P365 XL Spectre Comp Review: Is it Better Than the P365XL?

Quick Take: What Makes the Sig P365 XL Spectre Comp Stand Out?

The Sig P365 XL Spectre Comp takes the popular P365XL platform and adds premium features for enhanced performance. This micro-compact 9mm pistol integrates a compensator directly into the slide and this reduces muzzle flip for faster follow-up shots.

Pros:

• 30% recoil reduction with built-in compensator
• Aggressive laser-stippled grip texture
• Independent optics mounting system
• Gold titanium nitride barrel and trigger

Cons:

• Significant price premium over standard P365XL
• Limited accessory rail options
• May be overkill for casual shooters

Bottom line: The Spectre Comp offers noticeable improvements in shooting performance, but you'll pay a premium for these improvements.

P365XL vs P365 XL Spectre Comp Comparison

Feature	P365XL	P365 XL Spectre Comp
Integrated Compensator	No	Yes, built into slide
Grip Texture	Standard texture	Aggressive laser-stippled LXG X grip
Optics Mounting System	Requires removal of rear sight	Independent mounting (keeps rear sight)
Barrel & Trigger Finish	Standard finish	Gold titanium nitride finish
Recoil Reduction	Standard recoil	Approx. 30% less felt recoil
Accessory Rail Options	Standard Picatinny-like rail	Limited – proprietary rail
Customizability	Moderate – more aftermarket options	Less – factory optimized features
Weight	20.7 oz	20.7 oz
Dimensions	Same as Spectre Comp	Same as P365XL
Shooting Accuracy	Good accuracy (~1.5 in at 7 yds)	Great control and accuracy (~1.5 in at 7 yds)
Price	$599 – $699	$1,100 – $1,600
Holster Compatibility	Wide compatibility	Mostly compatible with P365XL holsters
Maintenance	Simple field strip	Simple field strip
Best For	Budget-conscious carriers	Performance-focused carriers

Key Specs & Highlighted Features

Technical Specifications:

• Caliber: 9mm
• Width: 1.1 inches
• Overall Length: 6.6 inches
• Barrel Length: 3.1 inches
• Height: 4.8 inches
• Weight: 20.7 ounces
• Capacity: 12+1 rounds

Standout Features:

• Integrated compensator built into slide
• Laser-stippled LXG X Series grip module
• Custom Works Spectre optics system
• Gold titanium nitride coated barrel and trigger
• Enhanced slide serrations
• The Spectre Comp ships with three 12-round steel magazines.

Price Range: $1,199 

Design, Fit, and Ergonomics

The Spectre Comp maintains the same general dimensions as the standard P365XL but adds meaningful upgrades to the grip and slide. The most obvious difference is the aggressive laser stippling pattern on the grip module. This texture provides substantially more traction than the base model and it helps to control the pistol during rapid fire.

Front and rear slide serrations are broader and angled differently on the Spectre Comp. For this reason it makes the slide manipulation easier. The gold titanium nitride coating on the barrel and trigger adds a touch of premium aesthetics without impacting function.

In the hand, both guns share the same basic frame shape, but the Spectre Comp's enhanced texture creates a more secure feeling. For people with larger hands, the 12-round magazine fits flush and provides an adequate gripping surface.

Who Should Buy the Spectre Comp?

The Spectre Comp appeals to several types of gun owners. First, concealed carriers who want maximum performance from a micro-compact package will appreciate the reduced recoil and enhanced control.

Second, those who value factory-integrated solutions rather than aftermarket add-ons might prefer the built-in compensator to buying and installing a separate compensator.

Third, people who simply want the best version of the P365 platform and don't mind paying extra will find the Spectre Comp checks all the boxes.

Is the premium justified? That depends on how much you value the performance enhancements. At roughly $500 more than the standard P365XL, the Spectre Comp represents a significant investment. But many users report the improvements in shooting experience are worth it.

Feel and Accuracy at the Range

The Spectre Comp delivers a noticeably different shooting experience compared to the standard P365XL. The trigger feels very similar. It breaks at around 4.5 pounds with minimal travel before a clean break and reset.

Where the Spectre Comp truly shines is in recoil management. The combination of the aggressive grip texture and integrated compensator creates a gun that returns to target faster after each shot. This allows for quicker follow-up shots and more control during rapid fire strings.

Accuracy appears comparable between both models, with the Spectre Comp capable of producing 1.5-inch groups at 7 yards. The 3-dot sights provide a clear sight picture that's easy to align.

Does the compensator make a huge difference? The reported 30% reduction in felt recoil is noticeable but not revolutionary. It's enough to give you an edge in speed and control without completely changing the character of the gun.

Recoil and Upgrades: How It Handles

The integrated compensator works by redirecting gases upward through ports in the slide. It  pushes the muzzle down to counteract rise during firing. This physics-based solution combines with the enhanced grip texture to create a more controllable shooting experience.

For practical purposes, this means your sights return to target more quickly between shots. You can still "outrun" the gun if you fire extremely rapidly, but the recovery time is noticeably reduced compared to the standard P365XL.

This performance enhancement becomes more apparent during strings of fire or when practicing controlled pairs. The faster sight recovery translates to better accuracy when shooting quickly and this is a real advantage in defensive situations.

Optics Mounting: What's New and Better?

