SIG Sauer continues to do things their way. It’s hard to argue against this considering their extended run of success. At this point, we should accept it as the norm. With personal defense, law enforcement, and military-focused products such a central part of their business model, the bolt action Cross introduction in 2020 many surprised a lot of people. The reason for this was because the Cross was not tactical in nature. Rather the Cross was a blend of a hunting rifle with a tactical precision rifle. The result is a light, handy, and extremely versatile rifle.

To date, the Cross line up has added three different models to the original—each emphasizing different parts of the original design, i.e. lighter in weight for hunters or more emphasis on accuracy for PRS-style shooting activities. This is the SIG way… listening to feedback from consumers in order to continue honing weapon capabilities. The latest SIG Cross is yet a different beast from the initial offering. The Cross Magnum is a long action variant chambered in the powerhouse 300 Win Mag cartridge. You can bet different calibers are in the works taking advantage of the new action length…including 300 PRC and 338 Lapua Magnum variants.

SIG Sauer has chosen to go a different path with the Cross Magnum when compared to competitor’s heavyweight chassis rifles. The key here is the monolithic Cross receiver. The receiver is entirely independent, with the folding buttstock attaching to its rear and the barrel assembly to its front. The Cross Magnum offers enhanced cartridge performance while maintaining key characteristics of accuracy and relative light weight with handy ergonomics.

THIS IS THE WAY

SIG is known for its innovative approaches in weapon design. Much of this stems from SIG’s background of responding to military solicitation, especially from SOCOM forces. The desirable characteristics for a precision bolt-action rifle are cold bore zero retention, accuracy, extended effective range, reliability, and handling. One overarching theme with the Cross Magnum is keeping weight down to maximize efficiency. You carry a rifle far more than you shoot it. No matter the role envisioned, competition, hunting, or even tactical (though not marketed as such, SIG’s law enforcement sales department tells me it has received inquiries about the SIG Cross Magnum) there can be no compromise in terms of consistent accuracy.

The Cross’s action is incredibly rigid, yet light, thanks to its one-piece minimalist receiver. This contrasts with more typical methods of setting the receiver and barrel into a separate stock or chassis. The Cross eliminates need for bedding, action screws, and other means of conjoining the components. The Cross one-piece receiver interacts directly with trigger, bolt, AICS magazine, and barrel; think of it like an AR-style receiver without upper and lower distinctions. This is a change from typical bolt-action construction methods and serves to minimize many of the accuracy-robbing factors associated with typical bolt-actions. The Cross more resembles an AR than a traditional bolt-action rifle in terms of control layout and grip. Following this AR theme, a barrel extension and nut are used to secure the barrel to the action. This makes barrel changes simple.

The SIG Cross in 300 Win Mag with 24-inch barrel weighs in at 8.9 pounds. Many will raise an eyebrow at this considering it seems too light for comfort considering the recoil associated with 300 Win Mag. Along these same lines, the monolithic aluminum receiver will cause skepticism. Don’t forget, the first Cross was designed to deal with high pressure 277 Fury ammunition. The Cross receiver is machined, not cast. The Cross receiver is more in line with the barrel instead of sitting under the barrel, thus minimizing barrel whip and other harmonics that could cause inaccuracy. The Cross design offers a rock-solid backbone conducive to long-range shooting. It features tightly toleranced rifling dimensions, minimum headspace, and trued chamber. A full-diameter bolt body makes the Cross Magnum smooth to operate.

The stainless-steel, medium contour 24-inch 1:9-inch twist 5R rifled, free-floated barrel is surrounded by full-length ARCA-railed handguard. An impressively effective radial muzzle brake is screwed to the threaded muzzle. This statement stems from the surprised looks on the faces of shooters after firing the first round. Usually, grand claims of recoil reduction are ignored as recoil sensitivity is often a subjective matter. However, SIG’s claim of a 45-percent reduction in recoil may actually be understated. The match trigger is another pleasant experience with slight two-stage take-up and a three-pound break. The PRS-style grip and-right side thumb safety rest is another revelation for those unfamiliar with this set up.

The Cross bolt is a 3-lug hunk of metal within the aluminum receiver. Three locking lugs give it a 60-degree handle lift—one of the shortest on the market. Scopes can be mounted low due to the minimal bolt lift. The short throw, combined with smooth operation, makes for one slick bolt action. Quick bolt manipulation translates into rapid follow up shots. The locking lugs being the same diameter as the bolt body means there’s no raceway needed, as compared to Mauser-style lugs that protrude outside the bolt’s diameter. This makes the Cross very strong since there is no need to remove material from the receiver to create a raceway. Rigidity is a must for consistent accuracy. SIG designed the Cross action to harness current and future cartridges.

Interestingly, the rear interfacing surfaces of the bolt lugs are angled and tapered, not square as is the more traditional approach. This is to facilitate locking the bolt into place like an artillery breech when turned into place. The bolt head is pinned into the bolt body, with just a bit of play to enable the locking lugs to find equal bearing when closed. A stout extractor is dovetailed into the rightmost lug. It reliably removes fired cases from the chamber. The ejector is a spring-loaded plunger throwing brass clear of the receiver.

The 5R rifling used in the Cross barrel was developed by Barrett “Boots” Obermeyer. 5R is different from conventional rifling by changing the shape and configuration of the lands and grooves. 5R rifling uses five lands and grooves versus the more common four or six land and groove profile. This puts lands opposite of grooves on the facing side of the barrel face, with another tweak being the transition from the top of the land to the groove is sloped. 5R rifling reduces projectile deformation as the bullet passes through the bore when fired. The benefit is that a more uniform flying projectile equates to increased accuracy. 5R rifling is easier to clean and less prone to accuracy-robbing fouling, as well. All of this is not abstract theory as 5R rifling has developed a dedicated target shooting following that swears by it.

The Cross Magnum’s flat, ARCA-railed forend handles bipods or sandbags with equal aplomb. However, it is not exclusively designed for shooting from the prone or bench. The Cross Magnum is great for offhand and other types of supported fire. Clay pigeons were not safe at 130 yards offhand, and when placed in a Kopfjager tripod, 300 yards was still in the danger zone for those dastardly orange circles. This is what makes the Cross line of rifles so attractive to both the backcountry hunter and the precision rifle shooting competitor.

The ergonomics and adjustability of the Cross Magnum stock allow for a comfortable, repeatable cheek weld that, combined with optimal hand placement, enables the shooter to pull the match-grade flat-faced trigger straight to the rear for maximum accuracy when breaking the shot. The Cross’s skeletal aluminum buttstock provides adjustment for comb height, length-of-pull, and butt pad height. The forward angled PRS-style grip and right-side thumb rest safety also come into play here. The Cross Magnum uses detachable AICS-style 6-round detachable magazines.

SIG PARTY

A SIG Tango6 3-18×44 optic was mounted to the Cross Magnum using a one-piece SIG scope base. A SIG SLH 7.62 NATO suppressor was chosen for use with the Cross Magnum. A SIG SLH QD muzzle brake device was installed on the barrel, replacing the radial brake for certain parts of our review. The ability to wield a suppressed Cross rifle is a valued option.

Options for 300 Win Mag ammunition are plentiful. Examples of ammunition used for testing the Cross Magnum consisted of SIG Sauer Elite Hunter Tipped 180-grain, SIG Sauer Elite Copper Hunting 165-grain, Black Hills Ammunition 190-grain Match, Federal Premium 180-grain Accubond, and Hornady 180-grain SST Superformance and 178-grain ELD-X Precision Hunter loadings. The thought process is simple; if these loads do not produce accuracy, nothing will. None of these loads disappointed, all providing minute-of-angle accuracy with three-round groups; a great compliment to both the ammunition and the Cross Magnum rifle. The logistical advantage of a rifle that is not ammunition-sensitive cannot be overemphasized.

PERFORMANCE

After bench work establishing innate accuracy, the Cross Magnum was taken to the field for further testing. This consisted of shooting prone from a bipod and an Eberlestock pack at clay pigeons more than 300 yards away. As mentioned, a Kopfjager tripod was also used. The Cross Magnum’s bolt was worked, and targets acquired as quickly as possible. We verified that single-feed operation was possible by laying a loose round into the action on top of the empty magazine and had no issue chambering the cartridge. The Cross Magnum’s radial brake combined with the adjustable stock and slick bolt with short lift proved potent. The SIG SLH suppressor also proved an enhancement for taming recoil and blast signature.

