back to top

SIG P229

The SIG is a double-action pistol. It can shoot from a cocked hammer position (single-action) or uncocked hammer position (double action). The first shot from an uncocked hammer has a long, heavy trigger pull. The recoil from the first round drives back the slide, cocking the pistol for a shorter, lighter pull for the second shot.  One advantage of the long pull on the first shot is that you're less likely to accidentally fire a round while drawing the gun or reacting to a noise in the middle of the night. That's also why double actions are popular with police departments. In the event of a shooting, your opponent's lawyers will call a light single action pull a "hair trigger."  Racking the slide chambers the first round and cocks the hammer. When it's time to store the SIG (loaded or unloaded), you need to decock the hammer, since the SIG, like many double actions and almost all revolvers, doesn't have a safety. (Neither do Glocks.)

The P229 differs from its cousin, the P226 in several respects. The P226 is a "full size" weapon, while the P229 is considered compact. The P226 originally was manufacturered using a stamped-steel slide on an aluminum alloy frame. The P229 consists of a forged stainless steel slide, typically colored black with a Nitron finish. Both the P226 and P229 are both optionally available with accessory rails, and optional forged stainless steel frames.

Pre-ban 12 round magazines are available, though the prices will remain high until the ban expires in November, 2004. (The ban has a clause that allows law enforcement agencies to get clips larger than 10 rounds.) Because the magazine had been limited to less than its intended capacity, it was easier to load than is typical for large-caliber pistols. Even with a beefy magazine, the SIG's grip feels great, filling the hand without overwhelming it.  The magazine release is reversible for the left thumb to release the magazine.

The P229 is available in 9mm, .40 S&W and .357 SIG. Changing the calibre of the weapon is as simple as switching out the barrel. The magazine can accomodate ammunition of either calibre.   The compact nature of the P229 is perfect when you need something smaller than a full-size pistol but are unwilling to compromise on quality, performance or firepower.

The Sig P229 is a compact firearm, perfect for concealed carry, the standard version features a DA/SA trigger, but it is available also with a DAO trigger.  DAK (double action Kellerman) model, which is a DAO system with two trigger reset points, and a lighter, smoother pull than traditional DAO handguns.

The U.S. Federal Air Marshall's use this as their standard sidearm chambered in .357 sig.

  back to top

  back to top

  back to top

  back to top