P229 for short fingers

[spinmove_]

I've got a standard P229-1 with E2 grips and standard trigger that I would like to make work better for my shorter fingers. I can reach the trigger just fine in single action, but I feel like I almost have to rotate my hand a bit far in order to reach the trigger in double action. Obviously there are some parts changes that can be made so I'm trying to figure out what could possibly work without buying a bunch of parts to see what might work best. The purpose of this post is to get this gun ready for real defensive use instead of it just being the range fun gun that it has been up until this point. I also would like to eventually carry this particular gun concealed after I lose enough weight to do so (why buy bigger clothes when I need to lose weight and the same clothes would be big enough for concealment?). So far, my options as I see it are as follows:

1.) Keep the E2 grips and move to the short reach trigger. Obviously this would provide me the shortest reach possible, but the jury is still out on the effectiveness of the E2 grips vs. other options.

2.) Move to the standard grip panels and short reach trigger. Might be the same trigger reach length, but I honestly don't know, hence why I'm asking.

3.) Move to either G10 or Aluminum grips and keep standard trigger. These grips are expensive, but strike me as being potentially slim enough for what I'm looking for.

4.) Move to either G10 or Aluminum and move to short reach trigger. Slight more expensive option vs. #3, but obviously reduces reach further.

5.) Move to a different gun that I know I have no trigger reach issues with and also would be easier to conceal as the P229 is a chunky bastard.


Thanks in advance, guys. Looking forward to seeing your thoughts on this.

[LSP552]

Hopefully LSP972 will chime in because he has a lot of time on 228/229 with short reach triggers and he has T-Rex arms and fingers.

The short reach trigger makes a significant difference in trigger reach/finger placement for me. I have XL size hands and long fingers and shoot a standard trigger fine. The short trigger changes the reach enough that I can't use it because my finger impacts the frame at the end of the press.

I'm not a fan of the E2s because I shoot better with regular grips. If it were me, I'd change the trigger 1st, since that's cheapest to try. Then I'd move to the G10s and that's a pretty great set up for carry if you like SIG DA/SA guns, which I do.

[JDM]

I may have a short reach trigger in my bag of Sig parts. I'll look when I get home. If I do, you can have it.

[MD7305]

Try out a short reach trigger first, cheapest option. You can always try other grips if you find more tweaking necessary. It's gonna be trial and error to figure out what works best for you. E2 grips and a short trigger was too small for me and I have medium sized hands.

[taadski]

As nice as it is to have other folks give you direction on the interweb, some things are going to require you bucking up and spending the time/money to find what works for you. Handgun fit, in my mind, is one of these. Holster selection is another example. The combos you're talking about are pretty inexpensive. You've already got an E2 grip. Spend the $30 on the short reach trigger, get a set of stock Sig grip panels ($18; they'll function fine with the E2 strut/spring) and dabble away. The G10 or aluminum grips can make a significant difference in width, IME, but because of the mainspring design on the P series Sigs, they're not going to change the fore-aft length a whole lot.

FWIW, I wear XL gloves and HATE the short reach triggers. I'm also not a huge fan of the E2 grips primarily b/c I don't need the length of throw shortened, but also b/c I don't like how it changes the angle of the grip itself and therefore how the pistol points. But neither of those things I could have deciphered on the web. ;)



t

[JDM]

I may have a short reach trigger in my bag of Sig parts. I'll look when I get home. If I do, you can have it.


I do not have a short reach trigger in my bag of Sig parts.

[spinmove_]

Alright, so it sounds like go for a short reach trigger and standard grip panels. Should be inexpensive enough. Perhaps I'll order those this weekend. How difficult is it to swap out that trigger shoe?

Given that I ultimately want to be able to conceal this thing, how viable an option is that? I ask because I don't want to jump through all these hoops if it's ultimately not worth the trouble. I know that, in the end, I'm the only one that can really answer that. But if others are able to do it, and do it comfortably, it might be worth it to explore that.

I know the G10 and the Aluminum grips aren't terribly cheap, but honestly, I REALLY like the G10 grips on my knife and would love to have that as a grip on this P229 as well. Anyone know the best place to snag grips for them? Best I'm finding is ~$115.

