SIG Sauer Firearms

Established in 1853 as Schweizerische Waggon Fabrik, SIG Sauer has built a reputation for precision engineering and exceptional quality. From its earliest days, the company’s firearms were quickly embraced by the Swiss army and soon gained global recognition.

Over time, SIG Sauer has evolved with advancements in technology, producing an impressive lineup of pistols and rifles. Many of these models have been adopted by elite military and law enforcement units, including the U.S. Federal Air Marshals and the British SAS.

While some SIG Sauer firearms are designed exclusively for military use, many models are available to civilians, further boosting the brand's widespread appeal. Their presence has even extended into pop culture, with appearances in major Hollywood productions.

To showcase the versatility of SIG Sauer’s offerings, here’s a breakdown of their handgun lineup and key features.

SIG Sauer Pistols

SIG Sauer has built a reputation for its reliable and versatile pistols, offering models that cater to both civilian and military markets. Here’s a detailed look at some of their most notable firearms:

• P210 First introduced in 2010, the P210 showcases SIG Sauer’s commitment to precision. With variants like Target, Super Target, and Carry, this 9x19mm caliber pistol went through 11 prototypes before its final release.
• P220 Launched in 1975, the P220 boasts a range of variants, including Sport, Carry, Match, and 220R. Although the 9x19mm version has been discontinued, it’s still available in calibers like 10mm Auto, .45 ACP, .38 Super, and 7.65x21mm Luger. This model has even made appearances in Hollywood productions.
• P224 Although discontinued, the P224 remains a favorite among collectors and private sellers. Offered in calibers 9x19mm, .40 S&W, and .357 SIG, it’s available in distinctive variants like SAS, Equinox, Nickel, and Extreme.
• P225 Produced from 1975 to 2000 and revived briefly from 2016 to 2020, the P225 is a classic 9x19mm pistol with an eight-round capacity. Its two key versions, P6 and P225-A1, remain sought after.
• P226 Introduced in 1984 and still in production, the P226 stands out for its versatility. It’s available in calibers 9x19mm, .40 S&W, and .357 SIG, with variants such as P226R, Elite, Navy, E2, ZEV, Equinox, X-Five, and SL Sport II. This model builds on the P220 design but features a double-stack magazine.
• P227 Produced between 2013 and 2019, the P227 was a .45 ACP adaptation of the P226. This pistol featured subtle design adjustments to accommodate a double-stack magazine.
• P228 Manufactured from 1989 to 1997, the P228 came in 9x19mm with 13 or 15-round capacities. The modern variant, M11-A1, introduced in 2012, remains in production.
• P229 Compact yet powerful, the P229 has been in production since 1991. Compatible with calibers like 9mm, .40 S&W, and .357 SIG, it continues to be a favorite for its reliability and performance.
• P230 This .380 ACP pistol was produced for nearly two decades before being discontinued in 1996. Variants like Blued, Two-Tone, and Stainless are still available through private sellers.
• P232 With a 3.6-inch barrel, this model supported .32 ACP and .380 ACP calibers, featuring 8- and 7-round capacities respectively. Discontinued in 2015, the P232 remains a pop culture icon.
• P238 A compact .380 ACP pistol introduced in 2009, the P238 became SIG Sauer’s first serious entry into the concealed carry market. It’s still in production with numerous variations.
• P239 Manufactured from 1996 to 2018, this model supported 9x19mm, .40 S&W, and .357 SIG calibers. It offered similar dimensions to the P232 while being slightly heavier.
• P245 Produced between 1998 and 2006, the P245 was a .45 ACP pistol that faced criticism for its short grip, leading to its eventual replacement by P220 variants.
• P250 Manufactured from 2007 to 2017, the P250 came in full-size, compact, and subcompact options. Caliber options included 9x19mm, .45 ACP, .40 S&W, and .357 SIG, depending on the model.
• P320 Introduced in 2014, the P320 represents a leap forward with its striker-fired design. It’s available in calibers 9mm, 10mm Auto, .357 SIG, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP, and has been adopted by various military forces.
• P365 Launched in 2018, the P365 offers calibers like 9x19mm and .380 ACP with magazine capacities ranging from 10 to 17 rounds. Variants include XL, SAS, P365X, P365-380, and P365-XMACRO.
• P938 A single-action semi-automatic pistol, the P938 features a compact design and is chambered in 9mm with a 3-inch barrel.
• Pro SP2009 & Pro SP2340 Produced between 1998 and 2002, these models offered calibers like 9mm, .40 S&W, and .357 SIG. Despite their short production runs, they remain valued among enthusiasts.
• Pro SP2022 The Pro SP2022 stands as the only surviving model from the Pro series, introduced in 2002 when its predecessors were discontinued. Remarkably, it’s still in production today, available in calibers like 9x19mm, .357 SIG, and .40 S&W. Designed as a lightweight and compact alternative to SIG Sauer’s classic models, the SP2022 quickly gained popularity. Its success was fueled by a competitive market and high demand for versatile, user-friendly firearms. Over the years, it has evolved through several generations and variants, maintaining its appeal among enthusiasts and professionals alike.
• The Mosquito The Mosquito is a semi-automatic blowback-operated pistol, modeled after the P226 but approximately 10% smaller. It chambers the .22 LR cartridge, making it an ideal choice for training and recreational shooting. Released in 2003 and manufactured in Germany, the Mosquito features a polymer-based frame and an aluminum-zinc slide. Though production has ceased, the model remains a sought-after option, occasionally appearing on the resale market.
• SIG Sauer 1911 Models SIG Sauer’s 1911 pistols, initially branded as the Granite Series Revolution (GSR), are a standout in the lineup. These models are instantly recognizable thanks to their distinctive slide profile, which sets them apart from other 1911-style firearms. Designed with both performance and aesthetics in mind, SIG Sauer 1911s continue to be a favorite among collectors and shooters who appreciate the fusion of tradition and modern engineering.

