A Subcompact With Guts: SIG P224 – First Impressions

Remember this SHOT Show 2012 gem? I finally got a hold of a SIG P224 in .357 SIG for review, and I am delighted to see what it can do.

You’ve seen the review on the P226, right? (If not, check it out!) Well, the P229 is essentially a scaled down, compact version of the full size SEAL sidearm. The subcompact P224 is just a size down from there. According to SIG, the P224, with its 3.5 inch barrel and 4.5in overall height, the SIG P224 makes for an ideal off duty pistol, or a comfortable CCW.

Let’s take a look at some of the specs for the P224 Nitron .357 SIG I’m testing:

• Caliber: .357 SIG (they’re also offered in 9x19mm and .40 S&W)
• Capacity: 10+1 (add two rounds for the 9mm)
• Weight: 29.0oz (with mag)
• Frame material: Aluminum alloy
• Slide material: Steel
• Finish: Nitron (slide), Black hard anodized (frame)
• Barrel length: 3.5in
• Overall length: 6.7in
• Overall height: 4.5in
• Grip: Hogue Custom G10
• Trigger: DA/SA (SIG also sells a DAK option, if that’s your preference)

I’ve not yet put enough rounds down range for a full review (don’t worry, that’s on its way), but my first impressions of SIG’s subcompact have thus far been positive. The .357 SIG has some zip to it, but not so much snap as to cause an unmanageable muzzle flip. And, despite the short two-finger grip, I’ve been able to manage accurate follow-up shots from a self defense ranges (5-7yds). Initially, I had some question as to my ability to keep tight groups with a hard-hitting round out of such a short barrel, but this little pistol promises to be an accurate performer. I gawked when I realized my first two shots ever fired from the SIG P224 landed in the same place, the second round barely widening the hole left by the first.

First impressions? Positive. But, there’s much more to be learned, and the only solution is for me to pour some lead through this new gun’s maw to see how it handles. Stay tuned for more!

Featured image courtesy of sigsauer.com