HK P9S vs. smaller Sig 232 concealed carry.

[Ignition Override]

The only handgun in my collection is a WW2 Sauer 38H and I've not yet acquired the Conc. Carry license.

Having just discovered info on the HK P9(S), compared to the Sig 230/232, the HK's extra 1" length and 1" height would seem to make this gun noticeably larger for a CCW. My height: 5'11" and weight 180 lbs. There has been no opportunity to shoot either gun type, and have not noticed any P9s to "try on".

I'm fairly well-read on many handgun topics (Google, "GunTube" videos), and am only trying to compare the felt size of the HK P9(S) vs Sig 232 as a concealed weapon. Being near retirement (age) 59, it is about time to make a decision.

 

[dogmush]

A 232 is going to be a lot easier to conceal. In addition to length and height, the P9S is wider than the Sig. Not to mention parts availability in a carry gun.

If you don't mind me saying that's an interesting choice in two pistols to be going between for CCW.

 

[Pilot]

The HK P7, or P7M8 is going to be closer in size to the P230/p232, and an excellent CCW choice. Nothing wrong with the P9S though. I have wanted one for years but more as a range gun, and novelty. The P7, and P9 gets you a 9MM while the Sig is a .380, which I am sure you are considering that plus as well.

 

[bannockburn]

I had a P9S many years ago and considered it sort of like a Colt Commander in overall size. A SIG P232 would be similar to a Walther PP dimensionally and would be much better suited for concealed carry. An advantage the P9S would have over the P232 is that it was designed for more powerful cartridges (9mm. and .45ACP), than the .380ACP chambering of the P232.

 

[Cocked & Locked]

Sig .380

Not a P232 but the same exact size older version P230. This one gets carried often because of its accuracy and size...feels perfect in my hand as well.



posing with a Spyderco Delica...

 

[Ignition Override]

Thanks for the info. I've spent many hours (20-30) reading about the Few handguns which really appeal to me. Some PPKs (Not S&W)/Sig 230/232 styles, by far, have the most. More hours spent on .380 vs. Mak. vs. 9mm Luger.

It would have helped to clarify that IWB at the 10:00 position would be optimum, and most of the time my shirts are tucked in, but would have to yield a bit with the CCW.

Am familiar with all of issues concerning the few guns being compared, and having had only rifles, bought the WW2 Sauer 38H (decocker etc: 1938) which "fathered" the Sig 230.

Cocked&Locked: beautiful photos.

 

[Lucky Derby]

I've owned both. Very different guns. If you are looking for a CCW gun, the Sig is much easier to carry. The P9s is a service size gun. Yes, it can be carried, just not as easily. Also parts/service, should they be needed, are going to be much easier to obtain for the Sig.

 

[Hometeached1]

I've only held the HK P9S, so I can't offer much advice on the shooting/carry side of things, but have shot and carried a SIG P232 and love it! The thing is scary accurate for its size and the trigger is very nice. It's on the larger side for pocket carry, (it can be done you just need the right pants.) but it is really good for IWB carry.

 

[usp9]

If you are in the search for a carry gun, there are many more choices than the two mentioned here. Of the two in the topic, IMHO, the Sig P232, (in it's alloy frame platform), would be the better choice due to it's smaller size and lesser weight. It is also a world class firearm.

 

[Jim Watson]

Unless they have recycled the model number, the only HK P9S I know of is the roller action full size service pistol of the 1970s.

It is not even in the same category as a P232 as far as concealed carry goes. An inch on both ends of a gun is a LOT when trying for concealment; people get all excited over half that in one dimension.
Plus, the P9S is long discontinued with poor availability of parts and magazines,
Like so many other H&K's it has a peculiar operating system that I would not care to have to get used to.

The P232 is a good sound .380. As usp9 says, look for the aluminum framed version. If you are going to carry an all steel gun, it can just as well be a full 9mm.

 

[golden]

Sig 232 is outstanding gun in its class

IGNITION,

I have carried and used the SIG 232 and shot the SIG 230 for about 5 or 6 years now. I consider it one of the best, blowback, double action pistols made.

The SIG 232 in the blue, aluminum framed version is an outstanding choice in .380ACP pistols. I carried it sometimes in a pocket holster, but it is a little large for this type of carry.
It is very accurate, has a smooth trigger, very well made and very reliable. I used the blue, base version because I prefer the plastic SIG grip to the rubber fingergrips on the stainless models, as well as the lighter weight of the blue model.
The SIG 232 was not 100% with FEDERAL Hydra Shok, but everything else worked well. I used a Hydra Shok in the chamber and a magazine full of COR BON Powerball.
I found this pistol shot as accurately as my larger 9m.m. pistols.
I have had excellent results with HORNADY Critical Defense in my GLOCK 42 and may switch over to that round in the SIG.

I also carried a WALTHER PPK and the advantages of the SIG were really obvious. Better trigger, better sights, more accurate, more ergonomic grip and the frame mounted SIG decocker lever instead of the WALTHER slide mounted decocking safety. Decockers are my preference to safety's, which you make forget to take off after using.

The WALTHER weighed about the same, but was noticeably smaller and easier to conceal. On the trigger, my WATHER made PPK has a good, but not great one.

 

[Ignition Override]

Thanks very much for the additional info.

To repeat, the well-known indoor range/school in Bartlett TN has never been able to offer its "rental" Sig 232 for a tryout-even after five phone calls over a year's time. They tell me that it is always "out for repairs".

Based on its 'father', the WW2 Sauer 38H in my collection, the 230/232's trigger alone must be excellent, compared to some modern handguns I've tried over the last several years. I bought the steeply discounted Sauer (similar feel/shape) because the "rental Sig 232" was Never available.

As a Lefty, I've decided that the Sigs' decocker is one of the most critical features, and wanting a smaller gun, the 230/232's characteristics and size meet my requirements.

It sure would be nice to be able to try one out in the Memphis/Jackson TN/Hernando MS area (hint, hint). Am a member of MSSA if that helps.

 

[Phaedrus/69]

That is certainly an unusual choice of handguns! I'm a big HK fan but haven't had the opportunity to try a P9S. Been "out of print" for a long time. If it were me (and of course it's not!) I would look into HKs more modern offerings. Still if I could get my grubby mitts on a P9S I'd love to try it.

Of the older ones I find the P7 the most drool worthy. If I could score one of those I actually would CCW it.

Good luck with your search! I hope you post pics if you nab the HK.