FIELD TESTING

Other testing consisted of shooting steel silhouette targets out to 600 yards at Echo Valley Training Center’s (EVTC’s) known distance range. The Cross Magnum’s accuracy, combined with clear, powerful SIG optics, enabled first-round center-mass hits that quickly transitioned to head shots on stationary targets. Importantly, no malfunctions of any kind were experienced, even during rapid operation of the bolt and reloads. This is crucial. The operational reliability of even a simple bolt-action rifle should never be taken for granted. I have witnessed various loading, chambering, and ejection malfunctions over the years. Another important thing to test is how reliably the rifle ejects a loaded round. This important attribute is often overlooked, but it’s an essential operation if there is ever an ammunition problem. A cold bore shot was taken at every opportunity during our many visits to the range. The shot always landed where intended. Nothing instills more confidence in a weapon system—rifle, ammunition, optics, and marksman—than the ability to place the first shot exactly as aimed.

The EVTC Jungle Walk Range was used to get a sense of the Cross Magnum’s handling characteristics. Targets were set up randomly along the meandering 575-yard path. A shooter must move down the path until their partner points out a paper or steel target. Often, unconventional, braced field positions were assumed, using a fallen tree or tree limb for support, especially if targets were over 200 yards away. While not a quantifiable trait, the Cross Magnum hangs and balances well from various shooting positions and was easy to get into and out of various field shooting positions. The Cross Magnum’s stock design allows for a good cheek weld that aids in handling recoil by preventing a slap of the face.

FINAL THOUGHTS

The Cross Magnum proved easy to handle and point with no frantic searching for targets required when the rifle was brought up to the shoulder. The ability to move through varied terrain and engage randomly placed targets hidden within cover suited the Cross Magnum perfectly. If lucky, the hunter will be able to adopt a kneeling or sitting position in lieu of a pure offhand shooting position. A rifle weighing less than 9 pounds, chambered in a hard-hitting caliber, and capable of sub-MOA accuracy cannot be ignored by any hunter whether they spot and stalk, still hunt, or choose to hunt safari-style or from a blind. The Cross Magnum can handle it all.

SPECIFICATIONS

The preponderance of double-stack 9mm 2011s arriving from various manufacturers appears to be heralding a new era of handguns. What was previously thought of as a competition-only application is now going mainstream. Single action triggers mated to a heap of 9mm sitting in a magazine seems a match made in heaven. What if I said SIG Sauer has been offering discerning consumers this ability since the early 2000s with a proven design that requires no magazine tweaking or tuning that the early 2011s were known for?

While SIG has become a standard-bearer for the polymer striker fired genre with its P320 and P365 series, SIG is still representing with the P226/229 family of metal framed, hammer-fired weapons. A little-known SIG Sauer decision made circa 2006 was to offer a single-action-only (SAO) trigger option to shooters with certain models of the P226/229 family. We are going to explore multiple examples of recent SIG handguns featuring single action only triggers—P226Zev, P226XFive Legion, and P229 Legion Compact SAO. Each offer different utility while benefiting from the P226’s proven design that’s combined with single-action-only trigger capability.

SETTING THE STAGE

At the turn of the 20th Century, semi-automatic handguns were typified by hammer-fired steel frames and most likely single-action in that the exposed hammer was cocked rearward when ready to fire. The Mauser 1896 “Broomhandle” and Browning 1911 serve as good examples. In the 1930’s, the double-action/single-action (DA/SA) hammer fired handgun genre arrived in the form of the German P38. Its emergence was just as revolutionary as the polymer, striker-fired Glock’s arrival 50 years later. Yes, other examples existed before each; however, both are recognized as the most successful, establishing the handgun genre to follow. The rise of DA/SA designs and polymer striker-fired handguns surely took away the preeminent position of the “cocked & locked” pistol. This is for a variety of reasons stretching from manufacturing procedures, the perception of added safety, and other reasons.

While there’s no doubting the popularity and staying power of DA/SA and polymer striker-fired weapons, hammer-fired SAO “cocked and locked” handguns have not faded quietly into the sunset. In fact, the case can be made that the popularity of this format is actually flourishing.

HISTORY

Before we get into the details, here’s a little background on the P226 family. The SIG P226 was spawned from the P220. P220 design work started in the late 1960s due to the Swiss wanting a less expensive to manufacture sidearm in lieu of the P210. The P220 entered Swiss service in 1975. Many of the innovative features introduced with the P220 family still prevail today, including on other manufacturer’s weapons.

A great example of this is how SIG modified Browning’s locked breech short recoil design. Instead of slots in the hood of the slide interacting with locking rings on top of the barrel, SIG utilized the forward edge of the chamber locking into the ejection port. This removed complex machining operations from the production process. The De-cocking lever, automatic firing pin safety, pinned breechblock in the steel slide are other examples of the P220 perfecting these concepts.

The P226 reflected SIG’s quest to generate an entry for the early 1980’s U.S. XM9 Joint Service Pistol trials conducted to find a replacement for the venerable but aged M1911A1. The P226 was modified from the P220 to accept double column magazines. When the dust settled after years of testing and evaluation, only the Beretta 92F submission and the SIG P226 satisfactorily completed the trials. As most readers already know, the P226 was not chosen to replace the M1911A1. The Beretta 92F was given the nod for a variety of factors outside the scope of the article. The P226 test performance impressed, thus gaining the attention of various military units, many with elite status, and law enforcement agencies in the U.S. and around the world. The U.S. Navy SEALs were the preeminent unit on this list of adopters. Early on, it was evident that the P226’s reliability, accuracy, safety, and capacity set it apart from its handgun peers.

P226 ZEV: MASTERFUL COLLABORATION

Unlike other manufactures who often forget about their civilian customers after getting a taste of military contracts, SIG’s leadership team keeps the hammer down with both current production and by offering new items based on feedback from its customers. SIG has no problem teaming up with other firms to create unique, enhanced versions of existing SIG products. The P226 Zev Technologies collaboration stands as an excellent example.

The P226 Zev is more than just a P226 with Zev’s aesthetic flourishes. Zev and SIG created a P226 that pushes the envelope. Immediately, the SAO trigger caught my attention as I’ve never been fond of DA/SA hammer-fired trigger characteristics. Distinctive texturing found on the Nitron-coated stainless slide, hard-coat anodized alloy frame with undercut trigger guard and extended beavertail, Zev-pattern hexagonal textured Hogue G10 grips, and a threaded dimpled barrel create a unique offering.

The P226 Zev offers users the best of the P226 design with a preferred single action trigger. Icing on the cake is the flat style trigger shoe. This offers a 90-degree break that’s less likely to pull the sights to the right or left as the trigger is pulled. I have come to prefer flat triggers based on experiences with SIG’s P226 brethren—P320s and P365s. Ambidextrous manual safeties are present on the P226 Zev in lieu of the de-cocking lever usually found on the standard P226.

Red dots are becoming standard equipment on handguns. Manufacturers have caught up to the red dot revolution with factory-equipped red dot handguns taking over from custom milled slides that dominated early red dot configurations. The P226 Zev arrives with a SIG ROMEO1 PRO reflex optic installed. A 4.9-inch, textured Zev Tech ½- 28 threaded barrel with protector protrudes from the slide. A SIG MODX-9 suppressor was quickly teamed up with the P226 Zev. This can features the newest innovation in suppressor technology with its modular, 3D-printed, segmented titanium baffle stack.

P229 LEGION COMPACT SAO: COMPACT WITHOUT COMPROMISE

SIG realized that a more compact P226 design would help them attract even more consumers, especially considering the expanding concealed carry laws spreading across the majority of U.S. states at the time. Thus, the P229 was born. The SIG P229 Legion Compact SAO is a compact variant of the classic P226 model. The Legion designation carries extra weight in SIG world. Legion nomenclature indicates factory custom shop upgrades based on feedback from SIG Sauer’s elite professional clients around the world. A Legion weapon is intended for customers who rigorously use their gear.