Also, another thought, any ideas on the best place to get mags inexpensively? I'm consistently finding 15-round mags for $41 and 17-round mags for $32.

[Luke]

44mag.com

Insanely cheap mags.

[LSP552]

I have zero issues carrying a 228 or 226 concealed. A good belt and holster are key to dealing with the weight, but it's very doable.

[spinmove_]

44mag.com

Insanely cheap mags.

Been there, checked their stuff out. Problem is I'm running a P229-1, to which my understanding is, the magazines for that are not interchangeable with the older P228/P229 frame. Is this still the case?

[MD7305]

Ref. G10 grips. Keep an eye out on the Sig-centric forums. There are some good deals from time to time. I agree, the Hogue G10s Piranhas and a standard trigger were the sweet spot for me when I was shooting a 229. Changing out the trigger isn't bad, I'm sure there's a youtube video on it. It's been a while but the only tool you'll need is to remove your grips otherwise it's all done by hand.

[taadski]

I just texted a workmate who has a thin trigger I swapped out for him last year and he's willing to donate it to your cause. He's looking for it so if ya wanna sit tight before ordering, I'll advise. It's an easy swap.

Re mags, I think these are what you're looking for. $29. Gregcote's place is GTG and is as cheap as I've found.

http://gregcotellc.com/cart/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=123&products_id=1107


Concealing the 229 is very doable with an appropriate holster, belt and a willingness to dress around the gun a bit. I carry a 226 daily sans issue.

[OnionsAndDragons]

Been there, checked their stuff out. Problem is I'm running a P229-1, to which my understanding is, the magazines for that are not interchangeable with the older P228/P229 frame. Is this still the case?

To my knowledge the 229-1 mags won't fit in a 9mm standard 229, but standard 9mm 229 and 226 mags will run in a 229-1.

The lady got a 229 which happens to be a -1 earlier in the year, with the G-10 grips SRT and short trigger. It works pretty well for her smaller hands. I have the same issue that LSP mentioned upstream, in that I will make frame contact on the support side during a trigger press.

I'd definitely try the short trigger in your situation.

As to the G-10 for a better price, Hogue has a blems page. I'd just watch that like a hawk. Keep an eye on eBay, etc. if the trigger fixes the bulk of your problem, you can take your time finding the fancy grips.

My 226 mags run just fine in her 229-1.

Frankly, we both HATE the mags that came w her gun. They are gray and rough feeling, are tough to seat solidly and just feel like crap.

Buy MecGar mags. Only MecGar mags. They are the best, and most reasonably priced. CDNN has sales regularly. So do some other suppliers. I have been superbly satisfied with all of my SIG MecGar mags, and you can get them in more appropriate capacities. It still irks me to no end that the Legion 226s have 15rd mags when they could come with flush fit 18rders. Grrr.


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[Lon]

4.) Move to either G10 or Aluminum and move to short reach trigger. Slight more expensive option vs. #3, but obviously reduces reach further.


I've tried the E2/short trigger/long trigger/Hogue aluminum grips combos. The one that works best for me is the aluminum/short trigger combo. With the right holster, a 229 is easy to carry and comfortable. I prefer JMCK holsters.

[spinmove_]

I just texted a workmate who has a thin trigger I swapped out for him last year and he's willing to donate it to your cause. He's looking for it so if ya wanna sit tight before ordering, I'll advise. It's an easy swap.

Re mags, I think these are what you're looking for. $29. Gregcote's place is GTG and is as cheap as I've found.

http://gregcotellc.com/cart/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=123&products_id=1107


Concealing the 229 is very doable with an appropriate holster, belt and a willingness to dress around the gun a bit. I carry a 226 daily sans issue.

Well crap. I just ordered the short trigger along with a couple other goodies from Top Gun Supply. Thanks for the effort though, I appreciate it.