One of the most significant improvements on the Spectre Comp is the updated optics mounting system. On the standard P365XL, mounting a red dot requires removing the rear sight, which means losing your backup iron sights unless you use Sig's Romeo Zero (which includes a rear sight).

The Spectre Comp solves this problem with an independent red dot mounting plate separate from the rear sight. This allows you to maintain your iron sights even with an optic installed - a major upgrade for those who prefer redundant sighting systems.

This change alone adds substantial value for anyone planning to run a red dot on their carry gun, as it eliminates a significant compromise in the original design.

How It Holds Up in Real Life

Based on user reports and range tests, the P365XL Spectre Comp appears to function flawlessly across hundreds of rounds of ammunition. The integrated compensator design doesn't seem to affect cycling or overall function.

The build quality matches Sig's reputation for solid construction. The slide-to-frame fit is tight with minimal play, and all controls operate smoothly. The magazines drop free when released and lock firmly into place when inserted.

For a concealed carry gun, this level of consistency builds confidence that the pistol will perform when needed. The Spectre Comp maintains the P365 platform's reputation for function and adds performance without compromising on basics.

What You Can (and Can’t) Customize

This is one area where the Spectre Comp faces some limitations. The proprietary accessory rail limits your options for lights and lasers compared to pistols with standard Picatinny rails.

Companies like Mantis X have created rail adapters specifically for the P365 series, but these add bulk and somewhat defeat the purpose of the sleek design. The upside is that the Spectre Comp comes with so many premium features from the factory that there's less need for customization.

Holster compatibility remains good, with most holsters designed for the P365XL fitting the Spectre Comp despite the compensator. This is a major advantage over aftermarket compensators that often require custom holsters.

Takedown & Maintenance

Good news here - the field strip process is identical to the standard P365XL. Lock the slide back, rotate the takedown lever, release the slide, and pull it forward off the frame. The recoil spring and barrel then lift out easily.

The integrated compensator doesn't complicate cleaning or maintenance. This gives the Spectre Comp an advantage over pistols with threaded barrels and add-on compensators, which require regular checks for tightness and proper alignment.

Reassembly is equally straightforward and it makes the routine maintenance simple and accessible even for newer gun owners.

Price vs Value: Is It Worth the Extra Money?

Here's where personal preferences come into play. The Spectre Comp commands a significant premium over the standard P365XL - typically $400-500 more. Is it worth it?

If you break down what you're getting, the value proposition becomes clearer:

• Built-in compensator (saves buying a threaded barrel and compensator separately)
• Enhanced grip texture (saves stippling work or grip tape)
• Improved optics mounting system
• Premium aesthetic touches

For people who would add these modifications anyway, the Spectre Comp offers a factory-integrated solution with warranty support. For those who wouldn't modify their gun, the question becomes whether the performance enhancements justify the cost.

The good news is that prices have fallen since the initial release. Therefore the value proposition is more attractive than when the gun first hit the market at $1,600.

Final Verdict

The Sig P365 XL Spectre Comp delivers meaningful improvements over the standard P365XL in several key areas. The recoil reduction is noticeable, the grip texture provides better control, and the optics mounting system fixes a design limitation in the original.

For concealed carriers who want maximum performance from a micro-compact package, the Spectre Comp offers tangible benefits that translate to better shooting experience. The integrated compensator design means you don't have to worry about aftermarket parts coming loose or affecting function.

Is it better than the P365XL? In terms of pure performance, yes. The Spectre Comp does everything the standard model does, just better. But "better" comes at a price, and each person needs to decide if faster follow-up shots and enhanced control are worth the premium.

For those who can afford it and appreciate the upgrades, the Spectre Comp represents one of the most refined options in the competitive micro-compact market.

The P365 XL Spectre Comp takes everything great about the P365XL and adds refinement for those who want softer shooting and standout aesthetics. If you’re still deciding whether the upgrade is worth it, don’t miss our P365XL review for a closer look at the standard model.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does the compensator on the P365 XL Spectre Comp really reduce recoil?

Yes, tests show approximately 30% reduction in felt recoil compared to the standard P365XL. This translates to faster sight recovery and quicker follow-up shots.

2. Can I use regular P365XL holsters with the Spectre Comp?

Most holsters designed for the P365XL will accommodate the Spectre Comp despite the integrated compensator. This is a major advantage over aftermarket compensators that often require special holsters.

3. How does the price of the Spectre Comp compare to buying a P365XL and adding a compensator?

The Spectre Comp costs about $400-500 more than a standard P365XL. Adding a quality compensator and threaded barrel to a P365XL would cost $200-300. For this reason it makes the Spectre Comp more expensive but with additional premium features.

4. Is the grip texture on the Spectre Comp too aggressive for everyday carry?

Most users report the texture provides excellent control without being uncomfortable or causing excessive wear on clothing. It's more aggressive than the standard P365XL but designed for practical carry use.

5. Can I still use iron sights if I mount a red dot on the Spectre Comp?

Yes! Unlike the standard P365XL, the Spectre Comp has an independent optics mounting system that allows you to keep your iron sights even with a red dot installed.

6. Has Sig fixed the early issues that affected some P365 models?

Yes, the early extraction and primer issues that affected some first-generation P365 pistols have been resolved in current production models, including the Spectre Comp.