Sig comparison

[Anna's Dad]

I'm considering a Sig in 9mm for my next purchase. I've read the specs on their web site and would appreciate if those who have experience with two or more of their models could compare/contrast as they look pretty darn similar on paper.

Specifically, the P226R Two Tone, P229R Two Tone and SP2022 Two Tone don't seem to be all that different (I'm not necessarily wanting two tone, I just selected that as it was available for all three models).

The 226 has a higher capacity magazine available and a slightly larger barrel but other than that, the differences seem slight. The SP2022 is also about $200 cheaper. I'm sure there's a reason, but I'm not seeing it!

The only Sig I have ever fired is a Trailside--so basically I have zero experience with their 9mm's at this point. I will hold/fire them all if possible before I make a selection, but I wanted to get some feedback on the pluses and minuses of the three different models.

Thanks!

 

[antsi]

There aren't any really huge differences between these guns.

The SP2002 is a polymer-framed gun. Most SIGs have machined aluminum frames. The ST models have stainless steel frames.

The 226 is a full sized duty pistol. The 229's are meant to be slightly smaller, for easier carry, though they are still a pretty hefty chunk of gun. For concealed carry, the 239 series is significantly smaller and thinner, with a single stack magazine.

Another choice with SIGs is the newer stainless steel slide models versus the older carbon steel slide models. The 226 comes both ways (older versus newer models). The 229 and 239 have stainless slides. The 228 (double stack) and 225 (single stack) are older models with carbon steel slides. Many SIG afficionados really like the carbon steel pistols because they are lighter and some prefer the balance.

There are also three trigger options: DA/SA with decocker, double action only, and the newer DAK trigger.

All of these differences are little more than personal preference. They're all very nice guns. If you have the chance to rent/shoot them, or at least handle them, that will help you figure out which one of these is the best fit for you.

 

[ugaarguy]

The 229 is a compact 226, a little shorter in the grip and bbl. The 2022 is the SP 2022, or SigPro, their polymer frame line of pistols. All are fine pistols. Any large Sig dealer should have at least one version of each in stock to handle. Pick them up and see what fits your hand best.

 

[DFW1911]

Any large Sig dealer should have at least one version of each in stock to handle. Pick them up and see what fits your hand best.

I agree. I have several Sigs and wanted to add a P239 to my collection, or so I thought: it just didn't feel good in my hand...at all actually . I was a bit surprised, since every other model I own feels great.

Maybe a range in your area has rentals that include your potential purchases?

Take care,
DFW1911

 

[outofbattery]

I have a pair of 226's, a 239 and a 2340 that shoots 9mm with a conversion barrel.They're all very good pistols and on a functional level,can't think of a bad thing to say about any of them.The 226's have a minor,minor edge in accuracy,the Pro has the best trigger and the 239 is what I carry daily.Depending upon your budget,I'd say that the Pro offers the best bang for the new $ but would probably go with a used 226 over a used Pro for the same price,just for subjective reasons.The SP's are outstanding pistols,the _only_ minor gripe is that the grip options don't work for everyone.The 226 rightly deserves its reputation as one of the top service pistols in the world.Really,you can't go wrong with any of them so what it comes down to is pick the one that fits your hand the best and I'm sure you'll be happy.

ETA: I too wasn't smitten with the 239,in fact I thought I made a mistake in buying one before shooting it.I'd been used to the larger SIG's grips and it seemed to roll in my hand.A couple hundred rounds later and out to 25 yards,it'll shoot neck and neck with its bigger brothers.If my fingers weren't bratwursts I'd probably use a Hogue but they don't fit the finger groove below the trigger.

 

[zoom6zoom]

The 229 was designed as a platform for .40/.357. If you're intent on 9mm, you might want to check out a 228. It's specifically a 9, and a bit lighter if you're carrying, as it has a stamped slide rather than a milled one. It's no longer in production but not terribly difficult to locate.

 

[Anna's Dad]

Appreciate it!

THR never ceases to amaze me--its unbelievable how quick you can find out exactly what you needed to know!

Thanks everyone--sounds like I can't go wrong with any of them so I'll just try to hold (or even shoot) as many as possible and go from there.

 

[outofbattery]

That's the way to do it.

Be careful though,once you have one SIG you'll have to "just get a..."

Don't worry about the wear on the 226's - 16 years in a holster would have you looking a little worn too but recently made SIG's are far superior in terms of finish.I've threatened to hard chrome one for a while but haven't got around to it.

 

[Geno]

Attractive Finish Wear

To me, there is something extraordinarily attarctive about a pistol that has some degree of finish wearing off. I especially like the old Colt 1911s in such condition. These Sigs look awesome!

Doc2005

 

[David904]

Anyone here carry concealed a P220? I'm considering doing just that as I like the .45 round and I carry a full-sized Colt Government model concealed on a daily basis.

What are your thoughts on the 220?

 

[Frandy]

I once owned a 9mm Sig 220 (older European style) and regret selling that one. Today I own a 228, 226, and 232 (and a Trailside, but that isn't really a Sig). I shoot 'em, I carry 'em, and though they have little wear and tear right now, additional wear is no concern.

I have other pistols, and I'm a sucker for the 1911, but if I were forced to grab and run with only one, it would be the 228 or 226. Hmmmm, did I really write that? The 1911 part of me is screaming inside my head.

228 (mfg 2001)

226 (mfg 1995)

232 (mfg 2004)