Sig p239

[breakingtime91]

Not sure why but I have always been interested in this little Sig. I have really no time to shoot right now but I wanted to learn more about it in case I run across one for a fair price. I know most have said its big for its capacity but it does look just a bit thinner that my little hands would be able to manage it better in the trigger reach department then something like a 92fs that beats me up.

I know GJM it shoots above its size and others have had similar statements, thoughts? Does the thinness make a difference AIWB? Would it be worth trying to sell/trade a p2000sk lem for one?


thanks everyone.

[MK11]

One of the original "little guns that shoot like big guns." One of the better Sigs, even in Sig's bad years. I've always liked it more than the Smith 3913.

The factory grips can be a problem--they were too thin for me and I don't have large hands. Mine was also an early one that came standard with a thin trigger. They don't do that anymore and with good reason, it was a terrible combo for shoot-ability. Mine still wear rubber Hogues and there are plenty of wood options as well.

I've since gone to a Shield for daily carry because it's so much lighter but I'm thinking of digging the Sig back out for aiwb carry.

[Dismas316]

I have one in 357sig and it's just an awesome shooter. For a smaller gun, it handles that caliber like a champ. Nice because I have a .40 cal I can drop in it and it's easy enough to add the 9mm if I wanted. This is one of these guns that I likely will never get rid of, even though it sits in my safe most of the time.

I carry aiwb and this is pretty easy to carry but it's really because the weight/capacity why I don't carry it. I wouldn't consider it really very thin, but not terrible thick either. Grip length is almost identical to the g19 but much heavier with almost half the capacity. About an inch shorter and the width is about the same as a glock. Great shooter, pretty easy to carry but as will be mentioned a lot, the "weight/capacity ratio" is the big negative. With just about every comparison, it will lose in that category. Other than that, it's a fantastic gun.:D. It really is.

[rjohnson4405]

I really like the 239 and have used them quite a bit.

I recently got a 225 A1 that I like a bit better. It's slightly bigger in the slide but the grip is thin and it comes with the SRT and G10 grips (almost a Legion, but without the shitty finish).

You can't go wrong either way!

[KhanRad]

As others have said, the P239 is one of the most underrated Sigs in the lineup. I have owned P239s in 9mm and .40, and both versions are excellent. It has the durability, accuracy, and shootibility of a full sized P226. Sure its bigger and heavier than most guns in its class, but there is something comforting about having such an accurate little gun that conceals better than a P228/P229.

I only give the P239 two drawbacks. One is obviously its magazine capacity. I've found that 8rds is the bare minimum I like to carry(I used to use a P220 on duty) as a CCW. There's just something about the natural shooting cadence of a human and when you start addressing multiple threats you run dry quick under stress. I would rather use a smaller caliber(below 9mm) than go below that 8rd minimum. I usually carry 1-2 extra 8rd 9mm mags on me. The other downside to the P239 is that it is particularly susceptible to tripping the slide release with a thumbs forward grip. So, it definitely requires an adjusted thumbs forward grip to help prevent that.......especially given the critical nature of the gun being low capacity, and the necessity of needing the gun to lock back on the last round with more frequent reloads. I actually cut back my slide release with a Dremil tool to help prevent this(sometimes training isn't enough, you need equipment solutions too).

One other thing, I am not a fan of the factory plastic grips. They offer little security, and not much purchase for a solid grip. The Hogue rubber wrap-around grips are perfect for this little gun, and greatly improve grip security, recoil comfort, and shooter accuracy.

[M2CattleCo]

I carried a 9mm 239 for a long time. They carry great, the heavy slide and light grip naturally balance very well in holster, but the same makes it a bit top heavy in the hand. Carried and concealed AIWB better than any compact double stack.

The slide release is hard to use for some reason. It takes a lot of force to send the slide home with it.
Reloads are not real easy. Skinny single stack mags and that short grip makes you have to get your pinky out of the way to get the mag seated.

All in all, compared to the modern plastic pistols, it's as heavy as a full size, carries like a compact, capacity and handling of a sub-compact.

I replaced mine with Glock 43s and never looked back. The 43 does everything better, just two rounds short. The Glock 19 Gen5 replaced the P226s that were paired with the 239s, and there is just no comparison there.

