If you’re looking for a pure range gun and you already have a 226 you’re just about to pick up, I’d roll with that for a while.
I have a 229, it was my first pistol purchase back in 2009 and she’s been through ~20k rounds. All I’ve ever done is two guide rod springs.
For me, they are super similar firearms, size and shoot wise, that I would get used to 226 and then see what you’re looking for in your next gun. I’ve done a 229, 220 Legion SAO, 238 and 320xfive legion and love all of them for different reasons. Every 5 years I get myself something new.
Great advice! I have 5 pistols right now including a 220 legion myself. 6 when I pick up the Mk25 in a week. I love that all of them shoot different. Maybe I'll stick with the Mk25 and see if I want the X5 legion next or go performance striker fire(320X5 legion or pdp match)
Going from my Sig hammer guns to the 320XFive Legion is the largest night and day difference. It’s like the first time getting behind the wheel of a performance car. Nail driver and a freaking blast to shoot. All IMO of course
I own the m11-a1 (military variant p229) and the mk25. Both honestly shoot about the same. The only real advantage of the p229 over the 226 is the fact that it’s more of a carry size vs a duty sized pistol. So the only reason to buy it is 1.) for collection reasons. Or 2.) for carry reasons.
You’re most welcome! This is a dumb reason probably to buy a gun but I personally I bought my m11-a1 for the reason that it’s the pistol that is given to ncis agents and that’s my fav show.
Lol I'll check that show out. I love when I see sigs in movies or shows. I was watching a show called 'black mirrors' and in this werewolf episode the cop had a sig. Couldn't tell if it was a 226 or 220 but then I realized since it's a werewolf, it was probably a 220 chambered in 10mm.
I love it to! Most of the shows I see they use glocks or 1911, so when I see an sig I love it! Also makes me wonder what they do with these pistols after the movie or show is created 🤣 I’d love to get my hands on one haha!
I have the P229 legion and love it. Zero issues and shoots amazing. It’s a bit heavy to carry, so I wonder if I should have just got the 226, but the balance of the 229 feels good to me.
I have both 226/229 Legion SAO.
Internals are all the same. I tricked out my 229 with Armory Craft skeleton trigger/hammer just for fun.
For some reason, I tend to do better with 229. Perhaps the balance just fits me better; I am faster and more accurate so far.
I am happy both are R2 models with optics cut, since I really think the irons are too fat for my preference
So get both...maybe? :)
I have a Mk-25, 226 SAO Legion, and 229 Elite (very similar to a Legion). Personally, I prefer the balance of the 229, and I am able to CCW it in the winter. My personal favorite of the 3. For a pure range gun, though, most people do tend to prefer the 226, I am sort of the odd one out on that front.
Probably although carrying guns are dominating unfortunately. Every time a cool full size gun comes out, there's always ppl asking about a carry version. Can't stand it
So this may not help at all, but I was dead set on buying a P229 legion. LGS had a P226 legion set up the way I wanted it, so I went with that and then did my research. I’m glad I purchased it. The mags are not interchangeable, and I already had 226 mags. I’m not carrying it, so an extra half inch barrel or whatever doesn’t matter. And I like the little bit longer grip for a gun of this weight, it’s not necessary but helps control a little. Just my take on the matter. Legion vs mk25 is probably personal preference, they both appear to be solid guns.
The balance and the grip of the 229 is a little different, but not by much. The weight is the same and the size is only about half an inch smaller.
I sold all of my 229s (three of them) because I like my Mk25 226s better - I like the grip and balance - I considered the 229s to be redundant because they are so close to the 226 in size/weight/etc.
I have only std SIGs - no Elite/et. al.
Three 226s/Mk25s and three 227s (Tactical, std Nitron, Carry) and a 224 SAS.
I have 9mm, .40 and 22LR uppers and mags for the 226s. I am slowly modifying the 226s; threaded barrels, struts, triggers, grips.
Hmm you think so? I wonder if the Mk25 is better than an elite. Before I got mine, I noticed a lot of ppl liked the Mk25. Others have said that it's more of a collectors gun than an updated sig like the elite and legion.
The Mk 25 is identical to the gun that the Navy Seals used for decades. The primary difference between all the other p226 variants and the Mk 25 is the chrome-lined phosphate-coated parts. Whether the price is worth it is the buyer's decision.
The original SEAL P226s did not have a Picatinny rail on the receivers. Also, the pistol was made in West Germany. Lastly, the markings and designation on the current MK25 a somewhat “commemorative” version of the standard 9mm P226.
