I don\u2019t expect those faithful to the 1911 will like the trigger and polymer composite feel of this pistol. It is well balanced and certainly brings a new approach to the argument over the definition of a combat gun. It\u2019s not going to win competitive shooting matches without some other options but it isn\u2019t designed to. It\u2019s designed to work reliably and intuitively for a broad spectrum of shooters. Perhaps this complicates matters. In the end, some might find that that SIG SAUER\u2019s P250 solves them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A finishing department disassembled each product and carefully conducted a multi-point inspection. \u201cWe have nothing to hide,\u201d says Eric VonBosse, product manager. \u201cThe red tags you see on guns are rejects. If something is rejected we find out why and see if we need to change a process. We are always looking for ways to improve things around here.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I don\u2019t expect those faithful to the 1911 will like the trigger and polymer composite feel of this pistol. It is well balanced and certainly brings a new approach to the argument over the definition of a combat gun. It\u2019s not going to win competitive shooting matches without some other options but it isn\u2019t designed to. It\u2019s designed to work reliably and intuitively for a broad spectrum of shooters. Perhaps this complicates matters. In the end, some might find that that SIG SAUER\u2019s P250 solves them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This consistency in production is reflected in the commonality of parts. A shooter doesn\u2019t have to worry about fit when swapping parts or headspace when switching barrels. Quality control is held to strict standards, which was verified in a recent factory tour. Modern manufacturing equipment and tolerance checks were performed with German-engineered computer-aided machines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A finishing department disassembled each product and carefully conducted a multi-point inspection. \u201cWe have nothing to hide,\u201d says Eric VonBosse, product manager. \u201cThe red tags you see on guns are rejects. If something is rejected we find out why and see if we need to change a process. We are always looking for ways to improve things around here.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I don\u2019t expect those faithful to the 1911 will like the trigger and polymer composite feel of this pistol. It is well balanced and certainly brings a new approach to the argument over the definition of a combat gun. It\u2019s not going to win competitive shooting matches without some other options but it isn\u2019t designed to. It\u2019s designed to work reliably and intuitively for a broad spectrum of shooters. Perhaps this complicates matters. In the end, some might find that that SIG SAUER\u2019s P250 solves them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
SIG SAUER\u2019s P250 builds on the proven recoil operated, locked breach design of the 20th century. Production is accomplished here in the United States and the Germans are taking notice. \u201cWith millions of dollars invested in state-of-the-art machinery, our facility in New Hampshire is taking the lead in production of SIG SAUERs,\u201d says Ron Cohen, president of SIG SAUER.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This consistency in production is reflected in the commonality of parts. A shooter doesn\u2019t have to worry about fit when swapping parts or headspace when switching barrels. Quality control is held to strict standards, which was verified in a recent factory tour. Modern manufacturing equipment and tolerance checks were performed with German-engineered computer-aided machines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A finishing department disassembled each product and carefully conducted a multi-point inspection. \u201cWe have nothing to hide,\u201d says Eric VonBosse, product manager. \u201cThe red tags you see on guns are rejects. If something is rejected we find out why and see if we need to change a process. We are always looking for ways to improve things around here.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I don\u2019t expect those faithful to the 1911 will like the trigger and polymer composite feel of this pistol. It is well balanced and certainly brings a new approach to the argument over the definition of a combat gun. It\u2019s not going to win competitive shooting matches without some other options but it isn\u2019t designed to. It\u2019s designed to work reliably and intuitively for a broad spectrum of shooters. Perhaps this complicates matters. In the end, some might find that that SIG SAUER\u2019s P250 solves them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Moving 3 yards back to the 10-yard line, the 5-shot groups didn\u2019t change much, staying well under 2 inches. However, at 15 yards, the groups started opening up by an extra inch. At the 25-yard bench, we shot five 5-shot groups each averaging just under 3 inches for the Tactical All Terrain model with the longer barrel and just over 3.5 inches for the standard-length Digital Camo model. When comparing group size to group size, it was obvious that the Tactical All Terrain pistol benefited from the longer barrel in all except from the 7-yard line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
SIG SAUER\u2019s P250 builds on the proven recoil operated, locked breach design of the 20th century. Production is accomplished here in the United States and the Germans are taking notice. \u201cWith millions of dollars invested in state-of-the-art machinery, our facility in New Hampshire is taking the lead in production of SIG SAUERs,\u201d says Ron Cohen, president of SIG SAUER.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This consistency in production is reflected in the commonality of parts. A shooter doesn\u2019t have to worry about fit when swapping parts or headspace when switching barrels. Quality control is held to strict standards, which was verified in a recent factory tour. Modern manufacturing equipment and tolerance checks were performed with German-engineered computer-aided machines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A finishing department disassembled each product and carefully conducted a multi-point inspection. \u201cWe have nothing to hide,\u201d says Eric VonBosse, product manager. \u201cThe red tags you see on guns are rejects. If something is rejected we find out why and see if we need to change a process. We are always looking for ways to improve things around here.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I don\u2019t expect those faithful to the 1911 will like the trigger and polymer composite feel of this pistol. It is well balanced and certainly brings a new approach to the argument over the definition of a combat gun. It\u2019s not going to win competitive shooting matches without some other options but it isn\u2019t designed to. It\u2019s designed to work reliably and intuitively for a broad spectrum of shooters. Perhaps this complicates matters. In the end, some might find that that SIG SAUER\u2019s P250 solves them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We chose to get familiar to the trigger and test the trigger theory at 7 yards before moving back. The best five-shot group obtained at 7 yards was 1.12 inches. This isn\u2019t a result of match accuracy but it is better than the combat accuracy of other DAO pistols in this class. Staging did, in fact, prove worse for accuracy so the rest of this evaluation would be completed while pulling through the trigger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Moving 3 yards back to the 10-yard line, the 5-shot groups didn\u2019t change much, staying well under 2 inches. However, at 15 yards, the groups started opening up by an extra inch. At the 25-yard bench, we shot five 5-shot groups each averaging just under 3 inches for the Tactical All Terrain model with the longer barrel and just over 3.5 inches for the standard-length Digital Camo model. When comparing group size to group size, it was obvious that the Tactical All Terrain pistol benefited from the longer barrel in all except from the 7-yard line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