[LockedBreech]

One other thing, I am not a fan of the factory plastic grips. They offer little security, and not much purchase for a solid grip. The Hogue rubber wrap-around grips are perfect for this little gun, and greatly improve grip security, recoil comfort, and shooter accuracy.

One of the main pluses of the classic P-series is a wonderful selection of aftermarket grips. I love nice wood or G10 myself.

[GJM]

The 239 is a great ten round magazine ban pistol, especially carried appendix, or as a BUG/companion to a primary P series shooter. Shootability is way up there for a single stack 9, and it has a hammer!

Without those restrictions (mag limit, P series, hammer), it is somewhat expensive, heavy, capacity limited and slow to reload, given all the great pistol choices out there today.

[Jeep]

I think the p239 in 9mm is a very nice carry pistol, though like others say, it is a bit heavy. A Shield is lighter, cheaper and you don't have to master a DA/SA trigger.

That being said, a DA/SA trigger is, in my view, a nice feature in a carry pistol. In addition, since I don't worry about whether 8 rounds is enough or about reloads at all (as a civilian, I regard the chance that I will need more than 8 rounds where I live as slight; indeed it is doubtful that I would ever be able to legally fire more than 8) I think it has more than enough capacity. If you need more than that, and of course many cops etc. do need more than that, I'd go to a G19 (with a Gadget) or a p228/229.

As for the weight, it absorbs the recoil nicely, and every 239 I've shot has been very accurate. In addition, the 239, like most SIGs in my experience, can take a pounding So, I think there is a lot to be said for a 239 as a carry gun.

[Langhrone]

So what is current opinion on Sig quality and reliability out of the box?

[MGW]

I love my 239. Great trigger, really accurate, not that difficult to shoot really well. It makes a really great companion to a 226. I needed a very low profile option for a carry gun at one point so I spent an entire summer and fall carrying one in a Smart Carry. It really worked very well in that situation even though it was a little heavy. The TDA made me feel very safe about carrying the pistol that way. I really enjoy shooting it and I will never get rid of it.

The only problem with the 239 is it is almost exactly the same size as a Glock 19. I don't own a Px4 compact but I would suspect that the 239 and it are also pretty close in size. I think it could be argued that a P30sk would fit in every role that a 239 would, have all of the benefits of the 239, and none of the minuses.

[psalms144.1]

Langhrone - I have been woefully underwhelmed by Sig's QC and build quality lately. I may be jaded, all my Sigs were pre-2005 German builds, and all were stellar. Triggers on recent samples I've seen have been pretty pitiful...

[HeavyDuty]

I’ve always wanted one of the melted ones - SAS models, maybe?

[fatdog]

A Shield is lighter, cheaper and you don't have to master a DA/SA trigger.

This, I owned both 9mm and .357 variants of the P239 and sold them a few years back when the truly reliable polymer single stack 9mm guns like PPS and Shield came into the market (my Kahr experiences were entirely negative before that). I found the 8 round polymer single stack striker guns so much easier to carry and shoot. There was nothing I found negative about the P239 in terms of shootablity for a DA/SA, or its accuracy, or reliability. It was just too big and heavy for the 8+1 payload in my mind since I could shoot the others just as well.

[psalms144.1]

I've owned three P239s, and was issued one. I'm NOT a fan. When combined size-wise with the P228 or P229, it's only marginally smaller overall. The grips are still thick, and nearly as long as the bigger pistol. They're heavy. The triggers are meh. A lot of folks who are issued them have to learn P239-specific grip techniques to avoid inadvertently activating the slide lock/release - so much so that I've just gotten in the habit of screaming "RELOAD" at the P239 shooters every six rounds in our qual course - since most are holding empty but slide forward pistols. Did I mention they're heavy?

Yes, they can be shot accurately. Yes, they look sexy. But, I'd take a G43 or Kahr P9 (K9 if I needed a steel frame) any day over the P239. Hell, if I wanted a single-stack metal framed hammer fired pistol, I'd probably go for an alloy framed 9mm 1911 over the P239.

[BigDaddy]

I have a 239. Love them. Is it true that a 239 is about the same size as a G19? Yes but the 239 carries much better because of the single stack. My G23 will always print to some degree while my 239 never does. And I own all the top tier holsters from Sparks, Rosen, CCC, JMK etc. Is it heavy? Probably, but that also helps dampen recoil. Is the capacity low? Yes, but when I put an eight round mag with a Plus One kit in it, it's now a ten round gun. Carry an extra mag and you have 19 rounds on your body which IMHO isn't too shabby. I've never had a problem with the slide release problems that some guys do and I also hold thumbs forward.All in all IMHO the 239 is a GREAT gun for concealed carry. It carries well, doesn't print, shots very well and it is after all, a Sig. I highly recommend them.

