I’m a professional shooter, and I’ve had the chance to put two popular guns to the test: the SIG P938 Vs Walther PPS.
My aim here is to dive deep into the features and performance of both, helping you understand which one might be the best fit for your needs.
I’ve taken these firearms out into the field, pushed them to their limits, and now, I’m ready to share my findings with you. So, let’s get started, shall we?
| Feature | SIG P938 | Walther PPS |
| Caliber | 9×19 | 9×19 |
| Capacity | 6+1, 7+1 | 6, 7, 8 rounds |
| Barrel Length | 3.0 inches | 3.2 inches |
| Overall Length | 5.9 inches | 6.32 inches |
| Height | 3.9 inches | 4.4 inches (small magazine) |
| Width | 1.1 inches | 1.1 inches |
| Weight | 16 ounces (empty) | 19.4 ounces (empty) |
SIG P938
The SIG P938 is a powerhouse in a compact frame, renowned for its reliability and precision.
Specs
- Caliber: 9×19
- Capacity: 6+1 or 7+1 with extended magazine
- Barrel Length: 3.0 inches
- Overall Length: 5.9 inches
- Height: 3.9 inches
- Width: 1.1 inches
- Weight: 16 ounces (unloaded magazine)
- Sights: SIGLITE Night Sights
- Trigger: Single Action Only; 7.5-8.5 lbs pull weight
Walther PPS
The Walther PPS, a perfect blend of size and performance, stands as a top choice for concealed carry.
Specs
- Caliber: 9×19
- Weight: 19.4 oz
- Overall Length: 6.32 inches
- Barrel Length: 3.2 inches
- Width: 1.1 inches
- Height: 4.4 inches (with small magazine)
Features Comparison: SIG P938 VS Walther PPS
1. Size and Concealability
SIG P938
The SIG P938 stands out for its compactness. It’s notably small, with dimensions of 5.9 inches in length and 3.9 inches in height.
This petite size, combined with a slim width of 1.1 inches and a light weight of 16 ounces, makes it exceptionally suitable for concealed carry.
The P938’s small footprint offers significant advantages in terms of concealability and comfort, especially for those preferring discreet and easy-to-carry options in their daily life.
Walther PPS
The Walther PPS, in comparison, is slightly larger. This extra size translates to a more substantial feel in hand, which can be a plus for shooters preferring a fuller grip.
The larger frame may offer better control and a more comfortable hold for some users. However, this comes at the cost of slightly reduced concealability.
The PPS’s size may not be as conducive to discreet carry as the P938, particularly in more form-fitting clothing or for smaller-framed individuals.
Winner
When it comes to size and concealability, the SIG P938 takes the lead over the Walther PPS. Its smaller dimensions give it a significant edge in being easier to conceal and more comfortable for all-day carry.
The P938’s compact frame makes it a preferred choice for those who prioritize discretion and ease in carrying a concealed firearm. Its ability to blend seamlessly into everyday attire without compromising on accessibility makes it the winner in this category.
2. Recoil and Shooting Comfort
SIG P938
The SIG P938, due to its lighter and smaller frame, exhibits more noticeable recoil. This can be perceived as a brisk snappiness, which might require some adjustment for shooters, especially during longer shooting sessions.
While this characteristic can be managed with practice and proper technique, it does present an initial challenge. For new shooters or those with less experience, the P938’s recoil may necessitate a learning curve to achieve comfortable and effective handling.
Walther PPS
The Walther PPS, by contrast, offers a more gentle recoil experience due to its slightly heavier and larger frame. This reduces the perceived snappiness, making it more comfortable, especially over extended periods of shooting.
For those sensitive to recoil or who spend long hours at the range, the PPS provides a more pleasant shooting experience. Its design mitigates recoil effectively, allowing for better control and reducing shooter fatigue, making it a preferable choice for prolonged use.
Winner
In terms of recoil and shooting comfort, the Walther PPS outshines the SIG P938. The PPS’s more forgiving recoil profile, compared to the sharper snap of the P938, offers a more comfortable experience, especially for extended shooting or for those with a preference for a smoother recoil.
Its design lends itself to better manageability and control, making it a more suitable choice for shooters looking for a balance between size and shooting comfort.
3. Safety and Trigger Mechanism
SIG P938
The SIG P938 adopts a classic 1911-style design, necessitating carrying it “cocked and locked.” This requires familiarity with its external manual safety, adding a layer of complexity but also an additional safety feature.
The trigger is relatively heavy, with a 7.5 to 8-pound pull. This design choice, while enhancing safety, can be a bit daunting for new shooters or those unaccustomed to the 1911-style mechanisms, requiring dedicated practice to master.
Walther PPS
The Walther PPS eschews the external manual safety, opting for a more straightforward operation. Its trigger, lighter in comparison to the P938, falls in the 5 to 6-pound range.
This design results in a longer, smoother trigger pull, which can be more appealing to shooters who prefer a straightforward and intuitive shooting experience.
The absence of an external safety and a lighter trigger pull makes the PPS more accessible, especially for those new to shooting or preferring simplicity.
