5 Most Common Sig P238 Problems And How To Fix Them

Hey there, fellow firearm enthusiasts! So, I’ve been out and about, testing the Sig P238, and well… It’s been quite a ride. In the open field, I bumped into a few hitches that I bet some of you might be dealing with too.

Now, don’t get me wrong. The Sig P238 is pretty solid, but it’s got a couple of issues. I’re talking about feeding issues, ejection failures, magazine problems, jams, and those pesky trigger reset problems. Quite a list, huh? But don’t sweat it; I Am all in this together.

I’ll discuss these Sig P238 Problems, break ’em down, and, most importantly, give you the solutions. I want to ensure you get the best out of your Sig P238. Sounds good? Let’s dive in!

5 Sig Sauer P238 Problems & Solutions

1. Failure To Eject (FTE)

Nothing’s worse than a spent cartridge sticking around longer than its welcome. This ‘failure to eject’ or ‘FTE’ has been another pesky issue with the Sig P238. 

It’s when the gun doesn’t properly kick out the spent cartridge, leaving it jammed in the chamber.

Solution

A weak ejection spring or worn-out extractor could be to blame. So, swapping out for a new spring or extractor should do the trick.

 A dirty chamber or weak round can also cause FTEs. For these, clean out your chamber thoroughly, and make sure you’re using top-notch ammo.

2. Magazine Issues

I often encountered issues with the magazine in my extensive use of the Sig P238. An improper grip can make the magazine slide out or fail to lock in place correctly, disrupting the smooth feed of cartridges into the firearm’s chamber. 

Additionally, low-quality magazines and ammunition further exacerbate these problems, causing frequent stoppages that disrupt shooting sessions.

Solution

I recommend properly handling the magazine, ensuring it is inserted correctly and securely locked in place. 

Opting for an extended baseplate could improve grip and control during magazine insertion. Importantly, one should avoid using poor-quality magazines or ammunition, which often prove to be the root cause of these issues.

Checking the magazine release button’s condition and tightening it if necessary can also help resolve these issues.

3. Failure To Feed (FTF)

Let’s be honest; a gun that won’t load isn’t much use. This ‘failure to feed’ issue has been a stubborn thorn in my sides during my time with the Sig P238. 

It stops the gun from loading cartridges from the magazine into the chamber, leaving me high and dry when it comes to firing.

Solution

First things first, check out your magazine. Over time, dirt and wear can cause jams or issues with feeding. So, a good cleaning and inspection could be all you need. If you spot any damage to the spring or follower, don’t hesitate to replace them. 

Weak recoil springs or the wrong ammunition can also be culprits. In these cases, swap out your recoil spring for a stronger one and always double-check you’re using the correct ammo. 

4. Jamming Problems

Jamming is a common issue i’ve grappled with while using the Sig P238. Inadequate lubrication, the presence of debris, or worn-out components can lead to a situation where the firearm fails to eject the cartridge correctly, rendering the weapon inoperable.

Solution

Firstly, it’s crucial to clear the firearm, ensuring there’s no ammunition in the chamber. Next, inspect the barrel and chamber for any debris or blockages that may be obstructing the cartridge’s ejection. 

Regularly cleaning and lubricating your firearm is a must to maintain its smooth operation. 

If problems persist despite these efforts, worn-out components such as the recoil spring or extractor may need to be replaced. 

Finally, using high-quality ammunition compatible with your firearm can also significantly decrease the chances of jamming.

5. Trigger Reset Problems

I’ve found that trigger reset problems can significantly impact the Sig P238’s performance. This issue can lead to misfires or malfunctions, affecting the accuracy and speed of firing, presenting potential safety hazards.

Solution

Begin by disassembling the firearm and cleaning the trigger area thoroughly, removing any dirt or debris hindering its operation. If this doesn’t solve the problem, it could be due to a worn or damaged trigger spring. 

Replacing the trigger spring often resolves this issue. Another common cause I found is insufficient lubrication in the trigger assembly, slowing down the trigger’s movement and delaying the reset. 

Therefore, applying a small amount of lubricant to the trigger assembly could remedy the problem. In some cases, replacing the trigger might be necessary if it is worn or damaged.

Conclusion

I’ve navigated its weaknesses through my hands-on experience with the Sig P238. The issues I faced – from magazine to jamming problems or the occasional misbehaving trigger – were noteworthy. 

These pitfalls, however, aren’t deal-breakers. Most can be mitigated with good maintenance, quality ammo, and the right handling techniques. 

While no firearm is perfect, I feel the Sig P238, with its balance of size, power, and reliability, still holds its ground as a commendable option in its category.

FAQs

Does Sig P238 have safety?

Yes, the Sig P238 incorporates a firing pin safety, hammer safety intercept notch, and disconnector. It also features integrated thumb safety.

What is comparable to SIG Sauer P238?

The Springfield 911 is notably comparable to the SIG Sauer P238, sharing similar dimensions and features.

How accurate is the Sig P238?

The Sig P238 is known for its remarkable accuracy, especially considering its compact size.

How big is SIG Sauer P238?

The SIG Sauer P238 measures 5.5 inches in length, 3.9 inches in height, and 1.1 inches in width, weighing 15.2 oz.