[breakingtime91]

Good discussion thus far. I really like it for the hammer, slimeness for aiwb, and overall just like the look of the gun. Would trying to trade a p2000sk be studpid or is that a pretty even trade?

[Redhat]

Good discussion thus far. I really like it for the hammer, slimeness for aiwb, and overall just like the look of the gun. Would trying to trade a p2000sk be studpid or is that a pretty even trade?

What is it that makes you want to dump the HK?

[LSP552]

I'm a big fan of the 239. Yes it's large and heavy for a 9 shot 9mm. But it carries smaller than it is. The grip is narrow and short and disappears IWB under anything. Spare mags are flat and easily carried. I can hide a 239 IWB under a much wider range of shirts than I can a 228 or 229.

They can be shot much better than guns like the G43. In general, the 239 seems to have the best out of the box DA of any P series SIG.

They are what they are. For me, that's a great 10 round ban state gun and a slim single stack that hides well under a t-shirt. It wouldn't be my 1st choice to start a fight with, but with a spare mag or 2, it's capable.

They are hard to reload and require you to flex and relax your little finger if you have large hands. Otherwise you will reload skin with bullets.

[breakingtime91]

What is it that makes you want to dump the HK?

spent a long time with the LEM and its just not in my interest anymore. Overall great gun, just been sitting in the safe too long.

[Redhat]

spent a long time with the LEM and its just not in my interest anymore. Overall great gun, just been sitting in the safe too long.

Well if that's the case you probably won't be kicking yourself later if you trade it off.

[Redhat]

How does it compare to the 225?

[M2CattleCo]

I'm a big fan of the 239. Yes it's large and heavy for a 9 shot 9mm. But it carries smaller than it is. The grip is narrow and short and disappears IWB under anything. Spare mags are flat and easily carried. I can hide a 239 IWB under a much wider range of shirts than I can a 228 or 229.

They can be shot much better than guns like the G43. In general, the 239 seems to have the best out of the box DA of any P series SIG.

They are what they are. For me, that's a great 10 round ban state gun and a slim single stack that hides well under a t-shirt. It wouldn't be my 1st choice to start a fight with, but with a spare mag or 2, it's capable.

They are hard to reload and require you to flex and relax your little finger if you have large hands. Otherwise you will reload skin with bullets.

Before I transitioned completely I shot a 43 side by side with a P239 and could consistently shoot more accurately at 25 with the 43. I could also get from the holster to the first shot, and split faster with the 43. This is after about 1,200 rounds through the 43, and probably 10,000 through 239s. Going from a 226/239 to a G19/43 was the biggest performance boost my shooting has gotten since the initial learning curve was topped out.

I found that the Glock grip angle, shape, and bore axis really makes a difference to me. Others, not so much, but a 43 can be shot to a very high standard if it fits the shooter. I can shoot mine more accurately than a 17L.

[LJP]

I literally just saw a used P239 in the gun case today and was tempted to put it on layaway for many of the reasons mentioned previously. The DA/SA is interesting to me for CCW and Sigs typically fit my smallish hands well. I live in a state with magazine capacity restrictions, so the 8+1 isn’t a deal breaker for me. I wouldn’t buy a new Sig today for obvious reasons, but I have an affinity for the classic P-series that stems from the first pistol I ever purchased, a Sig P220. Although I don’t carry it anymore, I will never sell it. I may yet go back for the P239, just need to figure out what to trade in toward it.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[ReverendMeat]

How does it compare to the 225?

I would take a 239 over a 225 without question, but if you mean the 225-a1, I would take the 225-a1 over the 239. Anything coming from SIG is a gamble as to whether the gun will work or not, so I wouldn't trade a vetted 239 for a new 225-a1.

[LSP552]

Before I transitioned completely I shot a 43 side by side with a P239 and could consistently shoot more accurately at 25 with the 43. I could also get from the holster to the first shot, and split faster with the 43. This is after about 1,200 rounds through the 43, and probably 10,000 through 239s. Going from a 226/239 to a G19/43 was the biggest performance boost my shooting has gotten since the initial learning curve was topped out.

