SIG 228 vs. SIG 229

[SamlautRanger]

What are the main differences between the SIG 228 (M11) and the SIG 229, both in 9mm? What are the advantages over one compared to the other? Thanks.

 

[Ala Dan]

Greeting's My Friend-

IMHO, the SIG P228 has better overall balance as it uses a stamped
sheet metal slide; whereas the P229 uses a slide milled from a solid
bar of stainless steel, thus making the weapon feel "top heavy" to
some users. The stainless P229 probably would rate as more durable,
but I haven't found anyone who wore a P228 out~ BTW, magazines
between the two are interchangeable.

 

[HighVelocity]

I don't own a 228 but I baulk at the notion that the 229 is top heavy. To me it's a +. My 229 in 9mm is a dream to shoot. Feels like a 22lr recoil wise. Of course it's 100% reliable and super accurate. Typical Sig.

 

[garrettwc]

The 229 was developed for the 40S&W and as a result is thicker in the slide and frame area. Especially under the grip tang. The P228 fits my hand just fine, but the 229 feels much bigger. It depends on your hand size what will feel best to you.

 

[Jiml3]

I don't have a 228 so I can't say anything about it. I own a P229 and if I choose, I can convert it to a 357 sig by replacing the barrel. I probably can convert it to 9mm. by replacing the barrel and magazine. I'm not sure the 9mm version you refered to can be converted. Check with sig arms.
The possibility of being able to interchange barrels is for some a plus. It saves buying 3 guns.

Jiml3

 

[Old Dog]

Another purely subjective opinion ... but I'd go with the 228. I concur with Dan's view that the 228 feels "better balanced" ... it also is slightly lighter, no problems with the recoil ... I've seen some really good deals on lightly used 228s, going for as much as $250 - $300 less than new 229s ($739 new in my area).

 

[DAVE RICHARDS]

Both are excellent weapons. Getting hard to find 228's in my area. People grab them as soon as they see them. If you can't find a 228 the 229 is just as good. Yes it is a bit heavier but it's still great in the hand and a tack driver!

 

[bluto]

I tried both and ended up with the 228. I also agree that it feels more balanced. FWIW I also own full size 226's in .40 and 9mm. The 229 just wasn't my cup of tea.

Try and shoot them both if you can. It's really a matter of personal preference. You won't go wrong with either.

 

[Black Majik]

The 229 will feel like it recoils softer due to the weight, the P228 points better IMO.

Plus I think the P228 looks good, the 229 looks kinda ugly due to the half slide serrations.

The P229 is chambered for 9mm, .357 sig, and .40 S&W
The P228 is chambered only in 9mm.
For what its worth.