• SIG Sauer 1911 Models The early SIG Sauer 1911 pistols closely resembled Colt’s iconic M1911 design. Introduced in 2004, these models remain in production today, available in calibers such as .45 ACP, 10mm Auto, .357 SIG, 9x19mm, and .380 ACP. Some of the most sought-after variants include:

  • Emperor Scorpion
  • Fastback Nightmare
  • Match Elite Stainless
  • Max
  • Nickel Rail
  • Spartan
  • Stainless
  • Stainless Super Target
  • STX
  • TACOPS
  • Target
  • We The People
  • XO
  • TSS CAB13

  These pistols quickly gained traction with armed forces worldwide, including those in Portugal, Argentina, and the United States. Combining classic styling with SIG Sauer’s renowned engineering, the 1911 series offers reliability and versatility, appealing to military personnel, collectors, and civilian shooters alike.

• M17 and M18 Pistols Introduced in 2017, the M17 and M18 service pistols represent SIG Sauer’s cutting-edge approach to military firearms. Selected by the U.S. Armed Forces, these models are based on the P320 platform, offering modularity and high performance. The M17 is the full-sized version, while the M18 is a compact variant, catering to different operational needs. Both models have proven their reliability and adaptability, solidifying SIG Sauer’s reputation as a trusted partner for military applications.

Submachine Guns

SIG Sauer has ventured into the submachine gun market with a single, exceptional model: the MPX. This gas-operated firearm, originally chambered in 9x19mm Parabellum, is distinguished by its closed, rotating bolt—a rare feature in submachine guns. These innovative design elements enhance the MPX’s reliability and safety, setting it apart from competitors.

First produced in 2013, the MPX officially launched in 2016. The second generation introduced modularity, allowing users to convert the firearm between calibers like 9mm, .40 S&W, and .357 SIG, further expanding its versatility.

Here are some of the key variations of the MPX:

• Standard MPX
• MPX-K
• MPX-SD
• Pistol Variants
• MPX-C

Rifles

While SIG Sauer may not have produced as many rifles as some competitors, the models they have developed showcase unparalleled reliability and engineering. Many have been adopted by military forces across the globe, further cementing SIG Sauer’s reputation for quality firearms.