SIG SAUER\u2019s P250 builds on the proven recoil operated, locked breach design of the 20th century. Production is accomplished here in the United States and the Germans are taking notice. \u201cWith millions of dollars invested in state-of-the-art machinery, our facility in New Hampshire is taking the lead in production of SIG SAUERs,\u201d says Ron Cohen, president of SIG SAUER.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This consistency in production is reflected in the commonality of parts. A shooter doesn\u2019t have to worry about fit when swapping parts or headspace when switching barrels. Quality control is held to strict standards, which was verified in a recent factory tour. Modern manufacturing equipment and tolerance checks were performed with German-engineered computer-aided machines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A finishing department disassembled each product and carefully conducted a multi-point inspection. \u201cWe have nothing to hide,\u201d says Eric VonBosse, product manager. \u201cThe red tags you see on guns are rejects. If something is rejected we find out why and see if we need to change a process. We are always looking for ways to improve things around here.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I don\u2019t expect those faithful to the 1911 will like the trigger and polymer composite feel of this pistol. It is well balanced and certainly brings a new approach to the argument over the definition of a combat gun. It\u2019s not going to win competitive shooting matches without some other options but it isn\u2019t designed to. It\u2019s designed to work reliably and intuitively for a broad spectrum of shooters. Perhaps this complicates matters. In the end, some might find that that SIG SAUER\u2019s P250 solves them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
These pistols\u2019 7.5-plus-pound long trigger pull meant that a test with a Ransom Rest was out of the question. The test group fired to the best of our ability while standing at 7, 10 and 15 yards. At 25 yards we fired from a supported bench rest position.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We chose to get familiar to the trigger and test the trigger theory at 7 yards before moving back. The best five-shot group obtained at 7 yards was 1.12 inches. This isn\u2019t a result of match accuracy but it is better than the combat accuracy of other DAO pistols in this class. Staging did, in fact, prove worse for accuracy so the rest of this evaluation would be completed while pulling through the trigger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Moving 3 yards back to the 10-yard line, the 5-shot groups didn\u2019t change much, staying well under 2 inches. However, at 15 yards, the groups started opening up by an extra inch. At the 25-yard bench, we shot five 5-shot groups each averaging just under 3 inches for the Tactical All Terrain model with the longer barrel and just over 3.5 inches for the standard-length Digital Camo model. When comparing group size to group size, it was obvious that the Tactical All Terrain pistol benefited from the longer barrel in all except from the 7-yard line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
SIG SAUER\u2019s P250 builds on the proven recoil operated, locked breach design of the 20th century. Production is accomplished here in the United States and the Germans are taking notice. \u201cWith millions of dollars invested in state-of-the-art machinery, our facility in New Hampshire is taking the lead in production of SIG SAUERs,\u201d says Ron Cohen, president of SIG SAUER.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This consistency in production is reflected in the commonality of parts. A shooter doesn\u2019t have to worry about fit when swapping parts or headspace when switching barrels. Quality control is held to strict standards, which was verified in a recent factory tour. Modern manufacturing equipment and tolerance checks were performed with German-engineered computer-aided machines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A finishing department disassembled each product and carefully conducted a multi-point inspection. \u201cWe have nothing to hide,\u201d says Eric VonBosse, product manager. \u201cThe red tags you see on guns are rejects. If something is rejected we find out why and see if we need to change a process. We are always looking for ways to improve things around here.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I don\u2019t expect those faithful to the 1911 will like the trigger and polymer composite feel of this pistol. It is well balanced and certainly brings a new approach to the argument over the definition of a combat gun. It\u2019s not going to win competitive shooting matches without some other options but it isn\u2019t designed to. It\u2019s designed to work reliably and intuitively for a broad spectrum of shooters. Perhaps this complicates matters. In the end, some might find that that SIG SAUER\u2019s P250 solves them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Shortly after I got home, I received a pair of P250s, one Tactical All Terrain model with the extended barrel and one Digital Camo with a standard barrel. I didn\u2019t waste time before heading out to the range. I collected some military-issue 115-grain FMJ 9mm that I had been saving for a test like this. I wanted to see if these pistols were worthy for duty and if the threaded barrel benefited from any additional accuracy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
These pistols\u2019 7.5-plus-pound long trigger pull meant that a test with a Ransom Rest was out of the question. The test group fired to the best of our ability while standing at 7, 10 and 15 yards. At 25 yards we fired from a supported bench rest position.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We chose to get familiar to the trigger and test the trigger theory at 7 yards before moving back. The best five-shot group obtained at 7 yards was 1.12 inches. This isn\u2019t a result of match accuracy but it is better than the combat accuracy of other DAO pistols in this class. Staging did, in fact, prove worse for accuracy so the rest of this evaluation would be completed while pulling through the trigger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Moving 3 yards back to the 10-yard line, the 5-shot groups didn\u2019t change much, staying well under 2 inches. However, at 15 yards, the groups started opening up by an extra inch. At the 25-yard bench, we shot five 5-shot groups each averaging just under 3 inches for the Tactical All Terrain model with the longer barrel and just over 3.5 inches for the standard-length Digital Camo model. When comparing group size to group size, it was obvious that the Tactical All Terrain pistol benefited from the longer barrel in all except from the 7-yard line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
SIG SAUER\u2019s P250 builds on the proven recoil operated, locked breach design of the 20th century. Production is accomplished here in the United States and the Germans are taking notice. \u201cWith millions of dollars invested in state-of-the-art machinery, our facility in New Hampshire is taking the lead in production of SIG SAUERs,\u201d says Ron Cohen, president of SIG SAUER.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This consistency in production is reflected in the commonality of parts. A shooter doesn\u2019t have to worry about fit when swapping parts or headspace when switching barrels. Quality control is held to strict standards, which was verified in a recent factory tour. Modern manufacturing equipment and tolerance checks were performed with German-engineered computer-aided machines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A finishing department disassembled each product and carefully conducted a multi-point inspection. \u201cWe have nothing to hide,\u201d says Eric VonBosse, product manager. \u201cThe red tags you see on guns are rejects. If something is rejected we find out why and see if we need to change a process. We are always looking for ways to improve things around here.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I don\u2019t expect those faithful to the 1911 will like the trigger and polymer composite feel of this pistol. It is well balanced and certainly brings a new approach to the argument over the definition of a combat gun. It\u2019s not going to win competitive shooting matches without some other options but it isn\u2019t designed to. It\u2019s designed to work reliably and intuitively for a broad spectrum of shooters. Perhaps this complicates matters. In the end, some might find that that SIG SAUER\u2019s P250 solves them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I had already witnessed a team of SIG SAUER employees perform continuous endurance testing at the SIG SAUER Academy. Numerous P250s were being shot with most exceeding 10,000 or 20,000 rounds. They weren\u2019t just shooting ball ammo but my jaw dropped at the sight of Speer Gold Dot defensive loads being shot by the pallet. SIG SAUER had invested a considerable amount of money to make sure this product would run.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Shortly after I got home, I received a pair of P250s, one Tactical All Terrain model with the extended barrel and one Digital Camo with a standard barrel. I didn\u2019t waste time before heading out to the range. I collected some military-issue 115-grain FMJ 9mm that I had been saving for a test like this. I wanted to see if these pistols were worthy for duty and if the threaded barrel benefited from any additional accuracy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
