I’ve tested and compared two renowned firearms: the SIG P225 Vs SIG P220 Carry.
In this article, I’ll dive deep into my hands-on experience with these firearms, analyzing each aspect to determine which stands out in practical use.
Let’s embark on this journey to explore these two SIG Sauer models and see how they fare against each other in real-world scenarios.
| Feature | SIG P225 | SIG P220 Carry |
| Type | Semi-auto, DA/SA | Compact, Semi-auto, DA/SA |
| Caliber | 9mm Parabellum | .45 ACP |
| Barrel Length | 3.6 inches | 3.9 inches |
| Overall Length | 6.9 inches | 7.1 inches |
| Weight | 30.5 oz | 30.4 oz |
| Sight Options | SIGLITE night sights/Contrast sights | SIGLITE night sights/Contrast sights |
| Capacity | 8+1 rounds | 8+1 rounds |
SIG P225
The SIG P225, a classic in the SIG Sauer lineup, is known for its reliability and precision. It’s a compact firearm has stood the test of time in various shooting environments.
Specs
- Type: Semi-auto, double action, locked breech
- Caliber: 9mm Parabellum
- Barrel Length: 3.6 inches
- Overall Length: 6.9 inches
- Weight: 30.5 oz
- Sights: SIGLITE night sights or contrast sights
- Finish: Nitron and hard-coat anodizing
- Capacity: 8+1 rounds
SIG P220 Carry
The SIG P220 Carry, a compact adaptation of the classic P220, is designed for concealed carry without compromising on firepower and accuracy.
Specs
- Type: Compact, Semi-automatic, Short recoil
- Caliber: .45 ACP
- Barrel Length: 3.9 inches
- Overall Length: 7.1 inches
- Weight: 30.4 oz
- Height: 5.5 inches
- Width: 1.50 inches
- Sight Radius: 5.7 inches
- Trigger: DA/SA
- Finish: Nitron
- Grip: Textured polymer
- Sights: Contrast, SIGLITE night sights
- Safety: Frame-mounted decocker
- Hammer: Solid
- Capacity: 8+1 rounds
Features Comaprison: SIG P225 vs SIG P220 Carry
1. Ergonomics and Handling
SIG P225
The SIG P225 feels remarkably balanced and comfortable in hand. Its compact frame is well-suited for shooters with smaller hands.
During testing, I found the grip angle and the texture of the P225 to provide a secure hold, enhancing the shooting experience. The control layout is intuitive, making it easy to operate even under stress. The handling of the P225 is quite impressive, offering a smooth operation that’s hard to fault.
SIG P220 Carry
The SIG P220 Carry, with its slightly longer grip, caters well to those with larger hands. The textured polymer grip offers a firm and comfortable hold.
During field testing, I noted that its extended grip length does add to the overall handling comfort, especially when firing multiple rounds.
The control placement is efficient, allowing for quick and easy manipulation of the firearm. The P220 Carry feels robust yet manageable, striking a good balance between size and usability.
Winner
When comparing the ergonomics and handling, the P220 Carry edges out, but only marginally and specifically compared to the P225. Its slightly longer grip and tailored design for larger hands provide a bit more comfort and control, especially in prolonged shooting sessions.
However, this is a close call as the P225 also offers excellent ergonomics, particularly for those with smaller hands. The decision really boils down to personal preference and hand size.
2. Trigger Feel and Response
SIG P225
The double action/single action (DA/SA) trigger on the SIG P225 is smooth, with a noticeable but consistent pull in double-action mode. In a single action, the trigger becomes much lighter and crisper.
This combination allows for versatile shooting dynamics. During testing, I appreciated the predictability of the trigger, which contributed to improved accuracy. The transition from the first heavy pull to subsequent lighter pulls was seamless and intuitive.
SIG P220 Carry
Similarly, the P220 Carry features a DA/SA trigger mechanism. The trigger feel is quite comparable to the P225, with a smooth double-action pull and a lighter single-action. However, I noticed a slight difference in the trigger reset length, which was a bit shorter on the P220 Carry. This shorter reset allowed for quicker follow-up shots. During rapid-fire tests, this aspect of the
P220 Carry’s trigger provided a slight advantage in terms of speed.
Winner
The winner in this category, compared to the P225, is the SIG P220 Carry. The main distinguishing factor is the shorter trigger reset, which aids in faster shooting without compromising on control or accuracy.
Both models perform exceptionally well in terms of trigger feel, but the P220 Carry takes the lead for shooters who value speed and responsiveness in their trigger.
