SIG SAUER P228
Posted May 25, 2023
When it comes to serious, no-nonsense, full-sized handguns, SIG SAUER’s P228 is the standard by which all others are judged. In production since the late 1980s, the P228 has earned a place in the hearts and hands of shooters everywhere due to its dependability, accuracy, handling, and aesthetics. While there have been many iterations of SIG Sauer’s P series of handguns, the P228 remains the gold standard among serious everyday carry and duty weapons.
The P228 itself is a double action/single action (DA/SA) semi-automatic pistol, also known as an M11A1, in SIG SAUER’s “P” or polymer frame series. While there have been subtle revisions over time, the P228 has remained nearly identical to its original design for more than two decades. Chambered in 9mm, the P228 features a 3.9-inch barrel with a capacity of 13+1, though the P229 model is offered with two additional round capacity versions, the 15+1 and 17+1.
Ergonomically, the P228 is an excellent choice for daily carry. It is more compact than many of its larger-framed counterparts, and its textured polymer grip provides a comfortable and secure hold. Its broad slide release is positioned low and far enough back not to snag on concealed-carry clothing. A steel frame and slide give the P228 an impressive weight of 28 ounces, which helps absorb the recoil of the 9mm cartridge. The P228 is also well balanced enough to enable accurate and repeatable shot placement.
The DA/SA trigger on the P228 is often considered one of the best triggers available in any handgun. This system allows for a smooth, clean, and crisp trigger pull when it is set to the single action mode. In double-action mode, the trigger pull is longer and heavier, providing extra assurance of safety when drawn from the holster. The trigger reset is also quite short and tactile, which helps improve overall accuracy.
In terms of accuracy, the P228 is on par with many of the more expensive match-grade pistols on the market. It can produce several groups of under 2 inches at 25 yards when shooting from a benchrest. The P228 shoots flat and has minimal muzzle rise, even when firing rapidly. The mild recoil also helps shooters stay on target during rapid fire strings.
The P228 offers subtle yet aesthetically pleasing design features such as a beveled magazine well, tall sights featuring a three dot system, and polished blued finish. Slides on recent models have also been outfitted with a mil-std-1913 Picatinny rail, which allows for the attachment of accessories such as tactical lights and lasers. Of course, the iconic SIG Sauer logo is proudly displayed on both sides of the slide.
If reliability is top-of-mind when it comes to your personal or duty carry weapon, then the P228 is hard to beat. Thanks to its rudimentary design, it is able to run reliably with most types of ammo. The P228 is also renowned for its durability. SIG SAUER claims the slide of their handguns is capable of withstanding more than 6,000 rounds before needing to be replaced, and the P228 has proven this to be true.
At an MSRP of $898, the SIG SAUER P228 is more affordable than other offerings in the SIG product line. This is especially attractive for those who may not be able to afford a more expensive pistol. Despite its lower price tag, however, the P228 maintains the same high standards of quality, accuracy, and reliability that Sig Sauer is renowned for.
In the end, the SIG SAUER P228 is an excellent option for those in the market for an accurate and reliable carry weapon. It is lightweight and compact enough for everyday carry, yet offers enough power and accuracy for duty use. Its dependability and durability are second to none, and it’s attractive, comfortable grip and blued finish make it a pleasure to operate. Combined with its affordable price point, the P228 is an excellent option for shooters of all skill levels.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Compact size and lightweight make it easy to carry
- Easy to handle and highly accurate
- Comfortable grip
- Very reliable weapon with a good track record
- Good aftermarket support for parts and accessories
Cons:
- Limited ammunition capacity - only 14 rounds
- Recoil is more than other pistols in the same class
- Can be difficult to find magazines for sale
- Expensive compared to other pistols in the same class
Who Should Buy
The SIG SAUER P228 is a reliable and highly-accurate handgun designed primarily for police and military use. It may also be suitable for civilian shooters who have experience with high-caliber handguns and understand the safety procedures required for firearms ownership and use. Individuals who do not have experience with handguns and are considering a SIG SAUER P228 should seek guidance and training from a certified firearms instructor to ensure proper safety and use of the gun.
Comparisons
| Product | Caliber | Barrel Length | Height | Weight | Magazine Capacity | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SIG SAUER P228 | 9mm | 3.58 in | 4.4 in | 31.2 oz | 13+1 | $999.99 |
| SIG SAUER P229 | 9mm | 3.9 in | 5.0 in | 30.4 oz | 15+1 | $939.99 |
| SIG SAUER P224 | 9mm | 3.5 in | 4.5 in | 24.3 oz | 10+1 | $889.99 |
| SIG SAUER P320 Compact | 9mm | 3.9 in | 5.3 in | 25.5 oz | 15+1 | $699.99 |
| SIG SAUER P320 Full Size | 9mm | 4.6 in | 5.5 in | 29.6 oz | 17+1 | $699.99 |
Features / Specs
•Caliber: 9mm
•Action: DA/SA
•Overall Length: 178mm / 7.01 inches
•Barrel Length: 112mm / 4.41 inches
•Height: 127mm / 5 inches
•Width: 34mm / 1.34 inches
•Weight (unloaded): 830g / 29.3 oz
•Capacity: 13-round magazine
Popular Accessories
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- SIG SAUER P228 Magazines
- SIG SAUER P228 Grips
- SIG SAUER P228 Sights
- SIG SAUER P228 Holsters
- SIG SAUER P228 Magazine Releases
- SIG SAUER P228 Slides
- SIG SAUER P228 Rail Adapters
- SIG SAUER P228 Triggers
- SIG SAUER P228 Lasers
- SIG SAUER P228 Magwells
Accuracy
The SIG SAUER P228 is well known for its accuracy and reliability. It is noted to have extremely tight tolerances and a smooth, double-action trigger pull, which helps with accuracy. The P228 is also extremely accurate at close range due to the adjustable rear sight, which can be dialed in to the shooter's preference. The fixed three-dot sights improve shooters' sight alignment and are highly visible in most lighting environments. At typical engagement distances, the P228 is considered to be extraordinarily accurate. Most experienced users of the P228 report that it is capable of accurately placing over 95% of their shots in the center of a target at 25 yards.
