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Is the SIG P322 Worth Getting with a Suppressor? A Comprehensive Review

The SIG Sauer P322 has quickly become a popular choice for rimfire pistol enthusiasts. Its blend of features, capacity, and modularity makes it an attractive option. But the question remains: is the SIG P322 worth getting, especially if you plan to use it with a suppressor? This comprehensive review will delve into the pros and cons, performance, and overall value of the P322 in a suppressed configuration.

What Makes the SIG P322 Stand Out?

Before we dive into suppressor compatibility, let’s quickly recap what makes the SIG P322 a noteworthy pistol:

High Capacity: The P322 boasts a 20-round magazine, an impressive capacity for a rimfire pistol. This means less time reloading and more time shooting.
Optics Ready: It comes optics-ready, allowing you to easily mount a red dot sight for improved accuracy and target acquisition.
Threaded Barrel: Crucially for our discussion, the P322 comes with a threaded barrel adapter, making it suppressor-ready right out of the box.
Ambidextrous Controls: The ambidextrous safety and magazine release make it comfortable for both left- and right-handed shooters.
Lightweight and Ergonomic: The P322 is lightweight and has an ergonomic grip, making it comfortable to handle for extended shooting sessions.
Modular Design: Its modular design allows for easy customization and upgrades.

Suppressor Compatibility: A Key Consideration

The fact that the SIG P322 is suppressor-ready is a major selling point for many. Rimfire pistols and suppressors are a match made in heaven – they offer a significantly quieter shooting experience, making them ideal for training, pest control, or simply enjoying a more pleasant day at the range. However, not all suppressor-ready guns perform equally well with suppressors.

Pros of Using a Suppressor on the SIG P322

Noise Reduction: The primary benefit is, of course, noise reduction. A suppressor can significantly reduce the report of the .22LR round, making it much quieter and more enjoyable to shoot.
Reduced Recoil: Suppressors add weight to the end of the barrel, which can help to reduce recoil and muzzle rise, leading to improved accuracy and control.
Hearing Protection: While a suppressor won’t eliminate the need for hearing protection entirely (especially with supersonic .22LR ammunition), it can significantly reduce the noise level, making it safer for your ears.
Enhanced Accuracy: In some cases, suppressors can improve accuracy by dampening vibrations and stabilizing the barrel.

Cons of Using a Suppressor on the SIG P322

Added Weight and Length: A suppressor will add both weight and length to the pistol, which can affect its balance and handling.
Increased Backpressure: Suppressors increase backpressure, which can lead to more blowback and potentially more fouling of the firearm.
Ammunition Sensitivity: Some .22LR ammunition may not cycle reliably with a suppressor, requiring you to experiment to find the best match. Subsonic ammunition is generally recommended for suppressed shooting to minimize noise.
Cost: Suppressors are not cheap. You’ll need to factor in the cost of the suppressor itself, as well as the $200 NFA tax stamp and the waiting period for approval.
Cleaning and Maintenance: Suppressors require regular cleaning and maintenance to ensure optimal performance.

Performance with a Suppressor: Real-World Testing

To truly determine if the SIG P322 is worth getting with a suppressor, it’s important to consider how it performs in real-world testing. Several factors come into play, including the type of suppressor used, the ammunition used, and the shooter’s skill level.

Ammunition Selection

As mentioned earlier, ammunition selection is crucial when shooting suppressed .22LR. Subsonic ammunition is generally recommended because it travels at speeds below the speed of sound, eliminating the sonic boom that can contribute to noise. Popular subsonic .22LR options include CCI Standard Velocity, Aguila Super Extra Subsonic, and Federal Subsonic. Experiment with different brands and types to find what cycles most reliably in your P322 with your chosen suppressor.

Suppressor Choice

The choice of suppressor can also significantly impact performance. Smaller, lighter suppressors may be more comfortable to carry and handle, but they may not offer as much noise reduction as larger, heavier models. Popular .22LR suppressors include the SilencerCo Sparrow 22, Dead Air Mask HD, and Rugged Oculus 22. Consider your priorities – weight, size, noise reduction – when choosing a suppressor.

Reliability

Reliability is paramount. A pistol that doesn’t cycle reliably is frustrating to shoot, especially when suppressed. The SIG P322 generally has good reliability, but some users have reported occasional malfunctions, particularly with certain types of ammunition. Thoroughly cleaning and lubricating the pistol can help to improve reliability. Also, make sure to clean your suppressor regularly, as buildup of lead and carbon can affect its performance and potentially cause malfunctions.

Accuracy

The P322 is known for its good accuracy, even without a suppressor. Adding a suppressor can potentially improve accuracy by dampening vibrations and stabilizing the barrel. However, it’s important to ensure that the suppressor is properly mounted and aligned to avoid any negative impact on accuracy. Experiment with different ammunition and suppressor combinations to find what yields the best results.

The Legal Considerations of Owning a Suppressor

Before you rush out and buy a suppressor, it’s important to understand the legal considerations. In the United States, suppressors are regulated under the National Firearms Act (NFA). This means that you’ll need to go through a background check, pay a $200 tax stamp, and wait for approval from the ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives) before you can legally own a suppressor. The waiting period can sometimes be several months or even longer. It is crucial to understand the laws in your state as some states prohibit civilian ownership of suppressors.

Alternatives to the SIG P322

While the SIG P322 is a great option, it’s not the only .22LR pistol on the market that’s suppressor-ready. Some alternatives to consider include:

Ruger SR22: A popular and reliable .22LR pistol with a threaded barrel option.
Smith & Wesson M&P 22 Compact: A compact and lightweight .22LR pistol with a threaded barrel.
Glock 44: Glock’s .22LR offering, designed to mimic the feel of a Glock 19.
Taurus TX22: A high-capacity .22LR pistol with a threaded barrel at an affordable price point.

So, Is the SIG P322 Worth Getting with a Suppressor?

Ultimately, whether the SIG P322 is worth getting with a suppressor depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you’re looking for a high-capacity, optics-ready, and suppressor-ready .22LR pistol that’s fun to shoot and relatively accurate, the P322 is definitely a strong contender. The added benefits of shooting suppressed – noise reduction, reduced recoil, and potential accuracy improvements – make it an even more appealing option.

However, it’s important to consider the drawbacks, such as the added weight and length of the suppressor, the increased backpressure and fouling, and the cost and legal requirements associated with suppressor ownership. Also, be aware of the potential for ammunition sensitivity and the need to experiment to find the best combination for your setup.

If you’re willing to put in the time and effort to fine-tune your setup and maintain your equipment, the SIG P322 and a suppressor can be a fantastic combination for plinking, training, or pest control. But if you’re looking for a simple, hassle-free solution, you may want to consider other options.

In conclusion, the SIG P322 offers a compelling package for those interested in suppressed .22LR shooting. Its features and capabilities make it a versatile and enjoyable pistol to own. Just be sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully and do your research before making a decision.

[See also: Best .22LR Suppressors for Pistols]
[See also: SIG P322 vs Ruger SR22: Which is Better?]

Final Thoughts

The SIG P322 represents a modern approach to the .22LR pistol platform. Its features cater well to both new and experienced shooters. The ability to easily add a suppressor enhances its versatility, making it a worthwhile investment for many. Remember to always prioritize safety and follow all applicable laws when handling firearms and suppressors.