I found that the Glock grip angle, shape, and bore axis really makes a difference to me. Others, not so much, but a 43 can be shot to a very high standard if it fits the shooter. I can shoot mine more accurately than a 17L.

i don't doubt that a 43 can be shot very well if it fits and the individual shoots Glocks well.

[MGW]

I had an old high round count 239 and bought a brand new 239 a couple of years ago. Zero issues with either one. Also have a 226 Legion that I’ve never had an issue with. The finish sucks but it’s fine mechanically. I know Sig had issues in the past but there classic series guns are good to go in my opinion. I’m not sure what quality control issues others are referring to but I’ve not seen them or heard of them with 9mm 239’s and 226’s.

[Redhat]

I would take a 239 over a 225 without question, but if you mean the 225-a1, I would take the 225-a1 over the 239. Anything coming from SIG is a gamble as to whether the gun will work or not, so I wouldn't trade a vetted 239 for a new 225-a1.

Actually what I meant was comparing dimensions and/or any other details. To just say "I'd take this over that" without explaining the "why's" doesn't do much for someone in their decision making process.

As for "gambles", I'd say that applies to any gun until it is "vetted" no matter the manufacturer. Just on this forum alone, we have guys posting about problems with every brand.

[MattyD380]

The P239 is my go to carry gun. It's one of my favorite all-time pistols, and, in my opinion there's not really another gun that fills its niche.

Nevertheless...

The only problem with the 239 is it is almost exactly the same size as a Glock 19. I don't own a Px4 compact but I would suspect that the 239 and it are also pretty close in size. I think it could be argued that a P30sk would fit in every role that a 239 would, have all of the benefits of the 239, and none of the minuses.


When combined size-wise with the P228 or P229, it's only marginally smaller overall. The grips are still thick, and nearly as long as the bigger pistol. They're heavy. The triggers are meh. A lot of folks who are issued them have to learn P239-specific grip techniques to avoid inadvertently activating the slide lock/release...

These are the common criticisms of the P239. I'll say this: personally, I couldn't come close to shooting a Glock 19 as well as P239. In fact, I usually don't shoot a P226 as well as a I do a P239. The gun lends itself to incredible precision and accuracy. I happen to think the trigger is superb (for a stock trigger) and I happen to think the stock grips are plenty thin. Though there are a range of after market grip options, so you can probably get it just to where you want it.

On top that, it's small enough in all the right dimensions to make it easy to carry. Seriously--folks are EDCing PX4Cs and 92Cs--the P239 carries quite a bit easier than both, in my opinion (I own both). I carry mine in a cheapo neoprene holster at about 11:45 (appendix, quasi-cross draw). This setup works in any attire, and there is pretty much zero printing. I've tried a fancy custom leather appendix holster. Holster ended up bulging more than the gun. Thought about trying a JMCK--but kydex and a P239? Eh. I dunno...

I've also tried a 3913. Nice gun. But for me, it didn't shoot nearly as well the P239. No knock on Smith 3rd gens--they usually shoot very well for me. Just not the 3913 for some reason.

As for Sig QC lately...

I don't know. My P239 is 2006 manufacture. Got it used--impulse buy at the gun shop. It has been superb. Fit. Finish. Feel. Reliability. I don't have experience with the latest Sigs. My guess is they mostly work. But... when I found out they were using MIM for the locking inserts. And the extractors. And most of the small parts are outsourced. I dunno... just kind of a turn off. That said, the P239 is one model you hardly ever hear any negative press on, regardless of era.

Also, the P225-A1, is pretty much a P239 mechanically. Different ergos and styling... but my guess it inherits the same "good bones" of the P239 platform--so it's probably good to go.

[rjohnson4405]

Actually what I meant was comparing dimensions and/or any other details. To just say "I'd take this over that" without explaining the "why's" doesn't do much for someone in their decision making process.

225-A1 is pretty much a 228 slide with 239 barrel and magazine. The advantages are undercut trigger guard, G10 grips, SRT, and night sites all standard. For these "upgrades" (I don't care about the SRT) you end up usually paying more in either a higher end model or piece by piece.