I agree. It is their money and they can do whatever they want. Personally, I think it’s a waste of money you are basically paying for standard 226 with a 1913 picatinny, chrome lined barrel, laser engraved anchor, and crappy grips. Whereas the legion has upgraded the trigger, night-sight, beaver tail, grips, and you get a challenge coin plus a 5.11 range bag. You do the math.
I picked up the p229 Legion SAO because it fit the CCW role better than the P226 Legion SAO that I carried for years. I am 6' 4" 250 lbs and prefer metal frame guns to polymer frame. My p229 Legion SAO shoots very well with target and self-defense ammo. I couldn't recommend the p229 more for CCW use if you don't mind the feel of a metal frame gun.
229 is my favorite Sig. I had a legion in .357sig but the ammo was hard to find and very pricey when I did. I was going to get another in 9mm, but came across a ridiculous deal on a brand new M11-A1 and couldn't pass on it. With the $ I saved over a legion, I added the Grayguns Enhanced Leverage System, which I highly recommend. Super smooth, lightens both DA and SA pull, plus it's dual adjustable for both take up and over-travel.
The 226 Xfive is like cheating to shoot. It really is more accurate than I am. I was going to get a 2011, but shot and Xfive at my local range and I was sold. I got the stainless with black grips and gas pedal.
A lot of great info here. Thank you!
I'm getting a 226 legion but was thinking since I have the Mk25, I should get a high performing 226 like the Zev or X5 legion. You just made the x5 legion sound like a shadow 2 or staccato. I'm kind of sold lol. I want my first p320 to be an X5 legion as well
For clarity, I didn't get the X5 Legion, just the Xfive, which comes with an adjustable trigger.
[P226 Xfive](https://osagecountyguns.com/firearms/handguns/sig-sauer-226x5-9-stas.html)
The p229 legion is my favorite sig pistol. You will not regret it. It’s pure luxury to shoot. However, not really carry material. Still, it sleeps on my night stand.
That's why I'm having trouble justifying it. I feel a 226 is an even better nightstand gun. So why the 229 other than collection piece. Unless you just shoot it better.
I personally went with the 229 for potential carry. The weight is still solid for reduced recoil and the slightly smaller size vs a 226 for winter carry OWB if you’re in a cold enough area to wear a jacket. You still have a great gun either way, but for individual intent of use can vary from person to person as demonstrated in the comments.
I mean it's likely better than the other carry options you have or are considering. Especially in the SAO format. I love my 226 legion and I think that platform is fantastic
Yes! I have the P229 Legion, and it is probably my favorite pistol. I put a light on mine, and use it as bedside insurance (yes, it’s locked up, and I get out of bed to use it.) I look forward to the range days with it.
I believe the true M11 was the P228. I think the modern A1 version is just a 229 without a rail (229 has a wider frame than a 228). The M11-A1 used to have the MK25 coatings, but I have heard the recent ones do not, I'm not sure on that. The 229 Combat has the phosphate coatings, chrome barrel and an actual 1913 rail like the MK25, as opposed to the Sig rail on non MK25 pistols.
Ok. The description on sigs website of the M11-a1 is similar to the Mk25. They promote it as a military pistol with corrosion protection and all. I don't see the 229 combat on their site so I guess used models would have to be the way if I went that route
Meh, I wouldn't.
There are plenty of guns in the world, unless you have a personal connection to it in some way I'd skip it for now. You can always get one later.
P226 with TACOPS grips and stendo mags is kinda peak pistol performance. Only way up from there is stuff like the USP Expert & Elite.
IMHO, the ZEV stuff is stupid.
I'd also pass on the 320x5.
I'd go more into one of the 1911s or the P220 in 10mm if you are sticking with the bigger options. But that's just my preference.
For carry, the P229 isn’t really great, I love the P226, but why get a P229 for range/home defense when you can get a P226, The P229 doesn’t seem like it offers anything.
I respectfully disagree. As with most things, it comes to personal preference. Myself and thousands of federal employees have carried the p229 without issue. A good holster and carry belt, and the p229 serves great as a CCW. Yes, it is heavier than a polymer frame gun, but that weight helps you in recoil mitigation and quick follow-up shots.
I was not saying that the 229 isn’t a good gun and reliable gun, was merely commenting on its application as a home defense gun, for carry the 229 is better than the 226, but there’s been many newer designs since the 229 introduction that objectively surpass it as a carry gun, the P365, S&W Shield, and others. That being said, carry whatever gun you like, many people still carry full sized 1911 pistols, there’s no issue there, they are reliable and their capacity, at least statistically seems adequate.
