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I've read over and over that the P228 is an incredibly well balanced gun. I've handled a few over the years at gun shows and I'd say that I concur with the sentiment.
I currently own an amazing P229 in .40/.357sig, but I really always wanted a P228 because 9mm is my preferred caliber, and I like vintage Sigs. To me, the P229 doesn't feel well as balanced due to the heavier slide, which makes the 228 more appealing.
So my question to the Sig gurus is this - will a 90's P229 frame mated with a new X-Change kit slide assembly balance like a P228? Are there any significant differences between the P228 and P229 frames?
The frames are virtually identical. On older P229's, the .40/.357 and 9mm's had different magwell dimensions. The P229/9 was the same as the P228 frame. Current P229's have the larger magwell in all calibers. The balance of the P228 was due to the carbon steel slide. P229's have a machined stainless steel slide.
If you want the balance of a P228, buy a complete P228 slide and locking insert. Other than the larger magwell, you'll essentially have a P228. This is what is affectionately referred to as a FrankenSIG. I've got one.
If I go this route, is the locking insert field swappable, or are tools required? I pretty much hate .40, but I'd like to be able to pop off a few .357sig rounds at the range by swapping the slides out.
I'm currently building a P228 slide, there are several floating around on Ebay too,either parts to build your own or complete slides. Also, jwperry has a great deal on one in the classified section.
I think that it will depend on you. The 9mm X-Change kit still has a stainless steel slide, although I have heard that the 9mm P229 slides are narrower and lighter than the .40/.357 P229 slides. I say it may depend on you because there are some that say they can feel the difference in balance between the carbon steel slide and the stainless slide, and some who say there is no difference.
I hadn't even thought about that! Thanks for pointing that out. Hmm... probably not going to do the caliber exchange kit then, because I do like the carbon steel slides. But I don't want to take tools to my .40 P229 because it's super clean. Might sell the P229 and invest in a Franken228 and build a Franken229 with the .357 slide I have. Choices, choices.
There are no tools needed to swap locking inserts. You can do it in less than a minute. You remove the take-down-lever and the locking insert slides out. I swap my P228 slide onto my P229/.357 whenever I want to shoot cheaper 9mm.
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A forum community dedicated to SIG Sauer Pistols and SIG Sauer Rifles owners and enthusiasts. Come join the discussion about optics, hunting, gunsmithing, styles, reviews, accessories, classifieds, and more!