These pistols\u2019 7.5-plus-pound long trigger pull meant that a test with a Ransom Rest was out of the question. The test group fired to the best of our ability while standing at 7, 10 and 15 yards. At 25 yards we fired from a supported bench rest position.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We chose to get familiar to the trigger and test the trigger theory at 7 yards before moving back. The best five-shot group obtained at 7 yards was 1.12 inches. This isn\u2019t a result of match accuracy but it is better than the combat accuracy of other DAO pistols in this class. Staging did, in fact, prove worse for accuracy so the rest of this evaluation would be completed while pulling through the trigger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Moving 3 yards back to the 10-yard line, the 5-shot groups didn\u2019t change much, staying well under 2 inches. However, at 15 yards, the groups started opening up by an extra inch. At the 25-yard bench, we shot five 5-shot groups each averaging just under 3 inches for the Tactical All Terrain model with the longer barrel and just over 3.5 inches for the standard-length Digital Camo model. When comparing group size to group size, it was obvious that the Tactical All Terrain pistol benefited from the longer barrel in all except from the 7-yard line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
SIG SAUER\u2019s P250 builds on the proven recoil operated, locked breach design of the 20th century. Production is accomplished here in the United States and the Germans are taking notice. \u201cWith millions of dollars invested in state-of-the-art machinery, our facility in New Hampshire is taking the lead in production of SIG SAUERs,\u201d says Ron Cohen, president of SIG SAUER.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This consistency in production is reflected in the commonality of parts. A shooter doesn\u2019t have to worry about fit when swapping parts or headspace when switching barrels. Quality control is held to strict standards, which was verified in a recent factory tour. Modern manufacturing equipment and tolerance checks were performed with German-engineered computer-aided machines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A finishing department disassembled each product and carefully conducted a multi-point inspection. \u201cWe have nothing to hide,\u201d says Eric VonBosse, product manager. \u201cThe red tags you see on guns are rejects. If something is rejected we find out why and see if we need to change a process. We are always looking for ways to improve things around here.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I don\u2019t expect those faithful to the 1911 will like the trigger and polymer composite feel of this pistol. It is well balanced and certainly brings a new approach to the argument over the definition of a combat gun. It\u2019s not going to win competitive shooting matches without some other options but it isn\u2019t designed to. It\u2019s designed to work reliably and intuitively for a broad spectrum of shooters. Perhaps this complicates matters. In the end, some might find that that SIG SAUER\u2019s P250 solves them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I had already witnessed a team of SIG SAUER employees perform continuous endurance testing at the SIG SAUER Academy. Numerous P250s were being shot with most exceeding 10,000 or 20,000 rounds. They weren\u2019t just shooting ball ammo but my jaw dropped at the sight of Speer Gold Dot defensive loads being shot by the pallet. SIG SAUER had invested a considerable amount of money to make sure this product would run.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Shortly after I got home, I received a pair of P250s, one Tactical All Terrain model with the extended barrel and one Digital Camo with a standard barrel. I didn\u2019t waste time before heading out to the range. I collected some military-issue 115-grain FMJ 9mm that I had been saving for a test like this. I wanted to see if these pistols were worthy for duty and if the threaded barrel benefited from any additional accuracy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
These pistols\u2019 7.5-plus-pound long trigger pull meant that a test with a Ransom Rest was out of the question. The test group fired to the best of our ability while standing at 7, 10 and 15 yards. At 25 yards we fired from a supported bench rest position.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We chose to get familiar to the trigger and test the trigger theory at 7 yards before moving back. The best five-shot group obtained at 7 yards was 1.12 inches. This isn\u2019t a result of match accuracy but it is better than the combat accuracy of other DAO pistols in this class. Staging did, in fact, prove worse for accuracy so the rest of this evaluation would be completed while pulling through the trigger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Moving 3 yards back to the 10-yard line, the 5-shot groups didn\u2019t change much, staying well under 2 inches. However, at 15 yards, the groups started opening up by an extra inch. At the 25-yard bench, we shot five 5-shot groups each averaging just under 3 inches for the Tactical All Terrain model with the longer barrel and just over 3.5 inches for the standard-length Digital Camo model. When comparing group size to group size, it was obvious that the Tactical All Terrain pistol benefited from the longer barrel in all except from the 7-yard line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
SIG SAUER\u2019s P250 builds on the proven recoil operated, locked breach design of the 20th century. Production is accomplished here in the United States and the Germans are taking notice. \u201cWith millions of dollars invested in state-of-the-art machinery, our facility in New Hampshire is taking the lead in production of SIG SAUERs,\u201d says Ron Cohen, president of SIG SAUER.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This consistency in production is reflected in the commonality of parts. A shooter doesn\u2019t have to worry about fit when swapping parts or headspace when switching barrels. Quality control is held to strict standards, which was verified in a recent factory tour. Modern manufacturing equipment and tolerance checks were performed with German-engineered computer-aided machines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A finishing department disassembled each product and carefully conducted a multi-point inspection. \u201cWe have nothing to hide,\u201d says Eric VonBosse, product manager. \u201cThe red tags you see on guns are rejects. If something is rejected we find out why and see if we need to change a process. We are always looking for ways to improve things around here.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I don\u2019t expect those faithful to the 1911 will like the trigger and polymer composite feel of this pistol. It is well balanced and certainly brings a new approach to the argument over the definition of a combat gun. It\u2019s not going to win competitive shooting matches without some other options but it isn\u2019t designed to. It\u2019s designed to work reliably and intuitively for a broad spectrum of shooters. Perhaps this complicates matters. In the end, some might find that that SIG SAUER\u2019s P250 solves them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Deware was right. During the accuracy test I tried each method (\u201cstaging\u201d and \u201cpulling\u201d) with another experienced pistol shooter. The results were clearly definitive. At 7 yards, we shot five 5-shot groups and every single group shot by \u201cpulling\u201d through the trigger resulted in a group that was better than any group shot by \u201cstaging\u201d the trigger. It baffles me, but it is true. Due to this revelation, the accuracy tests at 7, 10, 15 and 25 yards were done by the \u201cpulling\u201d method.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I had already witnessed a team of SIG SAUER employees perform continuous endurance testing at the SIG SAUER Academy. Numerous P250s were being shot with most exceeding 10,000 or 20,000 rounds. They weren\u2019t just shooting ball ammo but my jaw dropped at the sight of Speer Gold Dot defensive loads being shot by the pallet. SIG SAUER had invested a considerable amount of money to make sure this product would run.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Shortly after I got home, I received a pair of P250s, one Tactical All Terrain model with the extended barrel and one Digital Camo with a standard barrel. I didn\u2019t waste time before heading out to the range. I collected some military-issue 115-grain FMJ 9mm that I had been saving for a test like this. I wanted to see if these pistols were worthy for duty and if the threaded barrel benefited from any additional accuracy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
