Welcome to the forum!

I would try it first; after 300 rounds you will know what you need to change, replace and add on your P365. There is no purpose in upgrading it if you still haven’t even used it. iMHO 😎

 

Good advice 👍 I have a bad habit of buying cars, motorcycles, full-suspension mountain bikes...toys and immediately start dumping aftermarket parts on them.
Since I'm new to getting into firearms which I have no experience in, is why I ask.
A sincere thank you 🤙

 

What am I looking at here. I don't know whether to reply or run

 

Run!

 

Yes, this is a gun, something your life might depend on, not just some toy. Get familiar with it, shoot it first, then decide. If you just start hanging c&@p on it right off the bat, and it doesn’t function properly, you won’t know what causes the issue.

 

I just bought my 1st new pistol, SIG P365 Base. I haven't even bought bullets, cleaning kit, it's still in the box.

Question: When making mods to your guns do you buy individual parts from different manufacturers to be purpose built?

I'm in a dilemma of going with better parts, like slide release, extended safety release, takedown lever, safety trigger, all external parts so the gun fits my hand so I can operate it without breaking my grip.

I don't know if I should Frankenstein it with different manufacturer's parts to operate it to my hand size OR just upgrade it with better parts from a single source so it's a little better?

An example is for the slide release.
SIG and Armoury Craft would be designed much better for my thumb to reach the slide release optimally.

However, if I went with a better slide release from Tyrant CNC it would be better than stock then I could get a matching takedown lever, and trigger to match the gun.

Form and function (multiple manufacturers) or better and blinged✨️?

So the top one is my Legion
1. TYRANT IntelliFire Trigger
2. TYRANT Extended Slide Catch
3. TYRANT Extended TDL
4. Maskas Precision Extended One Piece Mag Release

My Radian build
1. TYRANT IntelliFire Trigger
2. Maskas Precision Extended One Piece Mag Release

I LOVE the Maskas Precision mag releases! I am also diggin the TYRANT IntelliFire Triggers.

The TYRANT Slide Catch and TDL are purely cosmetic in my opinion. And the stock Slide Catch and TDL are fine as is. Do I need an extended TDL or Slide Catch? Not really. Will I get them, more than likely! LOL I'll probably go with Armory Craft to replace the OEM.

 

I wouldn't modify anything till you run at least 500-1000 rds and know and understand your weapon. Modifying anything before you know if it would be better if it was modified, is a mistake. Shoot the gun, then figure it out.

 

Holy smokes Batman!

 

^^^^.
Right here. Get to know your firearm. Get educated about it. Learn how to shoot it, then shoot it. It’s NOT just a shiny toy! Take your time and take it seriously.

 

Understood. I grew up in Louisiana, hunting and fishing. I've been to the range with an old buddy, no longer around. I do have respect for firearms.
I just decided it's time for self protection for me and the family (glad it wasn't too late!)
I do thank you for your words of wisdom. This is my 1st day on this forum and legitimately will take experienced advice.

 

As mentioned above. Run several hundred rounds and break it in. By then any issues you might want to address should be apparent. Take small steps on modifications and test run each mod separately before moving on to the next. Good luck.

 

As others have said, leave stock and shoot it as is to establish a baseline, aftermarket parts can affect reliability and performance, for example; one might not want a super light trigger for carry.

 

Just from all the similar comments I now know this is the best advice. 👍

 

Sub compact is difficult to control for new shooters. You may want to rent a 22lr pistol or a full size 9mm. Either case the recoil on a smaller pistol can be hard to master. Take your time and enjoy the experience. The best advice I got was no mods until you you've rounds down range. Most ranges will have a rental inventory.
Buy a safe if you don't have one. Doesn't have to be big, but it does have to be secure.
Next, get yourself into a class.

 

Sub compact is difficult to control for new shooters. You may want to rent a 22lr pistol or a full size 9mm. Either case the recoil on a smaller pistol can be hard to master. Take your time and enjoy the experience. The best advice I got was no mods until you you've rounds down range. Most ranges will have a rental inventory.
Buy a safe if you don't have one. Doesn't have to be big, but it does have to be secure.
Next, get yourself into a class.