What sets the P229 Legion Compact SAO apart from its P229 stable mates? First, is the Cerakote Elite Legion gray coating covering the stainless-steel slide and aluminum frame. This is not merely idle window dressing; the coating improves durability. Custom G-10 grips with a Legion medallion are also present. The SAO trigger is what focused my attention on the P229 Legion Compact SAO. SIG XRay3 day/night iron sights arrive on the P229 Legion Compact SAO. Don’t worry, the slide is factory milled if user wants to mount a red dot compatible with the SIG PRO or Leupold DeltaPoint Pro footprint. Ambidextrous manual safeties are present on the P229 Legion Compact SAO.

The P229 Legion Compact’s compact profile makes it ideal for concealed carry, especially with inside-the-waistband carry techniques. Someone who is a practitioner of concealed carry quickly realizes that length, grip size, overall weight, and width of a pistol are the key defining parameters for discrete carry handguns.

While the safety lever is located within natural thumb swipe distance, the slide lock sits further toward the rear of the frame compared to other weapons. This all but eliminates the chance of unintentionally engaging the slide lock during strings of fire, as can happen if shooters rest their thumb on the lever with other designs. Another nod to the P229 Legion Compact SAO’s more modern design versus the 1911 is the safety’s ability to stay engaged while manipulating the slide.

The P229 Legion Compact features a contoured, reduced-profile beavertail allowing better hand placement on the frame while limiting concern from printing through cover garments. The beavertail’s protrusion from the frame guides one’s hand to the optimum grip position during the draw stroke and aids in recoil management. More aggressive front strap checkering and additional checkering under the trigger guard enhance grip purchase. An undercut has been applied below the trigger guard, allowing for a higher grip and more control when firing, especially during rapid shot strings.

The P229 Legion Compact’s shorter barrel/slide provides an optimal mix of sight radius, concealment, balance, and reliability. The SIG XRay3 day/night irons compliment the P229 Legion Compact’s intended role as a concealed carry weapon. The P229 Legion Compact SAO’s 3.9-inch, cold hammer-forged barrel and short reset, single-action trigger combined with near perfect lock-up in the stainless-steel slide ensure maximum reliability and accuracy. The SIG single-action trigger pull measures 3.5 to 4 lbs. The aluminum frame features a Picatinny rail dust cover for tactical versatility in the way of lights and laser target designators.

P226 XFIVE LEGION: MATCH MASTER NOW MADE IN AMERICA

Even with their current, preeminent position, SIG has no problem expanding its product line by offering weapons that many considered unobtainable. A recent entry into this category has pistol aficionados sitting up and taking notice—the P226 XFIVE is now made here in the U.S. in the SIG Custom Works shop. Previous P226 XFIVE’s were Teutonic offerings from the German-based SIG MasterShop. These were discontinued in 2012. SIG recently decided to expand on the P226XFIVE by offering a Legion version.

Whereas the P226XFIVE has the competition and target crowd as its focus, the P226XFIVE Legion is more utilitarian with its setup. Yes, if you want to relentlessly punch steel during a match, the P226 XFIVE Legion will accommodate. However, the presence of a slide-integrated expansion chamber, suppressor-height XRAY3 adjustable sights, and subdued Legion Cerakote Gray finish indicate a this model was meant for general, defensive use. It is not hard to fathom why some may consider the P226 XFIVE Legion applicable to personal defense work. Under the rear sight plate, SIG milled the slide to accept red dots with a SIG ROMEO PRO or Leupold DeltaPoint Pro footprint.

The XFIVE Legion’s fully adjustable AX3 SAO trigger is a key component in the XFIVE equation. The XFIVE Legion’s trigger is adjustable for pull weight, over-travel, and length-of-pull. The XFIVE Legion’s trigger is a flat faced as described with the P229 Legion. The XFIVE trigger characteristics aid in rapid target engagement with a trigger pull just over 3 pounds, out of the box.

The XFIVE Legion’s longer slide and barrel combo (when compared to a standard P226) contributes more mass, aiding in increased muzzle control for double taps or longer strings of fire. The pistol’s ergonomics combine with the slide’s smooth tracking during recoil and manageable 9mm muzzle signature to present a very stable sight picture, no matter how many or how fast rounds are fired.

SIG uses the term “integrated expansion chamber” instead of “compensator” in its P226 XFIVE Legion literature. This is a nod to the fact that the 4.4-inch barrel stops short of the slots in the slide. Whereas compensators usually list 30 to 35% recoil/muzzle rise reduction, the integrated expansion chamber provides less than this. Subjectively, it seems like a 10 to 20% effectiveness listing. There’s no need to debate the finer points of compensator effectiveness. Any advantage gained by their use is beneficial. The integrated expansion chamber design with the P226 XFIVE Legion means it can never come loose and requires no extra steps for field stripping due to its integrated construction in the slide.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Each one of the SIG pistols discussed above have been used extensively for extended time frame. All have proved capable of firing groups into one jagged hole at 10 yards with multiple loads. The P226 Zev’s threaded barrel, ROMEO1PRO optic, and single-action trigger allow a user a range of options related to the pistol’s intended role. Combining SIG’s MODX-9 suppressor to the pistol expands this line of thinking. The P226 Zev occupies the role of nightstand weapon with aplomb.

The P229 Legion Compact SAO often accompanies me in a personal defense capacity. Numerous holsters are available, facilitating a multitude of IWB or belt carry options. Comparison of the P229 Legion Compact to the Commander-size 1911or Glock 19 should quell the concerns of anyone thinking the SIG is too large to carry. The SIG P229 Legion Compact SAO is ideal for anyone wanting to capitalize on the SIG reputation for out-of-the-box reliability and accuracy combined with single-action trigger for the utmost control and precise shot placement.

The P226 XFIVE Legion is the newest member of the SIG tribe we have discussed. All will appreciate what the P226 XFIVE Legion offers in terms of accuracy, reliability, handling, and capacity. The P226 XFIVE’s uncanny accuracy will get everyone’s attention. The P226 XFIVE-series now being U.S.-made increases availability and creates a more palatable price for the boutique offering.

While it’s hard to quantify the “feel” of a pistol in the hand, the mystique of a well-put-together single-action semi-automatic handgun is hard to deny in our current polymer striker-fired age. A trigger that arrives featuring minimal to no creep, limited travel and reset, and a break like the proverbial glass rod is hard to resist. All of these things become magnified as knowledge and skills are gained in the quest to run a handgun with ruthless efficiency—albeit in a tactical, duty, competition, or personal defense role.

Lastly, do not underestimate the ability to configure these guns into condition one, cocked and locked carry, which Americans are intimately familiar with thanks to the iconic 1911 design. The 1911’s enduring appeal with the American shooter goes beyond what many can fathom. The resultant attraction of this surely has an effect on the U.S. consumer.

Does nostalgia play a role in the rebirth of hammer-fired SAO only handguns? Hell, yeah it does. SIG has you covered.

SIG SAUER Releases CROSS Magnum Bolt-Action Rifle

“The development of the CROSS Magnum pushes the boundaries of innovation for a bolt-action platform and delivers on precision, power, and performance” said Tom Taylor, Chief Marketing Officer and Executive Vice President, Commercial Sales. “Starting with the receiver design, the CROSS Magnum allows for easy barrel changes while keeping your scope and pic-rail mounted, adds a new folding hinge for easier, intuitive folding, better stock-retention and a stronger lock-up, includes a full-length ARCA and M-LOK rail for maximum tripod and bipod usability and adjustment in the field, while the integrated radial compensator design reduces the felt recoil of the magnum caliber by forty-five percent. The CROSS Magnum is feature-rich, performance built, and ready for the hunt.”

The SIG SAUER CROSS Magnum is a bolt-action rifle chambered in 300 Win Mag with a 24 inch user-changeable 5R barrel, aluminum coyote anodized frame, and a two-stage match trigger. The rifle features the new magnum action receiver with a free-floating handguard, a full-length M-LOK and ARCA rail handguard, forward angle PRS style grip and right thumb rest safety, a folding adjustable precision stock and ships with a 6-round AICS magazine.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Caliber: 300 Win Mag
• Overall Length: 45.2 in
• Overall Height: 7.25 in
• Overall Width: 3.25 in
• Barrel Length: 24 in
• Barrel Twist: 1:9
• Weight with Magazine: 8.9 lb.