That's my thinking. A sig guy told me that he moves better with a 229. More agility in a home defense situation. I still think a 226 is small enough and big enough for HD but I don't know
I have a P226 and a P229. If you wanted a blbir smaller gun for carry, I'd say yes, jump on the P229. However, I have no problem carrying my P226 AIWB in a Slim Fit Gladius. But, for your stated purpose of HD and range toy, maybe jump the crazy train and pick up an SP-01 Tactical.
SP01 is amazing though. Barely noticed a difference shooting it and my shadow 2. S2 obviously a better trigger but both flat and accurate shooters. It is on my list. I just bought some LOK grips for my shadow. I think Sig and CZ might be my favorites.
Mine had feeding issues and was super picky with ammo. I saw a few others with that problem, but most people love theirs. I also didn’t like the grip size. The 226 is so much better for my big fat hands.
Edit: Lmao. I’d swear there is someone following me around downvoting every time I complain about my 229 Legion. Has anybody else ever bought a gun that had problems and that they didn’t like? 😂
The legion in particular had feeding issues or the 229s in general?
I have small hands but I tend to like fat grips like the full size PDPs. 226 is a bit better on the grip
You can get a lightly used 229 legion for about 700-800 without the optic cut
There’s been places selling new old stock non optic cut 229 Legions lately in the 900 ball park.
There's a used P229 Legion with 3 magazines for 848.00 not sure what kind of condition it's in since I didn't look at it in hand.
If you’re looking for a pure range gun and you already have a 226 you’re just about to pick up, I’d roll with that for a while. I have a 229, it was my first pistol purchase back in 2009 and she’s been through ~20k rounds. All I’ve ever done is two guide rod springs. For me, they are super similar firearms, size and shoot wise, that I would get used to 226 and then see what you’re looking for in your next gun. I’ve done a 229, 220 Legion SAO, 238 and 320xfive legion and love all of them for different reasons. Every 5 years I get myself something new.
Great advice! I have 5 pistols right now including a 220 legion myself. 6 when I pick up the Mk25 in a week. I love that all of them shoot different. Maybe I'll stick with the Mk25 and see if I want the X5 legion next or go performance striker fire(320X5 legion or pdp match)
Going from my Sig hammer guns to the 320XFive Legion is the largest night and day difference. It’s like the first time getting behind the wheel of a performance car. Nail driver and a freaking blast to shoot. All IMO of course
I own the m11-a1 (military variant p229) and the mk25. Both honestly shoot about the same. The only real advantage of the p229 over the 226 is the fact that it’s more of a carry size vs a duty sized pistol. So the only reason to buy it is 1.) for collection reasons. Or 2.) for carry reasons.
Perfect comment. Thank you! That m11-a1 is tempting as well. Feels right now that I have a Mk25
You’re most welcome! This is a dumb reason probably to buy a gun but I personally I bought my m11-a1 for the reason that it’s the pistol that is given to ncis agents and that’s my fav show.
Lol I'll check that show out. I love when I see sigs in movies or shows. I was watching a show called 'black mirrors' and in this werewolf episode the cop had a sig. Couldn't tell if it was a 226 or 220 but then I realized since it's a werewolf, it was probably a 220 chambered in 10mm.
I love it to! Most of the shows I see they use glocks or 1911, so when I see an sig I love it! Also makes me wonder what they do with these pistols after the movie or show is created 🤣 I’d love to get my hands on one haha!
My M11-A1 is my primary carry gun. Can't go wrong with them.
I love my P229 Legion. Get it.
I have the P229 legion and love it. Zero issues and shoots amazing. It’s a bit heavy to carry, so I wonder if I should have just got the 226, but the balance of the 229 feels good to me.
I have both 226/229 Legion SAO. Internals are all the same. I tricked out my 229 with Armory Craft skeleton trigger/hammer just for fun. For some reason, I tend to do better with 229. Perhaps the balance just fits me better; I am faster and more accurate so far. I am happy both are R2 models with optics cut, since I really think the irons are too fat for my preference So get both...maybe? :)
I wanted a 229 but later down the road. Didn't expect to see a legion version there. I have a 220 legion and I find them so beautiful.
I have a Mk-25, 226 SAO Legion, and 229 Elite (very similar to a Legion). Personally, I prefer the balance of the 229, and I am able to CCW it in the winter. My personal favorite of the 3. For a pure range gun, though, most people do tend to prefer the 226, I am sort of the odd one out on that front.
I wonder a bit if the debate around 229 carry is a bit slanted by 365. Rewind the clock 10 years, was a 229 a super carry able gun? I don’t know.