^^^^ -- THIS ^^^^ That is a very small gun and may or may not ever fit your hands so that you can shoot it well. That is another very good reason to not turn a $500 or $600 gun into a $1,500 gun before you even shoot it and learn to handle it well.

I am not talking off the top of my head. My nearest and dearest wound up with a "Thousand Dollar Turkish Gun" which he does not and will not shoot and can never sell unless it is for the $400 that the gun is actually worth - and maybe not even then. And he has been shooting regularly for well over 70 years. - So even those who should know better sometimes do foolish things.

And a bit more down to earth: I bought a Kimber micro Raptor in .380. It was probably the most beautiful gun I've ever owned. I purchased extra springs, magazines, etc. thinking I would have it for a long time. It shot very well - for everyone EXCEPT ME!!!! That gun hated me, and that is no joke. I have three (3) SIG P238's which are very close to being virtually the same as the Kimber, and I shoot them quite well. I wound up putting the Kimber on consignment and got about 80% of my money back. I was lucky.

I hope our experiences help you to not waste money, since buying a gun is only the beginning: You need holster(s), a good gun belt, the above mentioned safe, cleaning supplies, some pistol lessons, and a few other things that will take more $$ - without buying one more thing for the actual gun.

And, when you DO learn to shoot it well, chances are you will be looking for the next one to buy, which will make you a "normal" gun owner.

Blessings and Peace 👵

 

If I understand correctly that this is your first pistol, don't change anything until you manipulate and shoot it enough to be familiar with it. Then change things you find need to be changed

 

Thank you. Well noted.

 

Before you spend any money on modifications buy about 500-1000rds of ammo and find a reputable training course (or three).

 

I too grew up in Louisiana back in the 60’s and 70’s, joined the Air Force and landed in Florida for the past 35 years.

Only about 16 years ago did I decide to get into pistols and daily carry. I could always get my Florida Concealed Weapon or Firearm License using my DD214, being fingerprinted again just stroked my fur the wrong way. I finally decided to suck it up, and I will say the offices where you can get your Florida Concealed Weapon or Firearm License are the most efficient government offices I have ever dealt with. I just renewed a couple of weeks ago and 10 minutes from the time I signed in to the time I walked out with my new license.

As to modifications, as others have said, shoot, practice, practice, then practice some more. The Sig P365 is not a Glock, you don’t need to update the sights, trigger or other things out of the box. I’ve ran the whole spectrum, I had a lot of Glocks, went to the Glock Armor Class, shot in GSSF competition, became a NRA Certified Range Safety Officer, then a NRA Pistol Instructor. I‘ve carried full size Glocks and much smaller. I’ve had Glocks that I put a LOT of money into, only to sell and lose a LOT of money. I’m trying to sell my last Glock, a G34 Gen 5. I may get a Ruger RXM when they come out with the full size grip module, just to say I have a Gen 3 clone, but I’m not in any hurry.

I bought one of the original P365s when they came out, I typically didn’t buy a model of handgun until I could shoot it, the P365 was an exception to my usual method. I was surprised how accurate I could be with this little gun. That was my gateway Sig and why I currently carry the P365 AXG. All I’ve changed on it was to put LOK grips on it. I’ve learned on my pistol journey, grip is king. While my Sig collection is sparse compared to many here, I do have P226, P229, P320, and 1911 variants.

We are now able to open carry in Florida, the only day I may open carry will be the 2nd of each month, to bring attention to the 2nd Amendment. I’ve been asked many times why I daily carry, some I consider close friends have suggested it’s because I just want to kill someone. I decided years ago, I am in good physical condition, and sound mind (contrary to what my wife might say), I see it as a responsibility to protect not only myself but maybe someone else too. If we allow some in our society to terrorize us, it will only get worse. I pray I never have to use my gun to defend myself or anyone else, if evil seeks me out, I pray I shoot straight.