[taadski]

Copy. I won't pester him to dig it out then.


t

[jwperry]

I have small hands & fingers. I found that 1)G10 grips 2)standard trigger 3)reduced power hammer spring was the best combination for me to shoot the DA trigger pull well on my P226 & P228.
I tried the short trigger/E2 and the SA pull was too close and I'd sometimes catch the pad of my finger under the trigger.
I tried the short trigger/ standard grips and I didn't care for how slick the standard grips would get when wet.
That's when I decided to drop the coin on the G10 grips. I bought mine off ebay. They don't come up too often and when they do, it is usually $75+ for used. But I found the combination that I'm using now gives me the most shootable version of what I have.

Old P228/P229 will work in your gun if you have a P229-1. The mags will just be a little wobly, like if you were using a P226 mag. I watch Brownells and buy Mec Gar P228 mags when the offer them on sale.

[spinmove_]

I have small hands & fingers. I found that 1)G10 grips 2)standard trigger 3)reduced power hammer spring was the best combination for me to shoot the DA trigger pull well on my P226 & P228.
I tried the short trigger/E2 and the SA pull was too close and I'd sometimes catch the pad of my finger under the trigger.
I tried the short trigger/ standard grips and I didn't care for how slick the standard grips would get when wet.
That's when I decided to drop the coin on the G10 grips. I bought mine off ebay. They don't come up too often and when they do, it is usually $75+ for used. But I found the combination that I'm using now gives me the most shootable version of what I have.

Old P228/P229 will work in your gun if you have a P229-1. The mags will just be a little wobly, like if you were using a P226 mag. I watch Brownells and buy Mec Gar P228 mags when the offer them on sale.

Sounds like the 15-round Mec-gars will work reliably in the P229-1 despite manufacturer claims. Could be a good thing. How much does Brownells have them for when on sale?

[TGS]

Sounds like the 15-round Mec-gars will work reliably in the P229-1 despite manufacturer claims.


Mecgar is the OEM mag factory for SIG.....can you clarify?


If you mean running Mecgar 15 round SIG P228 mags in a P229-1 frame, I haven't had any problems doing such.

[spinmove_]

Mecgar is the OEM mag factory for SIG.....can you clarify?


If you mean running Mecgar 15 round SIG P228 mags in a P229-1 frame, I haven't had any problems doing such.

http://shop.mec-gar.com/Magazines/Sig-Sauer/SIG-SAUER-P.228-15-High-Cap-Flush-Fit

"Not for use in P.229 E2 pistols with wider tapered P229-1 magazine"

If you guys are running these suckers through classes and hard use without any issues, I'll pick up a few seeing as how I can get them for around $23/pc.

[Lon]

I ran 228 style mags hard through my 229-1 without issue and would do so again in a heartbeat. I never used the 229-1 mags at all.

[DI1]

I have been happy wit E2 grips and short trigger. Makes the gun much smaller in girth as people have mentioned.
You would have to try it for yourself and see how that works out. I would wait on the purchase the of the G10 grips.

[HCM]

Mecgar is the OEM mag factory for SIG.....can you clarify?


If you mean running Mecgar 15 round SIG P228 mags in a P229-1 frame, I haven't had any problems doing such.

Mec-gar was SIG OEM for several years but SIG went to Check-mate mags around 2012. I think they are back to using both now. My 226 Texas edition actually came with one of each.

I've successfully run OEM and Mec-gar 228 mags in my 229-1 and my 229 40 frame with 9mm conversion barrel. They're a little loose but they work. The 229 40/357 mags will also work with 9mm in the 229-1 frame so can use cheap PD trade 40 mags as range / Practice mags.

[spinmove_]

Alright, so the standard plastic P229 grips and short trigger came in. Just got them installed...

WOW, does this really change the way this gun feels. Dry firing in double action is about half the chore it used to be now and I can actually rattle off several DA trigger pulls without disturbing the sights or disturbing them minimally. I also have WAY more surface area for my support hand to lock onto. I cannot wait to get this thing to the range and see how it handles. It seriously feels like a totally different pistol.

[LSP552]

Alright, so the standard plastic P229 grips and short trigger came in. Just got them installed...