These pistols\u2019 7.5-plus-pound long trigger pull meant that a test with a Ransom Rest was out of the question. The test group fired to the best of our ability while standing at 7, 10 and 15 yards. At 25 yards we fired from a supported bench rest position.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We chose to get familiar to the trigger and test the trigger theory at 7 yards before moving back. The best five-shot group obtained at 7 yards was 1.12 inches. This isn\u2019t a result of match accuracy but it is better than the combat accuracy of other DAO pistols in this class. Staging did, in fact, prove worse for accuracy so the rest of this evaluation would be completed while pulling through the trigger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Moving 3 yards back to the 10-yard line, the 5-shot groups didn\u2019t change much, staying well under 2 inches. However, at 15 yards, the groups started opening up by an extra inch. At the 25-yard bench, we shot five 5-shot groups each averaging just under 3 inches for the Tactical All Terrain model with the longer barrel and just over 3.5 inches for the standard-length Digital Camo model. When comparing group size to group size, it was obvious that the Tactical All Terrain pistol benefited from the longer barrel in all except from the 7-yard line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
SIG SAUER\u2019s P250 builds on the proven recoil operated, locked breach design of the 20th century. Production is accomplished here in the United States and the Germans are taking notice. \u201cWith millions of dollars invested in state-of-the-art machinery, our facility in New Hampshire is taking the lead in production of SIG SAUERs,\u201d says Ron Cohen, president of SIG SAUER.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This consistency in production is reflected in the commonality of parts. A shooter doesn\u2019t have to worry about fit when swapping parts or headspace when switching barrels. Quality control is held to strict standards, which was verified in a recent factory tour. Modern manufacturing equipment and tolerance checks were performed with German-engineered computer-aided machines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A finishing department disassembled each product and carefully conducted a multi-point inspection. \u201cWe have nothing to hide,\u201d says Eric VonBosse, product manager. \u201cThe red tags you see on guns are rejects. If something is rejected we find out why and see if we need to change a process. We are always looking for ways to improve things around here.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I don\u2019t expect those faithful to the 1911 will like the trigger and polymer composite feel of this pistol. It is well balanced and certainly brings a new approach to the argument over the definition of a combat gun. It\u2019s not going to win competitive shooting matches without some other options but it isn\u2019t designed to. It\u2019s designed to work reliably and intuitively for a broad spectrum of shooters. Perhaps this complicates matters. In the end, some might find that that SIG SAUER\u2019s P250 solves them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
M1911 and Beretta M9 shooters may require some time to warm up to the P250\u2019s trigger. You can\u2019t stage the trigger of the P250. If you try, more often than not you\u2019ll throw the shot. \u201cYou\u2019ve got to pull through the trigger,\u201d says Rance Deware, senior instructor at the SIG SAUER Academy. This technique goes against my trained wisdom but my groups were unimpressive as I tried to anticipate the shot while gently drawing the trigger to the rear. \u201cJust pull it,\u201d he added. \u201cYou\u2019ll shoot better, trust me.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Deware was right. During the accuracy test I tried each method (\u201cstaging\u201d and \u201cpulling\u201d) with another experienced pistol shooter. The results were clearly definitive. At 7 yards, we shot five 5-shot groups and every single group shot by \u201cpulling\u201d through the trigger resulted in a group that was better than any group shot by \u201cstaging\u201d the trigger. It baffles me, but it is true. Due to this revelation, the accuracy tests at 7, 10, 15 and 25 yards were done by the \u201cpulling\u201d method.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I had already witnessed a team of SIG SAUER employees perform continuous endurance testing at the SIG SAUER Academy. Numerous P250s were being shot with most exceeding 10,000 or 20,000 rounds. They weren\u2019t just shooting ball ammo but my jaw dropped at the sight of Speer Gold Dot defensive loads being shot by the pallet. SIG SAUER had invested a considerable amount of money to make sure this product would run.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Shortly after I got home, I received a pair of P250s, one Tactical All Terrain model with the extended barrel and one Digital Camo with a standard barrel. I didn\u2019t waste time before heading out to the range. I collected some military-issue 115-grain FMJ 9mm that I had been saving for a test like this. I wanted to see if these pistols were worthy for duty and if the threaded barrel benefited from any additional accuracy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
These pistols\u2019 7.5-plus-pound long trigger pull meant that a test with a Ransom Rest was out of the question. The test group fired to the best of our ability while standing at 7, 10 and 15 yards. At 25 yards we fired from a supported bench rest position.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We chose to get familiar to the trigger and test the trigger theory at 7 yards before moving back. The best five-shot group obtained at 7 yards was 1.12 inches. This isn\u2019t a result of match accuracy but it is better than the combat accuracy of other DAO pistols in this class. Staging did, in fact, prove worse for accuracy so the rest of this evaluation would be completed while pulling through the trigger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Moving 3 yards back to the 10-yard line, the 5-shot groups didn\u2019t change much, staying well under 2 inches. However, at 15 yards, the groups started opening up by an extra inch. At the 25-yard bench, we shot five 5-shot groups each averaging just under 3 inches for the Tactical All Terrain model with the longer barrel and just over 3.5 inches for the standard-length Digital Camo model. When comparing group size to group size, it was obvious that the Tactical All Terrain pistol benefited from the longer barrel in all except from the 7-yard line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
SIG SAUER\u2019s P250 builds on the proven recoil operated, locked breach design of the 20th century. Production is accomplished here in the United States and the Germans are taking notice. \u201cWith millions of dollars invested in state-of-the-art machinery, our facility in New Hampshire is taking the lead in production of SIG SAUERs,\u201d says Ron Cohen, president of SIG SAUER.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This consistency in production is reflected in the commonality of parts. A shooter doesn\u2019t have to worry about fit when swapping parts or headspace when switching barrels. Quality control is held to strict standards, which was verified in a recent factory tour. Modern manufacturing equipment and tolerance checks were performed with German-engineered computer-aided machines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A finishing department disassembled each product and carefully conducted a multi-point inspection. \u201cWe have nothing to hide,\u201d says Eric VonBosse, product manager. \u201cThe red tags you see on guns are rejects. If something is rejected we find out why and see if we need to change a process. We are always looking for ways to improve things around here.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I don\u2019t expect those faithful to the 1911 will like the trigger and polymer composite feel of this pistol. It is well balanced and certainly brings a new approach to the argument over the definition of a combat gun. It\u2019s not going to win competitive shooting matches without some other options but it isn\u2019t designed to. It\u2019s designed to work reliably and intuitively for a broad spectrum of shooters. Perhaps this complicates matters. In the end, some might find that that SIG SAUER\u2019s P250 solves them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Most repair and maintenance issues of the P250 could be handled at a basic skill level. \u201cWe are having a hard time working up the armorer course for the P250,\u201d says George Harris, director of training at the SIG SAUER Academy. \u201cThe actual armorer course would only take a few hours to teach. We would have to think of a few other things for students to do just to fill a day.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