Again, invest in ammunition and practice, if you choose to carry, invest in a quality proper fitting holster. If you have children at home, invest in a quality lock box.

There’s a ton of good information on the internet, the primary lesson if you carry or don’t, be aware of your surroundings, leave yourself an exit, and get your face out of your phone, especially in a parking lot or other public space.

Good luck on your journey. 🫡

 

Wow! I appreciate your shared personal experiences, and background. I think what I'm appreciating on this new journey of understanding, that there are still a lot of decent people in this country.

Thank you Sir, and thank you for your service.
-Bo

 

That's a $350 pair of Grashorn stag grips on my S&W revolver.
Why?
Do they add even one additional round? Do they assist in speed or accuracy?
No.
All they do is add beauty and we all know beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

But I've made enough trips around the sun to know what I like. I'm not offended when someone looks at one of my revolvers and laughs. Low capacity and heavy, antiquated and obsolete.....all true. It's not a wonder 9 and it's not polymer.
Why would I waste $350 on grips and then on top of that pay another $200 bucks for an "action job" on a relic?

I understand the value of the .357 Magnum cartridge. Nothing else matches ballisticaly. I understand that 7 rounds is 1 more than 6. I understand what an L frame S&W revolver is capable of and how much a scandium frame weighs. I know how easy it is to conceal a 2.5" barrel revolver.....did you notice the sights?

I'm not going to try to convince anyone that this is the way to go. It's taken me decades to refine my tastes. I would urge you to attempt to find all things GOOD or even GREAT about your P365 and make mods that enhance those attributes. You have selected a premium pistol that's selling like hotcakes, vibrant aftermarket, lots of available selections.....have fun with it.

 

Makes sense to me. I appreciate from comments like yours, is there is no need for me to show that I'm carrying a status peice.
I should be concerned at minimum with reliably, shooting straight-on target when it counts most.

 

As has been advised,go to the range a lot with it .
Not the best beginners pistol but it is a good choice as a carry gun .
The only thing that will help you shoot it better at this point in time is Talon grip tape to make it easier to maintain a good grip on it .
Enjoy .

 

Welcome to the forum.

If you are a new gun owner, first consider investing in your personal skills. Money spent on marksmanship, safety and tactical training will serve you much better than a series of firearm customizations.

As you intend to use this firearm for self defense (you indicated it's for use in your home and personal defense) you need to consider a few things.

First, safe storage is critical, especially if you have a child in the home. Regardless of where you hide it, and the instructions you give to a child - they will most likely find it, and as a "forbidden" object, be motivated to handle it. Even the most disciplined and well behaved child will be tempted. First invest in a quick access gun safe. Keep your firearm in it while you are not carrying it. Access takes only a second if it's needed.

Next, understand that there are potential legal exposures to making modifications to your handgun. When you make changes, you take on some level of liability for your actions. While it may be completely safe and correct, if you have to use the firearm in an incident, that fact will surface. An attorney in court could prejudice a jury against you, especially if an accident occurred in the process of defending yourself. For that reason, I don't ever use personally modified firearms or reloaded ammunition for self defense. It's fine for range use, and hunting and marksmanship competition, but not for self defense.

For example, "Why did you make these extensive modifications to that gun? Are you a qualified gunsmith? How did you verify it was safe to handle? Did you imagine killing my client as you focused on modifying and improving this dangerous weapon?"... that kind of thing... I'd prefer to be in the position of saying that I selected my maintained and unmodified handgun and ammunition because of it's safety track record, evaluation by a variety of agencies and the reputation of it's manufacturer.

Small very light sub-compact handguns can be more difficult to handle and fire accurately without adequate education, training and practicing to develop correct muscle memory. You need to provide proper support for the firearm to cycle correctly, and also deal with the recoil impulse for follow-up recovery.

Thoughts?

