Sig Sauer P229 Semi-Automatic Centerfire Pistols

It’s been around for a third of a century, and its acclaim only grows. The Sig Sauer P229 descends from the earlier, Sig Sauer P226 and it has found a niche with law enforcement and private citizens. Originally introduced in 1992 in .40 Cal and .357 Magnum options, the P229 has evolved into one of the market’s most popular 9mm platforms. A deadly accurate platform for the world’s most popular pistol cartridge.

The P229 is a smaller pistol, suitable for civilian concealed carry and for professional use, often as a backup weapon. Small though it is, it handles recoil as well as a pistol twice its weight. The secret, if there is a secret, is in the wider grip of the P229. Many people when they first pick it up think it is oversized and cumbersome, but once they fire it, they realize this is a vital addition to an outstanding firearm.

The PP229 is available in six variations, with each meeting a specific niche. Some have larger magazines, some have slightly longer barrels, and some have features like custom grips, and unique surfaces. They all have Sig Sauer’s reputation for well-machined excellence, and you can’t go wrong with a Sig Sauer P229.

The first difference you’ll notice in the six models is the magazine capacity. The P229 varies in magazine capacity from 10 to 15 rounds. The second thing you’ll notice is that despite the six variations, every Sig Sauer P229 has a 3.9-inch barrel, and can be switched from single to double-action or purchased in double-action alone. These are standards established by Sig Sauer that add to the reputation of this pistol.

The difference between the various models comes in the overall empty weight of the pistol, from 29. To 34.4-ounces. That might not seem like much, but you can tell the difference. The grips, color and finish are also components that add up the differences between the basic model, the Luger and the Elite, M11-A1, Legion, Legion DA/SA and Legion SAO.

Compact size with ample weight to absorb recoil, an overall length of just 7.1-inches and an accuracy that competitive fast-action, target shooters can enjoy are all components of the Sig Sauer P229. The tightness of the patterns at 50 yards is impressive as is the durability and reliability of this pistol in some of most hostile climates Mother Nature can offer. This is a solid handgun.

• Luger – The base model of the lineup, the Luger features various finishes from a black hard coat anodized frame to a Cerakote. It offers Contrast/SigLight Tritium 3-dot sights and a Nitron slide finish. It comes with an accessory rail. Reviewers often mention, “quality with value” in this base model.
• Elite – The elite is slightly heavier at 32-ounces than the base model Luger and comes with a Picatinny Rail, short reset trigger system, and E2 grips. It includes a pair of 10-round magazines, and features a magazine disconnect, and a loaded chamber indicator for improved safety.
• M11-A1 – This model is preferred by law enforcement and some military application. It offers a simple, but effective thumb safety and comes with three 10-round magazines. Tested heavily by the military, it retained its accuracy after having 20,000 rounds fired through it. This is a solid pistol.
• Legion – Priced a bit higher than other models, the Legion offers three 15-round magazines in its basic configuration. You can take out a lot of targets with 15 shots. If offers a DA/SA trigger action, and a P-SAIT trigger. Finished in Cerakote gray, this is an attractive handgun.
• Legion DA/SA – If recoil is a concern, go with the Legion DA/SA. The P229 design substantially reduces recoil, but nothing reduces recoil as much as a heavier weapon. The DA/SA is slightly heavier than two pounds while being wrapped in a footprint similar to the lighter models. The 10-round magazine is effective.
• Legion SAO – Another higher priced version of the Luger, the Legion SAO offers a 10-round magazine, and comes with custom G-10, Beavertail grips. It offers a low profile, making it ideal for concealed carry, even in a purse. Weighing an even two pounds, it is a heavyweight contender without the weight for self-defense.