More Information on the Sig P226/229 E2 Pistols

August 31, 2010 update – Sig Sauer P226 E2 review is now posted.

I got a chance to hold the Sig P226 E2 last week at the 2010 SHOT Show, and I was very impressed.  The overall feel is vastly improved.  With the new design, my finger actually lands at the perfect location on the trigger.  Granted, I believe I have smaller than average hands, but the E2 is a great improvement for me.

I spoke with Eric vonBosse of Sig Sauer.  vonBosse said the E2 versions of the P226 will begin shipping in 30 days, with the P229 in 45-60 days,

vonBosse said that the E2′s are more than just a new grip.  vonBosse explained to me that the mainspring housing is actually different in the E2 pistols, meaning a simple grip swap by the end user is not possible.  Retrofits are possible he said, but will not be available immediately to most shooters.

vonBosse said the E2 P229 pistols are a more substantial upgrade than the P226.  Whereas the P226 frame is the same in any of the calibers (9mm, 40 S&W, and .357 Sig), the P229 frame is different between the 9mm and .40 S&W/.357 Sig.  vonBosse said the P229 frames will all be converted to the .40 S&W frame, meaning an increased ammunition capacity for the 9mm versions, and no retrofit of the older 9mm P229 will be possible.