The 225-A1 is not enough better to sell a working 239 and fork out extra money. But if I was starting from scratch, I definitely prefer the 225A1. It's bigger in some places that don't matter and similar in size in the places that do. Either one is a big single stack 8 round gun, but fills the niche for single stack double action gun when there are few other options.

[jwperry]

Because I want to be an enabler(and I want yall to buy them all before I impulse purchase one...)

https://smga.com/p-128350-sig-239-9-tac-p239-tactical-9mm-nitron.aspx?utm_source=SMGA.com&utm_campaign=39c4903496-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2017_10_04&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_fd07762208-39c4903496-372573009&ct=t(P239_Tac_10_410_4_2017)&mc_cid=39c4903496&mc_eid=3abe866e1b

[critter]

Well, everything has been covered thus far, even my usual "most underrated pistol on the planet" sermon. I'm compelled to chime in anyway though as the 239 ranks as one of my all time favorite pistols. I love everything about it in .40. I had no problems at all with the slide release, but I have the baby hand syndrome as well - which was why I bought it way back when in the first place. The 229 DA trigger reach induced a grip shift. The 239, however, was absolutely perfect. I carried it for years - but - I don't carry it now. It's comfortable even with the size/weight. If you were looking for a .40 (or .357 Sig or 9mm +P+raised to the power of +), I'd say absolutely get it because it's extremely nice for that caliber. In 9mm, the benefit to caveat ratio becomes a little less favorable. They do hold value well so the trade wouldn't be a major regret later, IMO.

[Odin Bravo One]

Carried a 239 as my only gun for a couple of years in a deep concealment role in a non-permissive environment. It is only slightly thinner than the 228, with half the capacity. 228 was as easy to conceal in the same role. It's a solid design and performed well for me, but I found the 228 to be a better choice.

I sold my personal 239 years ago and have never missed it.

[newyork]

Carried a 239 as my only gun for a couple of years in a deep concealment role in a non-permissive environment. It is only slightly thinner than the 228, with half the capacity. 228 was as easy to conceal in the same role. It's a solid design and performed well for me, but I found the 228 to be a better choice.

I sold my personal 239 years ago and have never missed it.


If you were in a Ban state and limited to 10, would you have kept the 239 or would you rather the 228 with neutered mags?

[PFranklin]

Purchased a NIB P239 in 9mm SAS about six months ago. The gun now has about 400 rounds fired and all without the slightest hiccup. This gun has now become my EDC pistol. As for capacity, I purchased a 10 round extended mag which runs flawlessly. I now carry the 10 round extended mag as an extra whenever carrying the pistol concealed. I maintain the standard 8 (+1) round mag when carrying because the extended mag takes away from its concealability. One of the best SIG makes.

[Sensei]

So what is current opinion on Sig quality and reliability out of the box?

Having cohorts of sig pistols from the 90's to present, I'd say that today's P-series pistols have reasonable QC. There was a period from ~2006 to 2012 where QC was below standard, but things have reportedly picked-up a bit. I have a few of Legions, P227s, and P226s that were purchased since 2012 that all seem built to standard and reliable.

What I think is still very much suspect is their product development and design for virtually everything else. Their optics are largely crap, and the norm for their new weapon systems seems to be either unreliable crap (i.e. the 556, mosquito, initial run of P250, etc.) or a major recall within 2 years of release (P320, MCX, etc.). I will say that my MCX ran fine before and after the bolt carrier "upgrade." Perhaps this latest P320 recall will shake out its safety bugs...

[Odin Bravo One]

If you were in a Ban state and limited to 10, would you have kept the 239 or would you rather the 228 with neutered mags?

I moved.

[Bodhi]

So what is current opinion on Sig quality and reliability out of the box?

Study the serials and find an older one. I’d want a 90’s or early 2000’s copy.

Get it in 357 or 40. The slide in 357/40 is beefier than the 9mm version. The 357/40 slide will also take the factory 9mm barrel so you can shoot three calibers out of it with a barrel swap. I’d be hunting down the +1 grip extensions to grab the remaining ones if you are interested in this pistol.

[psalms144.1]

If you were in a Ban state and limited to 10, would you have kept the 239 or would you rather the 228 with neutered mags?Not Sean, but, as I've said before, doing a side-by-side comparison of the P239 to the P229 show only minuscule dimensional differences. So much so that EVERY agent who has trouble shooting their issued P239, when shown a P229 side-by-side in person has turned in the smaller pistol for the larger.

