Marshot,
1) The 225 is the best of the lot IMNSHO. There are benefits and drawbacks to every gun. If you want it for concealed carry and target practice, I can't think of a better model. Why?
a) The grip is a little bit thinner than the others. This may not be a big issue for those w/large hands, but it is to many w/average and small hands. Just feels better too. This is subjective, so put it to the test and compare it to other side by side comparison. As for capacity: Unless you plan to use it in competition, it is not an issue. Are you LEO? If not, you are going to have a hard time finding pre-ban factory high capacity mags at a resonable price. Besides, those thin 225 mags are easier and more comfortable to carry 2 at 8 rounds each = 16+9in gun= 25 tot., than one 10round high cap+11in gun= 21. Add ten IF you really think you w/carry two high cap. Most don't unless LEO on duty.
b) They have the most awesome double/single action trigger of any in its catagory that I've ever tried. It may need a trigger job to get THE BEST potential out of it, but it is well worth the little extra invested. If you decide to get it, I only go w/ one smith when it comes to work on SIGs. If you want to know contact me.
EQUALIZERplus@netscape.net
2.) They point naturally and I can't think of any more ergonomic grip. At least to my hand and others I've talked to. This is far more important than many issues; reliability being first issue, which is flawless w/ decent ammo any brand. Can shoot ANYTHING out of it you want +p, whatever.
3.) The price you saw it for is fare in the condition you mentioned. I saw one in rusty, fair (neglected/abused) condition at a shop the other week for the same price. Since the one you are looking at is used, the price is most likely negotiable. The shop owner knows that it is not a newer model, (none of which compare to the 225 IMO), and not high capacity so he will probably have a harder time selling it. You might want to offer $350. He might come down, but without actually seeing the gun, a like new SIG does hold its value. If it really is new, the 450 is worth it. If you want something you can trust you r life to, this is it. There are others, but you can't go wrong w/ THIS model.
4) After getting 1" groups last week at 30yds. off of a picnic table w/a 225 I am admittedly a little biased. It shoots far better than I am a marksman. The trigger job takes full advantage of the guns potential. It makes an excellent trigger an awesome trigger. Sights (bar/dot with wide rear notch)are perfect for combat and short range target shooting. FUN GUN!
5) They look extremely "combat cool" w/their unique looking design. ie. Square trigger guard w/plenty of room in front to keep the trigger finger from catching on the way to the trigger shoe. All the others have a sloping trigger guard and don't look as "combat cool" IMNSHO.
The squareness of the guard not only looks best, but it is usable if you go w/an index supporting hand finger on the front and my friends special "finger friction" addition. Looks are important to some of us, because it makes the carry and use of it more intrinsically rewarding; sort of like a custom knife.
Any more Q's contact me.
EQUALIZERplus@netscape.net
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"But now, he that hath a purse, let him take it, and likewise his scrip; and he that hath no sword, let him sell his garment, and buy one." -Jesus Christ (Luke 22:36, see John 3:15-18)
[This message has been edited by EQUALIZER (edited October 22, 1999).]
[This message has been edited by EQUALIZER (edited October 22, 1999).]