M1911 and Beretta M9 shooters may require some time to warm up to the P250\u2019s trigger. You can\u2019t stage the trigger of the P250. If you try, more often than not you\u2019ll throw the shot. \u201cYou\u2019ve got to pull through the trigger,\u201d says Rance Deware, senior instructor at the SIG SAUER Academy. This technique goes against my trained wisdom but my groups were unimpressive as I tried to anticipate the shot while gently drawing the trigger to the rear. \u201cJust pull it,\u201d he added. \u201cYou\u2019ll shoot better, trust me.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Deware was right. During the accuracy test I tried each method (\u201cstaging\u201d and \u201cpulling\u201d) with another experienced pistol shooter. The results were clearly definitive. At 7 yards, we shot five 5-shot groups and every single group shot by \u201cpulling\u201d through the trigger resulted in a group that was better than any group shot by \u201cstaging\u201d the trigger. It baffles me, but it is true. Due to this revelation, the accuracy tests at 7, 10, 15 and 25 yards were done by the \u201cpulling\u201d method.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I had already witnessed a team of SIG SAUER employees perform continuous endurance testing at the SIG SAUER Academy. Numerous P250s were being shot with most exceeding 10,000 or 20,000 rounds. They weren\u2019t just shooting ball ammo but my jaw dropped at the sight of Speer Gold Dot defensive loads being shot by the pallet. SIG SAUER had invested a considerable amount of money to make sure this product would run.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Shortly after I got home, I received a pair of P250s, one Tactical All Terrain model with the extended barrel and one Digital Camo with a standard barrel. I didn\u2019t waste time before heading out to the range. I collected some military-issue 115-grain FMJ 9mm that I had been saving for a test like this. I wanted to see if these pistols were worthy for duty and if the threaded barrel benefited from any additional accuracy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
These pistols\u2019 7.5-plus-pound long trigger pull meant that a test with a Ransom Rest was out of the question. The test group fired to the best of our ability while standing at 7, 10 and 15 yards. At 25 yards we fired from a supported bench rest position.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We chose to get familiar to the trigger and test the trigger theory at 7 yards before moving back. The best five-shot group obtained at 7 yards was 1.12 inches. This isn\u2019t a result of match accuracy but it is better than the combat accuracy of other DAO pistols in this class. Staging did, in fact, prove worse for accuracy so the rest of this evaluation would be completed while pulling through the trigger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Moving 3 yards back to the 10-yard line, the 5-shot groups didn\u2019t change much, staying well under 2 inches. However, at 15 yards, the groups started opening up by an extra inch. At the 25-yard bench, we shot five 5-shot groups each averaging just under 3 inches for the Tactical All Terrain model with the longer barrel and just over 3.5 inches for the standard-length Digital Camo model. When comparing group size to group size, it was obvious that the Tactical All Terrain pistol benefited from the longer barrel in all except from the 7-yard line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
SIG SAUER\u2019s P250 builds on the proven recoil operated, locked breach design of the 20th century. Production is accomplished here in the United States and the Germans are taking notice. \u201cWith millions of dollars invested in state-of-the-art machinery, our facility in New Hampshire is taking the lead in production of SIG SAUERs,\u201d says Ron Cohen, president of SIG SAUER.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This consistency in production is reflected in the commonality of parts. A shooter doesn\u2019t have to worry about fit when swapping parts or headspace when switching barrels. Quality control is held to strict standards, which was verified in a recent factory tour. Modern manufacturing equipment and tolerance checks were performed with German-engineered computer-aided machines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A finishing department disassembled each product and carefully conducted a multi-point inspection. \u201cWe have nothing to hide,\u201d says Eric VonBosse, product manager. \u201cThe red tags you see on guns are rejects. If something is rejected we find out why and see if we need to change a process. We are always looking for ways to improve things around here.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I don\u2019t expect those faithful to the 1911 will like the trigger and polymer composite feel of this pistol. It is well balanced and certainly brings a new approach to the argument over the definition of a combat gun. It\u2019s not going to win competitive shooting matches without some other options but it isn\u2019t designed to. It\u2019s designed to work reliably and intuitively for a broad spectrum of shooters. Perhaps this complicates matters. In the end, some might find that that SIG SAUER\u2019s P250 solves them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Most repair and maintenance issues of the P250 could be handled at a basic skill level. \u201cWe are having a hard time working up the armorer course for the P250,\u201d says George Harris, director of training at the SIG SAUER Academy. \u201cThe actual armorer course would only take a few hours to teach. We would have to think of a few other things for students to do just to fill a day.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
M1911 and Beretta M9 shooters may require some time to warm up to the P250\u2019s trigger. You can\u2019t stage the trigger of the P250. If you try, more often than not you\u2019ll throw the shot. \u201cYou\u2019ve got to pull through the trigger,\u201d says Rance Deware, senior instructor at the SIG SAUER Academy. This technique goes against my trained wisdom but my groups were unimpressive as I tried to anticipate the shot while gently drawing the trigger to the rear. \u201cJust pull it,\u201d he added. \u201cYou\u2019ll shoot better, trust me.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Deware was right. During the accuracy test I tried each method (\u201cstaging\u201d and \u201cpulling\u201d) with another experienced pistol shooter. The results were clearly definitive. At 7 yards, we shot five 5-shot groups and every single group shot by \u201cpulling\u201d through the trigger resulted in a group that was better than any group shot by \u201cstaging\u201d the trigger. It baffles me, but it is true. Due to this revelation, the accuracy tests at 7, 10, 15 and 25 yards were done by the \u201cpulling\u201d method.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I had already witnessed a team of SIG SAUER employees perform continuous endurance testing at the SIG SAUER Academy. Numerous P250s were being shot with most exceeding 10,000 or 20,000 rounds. They weren\u2019t just shooting ball ammo but my jaw dropped at the sight of Speer Gold Dot defensive loads being shot by the pallet. SIG SAUER had invested a considerable amount of money to make sure this product would run.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Shortly after I got home, I received a pair of P250s, one Tactical All Terrain model with the extended barrel and one Digital Camo with a standard barrel. I didn\u2019t waste time before heading out to the range. I collected some military-issue 115-grain FMJ 9mm that I had been saving for a test like this. I wanted to see if these pistols were worthy for duty and if the threaded barrel benefited from any additional accuracy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