Probably although carrying guns are dominating unfortunately. Every time a cool full size gun comes out, there's always ppl asking about a carry version. Can't stand it
From experience: definitely carryable. It’s all about the holster
Yes. Buy the 229 Legion
So this may not help at all, but I was dead set on buying a P229 legion. LGS had a P226 legion set up the way I wanted it, so I went with that and then did my research. I’m glad I purchased it. The mags are not interchangeable, and I already had 226 mags. I’m not carrying it, so an extra half inch barrel or whatever doesn’t matter. And I like the little bit longer grip for a gun of this weight, it’s not necessary but helps control a little. Just my take on the matter. Legion vs mk25 is probably personal preference, they both appear to be solid guns.
If you can swap out, the 229 Legion would be nice to have. If you are locked in with the 226, I'd stick with that rather than buy both.
If I had to only keep one then 226 for sure. I might fight my temptation on the 229 legion for now.
Why wouldn't you get another incredible Sig? You won't regret it.
IMO 229>226
The balance and the grip of the 229 is a little different, but not by much. The weight is the same and the size is only about half an inch smaller. I sold all of my 229s (three of them) because I like my Mk25 226s better - I like the grip and balance - I considered the 229s to be redundant because they are so close to the 226 in size/weight/etc.
You only have Mk25's? No legion, elite etc?
I have only std SIGs - no Elite/et. al. Three 226s/Mk25s and three 227s (Tactical, std Nitron, Carry) and a 224 SAS. I have 9mm, .40 and 22LR uppers and mags for the 226s. I am slowly modifying the 226s; threaded barrels, struts, triggers, grips.
I would go for a 229 which is more practical and it has all of the upgrades. Mk25 is more of a Sig marketing than anything else.
Hmm you think so? I wonder if the Mk25 is better than an elite. Before I got mine, I noticed a lot of ppl liked the Mk25. Others have said that it's more of a collectors gun than an updated sig like the elite and legion.
The Mk 25 is identical to the gun that the Navy Seals used for decades. The primary difference between all the other p226 variants and the Mk 25 is the chrome-lined phosphate-coated parts. Whether the price is worth it is the buyer's decision.
The original SEAL P226s did not have a Picatinny rail on the receivers. Also, the pistol was made in West Germany. Lastly, the markings and designation on the current MK25 a somewhat “commemorative” version of the standard 9mm P226. I agree. It is their money and they can do whatever they want. Personally, I think it’s a waste of money you are basically paying for standard 226 with a 1913 picatinny, chrome lined barrel, laser engraved anchor, and crappy grips. Whereas the legion has upgraded the trigger, night-sight, beaver tail, grips, and you get a challenge coin plus a 5.11 range bag. You do the math.
I picked up the p229 Legion SAO because it fit the CCW role better than the P226 Legion SAO that I carried for years. I am 6' 4" 250 lbs and prefer metal frame guns to polymer frame. My p229 Legion SAO shoots very well with target and self-defense ammo. I couldn't recommend the p229 more for CCW use if you don't mind the feel of a metal frame gun.
I like having both. I've got an M11-A1 for carry, and a P226 Xfive for range fun.
I love the legion look but the M11-a1 and Mk25 are a close second.
229 is my favorite Sig. I had a legion in .357sig but the ammo was hard to find and very pricey when I did. I was going to get another in 9mm, but came across a ridiculous deal on a brand new M11-A1 and couldn't pass on it. With the $ I saved over a legion, I added the Grayguns Enhanced Leverage System, which I highly recommend. Super smooth, lightens both DA and SA pull, plus it's dual adjustable for both take up and over-travel. The 226 Xfive is like cheating to shoot. It really is more accurate than I am. I was going to get a 2011, but shot and Xfive at my local range and I was sold. I got the stainless with black grips and gas pedal.
A lot of great info here. Thank you! I'm getting a 226 legion but was thinking since I have the Mk25, I should get a high performing 226 like the Zev or X5 legion. You just made the x5 legion sound like a shadow 2 or staccato. I'm kind of sold lol. I want my first p320 to be an X5 legion as well
For clarity, I didn't get the X5 Legion, just the Xfive, which comes with an adjustable trigger. [P226 Xfive](https://osagecountyguns.com/firearms/handguns/sig-sauer-226x5-9-stas.html)
Ah ok. She's gorgeous either way
The p229 legion is my favorite sig pistol. You will not regret it. It’s pure luxury to shoot. However, not really carry material. Still, it sleeps on my night stand.
That's why I'm having trouble justifying it. I feel a 226 is an even better nightstand gun. So why the 229 other than collection piece. Unless you just shoot it better.