 

First, safe storage is critical, especially if you have a child in the home. Regardless of where you hide it, and the instructions you give to a child - they will most likely find it, and as a "forbidden" object, be motivated to handle it. Even the most disciplined and well behaved child will be tempted. First invest in a quick access gun safe. Keep your firearm in it while you are not carrying it. Access takes only a second if it's needed.

^^ Other folks have recommended the same thing. Absolutely #1 priority.

Overall, the rule most posters here are suggesting is don't buy any new bits until you have tested out the original part and decided it really needs to be improved. It's no shame if you keep things stock!

Your first area to look at is probably the grip module size (P365, P365XL, or P365 Macro), to find the one that works for you - in size, control, fit for particular use, etc. Larger is usually easier to use and more comfortable; the trade-off is the smaller grip modules are easier to carry and conceal. This is something you can start to think about after only a couple of runs to the range. The beauty of the P365 is that you can get a different size grip module for a reasonable cost and then switch it on or off the gun very easily to see what works best for you. If you think your Sig-Sauer OEM grip module(s) are causing some discomfort and could be improved, you can start to take a look at Wilson Combat, Tyrant, Sharps Bros, Icarus, etc.

Then, as you shoot, assess any troubles the current (original) controls on the FCU are giving you. Mag release hard to operate or fine? Safety lever too thin to grasp or okay? Take-down lever hard to operate? Then look at the posts on the forum about after-market replacements that are available and could solve those problems. Lots of options available (I like Armory Craft "extended" controls for my bumbling old fingers).

Mods inside the FCU, like the springs? Probably not needed, but they can be entertaining and confidence building. I am thinking about the trigger return springs, which after all are only about 7 or 8 dollars. They don't affect the trigger pull, only the re-set. Okay, maybe I'll do that one of these days.

Then there is the idea of changing the sights... there are a lot of posts on the forum about the options and the pros and cons of each. I'd leave this until last. After you master the Sig X-Ray sights, you may not feel the need to look for other sight types.

Good luck!

 

I just bought my 1st new pistol, SIG P365 Base. I haven't even bought bullets, cleaning kit, it's still in the box.

Question: When making mods to your guns do you buy individual parts from different manufacturers to be purpose built?

I'm in a dilemma of going with better parts, like slide release, extended safety release, takedown lever, safety trigger, all external parts so the gun fits my hand so I can operate it without breaking my grip.

I don't know if I should Frankenstein it with different manufacturer's parts to operate it to my hand size OR just upgrade it with better parts from a single source so it's a little better?

An example is for the slide release.
SIG and Armoury Craft would be designed much better for my thumb to reach the slide release optimally.

However, if I went with a better slide release from Tyrant CNC it would be better than stock then I could get a matching takedown lever, and trigger to match the gun.

Form and function (multiple manufacturers) or better and blinged✨️?

Edit: Thank you to all in this community who have responded! The response has been overwhelming and of great value. If I don't respond know with certainty I will have read it.

I realize it may be a little late for this, but you should always go to a range and rent a few guns to see which one works best for you before buying one. That way you will get the one that fits you best and you can shoot well, as manufactured.

I like the 365 platform and the only “modification” I made was changing to Wilson Combat grip modules. They fit my hand better than the OEM grip. Everything else worked fine on mine.

 

Another approach is to maximize your skill and performance on the firearm as it is, and then move on to a different design if the existing one is not satisfactory.

As an instructor, I handle and shoot a very wide variety of handguns. My approach is to make the most of the firearm as I handle it regardless of the "fit", etc... Even with large hands on a very small pistol, you can optimize your handling.

That approach can be helpful in an actual incident where you may have to react with an unfamiliar handgun.

In an exercise with a local agency, the institute leader wanted everyone to compete and needed an even number of people. Even though I was his range officer, he asked me to join them, and handed me an unfamiliar firearm in a caliber I didn't shoot often. Adapting skills to the firearm in hand, I outshot every one of the competitors.

Developing skill will deliver more confidence than changes to the tool you're using.

 

Regarding ammo, my preference is to always use training ammo that has similar ballistics to my carry/self-defense ammo. In other words, if you are going to carry 124gr, 1150 FPS MV, 364 ftlb ammo, find a FMJ training ammo that is close in spec.

