Kansas Gunshop is a Wichita, KS-based retailer specializing in firearms and FFL transfers. The Sig Sauer P238 380 ACP Two-Tone Exclusive Pistol is a compact, hammer-fired pistol chambered in .380 ACP, known for its reliable performance. Its two-tone finish offers a distinct aesthetic for concealed carry. 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 380 ACP Two-Tone Exclusive Pistol?
| Product Type | Handgun |
|---|---|
| Material | Alloy Frame, Stainless Steel Slide |
| Manufacturing | Sig Sauer, Inc. |
| Finish | Two-Tone (Black Nitron Slide, Natural Stainless Frame) |
| Hardness/Quality | Aircraft-grade alloy frame, durable stainless steel slide |
| Compatibility | .380 ACP ammunition |
| Installation/Usage | Ready to fire out of the box (after FFL transfer) |
| Weight | 15.2 oz (empty) |
| Dimensions | 5.5″ (L) x 4.2″ (H) x 1.1″ (W) |
| Country of Origin | USA |
| Condition | New |
| SKU | 238-380-TSS |
| Caliber | .380 ACP |
| Capacity | 6+1 Rounds (standard magazine) |
| Sights | SIGLITE Night Sights |
| Action | Single Action Only (SAO) |
| Trigger Pull | ~7.5-8.5 lbs |
What are the key features of this Sig Sauer P238 model?
The Sig Sauer P238 380 ACP Two-Tone Exclusive Pistol brings a few things to the table that make it a solid choice for certain shooters. First off, the two-tone finish with the black Nitron slide and natural stainless frame gives it a distinct look. It’s not just about aesthetics, though. The .380 ACP cartridge is a manageable round for many, especially in a compact platform like this. You get the classic 1911-style controls, which means a familiar manual safety and a single-action only trigger. For those accustomed to a 1911, picking this up feels natural. The SIGLITE Night Sights are a practical addition, offering visibility in low-light conditions right out of the box, which is a significant advantage for a carry gun. Its all-metal construction, with an alloy frame and stainless steel slide, contributes to its durability and a slightly heavier feel than some polymer alternatives, which can help with recoil management in a small pistol.
Who is the Sig Sauer P238 380 ACP Two-Tone Exclusive Pistol for?
- Buy it if:
- You’re looking for a compact, all-metal .380 ACP pistol for concealed carry.
- You prefer 1911-style controls, including a manual thumb safety and a single-action only trigger.
- You appreciate the aesthetics of a two-tone finish.
- You want a pistol with factory-installed night sights for low-light situations.
- You’re comfortable with the .380 ACP cartridge and its recoil characteristics in a small frame.
- Skip it if:
- You prefer a striker-fired or double-action/single-action (DA/SA) trigger system.
- You’re looking for a higher capacity pistol; the P238 typically holds 6+1 rounds.
- You need something even lighter; while compact, its all-metal construction gives it some heft. Consider a polymer-framed alternative like a Glock 42 for a lighter option.
- You prefer a larger caliber for personal defense. See our 9mm handguns for more potent options.
What are the pros and cons of the Sig Sauer P238 380 ACP Two-Tone Exclusive Pistol?
- ✅ Compact and Concealable: Its small size makes it easy to carry discreetly.
- ✅ All-Metal Construction: The alloy frame and stainless steel slide offer a solid feel and contribute to recoil absorption.
- ✅ 1911-Style Controls: Familiar manual safety and SAO trigger for those accustomed to the 1911 platform.
- ✅ SIGLITE Night Sights: Enhanced visibility in low-light conditions, a practical feature for a defensive pistol.
- ✅ Reliable: Sig Sauer’s reputation for manufacturing dependable firearms holds true with the P238.
- ✅ Manageable Recoil: For a .380 ACP, the P238 handles recoil well due to its weight.
- ❌ Lower Capacity: Standard 6+1 round capacity might be a concern for some. If capacity is a priority, consider a double-stack subcompact.
- ❌ Single Action Only: Requires cocking the hammer or racking the slide for the first shot, and a manual safety engagement/disengagement.
- ❌ Price Point: Often higher than some polymer-framed .380 ACP competitors.
How does the Sig Sauer P238 compare to similar compact .380 ACP pistols?
| Feature | Sig Sauer P238 380 ACP Two-Tone | Kel-Tec P-3AT | Kimber Micro 9 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Alloy Frame, Stainless Steel Slide | Polymer Frame, Steel Slide | Aluminum Frame, Stainless Steel Slide |
| Quality | Premium, all-metal construction, tight tolerances | Utilitarian, lightweight, polymer-focused | Premium, similar to P238 but in 9mm |
| Compatibility | .380 ACP ammunition | .380 ACP ammunition | 9mm Luger ammunition |
| Shipping | Same-day from Kansas Gunshop | Varies by retailer | Varies by retailer |
| Lifespan/Durability | Excellent, built for long-term use | Good for its class, but polymer frame has different wear characteristics | Excellent, built for long-term use |
| Price | $499.00 (Kansas Gunshop) | ~$250-300 | ~$700-800+ |
| Caliber | .380 ACP | .380 ACP | 9mm Luger |
| Action | Single Action Only (SAO) | Double Action Only (DAO) | Single Action Only (SAO) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Sig Sauer P238 a good choice for concealed carry?
Yes, the Sig Sauer P238 is widely considered a good choice for concealed carry due to its compact size, light weight, and reliable performance. Its all-metal construction helps manage the .380 ACP recoil, and the 1911-style controls are familiar to many.
What kind of ammunition does the Sig Sauer P238 use?
The Sig Sauer P238 is chambered in .380 ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol) ammunition. It is important to use the correct caliber for safe and proper operation of the firearm.
Does the Sig Sauer P238 have a safety?
Yes, the Sig Sauer P238 features a manual thumb safety, similar to a 1911. It also has a beavertail grip safety and a firing pin safety, contributing to its overall safety profile.
What is the magazine capacity of the Sig Sauer P238?
The standard magazine capacity for the Sig Sauer P238 is typically 6 rounds. Extended magazines are available that can increase the capacity to 7 rounds or more, depending on the accessory.
Is the Sig Sauer P238 easy to shoot for new gun owners?
While compact pistols can be more challenging to shoot accurately due to their size and recoil, the P238’s all-metal frame helps mitigate some of the .380 ACP’s snap. The single-action trigger can be precise. However, new shooters should practice regularly to become proficient, especially with the manual safety.
Where can I buy handguns online?
You can buy handguns online through licensed FFL dealers like Kansas Gunshop (kansas-gunshop.com). After purchase, the firearm is shipped to your local FFL dealer for background check and transfer, in accordance with all federal and state laws.
What is the difference between the P238 and the P938?
The primary difference is the caliber. The P238 is chambered in .380 ACP, while the P938 is chambered in 9mm Luger. The P938 is slightly larger and heavier to accommodate the more powerful 9mm cartridge, but both share similar 1911-style controls and design.
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