The SIG SAUER CROSS Magnum is now shipping and available at retailers.

“This signature HAVA event is made possible through the overwhelming generosity of individuals, organizations, supporters, and industry partners. Since the events founding, the SIG organizing committee has raised close to $500,000 and countless volunteer hours,” said Tom Taylor, Chief Marketing Officer and Executive Vice President, SIG SAUER Inc. “One hundred percent of this funding goes directly towards expanding the HAVA programming through shooting events and hunting, and in support of the HAVA mission to re-integrate disabled veterans and injured military back into normal life.”

HAVA is a 501(c)3 organization founded in 2007 by a group of executives from the hunting and shooting industry to help disabled veterans and injured active-duty military returning from war heal and reintegrate back into everyday life through participation in outdoor activities. HAVA sponsors guided hunts, shooting events, and outdoor activities across the country hosting hundreds of veterans annually.

SIG SAUER is a longstanding supporter and sustaining sponsor of HAVA. Annually, SIG SAUER participates in HAVA sponsored shooting and hunting events across the country benefiting hundreds of veterans, including the upcoming flagship San Antonio Police Department HAVA Family Day at the SAPD Training Facility on November 4, 2023.

To learn more about the HAVA organization visit honoredveterans.org.

“The ROMEO-X family of red dot sights is completely optimized for everyday carry and built using the same technology and testing standards of our mil-spec optics that are designed to withstand the rigors of the battlefield,” said Andy York, President, SIG SAUER Electro-Optics. “The ROMEO-X Series is designed for ease of use beginning with the side battery placement leading to an overall low deck height of the sight. This profile gives the optic an extremely low position when mounted to the slide for a full sight picture and co-witness with the existing standard-height iron sights. The ROMEO-X Compact and ROMEO-X Pro are engineered, tested, and built-in Oregon to be the ultimate aiming solution for EDC.”

The SIG SAUER Electro-Optics ROMEO-X Series red-dot sights are available in a compact version (ROMEO-X Compact), to fit micro-compact pistols, and a Pro version (ROMEO-X Pro), to fit full-size pistols, featuring a distortion-free aspheric glass with a patent-pending Beryllium Copper flexure-arm adjustment system, in 7075 aircraft-grade aluminum housing with machined anti-reflection grooves on shooter facing surfaces.

The ROMEO-X Series optics incorporate a high-efficiency point source red LED emitter with 2 MOA dot / 32 MOA circle reticle, side independent brightness adjustment buttons, 15 brightness settings including night vision settings, and a side-mounted CR1632 battery compartment with a threaded battery cap so the optic does not need to be removed from the pistol for battery changes. Additionally, the ROMEO-X Series offers a low deck height for standard-height iron sight co-witness, has a minimum continuous runtime of 20, 000 hours at medium brightness setting and utilizes MOTAC (Motion Activated Illumination), MAGNETAC (Magnetic Activation), and D.A.R.C. (Dark Adaptive Reticles & Coatings) technologies.

ROMEO-X Compact:

• Clear Aperture Diameter: 24mm
• Reticle: 2MOA Dot / 32 MOA Circle
• Lens Type: Asphere
• Illumination Settings: 15 (12 Day / 3NV)
• Overall Length: 1.62 inches
• Overall Width: .94 inches
• Overall Height: 1.23 inch
• Mounting Footprint: SHIELD RMSc
• Weight (w/o battery): 1.0 ounce
• MSRP: $519.99

ROMEO-X Pro:

• Clear Aperture Diameter: 24mm
• Reticle: 2MOA Dot / 32 MOA Circle
• Lens Type: Asphere
• Illumination Settings: 15 (12 Day / 3NV)
• Overall Length: 1.84 inches
• Overall Width: .94 inches
• Overall Height: 1.23 inch
• Mounting Footprint: DeltaPoint Pro
• Weight (w/o battery): 1.15 ounces
• MSRP: $589.99

Like all SIG SAUER Electro-Optics the ROMEO-X Series includes the Infinite Guarantee, an unlimited lifetime guarantee that requires no warranty or receipt should your optic need to be replaced at any time.

Return with us to the thrilling days of yesteryear, when military service sidearms were beefy, single-stack, single-action hammer-fired pistols machined out of good, honest steel.

The first half of the Twentieth Century was the stomping ground for these beasties, and the type specimen was the American M1911 from Colt. This John Moses Browning design served as the jumping off point for a host of evolutionary adaptations, like the Tokarev in the USSR and Poland’s Radom.

To its fans, the highest evolution of this basic setup was the Swiss Pistole Modell 1949 service auto, best known by its newer commercial designation: the SIG P210. This was a serious all-steel military sidearm, with a 4.75-inch barrel, that tipped the scales at over two pounds, with a single-column magazine holding eight rounds of 9x19mm ammunition.

Meanwhile, in America

About this time, across the Atlantic, the folks at Colt were chasing a military contract for a more compact, lighter pistol than the current M1911A1. To achieve these goals, they shortened the 1911’s five-inch barrel by three quarters of an inch, to 4.25 inches. Additionally, they substituted a forged aluminum frame for the steel of the original; a change made possible by the fact that the original design was way overbuilt.

While the U.S. military didn’t buy it, Colt sold it commercially as the Commander, available in .45ACP, .38 Super, and 9mm. It became a popular choice for concealed carry, being lighter on the belt and shorter in the holster. But that was in America. Back to Switzerland…

Too Expensive to Live, Too Cool to Die

Switzerland’s market being less carry-driven than the gun-toting USA, the P210 continued on in military and commercial target-shooting versions until it was replaced for reasons of manufacturing cost by the cheaper-to-manufacture 9mm SIG-Sauer P220 (ironic since the M49 replaced its forebear in the Swiss army, the Luger, for the same reason.)

The P210 drifted in and out of commercial production as a bougie enthusiast’s sporting pistol through the fin de siècle and into the current Millennium before experiencing a reboot as the P210A at the hands of SIG Sauer’s new American HQ.

At SHOT Show in 2017, the P210A showed up, freshened with an American-style magazine release button instead of the archaic heel release on the original and a thumb safety relocated rearward along the frame to a position more familiar to American 1911 shooters.

This year, SIG Sauer has released the American-made P210 equivalent of the classic Colt Commander: Meet the SIG Sauer P210 Carry.

Less Weight, More Toteability

When you pop open the compact black plastic carry case, you’re greeted by a pistol, a pair of magazines, and the various mandated manuals, paperwork, and safety lock lying on a bed of egg crate foam.

Just looking at it, the most obvious difference on the 210 Carry is the shorter slide. This is because the Carry sports a 4.1-inch barrel, splitting the difference between the classic 4.25-inch Commander barrel and the 4-inch ones found on the compact Commander-esque offerings from Kimber and Springfield Armory.

Also in common with the Colt Commander is a switch from steel to aluminum for the frame material, whacking nearly half a pound of avoirdupois off the as-holstered weight. The grip length and 8+1 round magazine capacity remain unchanged.

Rounding out the prominently visible changes from the Target version are the distinctive black G10 grip panels (exclusive to the Carry model for now), with a subtle-but-grippy texture, and a set of forward cocking serrations. The latter are seemingly de rigueur on a tacticool carry pistol these days, but of questionable utility on a pistol with the low-profile slide of the 210. Big style points, though.

Tactical Touches

The frontstrap of the 210 Carry is finely checkered at thirty lines per inch, and there’s a matching patch of 30lpi checkering on the front of the trigger guard, if you really want to get your eighties LARP on.

The trigger face itself is smooth and curved. Unlike the 1911, the P210’s trigger pivots rather than sliding straight back in a channel in the frame. There’s a fairly short, light takeup leading to a rolling break that measured a consistent three and a half pounds on our test specimen.

Unlike its P210 Target stablemate, which has plain front blade combined with a micrometer click adjustable rear sight, the Carry has three-dot SigLite night sights with self-illuminated tritium vials. The only adjustment on the rear sight is for windage, and you’ll need a hammer and punch to adjust it.

