The Sig Sauer P238 Nitron is a single-action subcompact chambered in .380 ACP. At 15.2 ounces with a 2.7-inch carbon steel barrel finished in Black Nitron, it's one of the lightest metal-frame .380s on the market. The alloy frame and stainless steel slide with Nitron finish keep weight down while maintaining durability. SIGLITE night sights (1-dot front, 2-dot rear) are standard. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Manufacturer: Sig Sauer 
• Model: P238 
• Caliber: .380 ACP 
• Action: Single 
• Barrel Length: 2.7 inches 
• Capacity: 6 rounds 
• Weight: 15.2 ounces (0.95 pounds) 
• Frame Size: Subcompact 
• Total Height: 3.9 inches 
• Total Length: 5.5 inches 
• Grip Material: Polymer 
• Frame Material: Alloy 
• Barrel Finish: Black Nitron 
• Slide Material/Finish: Stainless Steel with Nitron finish 
• Sights Front/Rear: SIGLITE Night sights (1-Dot front, 2-Dot rear) 
   

Detailed Features 

The single-action trigger gives a consistent pull without variation between first and subsequent shots. The thumb safety is the primary manual safety -- standard 1911-style operation. SIGLITE tritium sights are readable in low light without requiring batteries or activation. 
 
The 5.5-inch overall length and 3.9-inch height make this one of the most pocket-friendly metal-frame .380s available. The polymer grips keep weight down but the metal frame gives it a more solid feel than all-polymer competitors. 
 

Usage Scenarios 

• Concealed Carry: The subcompact dimensions and 15.2 oz weight suit pocket or IWB carry. 
• Backup Gun: Light enough to carry as a secondary. 
• Home Defense: Accessible and easy to handle for shooters who find full-size guns difficult to manage.

The P238 Nitron has a strong following among concealed carry shooters who prioritize a small, light package over caliber or capacity. The metal frame gets specific praise -- owners say it feels more solid than polymer-frame .380s and absorbs recoil better than all-polymer subcompacts.

Accuracy is generally well regarded. At typical defensive distances the gun shoots well, and the SIGLITE sights make low-light use practical. Trigger pull in single-action is smooth and consistent, which owners appreciate for accurate shooting.

The .380 ACP caliber draws the most discussion. Some owners are comfortable with modern .380 defensive loads; others wish they'd bought a 9mm subcompact for better terminal performance. This is a caliber debate rather than a gun quality issue, but it comes up in nearly every thread.

Capacity is the other common complaint -- 6+1 is on the low end for a defensive pistol. Disassembly for cleaning gets a few mentions as less intuitive than other designs.

Price sits at the higher end for a .380, and some buyers question whether the premium over budget options is justified. Most owners who bought the P238 don't regret it; the build quality is cited as worth the cost for those who shoot it regularly.