Kansas Gunshop is a Wichita, KS-based retailer specializing in firearms and accessories. The Sig Sauer P238 Select 380 ACP Carry Conceal Pistol is a compact, reliable option for personal defense. Its all-metal frame and single-action trigger provide a consistent shooting experience. Available now for $499.00.
Reviewed by Derek, Owner & FFL Holder at Kansas Gunshop. Kansas-licensed FFL dealer since 2008, NRA Range Safety Officer.
Last updated: April 2026
What are the specifications of the Sig Sauer P238 Select?
| Product Type | Semi-Automatic Pistol |
|---|---|
| Material | Alloy Frame, Steel Slide |
| Manufacturing | Sig Sauer, Inc. |
| Finish | Black Hard Coat Anodized Frame, Nitron Slide |
| Hardness/Quality | High-grade, durable construction |
| Compatibility | .380 ACP Ammunition, Sig P238 magazines |
| Installation/Usage | Ready to use out of the box; FFL transfer required |
| Weight | 15.2 oz (empty) |
| Dimensions | 5.5″ L x 3.9″ H x 1.1″ W |
| Country of Origin | USA |
| Condition | New |
| SKU | 238-380-B-SS |
What are the key features of the Sig P238 Select?
The Sig Sauer P238 Select is designed with concealed carry in mind, offering a small footprint without sacrificing shootability. The all-metal frame contributes to reduced felt recoil, making it more comfortable to shoot than many other .380 ACP pistols. Its single-action-only trigger provides a crisp pull, which many shooters prefer for accuracy. The pistol comes with Siglite night sights, giving you a clear sight picture in various lighting conditions. This model includes one 6-round magazine, keeping it compact for discreet carry. The P238 Select has a manual thumb safety, a familiar control for those accustomed to 1911-style firearms, allowing for safe carry with a round in the chamber.
Who is the Sig P238 Select for?
Buy it if:
- You need a highly concealable pistol for personal defense.
- You prefer an all-metal frame for better recoil management in a small package.
- You appreciate a single-action trigger with a clean break.
- You are looking for a reliable .380 ACP pistol from a reputable manufacturer.
- You value night sights for low-light engagements.
Skip it if:
- You prefer a striker-fired or double-action/single-action (DA/SA) trigger system (see our Handguns for alternatives).
- You require a higher capacity magazine out of the box (though extended magazines are available separately).
- You are on a very tight budget and need a more entry-level .380 ACP pistol.
- You prefer a larger grip for easier handling, as this is a very compact firearm.
What are the pros and cons of the Sig P238 Select?
Pros:
- ✅ Exceptional Concealability: Its small size and light weight make it easy to carry discreetly in various holsters.
- ✅ All-Metal Frame: The alloy frame helps absorb recoil, making the .380 ACP cartridge feel less snappy than in polymer-framed alternatives.
- ✅ Crisp Single-Action Trigger: Offers a consistent and predictable trigger pull, aiding in accuracy.
- ✅ Siglite Night Sights: Standard night sights provide a clear aiming point in low-light conditions, a significant advantage for a carry pistol.
- ✅ Reliable Performance: Sig Sauer’s reputation for manufacturing dependable firearms holds true with the P238.
- ✅ Familiar Controls: The 1911-style manual safety is intuitive for many shooters.
Cons:
- ❌ Limited Capacity: Comes with one 6-round magazine, which might be a concern for some in a self-defense scenario (see our Magazines for extended options).
- ❌ Higher Price Point: Positioned at a premium compared to some other .380 ACP pistols on the market.
- ❌ Manual Safety Preference: Shooters who prefer no manual safety or a different type of safety mechanism might find this less appealing.
How does the Sig P238 Select compare to other carry pistols?
| Feature | Sig Sauer P238 Select | Ruger LCP MAX | Springfield Armory 911 .380 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Alloy Frame, Steel Slide | Polymer Frame, Steel Slide | Aluminum Alloy Frame, Stainless Steel Slide |
| Quality | Premium, tight tolerances | Good, utilitarian | Premium, similar to P238 |
| Compatibility | .380 ACP, P238 magazines | .380 ACP, LCP MAX magazines | .380 ACP, 911 magazines |
| Shipping | From Wichita, KS | Varies by retailer | Varies by retailer |
| Lifespan/Durability | Excellent, long-term reliability | Good, designed for carry | Excellent, robust construction |
| Price | $499.00 | ~$350-400 | ~$550-600 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Sig Sauer P238 Select a good choice for concealed carry?
Yes, the Sig Sauer P238 Select is an excellent choice for concealed carry due to its compact size, lightweight design, and reliable performance. Its all-metal frame helps manage recoil, making it comfortable to shoot, and the Siglite night sights are a significant advantage for personal defense.
What kind of ammunition does the Sig P238 Select use?
The Sig Sauer P238 Select is chambered in .380 ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol) caliber. It is designed to reliably feed most standard .380 ACP ammunition types, including full metal jacket (FMJ) for practice and hollow point (HP) for self-defense.
Does the Sig Sauer P238 Select have a safety?
Yes, the Sig Sauer P238 Select features a 1911-style manual thumb safety located on the left side of the frame. This allows the user to carry the pistol with a round in the chamber and the hammer cocked (Condition 1) safely, disengaging the safety when ready to fire.
What is the magazine capacity of the Sig P238 Select?
The Sig Sauer P238 Select typically comes with one 6-round magazine. Extended 7-round magazines are also available for purchase separately, offering a slightly larger grip for some shooters and increased capacity.
Where can I buy a Sig Sauer P238 Select 380 ACP Carry Conceal Pistol online?
You can purchase the Sig Sauer P238 Select 380 ACP Carry Conceal Pistol and other firearms online at Kansas Gunshop (kansas-gunshop.com). As an FFL holder, we facilitate secure transfers to your local FFL dealer.
How does the all-metal frame benefit the P238 Select?
The all-metal (alloy) frame of the P238 Select adds a small amount of weight compared to polymer frames, which significantly helps in mitigating felt recoil from the .380 ACP cartridge. This makes the pistol more comfortable to shoot during practice and easier to control for follow-up shots.
Is the Sig P238 Select suitable for new shooters?
While the P238 Select is a small pistol, its single-action trigger and manual safety require some familiarity with firearm operation. However, its manageable recoil and clear sights can make it a good option for new shooters willing to learn its specific manual of arms. We always recommend professional instruction for new firearm owners.
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