Both the slide release and safety have subtly extended and contoured control surfaces to make them easier to manipulate. They worked well from an ergonomic standpoint, being easily reachable for normal human-size hands without extensive shifting of the pistol in the grip. The thumb safety was extremely positive and unlikely to be swiped off by accident. This also meant that it was next to impossible to reapply with an easy upward flick of the thumb after a string of fire. Even after 750 rounds, it was still something of an effort to get it back on safe.

Breakdown Deets

Field stripping the P210 is a ride in a time machine.

With the rise to prominence of the Beretta 92 series as well as Sig Sauer’s own P220 and its offshoots, we’ve become accustomed to metal-framed hammer-fired Europistols that take down with the throw of a lever. Instead, the P210 Carry takes us back to the thrilling days of yesteryear.

First you drop the magazine and clear the pistol. Then you retract the slide ever so slightly, about half a centimeter, and push the slide stop out. To do this, press on the axle where it protrudes from the right side of the frame and then pull it out to the left. Then you slide the upper assembly off the front of the frame.

It’s here where you’ll encounter another difference between the P210 Carry and its Target sibling. While the P210 Target uses a captive recoil spring assembly, the Carry version does not. It’s not that big a deal when taking it apart, but a certain amount of holding your mouth right is involved in putting it back together; fumble it and you’ll be chasing that stubby recoil spring guide around the corners of the room. (Look in the one with the most cobwebs and dust bunnies.)

Another difference is that the whole action assembly doesn’t lift out on its chassis anymore, a clever trait that the original 210 shared with the Tokarev.

But How Does it Shoot?

Practically speaking, this is a pistol that SIG should have built at the same time Colt did, seventy years ago, but better late than never.

Unless one is doing testing with a Ransom Rest under controlled conditions, group sizes in a handgun review are more a measurement of how good the reviewer was feeling on range day (or their willingness to pencil-whip some data) but even doing casual shooting offhand, the 210 Carry had no real problem hanging with custom 1911s shot side by side for comparison. Like, 25-yard groups in the 2- to 3-inch range with commercial S&B or Blazer Brass ammo were par for the course. This gun would be lights-out in a mechanical rest.

It’s comfortable in the hand and points nicely and probably the only real ergonomic complaint arises when you try and park your thumb atop the safety as though you were running a modern 1911 derivative: the shape of the thumb safety has a tendency to beat up the base knuckle of your thumb when you do that.

The controls all fall neatly to hand and the trigger is easily manageable. The biggest threat to the P210 Carry’s market success comes from the people who paid large dollars for gray market 210s back in the day and therefore have a vested interest in tearing the new kid down.

Those people complain that it has some MIM parts or that it doesn’t have the same modular lockwork assembly as the original. Some people will just never be happy.

If, on the other hand, you’re interested in a slim, extremely accurate, single action carry pistol that’s not just another 1911 knockoff, Sig Sauer has the pistol for you.

SPECIFICATIONS:

There is no doubt about the popularity and acceptance of polymer striker-fired handguns. It seems end users and arms makers both win. The quick adoption of striker-fired weapons for LE and military use bears this out. From a manufacturer perspective, polymer-framed, strike-fired handguns are less expensive to produce and require minimal hand fitting while still offering impressive performance.

Hammer-fired single action only “cocked and locked” handguns have not faded quietly into the sunset, though. In fact, the case can be made this format is actually flourishing. Why? The mystique of a well put together single action semi-automatic handgun is hard to deny in our current polymer striker-fired age. A trigger with minimal-to-no-creep, limited travel/reset, and a break like the proverbial “glass rod” is hard to resist. All of these things become magnified as knowledge and skills are gained in the quest to run a handgun with ruthless efficiency. The performance offered in these aficionado weapons justify their place as a valid choice.

While SIG Sauer has become a standard-bearer for the polymer striker-fired genre with its P320 and P365 series, SIG is still representing with 1911, P210, and P220/226/229 family of metal-framed hammer-fired weapons. A little-known SIG Sauer decision made circa 2006 was to offer a single-action-only trigger option to shooters with certain models of the P220/226/229 family. The P229 Legion SAO is one such example and the focus of this article.

Legion Features

The SIG P229 Legion SAO RXP is a compact variant of SIG’s classic P226 model. The Legion designation carries extra weight in SIG world. Legion nomenclature indicates SIG upgrading of an established product based on feedback from SIG Sauer’s elite professional clients around the world. A Legion weapon is intended for customers who rigorously use their gear.

What sets the P229 Legion SAO apart from its other P229 stable mates? First, is the Cerakote Elite Legion gray coating covering the stainless-steel slide and aluminum frame. This is not merely window dressing; the coating improves durability. Custom G-10 grips with a Legion medallion are also present. The single-action-only (SAO) trigger is what focused my attention on the P229 Legion SAO. The P229 Legion SAO offers the best of the P229 design with preferred trigger profile. Icing on the cake is the P229 Legion featuring a flat style trigger shoe versus curved. This offers a 90-degree lever for better geometry and lowers the probability of pulling to the right or left during shots.

The superior SIG XRay3 day/night irons arrive on the P229 Legion SAO. Don’t worry, the slide is factory milled if you want to mount a red dot. Ambidextrous manual safeties are present on the P229 Legion SAO in lieu of a de-cocking lever that’s usually found on the P226/9 models. There’s some strong nostalgic feelings attached the P229 Legion SAO’s exposed cocked and locked hammer. The swiping down/deactivating of safety the lever brought me back to my early days of training with a single action handgun.

Compact Without Compromise

SIG realized that a more compact P226 design would help them attract even more consumers, especially considering the expanding concealed carry laws spreading across the country. Thus, the P229 was born. The P220/6’s history and track record of proven performance on the battlefield (and the street) grant the P229 Legion SAO instant credibility. The P229 Legion’s compact profile makes it ideal for concealed carry, especially with inside-the-waistband carry techniques. Someone who is a practitioner of concealed carry quickly realizes that length, grip size, overall weight, and width of a pistol are the key defining parameters for discrete carry handguns.

The P229 Legion’s aluminum frame, stainless slide, and 3.9-inch barrel add up to a weight of only 31 oz. While the safety lever is located within natural thumb swipe distance, the slide lock sits further toward the rear of the frame compared to other weapons. This all but eliminates the chance of unintentionally engaging the slide lock during strings of fire as can happen when shooters rest their thumb on the lever with other designs.

Another nod to the P229 Legion SAO’s more modern design when compared to the 1911 is the safety’s ability to stay engaged while manipulating the slide. The P229 Legion features a contoured reduced profile beavertail allowing for better hand placement on the frame while limiting the concern of printing through cover garments. The beavertail’s protrusion from the frame guides one’s hand to the optimum grip position during the draw stroke and aids in recoil management. More aggressive front strap checkering and additional checkering under the trigger guard enhance grip purchase. An undercut has been applied below the trigger guard, allowing for a higher grip and more control when firing, especially during rapid shot strings.

The P229 Legion’s shorter barrel/slide maintains optimum mix of sight radius, concealment, balance, and reliability. The SIG XRay3 day/night irons compliment the P229 Legion’s intended role as a concealed carry weapon. The P229 Legion’s SAO’s 3.9-inch cold hammer-forged barrel and short reset, single-action trigger combined with near perfect lock-up in the stainless-steel slide ensure maximum reliability and accuracy performance. The SIG single-action trigger pull measured 3.5-4 pounds. The aluminum frame features a Picatinny rail-equipped dust cover for tactical versatility in the way of lights and laser target designators.

Range Time

No weapon’s reliability should be blindly trusted without confirming its function, especially if used for personal defense. The SIG P229 Legion SAO had no issue performing straight out of the box. The first range session consisted of over 200 rounds without cleaning or adding lubricant. Firing was at a relatively steady pace with different shooters running the P229 Legion thru its paces on plate racks, dueling trees, and other drills. Considering that the P229 Legion’s design intent as an everyday carry handgun, we decided to dedicate some time evaluating around vehicles, breaching facades, door entries, and other CQB activities. Echo Valley Training Center’s onsite Hesco Shoot House and 360 Range were ideal test locations. The natural pointability of the P229 Legion comes into its own in this realm. The single-action only trigger is a key component in this equation. The single action trigger aids in rapid target engagement with minimal trigger reset. The SIG slide/barrel combination contributes more mass, aiding in increased muzzle control for double taps or longer strings of fire.