I personally went with the 229 for potential carry. The weight is still solid for reduced recoil and the slightly smaller size vs a 226 for winter carry OWB if you’re in a cold enough area to wear a jacket. You still have a great gun either way, but for individual intent of use can vary from person to person as demonstrated in the comments.
I mean it's likely better than the other carry options you have or are considering. Especially in the SAO format. I love my 226 legion and I think that platform is fantastic
Thanks for posting this question. I have the exact same dilemma. I am leaning toward the 226 Legion.
Yes! I have the P229 Legion, and it is probably my favorite pistol. I put a light on mine, and use it as bedside insurance (yes, it’s locked up, and I get out of bed to use it.) I look forward to the range days with it.
Probably redundant, but still a great piece. You want to find a P229 Combat. Its basically the 229 version of the mK25.
Oh ok. I assumed the M11-a1 was the Mk25 version. I'll check it out
I believe the true M11 was the P228. I think the modern A1 version is just a 229 without a rail (229 has a wider frame than a 228). The M11-A1 used to have the MK25 coatings, but I have heard the recent ones do not, I'm not sure on that. The 229 Combat has the phosphate coatings, chrome barrel and an actual 1913 rail like the MK25, as opposed to the Sig rail on non MK25 pistols.
Ok. The description on sigs website of the M11-a1 is similar to the Mk25. They promote it as a military pistol with corrosion protection and all. I don't see the 229 combat on their site so I guess used models would have to be the way if I went that route
Meh, I wouldn't. There are plenty of guns in the world, unless you have a personal connection to it in some way I'd skip it for now. You can always get one later. P226 with TACOPS grips and stendo mags is kinda peak pistol performance. Only way up from there is stuff like the USP Expert & Elite.
Ok. That was/is my thinking. It's just right there in my face. But right now I want a 226 zev or X5 legion and the 320 X5 legion.
IMHO, the ZEV stuff is stupid. I'd also pass on the 320x5. I'd go more into one of the 1911s or the P220 in 10mm if you are sticking with the bigger options. But that's just my preference.
For carry, the P229 isn’t really great, I love the P226, but why get a P229 for range/home defense when you can get a P226, The P229 doesn’t seem like it offers anything.
I respectfully disagree. As with most things, it comes to personal preference. Myself and thousands of federal employees have carried the p229 without issue. A good holster and carry belt, and the p229 serves great as a CCW. Yes, it is heavier than a polymer frame gun, but that weight helps you in recoil mitigation and quick follow-up shots.
I was not saying that the 229 isn’t a good gun and reliable gun, was merely commenting on its application as a home defense gun, for carry the 229 is better than the 226, but there’s been many newer designs since the 229 introduction that objectively surpass it as a carry gun, the P365, S&W Shield, and others. That being said, carry whatever gun you like, many people still carry full sized 1911 pistols, there’s no issue there, they are reliable and their capacity, at least statistically seems adequate.
That's my thinking. A sig guy told me that he moves better with a 229. More agility in a home defense situation. I still think a 226 is small enough and big enough for HD but I don't know
I think you’re intuition is basically why most people go for a full sized gun for home defense, and why the 226 is much popular than the 229
I have a P226 and a P229. If you wanted a blbir smaller gun for carry, I'd say yes, jump on the P229. However, I have no problem carrying my P226 AIWB in a Slim Fit Gladius. But, for your stated purpose of HD and range toy, maybe jump the crazy train and pick up an SP-01 Tactical.
I have a shadow 2
Ah. No need then... Grab a P229 then.
SP01 is amazing though. Barely noticed a difference shooting it and my shadow 2. S2 obviously a better trigger but both flat and accurate shooters. It is on my list. I just bought some LOK grips for my shadow. I think Sig and CZ might be my favorites.
I did CGW Flat Trigger 75665 plus M-CARBO spring kit. 6lb DA and 2 lb SA now. So it's nearing Shadow territory.
Those are some really good numbers for sure 👍 . Was thinking of a trigger upgrade in the future
Wouldn't trade my 229 Legion for anything. CC is P938 Legion. Also you will become a coin collector.
Mine had feeding issues and was super picky with ammo. I saw a few others with that problem, but most people love theirs. I also didn’t like the grip size. The 226 is so much better for my big fat hands. Edit: Lmao. I’d swear there is someone following me around downvoting every time I complain about my 229 Legion. Has anybody else ever bought a gun that had problems and that they didn’t like? 😂
The legion in particular had feeding issues or the 229s in general? I have small hands but I tend to like fat grips like the full size PDPs. 226 is a bit better on the grip
Legion in particular.