from the original subcompact to the SIG X MACRO and TACOPS. All are good shooters, and the larger adaptations of the original are the better shooters as may be expected. The FUSE is not only among the beset shooting SIG 9mm variations I have fired, the piece is more affordable than most.
SIG’s reputation for reliability and accuracy is achieved through quality manufacture and extensive experience. The FUSE is a continuation of this legacy maker. The pistol is intended as a bridge between the P 365 and the larger P 320, a fusion of good features and the introduction of a lightweight slim trim pistol that shoots like a big gun.
This polymer frame striker fired pistol is delivered with three magazines, a 17-rounder and two 21- round models. The 21-round magazines will fit other P 365 pistols as well so they may become a popular option.
The P 365 is highly regarded for its ergonomics and it features easily manipulated controls including a slide lock, take down lever, and magazine release. The trigger is a single action type with a trigger block to prevent the striker from tripping unless the trigger is pressed fully to the rear and it breaks clean at just over six pounds. Reset is rapid.
This SIG pistol is well proportioned with a 4.3 inch barrel which ensures a full powder burn of the efficient 9mm Luger cartridge. Muzzle flash is limited and the pistol provides velocity comparable to service grade handguns.
I was impressed by the sights, which are well designed for both combat and precision fire. The rear sight features a wide notch while the front sight is a bright green fiber optic design. The grip features a good mix of adhesion and abrasion and is large enough to accommodate most hand sizes. Additional grip inserts are provided.
SIG also built the P 365 FUSE to be optics ready, an option I did not explore at this time. A version with a mounted Romeo X should be available by the time this report hits the news.
Here what SIG has to say about their new addition: “Full-size capability and micro-compact concealment combine with the all-new FUSE from SIG SAUER. Its 21+1 capacity meets a razor-thin 1” wide grip module for unmatched versatility and shootability. FUSE delivers the accuracy and grit of a full-size pistol with its 6 7/8” optic-ready slide, longer than any compact in its class for improved sight radius and enhanced control. Equipped with a fiber optic front sight and a 4.3” barrel, FUSE provides improved ballistic performance from today’s defensive ammunition for faster velocities and maximum expansion on target.”
SIG’s P365 weighs just under 25 ounces unloaded. It has good balance when loaded and comes on target quickly. Draw, drive the sights to the target, and press the trigger properly and you have a hit. Allow the trigger to reset as you control the muzzle and you are aligned for another hit. SIG’s laser engraved grip really makes for good control. The LXS is attractive, not likely to snag on clothing, and well designed.
After examining the grip and passing the FUSE around the range, it seems that the shooters who would benefit the most from a grip modification are those with large hands and the larger size grip insert provides this edge. The pistol’s cocking serrations, forward and rear, are well designed for leverage.
Shots fired
The pistol was carried in a Galco Belt Slide, along with a Galco dual magazine carrier. Surprisingly enough, the two loaded 21-round magazines do not drag the belt down.
The SIG FUSE is fast on the draw. Run the elbow to the rear, scoop the pistol out of the holster, and run it toward the target. I used Black Hills Ammunition 115-grain FMJ for this GunMag review.
Firing rapid fire I addressed targets at 7 and 10 yards, and set up a couple of multiple threat drills. The piece is tractable and makes for good results at combat range. I also fired for accuracy from the MTM K Zone shooting rest from MTM Caseguard. I used some of the best defensive ammunition available testing the pistol with +P loads as well. Recoil is increased but the FUSE grip is comfortable and the barrel length ensures good velocity potential with these loads.
Load 5 shot group 15 yards
Black Hills 100 grain Honey Badger +P 2.0 in.
Black Hills 115 grain XTP* 1.6 in.
Black Hills 124 grain JHP 1.45 in.
Black Hills 124 grain JHP +P 1.9 in.
(*The EXP or Extra Powder load is a strong load but not quite in +P territory.)
The FUSE gets a clean bill of health. Reliability seems SIG like, the pistol is accurate enough for any foreseeable chore, and it features a good reserve of ammunition.
Specifications
- Caliber: 9mm
- Capacity: 21 / 17
- Overall Length: 7.2 inches
- Overall Height: 5.7 inches
- Overall Width: 1.1 inches
- Barrel Length: 4.3 inches
- Sight Radius: 6.0 inches
- Optics Slide Cut: Compact
- Weight (w/magazine): 24.8 ounces
- Price: Average $665
