P226 handles different than P220

[skylighter]

After owning a Sig P220 45ACP for 2 decades, I decided to purchase a Sig P226 9mm Platinum Elite. I waited my 7 days and picked it up today. I thought this gun would feel very similar to my P220 with a bit less kick. I was wrong on that assumption.

To give some comparison, I can shoot about a 4" group at 25 feet with the P220. The first shot of my P226 didn't even hit the 12" target. The next 14 shots hit the target, but it would be hard to call it a "grouping". In fact, I temporarily switched to my P220 to confirm my accuracy. Over the next 5 or so mags, I was able to improve to a 5" or 6" group.

The gun sits differently in my hand and it is hard to seat the left hand as solid as on the P220. In fact, I notice that the P226 recoils slightly to the left as opposed to directly up like it does on the P220. I think this is due to an inability to offer as much left hand support.

I notice I also get more movement of the sights while pulling the trigging. I suspect the weight of the P220 offers some dampening.

Overall, I love the new gun. I am confident that a few trips to the range will improve my handling. If anyone has tips, I would love to hear them.

Danny

[skylighter]

Second trip out to the range and 100 rounds later. 5" groups at 25 feet about 3 inches to the left.

I spoke to an experienced NRA Instructor today on the phone and he suggests that my hands are probably too small for the double-stack magazine grip. I am meeting up with him next month. He is going to shoot the P226 to check its accuracy and said he can show me an alternate stance that should strengthen my left hand.

Danny

[cleveoh]

I do have a 226R Navy and i did have a P220 until a month ago. I love both of the pistols, and at 7 yards both very accurate. I did notice that the single stack P220 was slimmer than the double stack of the P226. The mag release was a little awkward to use on the 220, (it was not a heel release). This was the reason for getting rid of it. recoil was a little hardier but very manageable. Accuracy definetly not an issue for me but yes both were different in the "fit of my hand".