PERFORMANCE

A variety of 9mm loads were tested with the P229 Legion including Federal HST, Speer Gold Dot, Hornady XTP, SIG V-Crown & FMJ, and Black Hills Ammunition JHP & FMJ. An ammunition can featuring a smorgasbord of random brands and types was also used. Loads fired spanned 115- to 147-grain. The P229 Legion SAO handled all brands, bullet types, and weights with equal aplomb. P229’s ergonomics and handling characteristics are quickly appreciated and make a user understand why the P229 is well thought of. The overall balance of the P229 Legion SAO made recoil no more an issue than a full size P226. Even under the induced stress of drawing against a timer and engaging multiple targets, the manual safety was always positively disengaged. No malfunctions were experienced while test firing over 650 rounds during range visits.

The SIG P229 Legion SAO did not disappoint, regularly producing 2- to 3-inch groups at 25 yards when fired from standing, unsupported positions. Bench testing could not be resisted after witnessing the unsupported accuracy results. Under 2-inch groups at 25 yards were not unusual.

The P229 Legion SAO was tested in various holsters from VersaCarry and Galco. Flexibility is the key to effective carry practices with Inside-the-Waistband (IWB) Concealable from Galco and Comfort Flex Deluxe from VersaCarry. The SIG P229 Legion did not feel out of place or uncomfortable in either the VersaCarry or Galco IWB even when carried for lengthy stretches of time going about daily business. The Decree belt holster from VersaCarry and Royal Guard from Galco had the P229 Legion riding comfortably on the hip.

Hammer Fired Single Action Only Evolution

One could argue the single-action only SIGs such as the P229 are the natural evolution of the 1911 design, especially with the number of high-capacity 9mm 1911s becoming available. The P229 Legion SAO is at a price point many custom-tuned 1911 aficionadas can appreciate.

The P229 Legion SAO easily fits the concealed carry and personal defense roles, especially if a polymer-framed, striker-fired model is not your thing. For example, the P229 Legion equipped with a light/laser on its forward rail is as good a nightstand handgun as there is. Size comparison of the P229 Legion SAO to the commander-sized 1911 should quell any concerns of those that may think the SIG is too large. The SIG P229 Legion SAO is ideal for anyone wanting to capitalize on the SIG Sauer reputation for out-of-the-box reliability and accuracy combined with single action trigger for utmost control and precise shot placement.

SPECIFICATIONS

SIG Sauer is at it again. The company is recognized as an industry leader in the development and manufacturing of rifles, submachine guns, belt-fed machine guns, handguns, optics, suppressors, ammunition, and more. This leads us to SIG’s latest rifle offering—the MCX SPEAR LT. The MCX is a new approach to the carbine platform that blends caliber adaptability with feature configurability without sacrificing reliability.

One thing immediately came to mind when the MCX SPEAR LT was introduced. How could the SPEAR LT be worthy of supplanting the original 2015 MCX and its 2017 MCX Virtus successor? SIG took a raft of grief from the public for releasing the upgraded MCX Virtus with some consumers crying foul over their perceived role as platform beta testers. So, SIG releasing a third generation of the MCX is bound to irritate past generation MCX owners.

In the end, though, SIG can’t be expected to stop developing the platform when faced with advances in technology and materials, as well as lucrative procurement opportunities that would drive the development of any platform forward.

In the end, SIG is willing to endure the criticism it might face for advancing the MCX platform with another generational release that further improves the carbine’s ability to adapt to a wider range of missions, as the SPEAR LT does.

According to SIG, the original MCX spawned from a SOCOM request to develop a 7-pound, compact multi-caliber adaptable rifle that would be predominantly operated suppressed. The same military input has driven all three MCX generations. All of the MCX-series improvements were driven by additional tier one DOD unit contract requests that sought to increase accuracy, modularity, and durability. The public is fortunate to benefit with MCX civilian models made available.

Inevitable Evolution

“The MCX SPEAR LT is an evolution of the MCX VIRTUS,” says SIG Sauer’s Media Relations Manager Michael Marotte, “brought about through competition in U.S. Special Forces and allied special forces weapons contracts.”

Addressing the differences between MCX Virtus and MCX SPEAR LT, Marotte says, “Externally the biggest difference is the handguard, we went lighter and slimmer and thus more ergonomic. Doing this typically sacrifices the rigidity needed for laser aiming modules, however we have maintained the rigidity by adding two retention screws that attach the handguard directly to the upper receiver.”

He says the second large difference is the addition of an ambidextrous bolt-catch and bolt-release on the right side of the firearm. Push up to lock the bolt to the rear or down to release it.

The folding stock and modularity are big indicators that the MCX is not another AR platform. The MCX bolt carrier group is different than an AR’s. The initial user’s request to use a folding stock in lieu of a typical AR buffer tube setup required a new bolt carrier design. SIG installed dual recoil springs above the bolt carrier group. Due to the recoil spring placement, the charging handle sits slightly higher on the MCX receiver compared to an AR. Not only did the dual recoil springs enable the use of a folding stock, but it provides other benefits in terms of a smoother and softer recoil impulse, elimination of buffer tube wear associated with AR piston driven rifles, and an increase in overall reliability and durability. The intent to operate almost exclusively suppressed and to accommodate various calibers using different barrel lengths (including sub-10-inch barrels) meant the MCX would use a self-regulating, short-stroke operating system.

Generations

SIG’s designers needed to meet a 50,000-round-count endurance criteria for the upper receiver to satisfy the initial solicitation that brought the MCX to life. The MCX Virtus takes this even further with a 20,000-round endurance requirement that excludes replacing normal wear and tear components during the endurance test. This should allay any concerns about its durability in terms of wear and “loosening” up with use. The MCX SPEAR LT follows this path.

Obviously, quality materials are a must along with a full understanding of high wear parts on the rifle. SIG has designed the MCX with certain key components upgraded from aluminum to steel; these parts are also easily replaceable. For example, the cam path and feed ramp inserts. The charging handle latches move over steel pins as opposed to aluminum pins. MCX barrels are hammer forged and receive a nitride treatment for increased barrel life.

The original MCX to MCX Virtus improvements consisted of a tapered lug bolt group, a two-stage SIG Matchlite Duo trigger, thicker receivers and barrels (the reason why MCX and MCX Virtus barrels and bolt groups are not interchangeable), M-Lok handguard and modified gas port locations. The MCX SPEAR LT ups the ante even further over the MCX Virtus. SIG’s Marotte points out that with the SPEAR LT, “the bolt carrier group has had a minor redesign, moving the firing pin safety latch from the 12 o’clock position in the recoil assembly to a 9 o’clock position on the carrier. This reduces the energy needed to defeat the latch, allowing for the use of aftermarket AR triggers. It also improves performance and reliability with surplus, hard primer 7.62×39 ammo.”

The SPEAR LT has a lightened and recontoured handguard with attachment screws for additional rigidity. Barrel manufacturing focused on maintaining accuracy, even with the SPEAR LT’s slimmer profile barrel. About a pound was shaved off the MCX SPEAR LT compared to MCX Virtus. Other features of the MCX SPEAR LT include an ambidextrous bolt catch and bolt release on its lower receiver. The MCX SPEAR LT is fully ambidextrous—selector switch, charging handle, bolt, and magazine release. A lever on the right side of the receiver above the magazine release acts as a supplemental bolt catch and bolt release.

The MCX SPEAR LT features coyote anodized finish, including minimalist stock with button release for maximum compact foldability. The return to AR15-style trigger compatibility will be well received. The MCX SPEAR LT brings the long-anticipated addition of the 7.62×39 caliber to the MCX family.

Modularity

The rifle’s caliber, barrel length, forend, and buttstock are all easily interchangeable. Anecdotal stories are shared by SIG representatives of how the SIG MCX would be submitted for certain military solicitations with all associated gear arriving in one hard case. We’re talking about different calibers, barrel lengths, handguards, optics, and suppressors—all made by SIG, by the way. We’re told that in these situations, competitors would be wheeling in multiple cases of gear and setting up multiple upper receiver configurations to meet the desired trial parameters instead of just switching out specific components as needed.