These pistols\u2019 7.5-plus-pound long trigger pull meant that a test with a Ransom Rest was out of the question. The test group fired to the best of our ability while standing at 7, 10 and 15 yards. At 25 yards we fired from a supported bench rest position.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We chose to get familiar to the trigger and test the trigger theory at 7 yards before moving back. The best five-shot group obtained at 7 yards was 1.12 inches. This isn\u2019t a result of match accuracy but it is better than the combat accuracy of other DAO pistols in this class. Staging did, in fact, prove worse for accuracy so the rest of this evaluation would be completed while pulling through the trigger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Moving 3 yards back to the 10-yard line, the 5-shot groups didn\u2019t change much, staying well under 2 inches. However, at 15 yards, the groups started opening up by an extra inch. At the 25-yard bench, we shot five 5-shot groups each averaging just under 3 inches for the Tactical All Terrain model with the longer barrel and just over 3.5 inches for the standard-length Digital Camo model. When comparing group size to group size, it was obvious that the Tactical All Terrain pistol benefited from the longer barrel in all except from the 7-yard line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
SIG SAUER\u2019s P250 builds on the proven recoil operated, locked breach design of the 20th century. Production is accomplished here in the United States and the Germans are taking notice. \u201cWith millions of dollars invested in state-of-the-art machinery, our facility in New Hampshire is taking the lead in production of SIG SAUERs,\u201d says Ron Cohen, president of SIG SAUER.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This consistency in production is reflected in the commonality of parts. A shooter doesn\u2019t have to worry about fit when swapping parts or headspace when switching barrels. Quality control is held to strict standards, which was verified in a recent factory tour. Modern manufacturing equipment and tolerance checks were performed with German-engineered computer-aided machines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A finishing department disassembled each product and carefully conducted a multi-point inspection. \u201cWe have nothing to hide,\u201d says Eric VonBosse, product manager. \u201cThe red tags you see on guns are rejects. If something is rejected we find out why and see if we need to change a process. We are always looking for ways to improve things around here.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I don\u2019t expect those faithful to the 1911 will like the trigger and polymer composite feel of this pistol. It is well balanced and certainly brings a new approach to the argument over the definition of a combat gun. It\u2019s not going to win competitive shooting matches without some other options but it isn\u2019t designed to. It\u2019s designed to work reliably and intuitively for a broad spectrum of shooters. Perhaps this complicates matters. In the end, some might find that that SIG SAUER\u2019s P250 solves them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The slide moves along steel rails and is coated a scratch-resistant Nitron formula. The slide lock lever appears on both side and the magazine release comes installed for right hands but can be switched for lefties. The slide can work with many combinations, so the P250 can be assembled for a variety of tasks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Most repair and maintenance issues of the P250 could be handled at a basic skill level. \u201cWe are having a hard time working up the armorer course for the P250,\u201d says George Harris, director of training at the SIG SAUER Academy. \u201cThe actual armorer course would only take a few hours to teach. We would have to think of a few other things for students to do just to fill a day.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
M1911 and Beretta M9 shooters may require some time to warm up to the P250\u2019s trigger. You can\u2019t stage the trigger of the P250. If you try, more often than not you\u2019ll throw the shot. \u201cYou\u2019ve got to pull through the trigger,\u201d says Rance Deware, senior instructor at the SIG SAUER Academy. This technique goes against my trained wisdom but my groups were unimpressive as I tried to anticipate the shot while gently drawing the trigger to the rear. \u201cJust pull it,\u201d he added. \u201cYou\u2019ll shoot better, trust me.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Deware was right. During the accuracy test I tried each method (\u201cstaging\u201d and \u201cpulling\u201d) with another experienced pistol shooter. The results were clearly definitive. At 7 yards, we shot five 5-shot groups and every single group shot by \u201cpulling\u201d through the trigger resulted in a group that was better than any group shot by \u201cstaging\u201d the trigger. It baffles me, but it is true. Due to this revelation, the accuracy tests at 7, 10, 15 and 25 yards were done by the \u201cpulling\u201d method.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I had already witnessed a team of SIG SAUER employees perform continuous endurance testing at the SIG SAUER Academy. Numerous P250s were being shot with most exceeding 10,000 or 20,000 rounds. They weren\u2019t just shooting ball ammo but my jaw dropped at the sight of Speer Gold Dot defensive loads being shot by the pallet. SIG SAUER had invested a considerable amount of money to make sure this product would run.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Shortly after I got home, I received a pair of P250s, one Tactical All Terrain model with the extended barrel and one Digital Camo with a standard barrel. I didn\u2019t waste time before heading out to the range. I collected some military-issue 115-grain FMJ 9mm that I had been saving for a test like this. I wanted to see if these pistols were worthy for duty and if the threaded barrel benefited from any additional accuracy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
These pistols\u2019 7.5-plus-pound long trigger pull meant that a test with a Ransom Rest was out of the question. The test group fired to the best of our ability while standing at 7, 10 and 15 yards. At 25 yards we fired from a supported bench rest position.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We chose to get familiar to the trigger and test the trigger theory at 7 yards before moving back. The best five-shot group obtained at 7 yards was 1.12 inches. This isn\u2019t a result of match accuracy but it is better than the combat accuracy of other DAO pistols in this class. Staging did, in fact, prove worse for accuracy so the rest of this evaluation would be completed while pulling through the trigger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Moving 3 yards back to the 10-yard line, the 5-shot groups didn\u2019t change much, staying well under 2 inches. However, at 15 yards, the groups started opening up by an extra inch. At the 25-yard bench, we shot five 5-shot groups each averaging just under 3 inches for the Tactical All Terrain model with the longer barrel and just over 3.5 inches for the standard-length Digital Camo model. When comparing group size to group size, it was obvious that the Tactical All Terrain pistol benefited from the longer barrel in all except from the 7-yard line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
SIG SAUER\u2019s P250 builds on the proven recoil operated, locked breach design of the 20th century. Production is accomplished here in the United States and the Germans are taking notice. \u201cWith millions of dollars invested in state-of-the-art machinery, our facility in New Hampshire is taking the lead in production of SIG SAUERs,\u201d says Ron Cohen, president of SIG SAUER.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This consistency in production is reflected in the commonality of parts. A shooter doesn\u2019t have to worry about fit when swapping parts or headspace when switching barrels. Quality control is held to strict standards, which was verified in a recent factory tour. Modern manufacturing equipment and tolerance checks were performed with German-engineered computer-aided machines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A finishing department disassembled each product and carefully conducted a multi-point inspection. \u201cWe have nothing to hide,\u201d says Eric VonBosse, product manager. \u201cThe red tags you see on guns are rejects. If something is rejected we find out why and see if we need to change a process. We are always looking for ways to improve things around here.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I don\u2019t expect those faithful to the 1911 will like the trigger and polymer composite feel of this pistol. It is well balanced and certainly brings a new approach to the argument over the definition of a combat gun. It\u2019s not going to win competitive shooting matches without some other options but it isn\u2019t designed to. It\u2019s designed to work reliably and intuitively for a broad spectrum of shooters. Perhaps this complicates matters. In the end, some might find that that SIG SAUER\u2019s P250 solves them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
