For years, Sig Sauer has marketed its P320 and M18 handguns as safe, reliable firearms trusted by law enforcement, military personnel, and civilians. However, hundreds of gun owners across the United States allege that these pistols can fire without anyone pulling the trigger – sometimes with devastating consequences.
In 2025, this controversy escalated as more lawsuits, government actions, and law enforcement bans were announced against the firearms manufacturer. Victims claim that defective design has caused catastrophic injuries and even deaths. Many victims and families are now turning to the courts for justice.
At Kherkher Garcia, our product liability attorneys are following these developments closely. We represent individuals harmed by defective products, including firearms, and we are committed to helping victims recover compensation for their injuries and losses.
Overview of the Sig Sauer Controversy
The Sig Sauer P320, introduced in 2014, quickly became one of America’s most popular handguns. The pistol’s modular design and smooth trigger pull made it a favorite among gun owners. It was even adopted by the U.S. Army as the M17/M18 service pistol.
However, not long after its release, reports began to surface that the P320 could discharge without a trigger pull, often while holstered or being handled safely. Victims – including law enforcement officers, military members, and private citizens – reported being shot in the leg, hip, or abdomen when their firearm allegedly went off unexpectedly.
Although Sig Sauer has maintained that the P320 is safe and that no recall is warranted, hundreds of incidents have been reported nationwide. Multiple courts have found that evidence of potential design flaws should be examined by juries, including:
- Lack of an external safety
- Inadequate firing pin safety
- Issues with the trigger mechanism
Recent Developments in Sig Sauer Litigation
New Jersey Sues Sig Sauer (October 2025)
In October 2025, the State of New Jersey filed a landmark lawsuit against Sig Sauer, alleging that the company knowingly sold defective handguns that could fire on their own. The lawsuit claims Sig Sauer falsely advertised the P320 as safe despite internal evidence of unintended discharges. The state is seeking to ban further P320 sales, require a recall, and impose penalties for consumer fraud. This marks the first state-level lawsuit against the gunmaker. This lawsuit signals a growing wave of institutional accountability.
Federal Appeals Court Reinstates ICE Officer’s Lawsuit (August 2025)
A significant federal court decision in August 2025 revived a case filed by a former U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer who was shot in the leg when his holstered P320 discharged during training. The Third Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that expert testimony regarding the pistol’s design defects should not have been excluded, allowing the officer’s case to proceed. This ruling could strengthen similar lawsuits pending nationwide.
Law Enforcement Agencies Ban the P320
Growing concern over safety has led several police departments to pull Sig Sauer pistols from service. The Houston Police Department, for instance, banned the P320 in 2025 after an officer was seriously injured in a reported accidental discharge. A federal judge also ordered the Chicago Police Department to phase out the weapons after a Union request.
The Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission has permanently banned the use of the P320 in all training facilities. Additionally, the U.S. Air Force Global Strike Command temporarily halted use of the M18 variant following the death of an airman, pending investigation and inspection of the weapons.
These actions underscore that even agencies with rigorous firearm safety protocols have lost confidence in the weapon’s safety.
Wave of Civil Lawsuits Across the U.S.
As of 2025, more than 100 lawsuits have been filed nationwide alleging unintentional discharges. A March 2025 filing included 22 new plaintiffs from 16 states, all claiming similar incidents of the P320 firing without trigger input.
Courts have issued mixed rulings – some dismissals, some jury verdicts in favor of victims. Notably, in 2024 a Georgia jury awarded $2.35 million to a man injured when his P320 fired from his holster, and appellate courts have since upheld the finding of defect.
Sig Sauer’s Response
Sig Sauer continues to deny that the P320 is defective, insisting that it “cannot fire without a trigger pull.” The company attributes these incidents to user error, faulty holsters, or mishandling.
Despite mounting lawsuits and institutional bans, Sig Sauer has not issued a recall or significant design modification to existing models.
Why Victims Should Contact an Attorney
If you or a loved one has been injured by a firearm that discharged unintentionally, you should contact an experienced product liability attorney immediately.
Cases involving firearms are complex. Manufacturers often have teams of lawyers and expert witnesses prepared to dispute liability. Victims must act quickly to preserve evidence, such as the firearm, holster, and any ballistics data, to build a strong case. A knowledgeable product liability attorney can help:
- Investigate whether your firearm was part of a known defective batch.
- Retain qualified firearms experts to examine mechanical or design flaws.
- Identify other similar incidents to support your claim.
- Pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and long-term disability.
Without skilled representation, victims risk losing their right to full compensation or may face challenges proving the defect caused the discharge.
How Kherkher Garcia Helps Victims of Defective Firearms
At Kherkher Garcia, we have decades of experience holding negligent manufacturers accountable. Our firm represents victims nationwide in product liability and catastrophic injury cases. When it comes to defective firearms, our attorneys:
- Conduct independent investigations into firearm design and safety.
- Work with engineering and ballistics experts to analyze mechanical defects.
- Review all related lawsuits and evidence to strengthen your case.
- Pursue maximum compensation through negotiation or trial.
We understand the trauma caused by unexpected firearm injuries. Whether you are a law enforcement officer, a military veteran, or a private citizen, our legal team stands ready to help you seek justice and hold Sig Sauer accountable for any negligence that contributed to your injuries.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the main issue with Sig Sauer handguns?
Many users claim that Sig Sauer’s P320 and M18 handguns can discharge without the trigger being pulled, especially when holstered or handled safely.
Which models are allegedly affected?
Most claims involve the P320 series and its military variant, the M18.
Has Sig Sauer issued a recall?
No. Despite ongoing litigation and reports of injuries, the company has not issued a voluntary recall for the P320.
What injuries have been reported?
Victims have suffered gunshot wounds to the leg, hip, abdomen, and groin, resulting in permanent disability or death.
Who can file a Sig Sauer lawsuit?
Anyone injured by an unintentional discharge involving a Sig Sauer handgun may be eligible to file a product liability or negligence claim. Additionally, surviving family members may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim if death occurs.
Are law enforcement officers filing lawsuits too?
Yes. Many plaintiffs are police officers, federal agents, and military members who experienced accidental discharges while performing official duties.
What damages can victims recover?
Compensation in a Sig Sauer lawsuit may include medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, disability, emotional distress, and in some cases, punitive damages. Damages available in lawsuits vary depending on the facts of the case.
How long do I have to file a claim?
Deadlines vary by state, but most states have two to three years from the date of injury to file a lawsuit.
How can an attorney help my case?
An experienced product liability attorney can prove defect, preserve evidence, and negotiate or litigate against large corporations like Sig Sauer.
How can I contact Kherkher Garcia for help?
You can call our office or contact us online for a free, confidential consultation. We will review your case and explain your options for pursuing justice.
Contact Kherkher Garcia Today
If you have been injured by a firearm that discharged unexpectedly, you are not alone. The attorneys at Kherkher Garcia are investigating Sig Sauer-related injury claims nationwide. Our experienced legal team is ready to help you understanding your potential case and your legal rights. If you have an actionable claim, we will help you pursue compensation and hold negligent manufacturers accountable.
Contact Kherkher Garcia today for a free consultation to learn more about your rights and options after a Sig Sauer injury. Call us at 713-333-1030, or complete our online contact form to get started.
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