Sig Sauer P220 vs Quality 1911

J

Joe_Pike

New member
I've been seeing some really good prices (under $700) on a few new Sig P220's lately and it has been tempting me to sell something and try one out. I know that the comparison to a 1911 isn't really apples to apples since the Sig is SA/DA vs the SA only of the 1911, but they are roughly the same size and both are single stack .45's. Everything I read about the P220 says it runs any ammo you stick in it and is pretty darn accurate, both without ever having to do anything to the gun but clean it and lube it.

I've got some Colt 1911's and I shoot the 1911 pretty good for someone that doesn't get to shoot much anymore. The only Sig I have, though, is a P938 and while it's a Sig, it's more like a tiny 1911.

Anyway, how many of you shoot a 1911 and a P220? And, if you do, do you like one more than the other and for what reason?
 
I have owned several 1911s and a P220 Compact, single action. They are very different experiences. The SIG is a bigger frame, fatter grip, obviously very different trigger. My Compact was a bit odd-feeling from the way SIG chopped the frame.

But first-rate quality, very solid feel. I would say a higher-quality feel than a Colt 1911, for comparison, with perfect function in my case. If you already own some 1911s a P220 would be a fine complement. I would look for an SA-only model, since the SIG DA reach is a bit long and heavy for me. Maybe they offer other, better options than the standard DA. But I can recommend a P220 purchase.
 
I own both. Both are accurate, easy to shoot and about as reliable as any semi pistol can be with decent mags, ammo, etc. 1987 Springfield 1911A1 .45 and a newer Sig 220 .45 with E2 grip. Had similar models of both brands in the past. 220 carrys better, lighter. The ergo grip of the 220 fits my hand like a glove. Only drawback with Sig 220, and it appears to be common, the magazines won't hold Speer Gold Dot HP's, bullet diameter is a hair too wide. All other HP ammo runs slick, no issues. Both shoot very well. I own both as I couldn't decide and am not restricted by oppressive laws or females (never again, Lol!!!), hence me buying what I want.
 
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I've been carrying a Sig P220 on-duty for quite a few years now. Love it! I have two; a blued for duty and a two-tone for training, range use, etc. Both are the older style with internal extractors. Lots and lots and lots of rounds down range!

As for the issue with the mags and Speer Gold Dots........never had that issue. I have 15 8-round magazines for my Sigs and never found a bullet that wouldn't work. Currently I'm carrying HST's but we've been issued the Gold Dots in the past.
 
My preference is the P220. I have larger hands and find the P220 grip perfect for me and my P220 has been an amazing and flawless shooter for me. My favorite .45 pistol with my HK45 being a close second. I do like shooting my 1911 a lot too though.
 
Sig 220 ...at one point did come in a SAO version.../ mine was all stainless. Mine is probably 10 yrs old.

My favorite 1911 in .45 acp...is a Wilson Combat, CQB model, all steel, 5" gun.

They are both solid guns...but my preference is the 1911 because of the trigger. No matter whether the Sig is SAO or DA/SA...its still a trigger that moves back and forth in an arc on the trigger pin....vs the much smoother 1911 trigger that moves back and forth in the frame. The arc that any trigger must move thru, when it rotates on a pin, is inherently a very different feel ...and the reset is longer on the Sig. So they are just different...but it depends on what you like the best.

My 220 was accurate ...but not as accurate as my Wilson which was able to put out 1" groups at 25 yds. But they would both be just fine in terms of "Tactically Accurate".
 
Getting my surplus P220 in tomorrow. Can't wait!!

The idea of a .45 single stack duty pistol that's NOT a 1911 and also has my favored DA/SA action is just too cool!!
 
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My P220 St had to have the internal extractor replaced by SIG as they had a bad batch that would not keep their shape and hold tension. It would not feed SWC bullets that my 1911's eat by the truckload.
 
I had a remington r1. It was a good gun. I liked it. However I traded it for my Sig P220 made in west germany that I am carrying as I type this. I prefer the 220. However I am now looking for a 1911 to go with my 220. So in my case I feel that owning both is appropriate..
 
To be honest, I have not shot the 220. I really enjoy shooting 1911s. And I also have enjoyed shooting P226s and P229s. I would guess the P220 is similar.

Comparing the 1911 to the P series is like comparing apples to other varieties of apples. I love the triggers on 1911s and like the triggers on the P series. I find the controls very nicely positioned on the p-series. Occasionally, if I have thick grips on the 1911, I have to reach a little to hit the mag release, but may look into an extended mag release to address that on that pistol.
 
Since you're experienced with 1911's, you might just want to try something different. That's a good enough reason to try a Sig 220. I have both. Out of the box, a good 1911 will likely be more accurate and will have a MUCH better trigger. If like me, you're not into modding your guns, the Sig will be a challenge to shoot as well as a 1911. I enjoy that challenge and it's rewarding see I'm getting better with my 220. As a home defense gun, the Sig's DA/SA trigger and the decocker make it my choice.
 
My experience with the 220 is limited to fifty rounds through a full-house Grayguns custom, with beavertail, trigger job, sights; probably a $3000 gun.
It shot well, but no way I'd trade any of my 1911s for it.
I can't abide DA/SA, so I don't think any gun of that type could lure me away from a 1911 trigger.
 
Well, I decided to try one. I have a P220 Scorpion Elite on the way for $675 NIB. We'll see how it goes. If I like it, I'll have to dig up something to sell to pay for it.
 
You are going to love the P220. I have a German made carbon steel folding slide model that will never go anywhere.

I shoot P220's, 1911's and Glock 21's. No complaints from any of them.
 
Like both the 1911 and P220. The P220 is lights out accurate. This is from my P220 at 25 yards.
Sig185Tgt-1_zps05a8513b.jpg
 
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