There are very few parts to the Sig Sauer P250 9mm Duo, easing maintenance and cleaning. Those who get the Sig Sauer P250 9mm Duo can decide for themselves, which grip best suits their hand while caliber upgrades can be easily obtained. A modular grip frame allows the shooter to custom fit the pistol<\/a> and the lack of manual safety means that fundamental training could be accomplished more swiftly. And in the field, fewer controls could mean fewer things to fumble during a critical moment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Most repair and maintenance issues of the P250 could be handled at a basic skill level. \u201cWe are having a hard time working up the armorer course for the P250,\u201d says George Harris, director of training at the SIG SAUER Academy. \u201cThe actual armorer course would only take a few hours to teach. We would have to think of a few other things for students to do just to fill a day.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
M1911 and Beretta M9 shooters may require some time to warm up to the P250\u2019s trigger. You can\u2019t stage the trigger of the P250. If you try, more often than not you\u2019ll throw the shot. \u201cYou\u2019ve got to pull through the trigger,\u201d says Rance Deware, senior instructor at the SIG SAUER Academy. This technique goes against my trained wisdom but my groups were unimpressive as I tried to anticipate the shot while gently drawing the trigger to the rear. \u201cJust pull it,\u201d he added. \u201cYou\u2019ll shoot better, trust me.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Deware was right. During the accuracy test I tried each method (\u201cstaging\u201d and \u201cpulling\u201d) with another experienced pistol shooter. The results were clearly definitive. At 7 yards, we shot five 5-shot groups and every single group shot by \u201cpulling\u201d through the trigger resulted in a group that was better than any group shot by \u201cstaging\u201d the trigger. It baffles me, but it is true. Due to this revelation, the accuracy tests at 7, 10, 15 and 25 yards were done by the \u201cpulling\u201d method.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I had already witnessed a team of SIG SAUER employees perform continuous endurance testing at the SIG SAUER Academy. Numerous P250s were being shot with most exceeding 10,000 or 20,000 rounds. They weren\u2019t just shooting ball ammo but my jaw dropped at the sight of Speer Gold Dot defensive loads being shot by the pallet. SIG SAUER had invested a considerable amount of money to make sure this product would run.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Shortly after I got home, I received a pair of P250s, one Tactical All Terrain model with the extended barrel and one Digital Camo with a standard barrel. I didn\u2019t waste time before heading out to the range. I collected some military-issue 115-grain FMJ 9mm that I had been saving for a test like this. I wanted to see if these pistols were worthy for duty and if the threaded barrel benefited from any additional accuracy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
These pistols\u2019 7.5-plus-pound long trigger pull meant that a test with a Ransom Rest was out of the question. The test group fired to the best of our ability while standing at 7, 10 and 15 yards. At 25 yards we fired from a supported bench rest position.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We chose to get familiar to the trigger and test the trigger theory at 7 yards before moving back. The best five-shot group obtained at 7 yards was 1.12 inches. This isn\u2019t a result of match accuracy but it is better than the combat accuracy of other DAO pistols in this class. Staging did, in fact, prove worse for accuracy so the rest of this evaluation would be completed while pulling through the trigger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Moving 3 yards back to the 10-yard line, the 5-shot groups didn\u2019t change much, staying well under 2 inches. However, at 15 yards, the groups started opening up by an extra inch. At the 25-yard bench, we shot five 5-shot groups each averaging just under 3 inches for the Tactical All Terrain model with the longer barrel and just over 3.5 inches for the standard-length Digital Camo model. When comparing group size to group size, it was obvious that the Tactical All Terrain pistol benefited from the longer barrel in all except from the 7-yard line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
SIG SAUER\u2019s P250 builds on the proven recoil operated, locked breach design of the 20th century. Production is accomplished here in the United States and the Germans are taking notice. \u201cWith millions of dollars invested in state-of-the-art machinery, our facility in New Hampshire is taking the lead in production of SIG SAUERs,\u201d says Ron Cohen, president of SIG SAUER.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This consistency in production is reflected in the commonality of parts. A shooter doesn\u2019t have to worry about fit when swapping parts or headspace when switching barrels. Quality control is held to strict standards, which was verified in a recent factory tour. Modern manufacturing equipment and tolerance checks were performed with German-engineered computer-aided machines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A finishing department disassembled each product and carefully conducted a multi-point inspection. \u201cWe have nothing to hide,\u201d says Eric VonBosse, product manager. \u201cThe red tags you see on guns are rejects. If something is rejected we find out why and see if we need to change a process. We are always looking for ways to improve things around here.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I don\u2019t expect those faithful to the 1911 will like the trigger and polymer composite feel of this pistol. It is well balanced and certainly brings a new approach to the argument over the definition of a combat gun. It\u2019s not going to win competitive shooting matches without some other options but it isn\u2019t designed to. It\u2019s designed to work reliably and intuitively for a broad spectrum of shooters. Perhaps this complicates matters. In the end, some might find that that SIG SAUER\u2019s P250 solves them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For more information, contact: SIG SAUER, 18 Industrial Dr, Dept. CH, Exeter, NH 03833; 603-772-2302; www.sigsauer.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Sig Sauer P250 9mm Duo Pistol Review","post_excerpt":"New Compact Digital Camo and Tactical All Terrain Digital!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"sig-sauer-p250-9mm-duo","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-10-31 23:08:56","post_modified_gmt":"2023-11-01 03:08:56","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2009\/03\/30\/sig-sauer-p250-9mm-duo\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":160884,"post_author":"361","post_date":"2009-03-30 09:25:26","post_date_gmt":"2009-03-30 15:25:26","post_content":"\r\n\r\nThe past several years, Smith & Wesson has created a lot of industry excitement by introducing or, in some cases, reintroducing new wheelguns. That\u2019s right, round guns are making a big comeback. Part of the new wave started when Clint Smith urged the good folks in Springfield to bring out the Model 21 .44 Special in a Thunder Ranch Edition, followed by the Model 22 TR in .45ACP. Both were popular enough that once the run of Thunder Ranch Editions were completed, they were made a standard production revolver. Clint then redefined the defensive revolver with the introduction of the Model 325 Thunder Ranch. The M325 .45ACP features a detachable accessory rail that allows one to attach a light or laser under the barrel. With the popularity of these and other models on the rise, don\u2019t let anyone tell you the wheelgun is dead.\r\n\r\n