In a ban state, I'd take the extra 2 rounds in the larger pistol, since concealment is basically a wash for me. And, Sig 10 round mags are reliable.

But, I'm a freak, and I like the P228 over anything else in the Sig lineup.

[critter]

...it does look just a bit thinner that my little hands would be able to manage it better in the trigger reach department then something like a 92fs that beats me up.




...but I found the 228 to be a better choice.




...when shown a P229 side-by-side in person has turned in the smaller pistol for the larger.


The P228 or P229 have about the same DA trigger reach as the 92FS that isn't quite doin' it for him. By contrast, the 239 almost assuredly would measure up in the better fit department.

[newyork]

How about the 225-a1 then?

Or one of those slim triggers sig has for the 229?

[EVP]

Experience of one on the 239.

I like it for the small little gun it is.

My buddy has one, unfortunately he had a few issues with it and it also broke a spring within the first 100 rounds. He was using carry ammo so it was especially disconcerting.

[Talking Monkey]

I had a P239 in .357 SIG and currently have a 9mm version. I see several recommendations for the .40/.357 because of the capability to shoot 9mm as well. For me, the .40/.357 version felt way too top heavy. I would say if someone wanted a P239 and plans to shoot primarily 9mm, just get that version for the weight savings and handling benefit. One odd thing about the P239s is that it seems they are more likely to have loose slide to frame fit than other P-series pistols. The fit on my .357 was good, but my 9mm rattles quite a bit (these were both purchased around 2001). Anyone else notice this?

[ReverendMeat]

Now that you mention it my 239 (9mm) slide was quite wobbly.

[shootist26]

Now that you mention it my 239 (9mm) slide was quite wobbly.One of mine is wobbly the other one isn't.

I carry it as i dont live in a free State. Has its quirks (e.g. reloading your pinky finger skin) but once worked through it shoots like a full size pistol.

Very easy to carry under a t-shirt. Accurate. Extremely reliable.

One thing I'd like is for the grip to have a bit more front to back "girth." The CT grips that have the extra rubber on the front strap is about perfect for my hands.

[MattyD380]

I had a P239 in .357 SIG and currently have a 9mm version. I see several recommendations for the .40/.357 because of the capability to shoot 9mm as well. For me, the .40/.357 version felt way too top heavy. I would say if someone wanted a P239 and plans to shoot primarily 9mm, just get that version for the weight savings and handling benefit. One odd thing about the P239s is that it seems they are more likely to have loose slide to frame fit than other P-series pistols. The fit on my .357 was good, but my 9mm rattles quite a bit (these were both purchased around 2001). Anyone else notice this?

Yeah, I think this is a thing.

I have experience with 3 P239s (two of which I owned), all 9mm.

-One was a range gun. Most rattly slide I've ever experienced on a semi auto. Almost comical. Thing shot like a laser, though. Made want to get one, stat. It was a later production model.

-One was a very early model (first one I bought). 1996/7 production. Super tight. Probably the tightest Sig I've ever experienced. It was so tight, the feed ramp wasn't entirely clearing the locking insert on reassembly, and it was peening the bottom of the ramp. I sold it because of that. Nevertheless... other than one FTE on cheap range ammo after installing a new recoil spring, it was perfectly reliable.

-Third one is the one I have now (2006). It's somewhere in the middle--still pretty loose overall, but not as bad as that one range gun. It's fine with me. Works great. Shoots great. excellent gun.

In any case... I don't think it really matters. The guns shoot very, very well, regardless of how tight the slides are. If anything, some looseness may help reliability. May wear better on the frame rails too.

[Redhat]

After a little research, I'm starting to wonder why SIG offers both the 225A1 and 239?

[KhanRad]

-One was a range gun. Most rattly slide I've ever experienced on a semi auto. Almost comical. Thing shot like a laser, though. Made want to get one, stat. It was a later production model.

-One was a very early model (first one I bought). 1996/7 production. Super tight. Probably the tightest Sig I've ever experienced. It was so tight, the feed ramp wasn't entirely clearing the locking insert on reassembly, and it was peening the bottom of the ramp. I sold it because of that. Nevertheless... other than one FTE on cheap range ammo after installing a new recoil spring, it was perfectly reliable.

-Third one is the one I have now (2006). It's somewhere in the middle--still pretty loose overall, but not as bad as that one range gun. It's fine with me. Works great. Shoots great. excellent gun.


