If there’s ever been a textbook example of a company adapting to the times, it’s SIG Sauer with the P226. Back in the early ‘80s, the double-stack DA/SA 9mm was the pistol everyone wanted. Police forces, military units, and everyday shooters were switching from single-stack to double-stack, favoring the increased capacity without adding bulk. SIG already had a well-established handgun in the P220—a solid design with a reputation for reliability. However, it was starting to feel a little old-fashioned. The P220 was a single-stack .45 ACP, perfect for its time, but not in line with the emerging demand for double-stack mags and lighter calibers. SIG saw the writing on the wall and got to work.
Enter the P226, which SIG built from the P220’s basic design but with notable updates to fit the times. They gave it a double-stack magazine and chambered it in 9mm, aiming squarely at the military’s XM9 trials. In those trials, the P226 came in as a close runner-up to the Beretta 92, which ultimately won the contract. While Beretta took the majority, certain forces—particularly the Navy SEALs—preferred SIG’s offering, which says a lot about its performance under tough conditions. That initial competition helped cement the P226’s reputation, and it has since found a place with various military units, police forces, and civilian shooters worldwide.
Over time, the P226 has evolved to accommodate different calibers and configurations, making it a versatile choice for just about any shooter. Beyond the standard 9mm, it also comes in .40 S&W, .357 SIG, and even niche rounds like 7.65 Parabellum and 9×21 IMI. Mine is the standard 9mm model, which I consider the best for an all-purpose use case. But no matter the caliber, the P226 has proven itself across the board, making it a great option whether you’re carrying it for duty or for personal protection.
These days, most P226s come with a rail for mounting accessories, but you’ll still find some without, as well as versions with different trigger options, like the DAK (Double Action Kellerman) and DAO (Double Action Only). Personally, I stick with the classic DA/SA (double-action/single-action) design.
I like the blend of control and versatility it offers, and as a former Marine, I’m partial to the all-metal construction. There’s something about holding a substantial firearm that gives a reassuring sense of durability. Sure, lightweight polymer frames are all the rage, but for me, that extra heft is a big plus.
The P226 isn’t what I’d call a petite firearm. It’s wide, particularly around the grip, which holds 17 rounds of 9mm. In 2010, SIG introduced the E2 model, designed with a slightly thinner grip for shooters with smaller hands, which shows they’re willing to adapt to their customer base.
Personally, though, I love the feel of the standard grip; it’s like it was custom-fit to my hand. That metal frame just seems to settle naturally, and the slight beavertail at the rear lets me get a high grip for solid control. SIG’s controls are thoughtfully placed, making them easy to reach and manipulate. My thumb naturally finds the magazine release, making reloads smooth and quick.
One of SIG’s standout features is its decocking lever, and in the case of the P226, it’s a perfect example of how to do it right. It lets you switch from single-action back to double-action with just a flick. Unlike some decockers, which can feel clunky or require awkward manipulation, the P226’s decocker is as smooth as it gets.
For shooters with smaller hands, I’d recommend trying out the E2 model in person to see if it’s a better fit. Either way, the P226 is designed with ease of use in mind, making it a solid choice for a wide range of shooters.
Let’s talk range performance because that’s where the P226 really shines. Weighing in at 34 ounces, this is not a featherweight pistol. But that extra heft serves a purpose. When it comes to reducing recoil, few pistols do it better. With 9mm, there’s almost no recoil to speak of, and even in .40 S&W and .357 SIG, it’s manageable.
I enjoy running drills with the P226, especially ones that require quick target transitions and follow-up shots. For example, box drills, failure drills, and controlled pairs are all easy to handle with this gun. It’s one of the most controllable duty-size pistols on the market, making it an ideal choice for law enforcement and military personnel.
What’s particularly nice about the P226 is how naturally it lends itself to accurate, rapid fire. The DA/SA trigger system might take some getting used to for new shooters, but I’ve grown to appreciate it. That heavy double-action first pull adds a layer of safety, especially in high-stress situations, while the crisp single-action follow-up shots make it easy to stay on target.
Once you get used to the transition, it feels second nature, and the results are worth it. In single-action, I find the P226 to be extremely accurate. Shooting headshots at 25 yards? Not a problem. Even with bulky modern sights that blend day and night visibility, it’s a breeze to get solid groups.
The P226 is built to last, and it has a track record to prove it. It didn’t lose to Beretta in the XM9 trials due to any shortcomings in reliability—far from it. This pistol just doesn’t quit. I’ve run countless rounds through mine, and I’ve yet to experience a single failure to feed, eject, or fire. It handles a wide variety of ammo without any complaints. This kind of reliability isn’t just a selling point; it’s essential for anyone who might need to rely on their firearm in high-stakes situations. The P226 has seen action with elite forces around the world, and that’s not by accident. It’s dependable, period.
There’s no getting around it—the P226 has a steep price tag. It’s never been an entry-level gun, and it’s not going to start now. Expect to spend close to a grand for the basic model, with specialized versions like the Legion or optics-ready options climbing even higher. In a market filled with excellent polymer-frame options like Glock that come in a few hundred dollars cheaper, it’s fair to question the P226’s value. For budget-conscious buyers, the P226’s price can be a hard sell, especially with so many affordable and reliable options available today.
However, for those willing to make the investment, the P226 offers a level of quality and control that’s hard to find elsewhere. After spending considerable time with it, I can confidently say it’s a joy to shoot, with excellent handling and a smooth, satisfying trigger.
But if you’re pinching pennies, it might not deliver the best return on investment. Still, I think it earns a spot among the best 9mm pistols out there. It may not be at the very top of my list, but it’s a solid contender, especially for those who appreciate a well-built, all-metal firearm.
In summary, the SIG P226 is a classic for good reason. It’s reliable, accurate, and designed with the kind of thoughtfulness you rarely see in today’s polymer-heavy market. While it may not be the best option for the budget-conscious, its durability and handling make it worth considering for those willing to pay a premium. It’s a piece of history with the performance to back it up—no bells and whistles, just a rock-solid firearm you can count on. Whether it’s worth the price depends on your priorities, but for me, it remains a standout in a crowded field.