The SIG MCX SPEAR LT can be viewed as a fresh design in a market dominated by the AK and the AR. The SIG MCX represents a new age of rifle modularity. Caliber change between 5.56mm and 300AAC is a simple matter. The fact that the 5.56mm and 300AAC share the same magazine and bolt group is the foundation for their close compatibility. Removing the forend exposes two captive T27 Torx bolts. Loosening these allows the barrel and gas piston to be removed. The new barrel and gas piston is then installed with the two T27 Torx bolts tightened to 60-inch pounds. The whole process is as simple as reading it. Caliber changes between 5.56mm/300AAC and 7.62×39 require a bolt change and the barrel kits will come with the bolt.

Ancillary Support

A SIG SLH 7.62 suppressor was chosen for use with the MCX SPEAR LT. SIG’s SLX/SLH QD muzzle device arrives pre-installed on the MCX SPEAR LT. The SLH uses SIG’s new clutch-LOK QD mounting system. SIG has put as much thought into the SLH 762 suppressor as the SPEAR LT. Not only is hearing protection addressed with the SLH, but so is th4 management of toxic fumes associated with back blast. MIT computing power was purchased to come up with a monolithic baffle design to keep fumes out of the operator’s face. Traditional CNC machining could not cope with the intricate metal work needed to comply with the blueprint, so 3D printing and DMLS manufacturing methods are used. The SLH remained mounted on the SPEAR LT for the majority of our evaluation.

The SIG theme was continued with a SIG Tango-MSR LPVO 1-6x24mm optic. The MSR LPVO offers a 1x illuminated reticle setting for quick target acquisition at close range with both eyes open. A quick turn of the eyepiece to 6x enables longer precision shots. The optic is loaded with high end features such as an adjustable illuminated BDC6 MOA reticle, and low dispersion, high transmittance glass for outstanding light transmission and clarity.

The MCX SPEAR LT handguard’s M-LOK capability allows mounting Crimson Trace’s recently introduced RIG (Rapid Illumination Grip). The RIG combines the ergonomic advantage of an angled foregrip with a 500-peak-lumen weapon light into one sleek, effective device. As a side note, the RIG is ideal for braced pistols requiring a light. The angled foregrip is not considered a vertical foregrip which is a big no-no on braced pistols due to Federal regulations.

Ammunition tested with the SIG MCX SPEAR LT was a combination of multiple 5.56mm/223Rem loads from SIG, Black Hills, and Hornady. No load tested produced greater than 1.5-inch groups at 100 yards. Our top performer, SIG’s Elite 77 grain Match punched three rounds into a 0.5-.75-inch groups. Pretty impressive considering the 1-6x optic mounted and the idea that the MCX SPEAR LT is a fighting rifle, not a match target rifle affair, making this performance even more impressive.

PERFORMANCE

RANGE EVALUATION

The minimalist nature of the SIG folding stock caused some initial skepticism related to the rifle’s ergonomics and effectiveness. This was quickly forgotten once the shooting started. The folding stock proved rock solid and provided a solid cheek weld for use with optics; kudos to the SIG design team for this. The MCX SPEAR LT lived up to the task of being an ergonomic, well handling rifle. Drills moving around barricades and training evolutions involving firing and evacuating from vehicles clearly bore this out. The handy MCX is what individuals will choose to work with in such environments. Over 500 rounds were fired for this T&E. The piston driven MCX proved utterly reliable with only minimal effort given to wipe down bolt carrier group and lubricate sporadically.

The SIG short-stroke gas piston operating rod system proved its worth, keeping the bolt carrier group cooler and cleaner compared to direct impingement rifles, even with the SIG SLH suppressor mounted. While not trying to be unrealistic or overly harsh, the SIG MCX was exposed to a high volume of fire typical of team tactics bounding drills. The method was employed to confirm that, beyond a doubt, the SIG MCX delivered as advertised under the most adverse operational conditions, including with a suppressor mounted. A Magpul PMAG D-60 drum magazine was used during portions of our evaluation. This allowed the MCX SPEAR LT to shine when faced with a harsh, no-breaks firing schedule. We appreciated how well the MCX SPEAR LT forend shielded the shooter’s off-hand from the heat coming off the barrel. The Crimson Trace RIG also held up well under the semi-abusive environment.

With the SIG MCX SPEAR LT, SIG finds itself in an advantageous position by being a total system provider — weapons, optics, suppressors, ammunition, and other accessories. At the beginning of this article, I openly questioned if the new, third generation MCX SPEAR LT was really necessary. The real shame would have been if the improvements represented in the MCX SPEAR LT had been withheld. Performance is the quickest way to appeal to the shooting public…the MCX SPEAR LT will have no problem proving its worth.

SPECIFICATIONS

SIG Sauer HQ in Newington, NH has been a busy place the last several years. Multiple successes with major military and law enforcement solicitations have that effect. Across the board—long arms, handguns, SMGs, belt fed machine guns, suppressors, optics, and ammunition—SIG is at the top of the heap as a manufacturer and a developer.

The company’s civilian offerings have been just as impressive. Unlike other manufactures, who often forget about their civilian customers after getting a taste of military contracts, SIG’s dynamic leadership team keeps the hammer down by feeding the market with its current production pistols while offering new items based on feedback from its customers. Even with their preeminent position, SIG has no problem expanding their product line by offering weapons that many considered unobtainable at one point. We’re talking about releases of classics like the P210 Target and P210 Carry. Another recent entry into this category has pistol aficionados sitting up and taking notice—the P226 XFIVE is now made here in the U.S. in the SIG Custom Works shop. Previous P226 XFIVE’s were Teutonic offerings from the German-based SIG MasterShop. These were discontinued in 2012.

Before we get into P226 XFIVE details, let’s get a little background on the P226 pistol family. The SIG Sauer P226 was spawned from the P220. P220 design work started in the late 1960s when the Swiss wanted a less pricey sidearm in lieu of the P210, which had a complex (and expensive) manufacturing process. The P220 entered Swiss service in 1975.

Many of the innovative features introduced on the P220/P226 family still prevail today on more recent designs from SIG, as well as on other manufacturer’s weapons. A great example is how SIG modified Browning’s locked breech short recoil design. Instead of slots machined into the slide interacting with locking rings on top of the barrel, SIG utilized the forward edge of the chamber which locks into the slide’s ejection port. This removed complex machining operations from the production process. De-cocking lever, automatic firing pin safety, and a pinned breechblock in the steel slide are other examples of SIG-perfected concepts that are common today.

The P226 reflected SIG’s quest to generate an entry for the early 1980’s US XM9 joint service pistol trials conducted to find a replacement for the M1911A1. The P226 was modified from the P220 design to accept double column magazines. When the dust settled after years of testing and evaluation, only the Beretta 92F submission and SIG P226 satisfactorily completed the trials. As most readers already know, the P226 was not chosen to replace the venerable M1911A1. The Beretta 92F was given the nod for a variety of factors outside the scope of the article. The P226 test performance impressed a lot of observers, though. It gained the attention of various military units, many with elite status, and law enforcement agencies in the U.S. and around the world; with the U.S. Navy Seals preeminent on this list of interested parties. Early on, it was evident the P226’s reliability, accuracy, safety, and ammunition capacity set it apart from its handgun peers.

Features

The target audience, pun intended, for the P226 XFIVE is anyone wanting a tack-driving, long-slide P226 variant. The XFIVE features support this role—extended, railed dust cover, all-steel construction (instead of the typical P226 aluminum frame), 5-inch bull barrel, Dawson-style adjustable rear sight plate, fiber optic front sight, and, most significantly, a fully adjustable AX3 single-action only (SAO) trigger. Ambidextrous manual safeties are present on the XFIVE in lieu of the de-cocking lever usually found on the DA/SA P226. A low-profile alloy magwell is seamlessly fitted to the bottom of the grip. The three 20-round magazines with extended basepads that arrive with the XFIVE fit nicely into the magwell, aesthetically and functionally speaking.