This is very representative of Sig quality over the years. I have owned dozens of Sigs over the years of various years of manufacture. Without a doubt, the 1990s Sigs were the best made, retained their tight tolerances throughout the life of the pistol, and were the most reliable. As Sig quality went down the sh*tter after 2004, I noticed a number of problems with the guns that became obvious after so many rounds were put through the guns. The most noted change was the cheaper quality of the alloy frames. The material used post 2004 was considerably softer, resulting in accelerated frame rail wear and more stripped out grip screw holes in the frames(especially with P229 .40/.357s).

Virtually all of my 1990s Sigs have retained tight slide-to-frame fit after 10s of thousands of rounds through them. However, several officers in my agency that were issued railed P229 .40s from around 2010 and have guns with lots of slide play and exaggerated rattle. Accuracy is also reduced when shot from a bench rest.

[MattyD380]

This is very representative of Sig quality over the years. I have owned dozens of Sigs over the years of various years of manufacture. Without a doubt, the 1990s Sigs were the best made, retained their tight tolerances throughout the life of the pistol, and were the most reliable. As Sig quality went down the sh*tter after 2004, I noticed a number of problems with the guns that became obvious after so many rounds were put through the guns. The most noted change was the cheaper quality of the alloy frames. The material used post 2004 was considerably softer, resulting in accelerated frame rail wear and more stripped out grip screw holes in the frames(especially with P229 .40/.357s).

Virtually all of my 1990s Sigs have retained tight slide-to-frame fit after 10s of thousands of rounds through them. However, several officers in my agency that were issued railed P229 .40s from around 2010 and have guns with lots of slide play and exaggerated rattle. Accuracy is also reduced when shot from a bench rest.

I'll say that my surplus 1988 P226 still has an impeccable slide/frame fit. Impressively precise fit on that gun. That said, I had a 1990(ish) P228 that was a rattle trap. And my 1980 P6 was pretty loose too. My P245s were both pretty tight. I think it just might depend on the model, and the particular example.

[BigDaddy]

Purchased a NIB P239 in 9mm SAS about six months ago. The gun now has about 400 rounds fired and all without the slightest hiccup. This gun has now become my EDC pistol. As for capacity, I purchased a 10 round extended mag which runs flawlessly. I now carry the 10 round extended mag as an extra whenever carrying the pistol concealed. I maintain the standard 8 (+1) round mag when carrying because the extended mag takes away from its concealability. One of the best SIG makes.

Look for a Plus One kit which will turn a 8 round mag into a 9 round mag without sacrificing any concealability.

[Caesar]

So what is current opinion on Sig quality and reliability out of the box?

I needed to scratch an itch for a compact, metal framed, hammer fired gun so I bought a Sig M11-a1 two weeks ago. I've replaced the SRT with a standard trigger, added some grip tape to the front strap, and fired 800 rounds of WWB with no issues.

I've had a number of Sigs over the years and the M11-a1 quality seems consistent with my 2002 Sig p226 9mm. It's early but so far, it's been an excellent gun. Soft shooting, accurate, DA/SA, and perfect for AIWB. Pricey though.

[MattyD380]

The most noted change was the cheaper quality of the alloy frames. The material used post 2004 was considerably softer, resulting in accelerated frame rail wear and more stripped out grip screw holes in the frames(especially with P229 .40/.357s).

You think they're still using the cheaper quality alloy, as you describe it?

That's the kind of thing that's kept from buying a newer Sig. I just... don't know. I don't want outsourced MIM locking inserts and extractors. Or substandard alloy. Or outsourced barrels. I've never heard that barrels are outsourced... but ever since they changed the finish on the barrels, I have to wonder.

[MattyD380]

I needed to scratch an itch for a compact, metal framed, hammer fired gun so I bought a Sig M11-a1 two weeks ago. I've replaced the SRT with a standard trigger, added some grip tape to the front strap, and fired 800 rounds of WWB with no issues.

I've had a number of Sigs over the years and the M11-a1 quality seems consistent with my 2002 Sig p226 9mm. It's early but so far, it's been an excellent gun. Soft shooting, accurate, DA/SA, and perfect for AIWB. Pricey though.

Glad to hear you had a good experience.

[jeep45238]

Just snagged a ‘95 vintage 9mm. Holster wear and internal wear suggests loading and unloading, not much shooting.

