As a professional shooter, I’m diving deep into a comparison: the SIG P320 X5 Legion Vs SIG P226 SAO.
As someone who’s had the chance to test these beauties in the field, I’m here to share my first-hand experience. We’re not just talking specs here but about real, gritty field performance.
So, whether you’re a seasoned shooter or new to the game, let’s figure out which of these impressive firearms takes the crown together.
| Feature | SIG P320 X-5 Legion | SIG P226 SAO |
| Caliber | 9mm Luger | 9mm Luger |
| Magazine Capacity | 17 rounds | 15 rounds |
| Length | 8.46 inches | 7.7 inches |
| Width | 1.38 inches | 1.6 inches |
| Height | 5.91 inches | 5.5 inches |
| Weight | 43.5 ounces (with magazine) | 34 ounces |
SIG P320 X-5 Legion
The SIG P320 X5 Legion is a marvel of engineering, boasting a blend of precision and ergonomic design. It’s tailored for those who demand top-notch performance in competitive shooting.
Specs
- Caliber: 9mm Luger
- Magazine Capacity: 17 rounds
- Length: 8.46 inches
- Width: 1.38 inches
- Height: 5.91 inches
- Total Weight (including Magazine): 43.5 ounces
SIG P226 SAO
The SIG P226 SAO is a classic that has earned its reputation in the hands of law enforcement and military units worldwide. It’s a go-to choice for those who value reliability and a proven track record.
Specs
- Overall Length: 7.7 inches
- Width: 1.6 inches
- Height: 5.5 inches
- Magazine Capacity: 15 rounds
- Weight: 34 ounces
Features Comparison: SIG P320 X-5 Legion VS SIG P226 SAO
1. Ergonomics and Grip
SIG P320 X-5 Legion
The X-5 Legion’s grip is a true highlight. Its ergonomic design and a tungsten-infused frame offer a substantial and secure hold.
This not only enhances the shooter’s comfort but also plays a crucial role in managing recoil. I noticed that its slightly wider grip, compared to the P226 SAO, contributes significantly to stability during shooting.
The girth of the grip, though more pronounced, didn’t hinder my experience but instead added to the overall robust feel of the firearm.
SIG P226 SAO
In contrast, the SIG P226 SAO’s grip is a nod to more traditional designs. Its slender profile appealed to me, especially as it allowed for a higher and tighter hold.
This feature was particularly noticeable in rapid firing sequences, where the gun’s control and stability became paramount. The grip’s undercut is more pronounced, facilitating a higher grip placement, which significantly enhanced my control and shooting precision.
Winner
Choosing a winner here is tough, but I lean towards the SIG P226 SAO for its slightly better hand fit and control – vital attributes during rapid firing.
While the X-5 Legion offers excellent ergonomics, the SAO’s grip design provides an edge in fast-paced shooting scenarios.
2. Weight and Handling
SIG P320 X-5 Legion
The X-5 Legion’s tungsten-infused frame brings its weight to a substantial 43.5 ounces. This heft plays a vital role in shooting dynamics, particularly in reducing muzzle flips and managing recoil.
During testing, I found that its weight contributed positively to my shooting accuracy, especially in rapid-fire sequences. The balance, despite its heft, felt intuitively correct in my hands, aiding in maintaining a steady aim during continuous shooting.
SIG P226 SAO
Weighing in at 34 ounces, the P226 SAO is notably lighter than the X-5 Legion. This reduction in weight lends itself to greater agility and quick maneuverability.
My field tests revealed that while there was a slight increase in muzzle flip due to the lighter frame, the overall handling felt more agile and responsive. This lightness is advantageous in scenarios that demand quick target acquisition and fast movement.
Winner
The SIG P320 X-5 Legion emerges as the winner in this category. Its additional weight, compared to the P226 SAO, affords a level of stability and control that is highly beneficial in competitive shooting environments.
The weight enhances the shooter’s ability to maintain accuracy over extended firing sequences, a crucial factor in target shooting.
3. Trigger Mechanism
SIG P320 X-5 Legion
The X-5 Legion features an advanced flat, skeletonized trigger, representing an evolution in the P320 line. The trigger mechanism is exceptionally smooth, with minimal take-up, resulting in a crisp and clean break.
During testing, I noticed that the trigger’s responsiveness significantly improved my precision in shooting. The consistency in pull weight and the smoothness of the action directly contributed to a more refined shooting experience.
