This is a review of the SIG Sauer P226, which helped set the standard for combat handguns. I’ve compared a lot of pistols, including earlier and later models from SIG Sauer. Yet, the P226 is the company’s signature firearm.
After testing the pistol, I found that the SIG Sauer P226 matched its reputation. It’s a reliable, durable pistol that most people should find easy to hold, aim, and shoot.
The P226 is a solid, dependable pistol, but determining if it meets your needs requires a closer look. In this review, we’ll examine the main features of the SIG Sauer P226. Explore the gun’s specs and greatest advantages.
Keep reading to decide if the SIG Sauer P226 should be your next pistol.
SIG Sauer P226 Overview
The SIG Sauer P226 is an update of the SIG Sauer P220, which itself was a refined version of the SIG P210. The P226 was designed in 1984 for a series of trials conducted by the US Army.
The trials were used to find a replacement for existing firearms used by the US military. Out of a couple of dozen different firearms, only the SIG P226 and the Beretta 92F passed the trials.
The P226 is available in a choice of four different chambers, including 9mm, .40 S&W, .22 long rifle, and .357 SIG. It shares many features with the P220 but was designed to accept double stack magazines to provide a higher capacity.
P226 Pros and Cons
Pros
- Offers great balance and accuracy
- The P226 can last a lifetime with proper care
- Easy to take apart and clean
- Includes a large grip for hands of any size
- Four different chambering options
Cons
- Too large for concealed carry
- Not everyone enjoys the DA/SA firing system
SIG Sauer P226 Features
The SIG Sauer P226 offers many benefits, including solid construction. Here’s a closer look at a few of the main features of this popular firearm.
Easy to Disassemble Design with All Metal Frame
As with other SIG Sauer pistols, the P226 is an easy gun to disassemble. Taking apart the P226 involves just a few steps. You can easily clean and lubricate the P226 as necessary to ensure a lifetime of use.
DA/SA Firing System
The P226 uses a double-action/single-action (DA/SA) firing system, which may not appeal to beginners and competition shooters. The first shot has a stiffer trigger pull, requiring up to 15 pounds of pressure instead of up to 7 pounds. However, after the first shot, the remaining single-action shots are smooth and crisp.
Large Grip for Hands of All Sizes
Image: Creative Commons.
Sig Sauer Legion P226. Image Credit: Creative Commons.
The P226 is a relatively large pistol with a big grip. The rear portion of the gun has a slight beavertail, which makes it easier to keep your hand higher up on the grip. No matter your hand size, you shouldn’t have trouble maintaining a firm grip on the P226.
Social Proof
Due to the popularity of the pistol, the internet contains many overwhelmingly positive reviews of the P226. After searching the internet, I found that people frequently comment on the comfortable grip of the SIG Sauer P226 and the crisp trigger.
Alternatives to the SIG Sauer P226
Along with the P226, you may want to consider one of the following alternatives before buying your next handgun. First, consider the SIG Sauer P229. The P229 was designed specifically as an alternative to the P226 for those that need a more compact pistol. It has a shorter barrel and uses a double stack magazine to provide a capacity of 13+1 rounds.
If cost is your main concern, the Zastava CZ 99 is another good alternative to the SIG Sauer P226. It’s a semi-automatic pistol designed for the Yugoslav police and military. It has a 15-round magazine capacity and was heavily influenced by the design of the SIG P226.
SIG Sauer P226. Image: Creative Commons.
Image: Creative Commons.
Conclusion
The P226 is a top-selling firearm and easy to find due to the number of guns produced. It’s a well-made gun that you can rely on for accurate shooting and easy cleaning. It’s a little big for concealed carry but just right for a full-size pistol.
In the end, the SIG P226 is a trusted choice used by militaries and law enforcement professionals around the world. If you don’t mind the DA/SA firing system, the next step is to search for a SIG Sauer P226 for sale.
Brady Kirkpatrick is the Editor of Gun Made. Brady is a passionate firearm owner from Omaha, Nebraska. Gun Made has been featured in various publications such as Forbes, Officer.com, American Police Beat, and countless others.