Pleasantly surprised in how it fit my 226 George holster.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171027/4f5ef6f83915abcc94e88b0111b3fb80.jpg

I think I get this little guy now.


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[MattyD380]

Just snagged a ‘95 vintage 9mm. Holster wear and internal wear suggests loading and unloading, not much shooting.

Pleasantly surprised in how it fit my 226 George holster.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171027/4f5ef6f83915abcc94e88b0111b3fb80.jpg

I think I get this little guy now.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Nice pickup. I had a very early one as well. My guess is that 95 was the first year they made them. Does yours have a tight slide/frame fit? My 96 vintage P239 was super tight. Later ones weren't.

[jeep45238]

Mine has the same tight slide fit that my 87 226 has.


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[MattyD380]

Cool. Enjoy it. P239s are rad--loose, tight, old, new, whatever.

[GJM]

Supposedly discontinued for 2018:

http://sigforum.com/eve/forums/a/tpc/f/430601935/m/2410084234

[LSP552]

Supposedly discontinued for 2018:

http://sigforum.com/eve/forums/a/tpc/f/430601935/m/2410084234

I’m sure that makes sense to someone. IMO, I thought the 239 was a better package than the new 225A1 or old 225 in everything except “feel”.

[Redhat]

I’m sure that makes sense to someone. IMO, I thought the 239 was a better package than the new 225A1 or old 225 in everything except “feel”.

No light rail ya know! In all seriousness, I was wondering why they offered two pistols that seemed to me to fill the same niche?

[LockedBreech]

Supposedly discontinued for 2018:

http://sigforum.com/eve/forums/a/tpc/f/430601935/m/2410084234

Goooood damn it I can't really afford one right now but I also want to get one before they're a zillion dollars.

[LSP552]

No light rail ya know! In all seriousness, I was wondering why they offered two pistols that seemed to me to fill the same niche?

I “think” SIG was hoping to cash in on the whole Legion thingy with the 225A1. In fairness, the newer version corrects a magazine weakness by using the 239 body and has improved the trigger guard shape so most fingers don’t drag the on the bottom of the guard.

However, it’s really not much smaller than a 228/229. The 225A1 grip is longer than the 239. The 239 typically has the best out of the box DA of any P series SIG. the samples of 225A1 I have handled in the toy store had triggers that sucked donkey balls.

[SamAdams]

I bought my 239 way back when - before Cohen came on the scene and proceeded to lead Sig down the crapper. At the time I was mainly into .45 1911s (my regular carry guns) but wanted at least one TDA pistol and one in 40 S&W so I got the 239 in that chambering. At the time, the 239 was quite well regarded and won a number of agency contracts. - IMO the 239 is an excellent compact 40 launcher & is pleasant to shoot. The reason for this, of course, is it’s heavy metal frame construction. (I really can’t see going with this pistol in 9mm.). The pistol is extremely accurate and has an excellent trigger. Because of the weight & limited capacity it hasn’t seen much carry time in a number of years. This thread reminded me about this pistol. With the Xtreme Penetrator bullet loads available now, it could be a viable woods gun for me.


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[jeep45238]

Size reference against a P226. The pistols are lined up against the rearward most portion of the frame ‘bump’. While it doesn’t look like much of a difference in thickness, it’s actually pretty dramatic in the hands. It fits in 226 holsters surprisingly well (at least JMC kydex), but I’d still like to get a dedicated holster made for it.

While there doesn’t seem to be a large difference between the 239 and 226 on paper, the 239 is stupendously easy to conceal with next to no effort, where some conscious thought needs to go into setting up the 226 for success.

Took it to the range yesterday and was pleasantly shocked to confirm the ‘Little gun shoots like a big gun’ description that’s been given here. Downside is model specific fat trigger and the cost of magazines. I’d highly recommend it.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171125/25ae34b698de157f617c4f7a15bed076.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171125/92a5cee55d3d97d68898c9fd1b64ed77.jpg

[Squib308]

I sold my P239 about 2years ago. It was a fine pistol, 100% reliable and easy shooter. My reason for selling was it didnt fit any role for me although in retrospect would have been happy to keep it. My only real gripe was the trigger face seemed narrow, sort of like a ruger revolver same issue. Wish sig would have offered a normal face trigger, in which case def would have kept the pistol.