SIG P226 SAO
The P226 SAO’s trigger, while also flat, is not skeletonized. It has slightly more take-up than the X-5 Legion, but I found this to be an advantage as it offered a clear indication of the shot break point.
This feature enhanced my shooting rhythm and allowed for more controlled shots. The trigger, reaching a solid wall quickly, provided tactile feedback that was both reassuring and effective in timed shooting scenarios.
Winner
In this aspect, the SIG P320 X-5 Legion takes the lead. Its trigger, when compared to the P226 SAO, is marginally more refined and responsive, contributing significantly to shooting accuracy.
This advanced trigger mechanism is especially beneficial in competitive shooting, where precision and response time are critical.
4. Sight Radius and Accuracy
SIG P320 X-5 Legion
The Legion X-5 boasts a sight radius of 6.8 inches, which I found enhances long-range accuracy. During my field tests, this longer sight radius contributed to a more precise alignment and better accuracy, especially at distances beyond 15 yards.
SIG P226 SAO
The P226 SAO has a slightly shorter sight radius of 6.3 inches. While this did not drastically impact close-range shooting, I noticed a bit less precision in long-distance shots compared to the Legion X-5. The accuracy is still top-notch, but it slightly lags behind at greater distances.
Winner
The SIG P320 X-5 Legion wins in this category. Its longer sight radius, compared to the P226 SAO, provides a noticeable edge in accuracy, especially in long-range shooting scenarios.
Pros & Cons of SIG P320 X-5 Legion
Pros
- Heavier, more stable frame.
- Longer sight radius for better accuracy.
- Enhanced grip and ergonomics.
Cons
- Heavier than P226 SAO, it might be less ideal for quick maneuvers.
Pros & Cons of SIG P226 SAO
Pros
- Lighter and more agile.
- Familiar ergonomics for traditional shooters.
- Proven track record in reliability.
Cons
- Shorter sight radius compared to the Legion X-5.
- Slightly less grip area may affect control for some shooters.
Similarities Between SIG P320 X-5 Legion & SIG P226 SAO
- Both are chambered in 9mm Luger.
- Both feature steel slides.
- Single Action trigger systems in each.
- Designed with a focus on competitive shooting.
- Renowned for their durability and reliability.
Differences Between SIG P320 X-5 Legion & SIG P226 SAO
- The P320 X-5 Legion is heavier (43.5 oz) than the P226 SAO (34 oz).
- The P320 X-5 Legion has a longer overall length (8.46 inches) compared to the P226 SAO (7.7 inches).
- The P320 X-5 Legion has a longer sight radius (6.8 inches) than the P226 SAO (6.3 inches).
- The P320 X-5 Legion has a slightly wider grip.
- The P320 X-5 Legion uses a tungsten-infused frame, whereas the P226 SAO uses an aluminum frame.
- The P320 X-5 Legion has a larger magazine capacity (17 rounds) than the P226 SAO (15 rounds).
Final Verdict
After thoroughly testing and comparing the SIG P320 X-5 Legion and the SIG P226 SAO, I’ve reached a verdict. In most comparisons, the SIG P320 X-5 Legion emerged as the superior firearm.
Its combination of advanced features, robust design, and exceptional performance makes it the clear winner for me. The ergonomic grip, stable handling, and precision trigger mechanism of the Legion X-5 are tailored for competitive shooting, offering an unmatched shooting experience.
While the SIG P226 SAO is a remarkable gun in its own right, the P320 X-5 Legion’s innovations and adaptability make it my top choice.
FAQ’s
Is the P226 better than the P320?
The choice between the P226 and P320 depends on personal preference. The P226 is better for those who prefer a DA/SA system, and it’s more expensive. The P320 is better suited for those who don’t prefer a DA/SA system.
What is the P320 X5 Legion for?
The P320 X5 Legion is designed for serious shooters, offering increased weight (43.5oz) due to its TXG tungsten-infused grip module. This design reduces muzzle flip by up to 50%, making it ideal for competitive shooting.
What does the SAO mean on the P226?
The SAO on the Sig Sauer P226 Legion stands for “Single Action Only”. It’s a high-end handgun designed for law enforcement, military, and competitive shooters, featuring a single-action trigger mechanism.
Does the SIG P226 SAO have a safety?
Yes, the SIG P226 SAO features a bilateral thumb safety, replacing the double-action/single-action system found on other P226 models.