• SIG556 Discontinued in 2016 after nearly a decade of production, the SIG556 series featured a 30-round capacity and the 5.56x45mm NATO caliber. Its variants included:
  • DMR
  • SWAT
  • SIG556R
  • SIG556xi
  • P556
• SIG522 Manufactured from 2009 to 2015, this semi-automatic blowback rifle supported the .22 LR caliber with 10- or 25-round capacity. Variants like SWAT, Commando, and Target shared design similarities with the SIG556 series, making it a popular training rifle.
• SIG551-A1 Introduced in 2011 and chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO, the SIG551-A1 is a rare rifle primarily used by armed forces. Its production status remains unclear, making it a collector’s item.
• 516 Series Produced between 2010 and 2019, the 516 Series rifles were available in 5.56x45mm NATO and 7.62x39mm calibers. While the series itself is discontinued, the derivative SIG716i remains in production.
• 716 Series Launched in 2010, the 716 Series is still in production and features battle rifles similar to the 516 Series. The Patrol and DMR variants are especially well-regarded for their performance and durability.
• M400 Based on earlier SIG Sauer designs, the M400 supports .300 AAC Blackout and 5.56x45mm NATO cartridges. Known for its versatility, it remains a popular option among rifle enthusiasts.
• MCX Series Featuring both semi-automatic and selective fire modes, the MCX Series utilizes a short-stroke gas piston system derived from other SIG Sauer firearms. It accommodates calibers such as 5.56x45mm NATO, .300 BLK, and 7.62x39mm. Key variants include:
  • Patrol
  • SBR
  • Pistol
  • LVAW
  • VIRTUS Patrol
  • VIRTUS SBR
  • VIRTUS Pistol
  • RATTLER
  • SPEAR LT
• MCX-Spear Introduced in 2022, the MCX-Spear is chambered in the advanced 6.8x51mm FURY caliber. It is also available in 6.5 Creedmoor and 7.62x51mm NATO, offering a powerful option for modern battlefield scenarios.
• CROSS Designed with hunters in mind, the CROSS is a bolt-action rifle celebrated for its precision and dependability. It stands out as a top choice for those seeking a reliable firearm for outdoor pursuits.

Sniper Rifles

• SSG 3000

  The SSG 3000 is SIG Sauer’s sole entry into the sniper rifle category. Chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO with a five-round capacity, this high-quality bolt-action rifle is a top choice for law enforcement agencies.

  The rifle is available with two barrel length options, but its most notable feature is the quick-change barrel system, which enhances its versatility and reliability in the field.

Machine Guns

While SIG Sauer is renowned for its pistols and rifles, it has ventured into the machine gun category with two notable models, both of which are still in the prototype stage:

• MG 338 A medium machine gun chambered in .338 Norma Magnum, the MG 338 can operate in both automatic and semi-automatic modes. It features an AR-style grip and offers a maximum range of 6,170 yards, with an effective range of about 1,860 yards.
• LMG The LMG supports 6.8x51mm FURY and 7.62x51mm NATO calibers. Initially introduced in 2019, it is not a full-fledged machine gun but rather a prototype aimed at delivering advanced performance. As SIG Sauer continues development, the LMG could set new standards in lightweight machine gun design.

Classification by Type

SIG Sauer’s firearms can also be categorized by size and type:

• Semi-Automatic Pistols: Available in full-size, compact, micro-compact, or modular configurations.
• Rifles: Offered as bolt-action, automatic, or semi-automatic options.

The SIG Sauer System

Beyond individual firearms, the SIG Sauer System deserves special mention. Introduced in 1975 and first used in the P220 handgun, this innovative mechanism enhances the reliability and effectiveness of self-loading firearms while minimizing production costs.

The system’s impact was so significant that it became an industry standard, inspiring similar designs from other manufacturers worldwide. This system underscores SIG Sauer’s influence on firearm engineering and its commitment to functional innovation.

SIG Sauer’s legacy is defined not just by its high-quality firearms but also by its groundbreaking contributions to firearm technology, ensuring its place as a leader in the industry.