[RTFM]

I've had my SIG P229 for 5 years now.
I carry it legally when ever I have my pants on.

But lately I've noticed a pain in my right side hip/back area above the belt line.

Didn't think much of it, until it started to get really painful eveytime my right foot hit the ground my back/hip would hurt.

Went to the bone cracker (chiropractor) and one of the first things he asked me was do you cary a heavyweight on your hip - off center? Tool belt, or other weight?

Said the weight was causing a misalignment and straining the muscle.

Now I love my SIG, but I obviously need to "down size" to something lighter (have a S&W 642 .38 SP on lay a way) my question is would you sell the SIG?

I really think I'll have no reason to keep the P229 but my love for it kind of makes me want to keep it. But because I only "need one pistol" I wonder if I should sell the P229 to off set the cost of the 642.

Thoughts?

RTFM

[psyopspec]

There's a couple steps you could try before giving up a gun you trust and are comfortable with:

1) If you haven't already, get a thick gun belt specifically made for stabilizing a concealed weapon. Google should reveal several makers, or you can solicite opinions from others on this board (I haven't bought one myself just yet).

2) Go with another method of carry. Small of the back has many negatives, but might be worth considering if you want to keep the 229. A good shoulder rig can be comfortable all day when well-made and properly fitted. If you aren't already, carry IWB instead of OWB as pulling the gun closer to the body can make it easier on the muscles to carry.

3) Don't sell the 229, and buy the 642. Take a break from the bigger piece for a while, then switch back occasionally to keep from putting repetitive strain on your body.

[1BLINDREF]

I carry a Sig 229 strong side and a 642 in my pocket as my BUG when I feel the need to have more than one gun with me. I'd keep the Sig for those times when you feel you need more, and carry the 642 daily. You could also carry the Sig weak side in a cross draw holster. I think if you got rid of the Sig - you'd kick yourself later on.

[svtruth]

buy another and wear it on the other side to balance your load.

[bear71]

"A good shoulder rig can be comfortable all day when well-made and properly fitted."

+1, sounds like a great answer to me!

[10-Ring]

I have a LEO buddy that, over the years has gone from an all steel sidearm (S&W 45) to an aluminum frame (S&W 9) to a poly frame (USPc 45) all because of the aches & pains he's developed carry all his gear.
As a private citizen, you don't carry nearly the amount of gear from day to day, so changing your firearm might make a huge difference...if you're really happy w/ your pistol, keep it & maybe add a diff't gun to carry from time to time to reduce the pressure on your back...or maybe just carry something elsewhere on your body.

[A.Fischer]

Keep it. You always need a back up! What if you have an issue with your new carry gun? Plus, down the road you'll wish you still had it and then end up spending more money buying a new one.

[Sunray]

"...I only "need one pistol"..." Don't be daft. You like the pistol. Keep it and like psyopspec says, get a proper gun belt.
Mind you, the difference in the weight of the two might make a difference. However, my long experience with 'bone crushers' tells that you have to find one who isn't trying to get rich. 32.5 ounces on one side won't necessarily cause your back to be hurting you. Your shoes and what you do all day can do that. So can not having muscle tone.