WOW, does this really change the way this gun feels. Dry firing in double action is about half the chore it used to be now and I can actually rattle off several DA trigger pulls without disturbing the sights or disturbing them minimally. I also have WAY more surface area for my support hand to lock onto. I cannot wait to get this thing to the range and see how it handles. It seriously feels like a totally different pistol.

Excellent spinmove. Let us know how the range work goes. I predict you will be pleased.

[spinmove_]

The only thing I'm not digging with this new setup is how the new grips dig into my strong hand thumb when gripping with two hands. There's a ridge there that wasn't there before. It feels natural and fine with one hand, but not two.

[LSP552]

The only thing I'm not digging with this new setup is how the new grips dig into my strong hand thumb when gripping with two hands. There's a ridge there that wasn't there before. It feels natural and fine with one hand, but not two.

That's always been my beef with the 228 and 229 and one reason why I generally prefer the 226. The left grip does have a more pronounced hump around the decocker than the 226. It's been awhile since I handled one, but my recollection is the G10 grip's hump is significantly smaller. Hopefully someone who has a set can comment about that.

I will say that while the hump "feels" different and I don't like it, it does't seem to impact my shooting.

[spinmove_]

That's always been my beef with the 228 and 229 and one reason why I generally prefer the 226. The left grip does have a more pronounced hump around the decocker than the 226. It's been awhile since I handled one, but my recollection is the G10 grip's hump is significantly smaller. Hopefully someone who has a set can comment about that.

I will say that while the hump "feels" different and I don't like it, it does't seem to impact my shooting.

It's not even necessarily the hump. There is a ridge on the top of the left grip panel behind the hump that starts to flow into the webbing of your hand. With a high two handed grip, this ridge digs into your strong thumb. With a single hand grip, the thumb rests perfectly underneath that ridge. I still haven't had a chance to take it to the range yet, but hopefully soon.

I do have a friend that might still have his G10 grips for his P229. Last I knew he put rubberized Hogues on his and was doing nothing with his G10 grips. I might see if I can borrow/buy them off him at a discounted price to see if I like them or not. Could be a good thing.

[DNW]

Like others have said this is highly personal and subjective, and I would recommend you try different combos, and shoot them, before you make up your mind. I have carried almost every flavor of Sig, and have carried the P229 for the last 5-6 years. I tried every grip/trigger combo mentioned here, and for me, settled on the G10 checkered grip with a standard trigger. I was seeking normal reach, with the thinnest profile possible. I wanted to like the E2 grips, but on the range I performed better with G10. Make sure you validate your choice of what subjectively "feels" good, with what you actually shoot well. I found doing bulleseye drills and timed drills from the holster that I shot the G10s better. I am not at all a fan of rubberized Hogue grips. I think you need to be able to move the gun around in your hand as you manipulate through reloads and malfunctions, and the rubber grips if find too sticky. They are also more prone to being slick when wet. The G10s, E2s, skateboard tape, and well stippled guns are grippy when held onto, but also allow you to move the gun in your hand and the performance does not change much when wet.

[spinmove_]

Finally had a chance to get to the range yesterday. I only had a chance to run 50 rounds through the P229 as I was breaking in a new Shield at the same time. I have to say that my shooting with this pistol has dramatically improved. Out of the 50 rounds that I did shoot I pulled 1 DA shot outside of the black on a B8 target @ 7yds. I pulled another 3 rounds outside of the black when doing 1 handed DA shots. All shots were a mix of slow-fire, rapid-fire, and DA to SA double taps. It handles better, I can get a better grip on it, and trigger reach is a complete non-issue now. Definitely looking forward to what I can do with this thing as I move forward.

My only complaint right now is that stupid ridge on the left grip panel that rubs into the webbing of my strong hand. It wasn't too bad after 50 rounds, but I can definitely see how it would rub rather raw after extended shooting. I might have to look into modifying the grip or seeing if my friend with G10s would be cool with loaning me those grips to test.

The biggest limitation I seem to have still is making DA shots 1 handed with this thing. That first DA pull 1 handed seems to be a bit of a bear to control. Other than practice, is there any advice to making that less of an issue?