Winner
When comparing safety and trigger mechanisms, the Walther PPS stands out against the SIG P938. The PPS’s simpler operation, courtesy of its lack of an external manual safety and a lighter, smoother trigger, makes it more user-friendly.
It’s especially advantageous for new shooters or those who prefer a more intuitive and straightforward firearm. The P938’s 1911-style mechanism, while offering traditional safety features, may not be as appealing
4. Sight Efficiency
SIG P938
The SIG P938 boasts SIGLITE Night Sights, offering exceptional visibility in low-light conditions. During my testing, these sights provided a clear advantage in target acquisition, especially in dim environments.
The bright, easy-to-spot alignment allowed for quick and accurate aiming. This feature is particularly beneficial in scenarios where lighting is unpredictable, enhancing the shooter’s ability to respond swiftly and accurately.
Walther PPS
The Walther PPS, while equipped with decent standard sights, doesn’t match the SIG P938’s night sights in low-light performance.
During my field tests, the PPS sights performed adequately in well-lit conditions but lacked the same level of visibility in darker settings. While they are certainly effective for daytime use, the PPS’s sights might require an aftermarket upgrade for comparable low-light efficiency.
This aspect can be a consideration for those needing a versatile pistol capable of performing in varied lighting situations.
Winner
In terms of sight efficiency, the SIG P938 emerges as the clear winner when compared to the Walther PPS. Its SIGLITE Night Sights provide superior visibility in low-light conditions, offering a significant advantage in critical scenarios where lighting is poor.
The P938’s ability to maintain sight efficiency across different lighting environments makes it a more versatile choice for users who may encounter a variety of shooting conditions, affirming its superiority in this feature.
5. Grip and Ergonomics
SIG P938
The SIG P938 features a range of grip options, including wood, G10, or rubber, catering to different preferences. During my handling, the P938’s grip felt secure and comfortable, providing a firm hold despite its smaller size.
The ergonomics are well thought out, allowing for easy maneuverability and control. However, for individuals with larger hands, the compactness of the grip might pose a challenge, potentially affecting handling ease and comfort during prolonged
use.
Walther PPS
The Walther PPS offers a larger grip area compared to the P938, which during testing, provided a more comfortable hold for extended periods. Its design accommodates various hand sizes more easily, offering a stable and controlled shooting experience.
While the PPS doesn’t have the same range of grip material options as the P938, its ergonomic design more than compensates, ensuring a secure and comfortable grip, which is crucial for consistent accuracy and control.
Winner
When comparing grip and ergonomics, the Walther PPS stands out compared to the SIG P938. Its larger grip area provides a more comfortable and stable experience for a wider range of hand sizes.
The ergonomic design of the PPS enhances shooter comfort and control, particularly during longer shooting sessions. While the P938 offers commendable grip options, the PPS’s superior ergonomics make it the better choice for those prioritizing comfort and stability in their shooting experience.
Pros & Cons: SIG P938
Pros
- Compact size, ideal for concealed carry.
- SIGLITE Night Sights for excellent low-light visibility.
- Offers a range of grip options (wood, G10, rubber).
- Classic 1911 style trigger with a clean break.
Cons
- Requires familiarity with external manual safety.
Pros & Cons: Walther PPS
Pros
- Larger grip area, comfortable for extended use.
- Less recoil compared to SIG P938.
- Simpler operation without external manual safety.
- Lighter and smoother trigger pull (5 to 6 pounds).
- Versatility with 6, 7, and 8 round options.
Cons
- Slide perceived as stiffer than the SIG P938.
Similarities Between SIG P938 & Walther PPS
- Both are 9mm caliber pistols.
- Comparable weight with fully loaded magazines.
- Similar in overall length and height dimensions.
- Both have resolved initial release issues.
Differences Between SIG P938 & Walther PPS
- P938 is slightly shorter and narrower but wider.
- P938’s trigger pull is heavier compared to PPS.
- PPS has less recoil and is less tiresome to shoot over longer periods.
- P938 has more accessory options available.
- The slide of the P938 is softer compared to the PPS.
- PPS is known to handle a wider variety of ammunition effectively.
Final Verdict
After extensive testing and comparison of the SIG P938 and the Walther PPS, I’ve arrived at my conclusion. While both firearms have their unique strengths and cater to different preferences, the Walther PPS has emerged as my top choice.
This decision is based on its overall balance in features, comfort, and usability. The PPS strikes an impressive balance between size, recoil management, and shooting comfort. It also stands out with its simpler safety mechanism and smoother trigger pull, making it more accessible to a wider range of shooters.
FAQ’s
Is the Sig P938 a good carry gun?
Yes, the Sig P938 is a good carry gun, known for its reliability, accuracy, and excellent concealability.
Is a Sig P938 accurate?
The Sig P938 is recognized for its accuracy, combining the reliability of the P238 platform with the performance of a 9mm caliber.
Who uses Walther PPS?
The Walther PPS is designed for concealed carry and is used by civilians and law enforcement personnel.