The increased forward weight from the long dust cover and all steel construction (totaling 45.6 ounces of weight) minimizes recoil/muzzle flip. A pronounced beavertail further sets apart the P226 XFIVE from most other SIG Sauer P226 models. The custom Hogue Cocobolo grips and alloy magwell serve as notice that something special is afoot. With the XFIVE, SIG created a P226 that pushes the envelope. Along these lines, the Dawson rear sight plate can be removed to directly mount a SIG Romeo1Pro, Romeo2, or any other optic using the standard SIG “PRO” footprint.

The single action only trigger is definitely attractive, especially to those that have never been fond of DA/SA hammer-fired trigger characteristics—especially those looking at a target grade competition handgun. The P226 XFIVE offers the shooter the best of the P226 design with a more appealing single action-only trigger mechanism. The P226 XFIVE’s 5-inch cold hammer-forged barrel and SAO trigger combine with near perfect lock-up in the stainless steel slide/barrel interface to provide maximum accuracy; all the while maintaining excellent reliability.

The SAO trigger is a key component of the XFIVE equation. The XFIVE trigger characteristics aid in rapid target engagement with a trigger pull just under four pounds. The longer slide/barrel combo contributes more mass, aiding in increased muzzle control for double taps or longer strings of fire. SIG ergonomics, combined with the slide’s smooth tracking during recoil and manageable 9MM muzzle signature, allows for a very stable sight picture no matter how many or how rapid rounds are fired. The extended beavertail guides one’s hand to the optimum grip position during the draw stroke and aids in recoil management. It is not hard to fathom why some may consider the XFIVE applicable to personal defense/tactical work, not just target or match shooting.

The P226 XFIVE’s manual safeties are located within user’s natural thumb swipe distance. The slide lock lever sits further toward the rear of the frame compared to other handguns—the 1911 for example. This all but eliminates the chance of unintentionally engaging the slide lock during strings of fire—as can happen when shooters rest their thumb on the lever with other designs. Another positive attribute is that the P226 XFIVE’s safety can remain engaged while the shooter manipulates the slide.

Out of the Box

Our T&E was conducted at the Echo Valley Training Center, a private facility located near Winchester, VA. The SIG P226 XFIVE’s first test was verifying sight zero and then firing several magazines rapidly at various steel targets. This quickly shows if any reliability issues exist. The sights were zeroed out of the box for 25 yards. Further testing consisted of strings of fire against steel plate racks and popper targets at 7, 15, and 25 yards. Standard 15-round and extended 20-round P226 magazines without XFIVE basepads augmented the three 20-rounders that arrived with the XFIVE.

Sights

The SIG fiber optic front sight and target rear sight proved advantageous not only for monotonously stacking bullet holes on top of each other, but also for rapid shot placement when working a plate rack. The stock iron sights assist in maximizing accuracy with a crisp, clear sight picture with the fiber optic front gathering the right amount of light without being obscenely bright. The XFIVE sights tracked smoothly during recoil when firing multiple rounds. SIG has done an excellent job of providing a target-style sight that does not protrude grotesquely upward thanks to the way the Dawson-style plate is milled into the top of the XFIVE’s slide.

The target sight set up is refreshing to use after years of using handgun sights that feature dots and other designs meant for rapid shot placement at close range. Of late, it seems handgun sights are slowing drifting back to wider rear notches and thin front posts that provide more precise aiming. This trend likely stems from data that shows sights are not used that much in close range affairs; shooters relying on hand-eye coordination for shot placement in defensive encounters. You might as well have sights conducive for longer range work. We found it possible to accurately engage man-sized steel targets at 50 yards; similarly sized targets out to 100 yards had better seek cover with the P226 XFIVE deployed.

Accuracy

The benefits of the tuned, single-action trigger proved evident during range evaluation. Groups fired were impressive, with bullets unerringly hitting their mark. Rapid fire magazine dumps still found rounds clustered in the “A” zone of an IPSC target. The XFIVE routinely fired groups into one jagged hole at 10 yards. Bench testing could not be resisted after witnessing the unsupported accuracy results. We quickly realized the P226 XFIVE possessed inherent accuracy superior to what most shooters are capable of. That level of mechanical accuracy is a nice feeling that instills confidence in a handgun. Shooting from sandbags produced several 1-inch groups at 25 yards with the XFIVE’s iron sights. It would be interesting to see what size groups the pistol would produce with a red dot optic, especially as distances increased.

PERFORMANCE

SIG Sauer Elite ammunition led the way in testing with both FMJ, Match and V-Crown JHP loads used. Hornady, Norma, and Federal ammunition was also used. Loads fired spanned 115-grain to 147-grain with hollow points and FMJ bullets. No malfunctions were experienced while test firing over 450 rounds with the SIG P226 XFIVE.

The natural pointability of the P226 XFIVE was confirmed with the speed of getting the sights aligned on target. The manual safety was positive and easy to manipulate. We’ll admit to nostalgic feelings towards the P226 XFIVE’s exposed cocked and locked hammer. The swiping down/deactivating of the safety lever brought back memories of our early days running single action handguns. The beavertail frame settles the weapon naturally into your hand and provides a point of reference when drawing the pistol from a holster. The custom grips tapering up to the slide sits the P226 XFIVE in your hand in such a way that keeps extended beavertail settled over the web of the shooter’s hand.

Wrap Up

Most are unaware that SIG even offers a package like the P226 XFIVE with extended beavertail, single-action trigger, and ability to mount a red dot. All should appreciate what the P226 XFIVE offers in terms of accuracy, reliability, handling, and capacity. The P226 XFIVE’s uncanny accuracy will get everyone’s attention. We should be glad the P226 XFIVE is now U.S.-made for multiple reasons…including increased availability and a more attractive price point.

SPECIFICATIONS

Make: SIG Sauer
Model: P226 XFIVE
Caliber: 9mm Luger
Mags Included: 3-20 round magazines with alloy basepads
Barrel Length: 5in
Overall Length: 8.6in
Sights: Adjustable Dawson-style rear/fiber optic front (Red dot can be mounted)
Sight Radius: 6.8in
Height: 5.9in
Width: 1.7in
Weight Empty: 45.6oz
MSRP: $2399
URL: SIG Sauer

“The first generation of the MCX platform was designed to be an AR-15 style platform with added modularity.  The second generation of the MCX, the MCX Virtus, was purpose-built for rugged durability and brought unprecedented modularity.  Now comes the MCX-SPEAR-LT, which incorporates the best of both generations and is the culmination of the latest research, development, and innovation in the MCX platform,” said Tom Taylor, Chief Marketing Officer and Executive Vice President, Commercial Sales, SIG Sauer, Inc. “The lightened handguard has the expected rigidity and durability of the MCX, the lower is a familiar SDI, M400-style lower and ambi-bolt catch and release that is designed to fit the legacy VIRTUS uppers for more versatility. The MCX-SPEAR-LT will accept AR-15 style triggers, in addition to the legacy triggers for even more flexibility in the MCX platform. With the MCX-SPEAR_LT also comes the long-awaited addition of the 7.62×39 caliber to the MCX family bringing even more modularity to a platform that simply can’t be matched. The evolution continues and the MCX-SPEAR-LT has raised the bar for modular weapons technology.”

The MCX-SPEAR-LT rifle is an aluminum frame rifle with a gas piston operating system featuring a lightweight ergonomic handguard, push-button folding stock with cheek-rest, and a cold hammer forged carbon steel barrel available in 9-inch (300BLK), 11.5-inch (7.62×39 & 5.56), and 16-inch (7.62×39 & 5.56) lengths. The rifle offers fully ambidextrous controls including bolt catch and release, a SIG QD suppressor-ready flash hider optimized for SIG Sauer QD suppressors, a SIG flatblade match trigger, comes optics ready and can be easily paired with a SIG Sauer Electro-Optics ROMEO8 or TANGO6T, and is finished in a Coyote anodized finish. The MCX-SPEAR-LT is available is 300BLK, 556 NATO, 762×39 calibers.

MCX-SPEAR-LT Specs:

• Caliber: 300BLK Barrel Length: 9 inch
• Caliber: 556 NATO Barrel Length: 11.5 inch
• Caliber: 762×39 Barrel Length: 11.5 inch
• Caliber: 556 NATO Barrel Length: 16 inch
• Caliber: 762×39 Barrel Length: 16 inch

More information and specs on the MCX-SPEAR-LT are available at sigsauer.com.