 

You could buy a Hogue rubber grip sleeve to make the grip thicker, or use a longish strip of rubber bicycle inner tube to do the same.

As others have said above, I'd leave it bone stock and put 300 rounds thru it until you know it's reliable in stock form- as a baseline in the event any mods cause issues.


.
.

 

The grip is a little small but I've been going down the rabbit hole on the form, grip pressure and purpose on grip, recoil, accuracy, follow-up, and the like. I haven't even fired the firearm yet but trying to understand what I can, before I do. What everyone is unanimously saying is leave it alone until I know the gun.
Thank you for sharing your this advice on the grip and use it for a baseline!

 

OP, way too early to be thinking about mods.
Get some range time with your self defense gun.

1) Keep your SD gun as close to stock as possible.
2) Buy a range gun and play with mods on that.

 

Hello 👋 Yeah, this has been the consensus. I do value your advice. This community has been great!
There was a gent that lives close by ( never met) that offered to do a range day with me. I do plan to take personal classes ( next paycheck!) My intent is to be knowledgeable, responsible, and safely. I'm really glad I found this community.

 

A self defense gun needs to be a trusted tool, not a show off status symbol.

 

I get that. I've learned don't buy a house as a statement but a dwelling. Don't by a status vehicle but reliable transportation.
I'm pretty happy I bought a Sig and came across this community.

 

I just bought my 1st new pistol, SIG P365 Base. I haven't even bought bullets, cleaning kit, it's still in the box.

Question: When making mods to your guns do you buy individual parts from different manufacturers to be purpose built?

I'm in a dilemma of going with better parts, like slide release, extended safety release, takedown lever, safety trigger, all external parts so the gun fits my hand so I can operate it without breaking my grip.

I don't know if I should Frankenstein it with different manufacturer's parts to operate it to my hand size OR just upgrade it with better parts from a single source so it's a little better?

An example is for the slide release.
SIG and Armoury Craft would be designed much better for my thumb to reach the slide release optimally.

However, if I went with a better slide release from Tyrant CNC it would be better than stock then I could get a matching takedown lever, and trigger to match the gun.

Form and function (multiple manufacturers) or better and blinged✨️?

Edit: Thank you to all in this community who have responded! The response has been overwhelming and of great value. If I don't respond know with certainty I will have read it.

I have yet to read all the posts in this thread. That said, I am wondering why the OP is discussing mods to improve the pistol without having ever fired it? How does one know what mods might be needed or desired without first becoming intimately familiar with how the pistol actually performs in its current state?

 

I just bought my 1st new pistol, SIG P365 Base. I haven't even bought bullets, cleaning kit, it's still in the box.

Question: When making mods to your guns do you buy individual parts from different manufacturers to be purpose built?

I'm in a dilemma of going with better parts, like slide release, extended safety release, takedown lever, safety trigger, all external parts so the gun fits my hand so I can operate it without breaking my grip.

I don't know if I should Frankenstein it with different manufacturer's parts to operate it to my hand size OR just upgrade it with better parts from a single source so it's a little better?

An example is for the slide release.
SIG and Armoury Craft would be designed much better for my thumb to reach the slide release optimally.

However, if I went with a better slide release from Tyrant CNC it would be better than stock then I could get a matching takedown lever, and trigger to match the gun.

Form and function (multiple manufacturers) or better and blinged✨️?

Edit: Thank you to all in this community who have responded! The response has been overwhelming and of great value. If I don't respond know with certainty I will have read it.

I have yet to read all the posts in this thread. That said, I am wondering why the OP is discussing mods to improve the pistol without having ever fired it? How does one know what mods might be needed or desired without first becoming intimately familiar with how the pistol actually performs in its current state?