3. Sight Efficiency
SIG P225
The P225 comes equipped with either SIGLITE night sights or contrast sights. During daylight conditions, the contrast sights were highly visible and easy to align.
In low-light conditions, the SIGLITE night sights proved their worth, offering clear-sight pictures. The sight radius on the P225 is adequate for its size, allowing for precise shot placement at various distances.
SIG P220 Carry
The P220 Carry also offers the option of contrast sights or SIGLITE night sights. The sight radius is slightly longer on the P220 Carry, which theoretically should aid in better accuracy. In practice, I found this to be true, especially for longer-range targets.
The night sights performed admirably in dim conditions, and the overall sight picture was slightly more pronounced due to the extended sight radius.
Winner
Compared to the P225, the SIG P220 Carry takes the lead in sight efficiency. The longer sight radius contributes to this advantage, providing a bit more precision, particularly at longer distances.
Both models offer excellent sight options, but the P220 Carry’s extended sight radius makes it a bit more versatile in various shooting scenarios. This is especially noticeable when engaging targets at greater distances or requiring more precise shot placement.
4. Recoil Management
SIG P225
During my field tests, the SIG P225 demonstrated admirable recoil management. Its 9mm chambering, combined with the well-designed ergonomics, resulted in a shooting experience that was both smooth and controllable.
Rapid fire drills were a breeze, with the gun snapping back on target quickly after each shot. The P225’s recoil felt more like a firm push rather than a sharp snap, making it comfortable for extended shooting sessions.
SIG P220 Carry
The SIG P220 Carry, chambered in .45 ACP, inherently has a bit more recoil. However, its design does a good job of mitigating this.
The added weight from the slightly longer barrel and frame helps absorb some of the recoil. During testing, I found that while the recoil was more pronounced compared to the P225, it was by no means unmanageable. The solid grip and balanced weight distribution aid in maintaining control, even in rapid firing.
Winner
Compared to the P220 Carry, the SIG P225 emerges as the winner in recoil management. Its lighter recoil profile, combined with its ergonomic design, makes it easier to shoot accurately and comfortably over longer periods.
This makes the P225 particularly suitable for shooters who might be sensitive to recoil or for those who prioritize ease of handling and quick follow-up shots.
Pros & Cons of Sig P225
Pros
- Excellent recoil management for comfortable shooting
- Compact and ergonomic design
- High-quality build and reliable performance
- Versatile for various shooting applications
Cons
- Might be less suitable for shooters with larger hands
Pros & Cons of Sig P220 Carry
Pros
- Solid build quality and reliability
- Good recoil control for a .45 ACP
- Slightly longer grip aids handling for larger hands
- Versatile and suitable for various shooting scenarios
Cons
- Slightly bulkier, which may affect concealability
Similarities Between Sig P225 & Sig P220 Carry
- Both are semi-automatic with a DA/SA trigger mechanism.
- Similar ergonomic designs providing a comfortable grip.
- Both have options for SIGLITE night sights or contrast sights.
- They feature a Nitron finish for durability.
- Frame-mounted decocker for added safety.
- Solid, reliable performance under various conditions.
Differences between Sig P225 & Sig P220 Carry
- The P225 has a slightly shorter barrel at 3.6 inches compared to the 3.9 inches of the P220 Carry.
- The P225 is slightly lighter at 30.5 oz, whereas the P220 Carry is 30.4 oz.
- The P225 has a shorter overall length of 6.9 inches, compared to the 7.1 inches of the P220 Carry.
- The P220 Carry’s slightly longer grip may offer better handling for shooters with larger hands.
Final Verdict
As a professional shooter who has rigorously tested both the SIG P225 and the SIG P220 Carry, reaching a conclusion about which one reigns supreme isn’t just about comparing features; it’s about understanding how these firearms align with the needs of individual shooters.
After thorough testing and comparison, my personal preference leans towards the SIG P225. This choice is primarily influenced by its impressive balance of ergonomics, recoil management, and overall shooting comfort.
FAQ’s
What size is the SIG P220 carry?
The SIG P220 Carry has a barrel length of 3.9 inches, making it a compact version of the P220.
What is the difference between P226 and P220?
The primary difference between the P226 and P220 is the caliber and magazine capacity; the P226 is typically 9mm, while the P220 is often .45 ACP.
Is the SIG P225 still in production?
The original SIG P225 has been discontinued, but the updated version, the P225-A1, is still in production.
Is P220 better than 1911?
Comparing the P220 to the 1911 depends on personal preference, as both have distinct features; the P220 is often praised for its quality and functionality.