Soooo...I've got to admit I'm a little OCD, but especially when it comes to performance. Examples are cars, motorcycles, dual suspension mountain bikes. I've always bought stuff and never leave them alone. My mentality with things like this is, money buys speed.
Now that I've decided to buy self, and home protection I made my 1st purchase. My instinct would be to spend money on what '"I think I need" to make it better. Obviously my question makes me sound likeca *******. I have a lot of experience in the aforementioned upgrades but have ZERO experience with upgrading firearms.
Now I understand from my question is leave it alone until I'm completely comfortable and familiar with it. Hopefully this makes sense. I have to admit I appreciate your skepticism! I'm here for the right reasons. My gut tells me finding a forum like this, and asking questions is going to do me good.

 

@mrerick can add to, change or comment on this but here is just a little info to let you know how little you know and why you cannot learn on your own.

I am working with my professional paid trainer on stance, presentation and a rock solid grip with a pulling back to the shoulder with the support hand and a pushing forward with the firing hand from that shoulder with both elbows turned outward which works very well with the Trijicon RMR red dot for quicker follow up shots.

That is the goal that my trainer has defined for me.

Only perfect practice makes perfect performance. Perfect practice requires a defined goal which is understandable. You will not know any of this without a pro coaching you. Spend the money up front and know your goal and what to do to achieve it. Then you can practice it.

I am just practicing working on consistent repeatability till it becomes second nature.

Then I will do another hour of private instruction with my trainer to refine and add to what he has taught me so far.

@RamBone Update as to your comment about "money equals speed." Learn this now about learning:

"Slow is smooth and smooth is fast."

Speed comes only with slow repetitive practice of proper technique.

 

I appreciate this explanation 👍
I've experienced this effect personally in sports. Even though I thought I was good, I'd get to a point where I couldn't make any progress. The only progress came from being coached. The hard thing still was because I had bad habits and muscle memory it was very hard to change especially when something felt unsafe or not right.
You bring out something I must remember, which is, before I start this journey I better get some good fundamental training before I pick up habits that will be hard to break.

Thanks again!
-Bo

 

As someone who mods all my cars, I totally understand where you’re coming from.

but this is a tool that you need to properly function in times of life and death.

if it’s a range toy, sure go ahead and mod it out. But for carry/home defense, leave it as is from the factory. If you want to pretty it up a bit, that’s totally fine. But I wouldn’t touch any parts that affect function.

Also, on top of it, these guns already come with a really nice trigger and sights.

The ONLY mod I could recommend before you even put it through its range paces would be a Wilson Combat or equal grip module. Only because the standard P365 was too small for my hand. I couldn’t even get a good grip on a draw. The WC X/XL size totally changed the gun for me.

Best of luck and God bless you and your family.

 

Thank you for your comment. I realize from all the responses from my 1st question is something I wasn't even thinking about.
If I go back to my intentions of getting firearms in the 1st place it is for the purpose of self, family and home protection.
Not sure why it took so long for me to just now be concerned about it? I think my instinct told me I better do it now incase zi ever need protection.

God bless you and your family as well Sir.

 

Repeating the welcome and congratulations, and agreeing with the wisdom above, my advice would be to get yourself a Taurus TX22 or something similar for a couple of hundred bucks so you can get really familiar with the handling and work out any kinks, quirks, flinches, etc. for less than half the ammo cost. It will pay for itself in a case or two of ammo, and bring you lots of enjoyment as well. And, when the time comes, you can use it to help introduce others you'll bring into the craft. Get yourself a pack of snap caps (A-zoom snap caps on Amazon) in 9mm (and .22LR ) to use for zero-risk loading, racking and dry-fire drills, and function testing after reassembly. And one at random to your live ammo mags on range day for failure drills, too.

Be safe, have fun, stick around.

 

I think that's a great suggestion👍
I have a 14 year old daughter. Maybe I should have already started with her on changing a flat, checking-changing oil...all the stuff that will do her good. I'll probably wait just before she starts driving for that though.
Having a .22 would be a great start for her but also for all the reasons you mention for me.
Just the mention of this helped connect some dots for me!

I was just looking at gun safes from a recommendation too.

Thanks again!