The buzz started around the end of 2007 when there were rumors that S&W was going to introduce a new line of revolvers. No one was saying much more than that but some subtle inquires found that the folks in S&W was going to introduce a series of scandium-framed revolvers based on the L-frame, N-frame, and to everyone\u2019s surprise, the K-frame. They would be designed for personal defense and concealed carry and would feature Cylinder & Slide\u2019s popular Extreme Duty rear sight with an XS front sight.\r\n\r\nBeing a big bore fan, the model that excited me the most was the Model 396. The ideal of a .44 Special cartridge in a medium-sized L-frame seemed to be an ideal match. The .44 Special is over 100 years old but during the last half of the 20th century, it was overshadowed by the .44 Mag. However, real pistoleros keep coming back to the .44 Special for serious social occasions. Folks like Elmer Keith and Skeeter Skelton recognized that while the Mag was great for hunting, it was a little much for a defensive or duty carry. Classic .44 Special platforms included the Colt Model P and S&W\u2019s Triple Lock.\r\n\r\nToday, the .44 Special has become \u201cspecial\u201d again with bullet weights from 135 grains to 250 grains being available in a variety of loads. I placed my request for a M396, and it finally arrived.\r\n\r\nGun Details<\/strong><\/span>\r\nThe M396 Night Guard is based on the L-frame that has proven very durable in the M686 series of .357 Mag revolvers. However, the M396 frame is constructed from a scandium alloy frame allowing a significant reduction in weight. The cylinder is stainless steel while the 2.5-inch barrel is stainless steel with a scandium sleeve that acts as a base for the front sight and shrouds the ejection rod. The finish is matte black that gives the M396 a serious business look.\r\n\r\nMuch to S&W\u2019s credit, the M396 is void of any sharp edges. The trigger and all edges on the frame have been rounded. Five large chambers hold an equal number of .44 Special rounds. The frame is a round butt configuration with Pachmayr Compac stocks. It was here that we ran into the only issue with the M396. The factory Pachmayr stocks are extremely large, even for those with oversized hands. While the cushioned back strap made the M396 more enjoyable to shoot, the overall size of the stocks made obtaining a proper grip difficult. With the factory stocks, the M396 weighs in at a mere 24.2 ounces.\u00a0\r\n\r\nThe selection of sights for the new series of pistols is, in itself, a story. Several years ago a gunsmith, who was working for Bill Laughridge at Cylinder & Slide, came up with the idea of a fixed blade sight that could be retrofitted on any adjustable sight S&W revolver. Bill saw the possibility and the C&S Extreme Duty Sight was born. It is a one-piece casting that replaces the Micro Meter adjustable rear sight and provides a tough and streamlined rear sight with a profile and sight picture similar to a Lo Mount Novak. The original Extreme Duty Sight features a square-shaped notch. Once production started, Bill took the sight to S&W but, at the time, their attention was not focused on wheelguns.\u00a0\r\n\r\nThen came the Night Guard proposal and the Extreme Duty Sight seemed a perfect match for a fighting revolver. For the front sight, S&W wanted to use the XS 24\/7 Standard Size Tritium dot. The XS 24\/7 has a large white bead with a small tritium insert in the center. It is both fast and accurate, and was ideal for the Night Guards. S&W asked if C&S could provide an Extreme Duty Sight with a \u201cU\u201d notch instead of a square notch. Laughridge\u2019s answer was absolutely. A new mold was made and the \u201cU\u201d notch Extreme Duty is now on every Night Guard revolver.\r\n\r\nRange Time<\/strong><\/span>\r\nOn the range the M396 was well behaved. Not surprisingly, \u201ccowboy\u201d loads were the most enjoyable to shoot. Speer\u2019s 200-grain Gold Dot was a little stiffer but well within controllable limits and would be my first choice in a self-defense load. I can tell you that this \u201col\u2019 timer\u201d wants no part of any scandium frame .44 Mags. The double-action (DA), while somewhat heavy, was smooth and consistent. Quarter-size DA groups from 7 yards were easy. The combination of the XS front sight and Extreme Duty rear sight make alignment quick and easy. The Night Guard series are not Performance Center products, so it is not fair to compare my test M325 TR revolver to the M396. However, when shooting them side-by-side, it makes me want to drop an aftermarket spring kit in the M396.\u00a0\r\n\r\nAs much as I liked the stock Night Guard, it was simply begging for a set of Crimson Trace Lasergrips. After all, it is a serious self-defense revolver and with \u201cnight\u201d in the title, this was a no-brainer. I ordered the LG-306 grips for the round butt frame. The LG-306 is a very compact design that has an open back strap and fits almost flush with the bottom of the frame. As with all CTC products, the laser is activated by simply holding the revolver in a firing grip. The beam is adjustable for both windage and elevation.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nDuring range time with the CTC Lasergrips, recoil was manageable and follow-up shots proved to be relatively easy with both the laser and iron sights. I would like to see Crimson Trace develop a K\/L-frame stock that follows the lines of the LG-405 for the J-frame. The LG-405 features a back strap pad that reduces felt recoil by 30 percent or more.<\/span>\r\n\r\nCarry Options<\/strong><\/span>\r\nI definitely wanted to carry the M396 to see how well it would fit into a daily carry routine. When looking for a holster, I found that several of my favorite custom holster shops did not have a mold for the new model. The good news that Galco already produces an inside-the-waistband (IWB) holster for an L-frame, 3-inch barrel revolver. The Summer Comfort is a close cousin to the Milt Spark\u2019s Summer Special. The Summer Comfort features a reinforced mouth that prevents the holster from collapsing when the pistol is drawn. The double belt loops are equipped with one-way snaps that allow the holster to be put on or taken off without removing the pant\u2019s belt.\u00a0\r\n\r\nAs with all of Galco holsters, it is cut from premium saddle leather and detail molded for the specific pistol. The Summer Comfort lived up to its name and allowed the M396 to be effectively concealed and comfortably carried. A drop pouch for six extra rounds completed the Galco set.\r\n\r\nFinal Notes<\/strong><\/span>\r\nI feel that it is fair to say the S&W owns the revolver market. From .22LR to the .500S&W Mag, S&W has something for everyone. The Night Guards represent a renewed commitment to the popularity of revolvers for personal defense and the concealed carry market. S&W recognizes that autos are not for everyone. In a .44 Special, the M396 is perhaps the perfect platform for self-defense. I think that Elmer and Skeeter would approve.","post_title":"S&W M396 .44SPL Night Guard","post_excerpt":"Lightweight and compact, it\u2019s ready for concealed carry!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"sw-m396-44spl-night-guard","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-31 20:23:30","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-31 20:23:30","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2009\/03\/30\/sw-m396-44spl-night-guard\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":274},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};
I removed the barrels from each and measured the length of the bore to the breach face with a dial caliper. The barrel on the Tactical All Terrain model measured 4.8 inches while the bore length on the standard barrel measured 3.8 inches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
There are very few parts to the Sig Sauer P250 9mm Duo, easing maintenance and cleaning. Those who get the Sig Sauer P250 9mm Duo can decide for themselves, which grip best suits their hand while caliber upgrades can be easily obtained. A modular grip frame allows the shooter to custom fit the pistol<\/a> and the lack of manual safety means that fundamental training could be accomplished more swiftly. And in the field, fewer controls could mean fewer things to fumble during a critical moment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Most repair and maintenance issues of the P250 could be handled at a basic skill level. \u201cWe are having a hard time working up the armorer course for the P250,\u201d says George Harris, director of training at the SIG SAUER Academy. \u201cThe actual armorer course would only take a few hours to teach. We would have to think of a few other things for students to do just to fill a day.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
M1911 and Beretta M9 shooters may require some time to warm up to the P250\u2019s trigger. You can\u2019t stage the trigger of the P250. If you try, more often than not you\u2019ll throw the shot. \u201cYou\u2019ve got to pull through the trigger,\u201d says Rance Deware, senior instructor at the SIG SAUER Academy. This technique goes against my trained wisdom but my groups were unimpressive as I tried to anticipate the shot while gently drawing the trigger to the rear. \u201cJust pull it,\u201d he added. \u201cYou\u2019ll shoot better, trust me.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Deware was right. During the accuracy test I tried each method (\u201cstaging\u201d and \u201cpulling\u201d) with another experienced pistol shooter. The results were clearly definitive. At 7 yards, we shot five 5-shot groups and every single group shot by \u201cpulling\u201d through the trigger resulted in a group that was better than any group shot by \u201cstaging\u201d the trigger. It baffles me, but it is true. Due to this revelation, the accuracy tests at 7, 10, 15 and 25 yards were done by the \u201cpulling\u201d method.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I had already witnessed a team of SIG SAUER employees perform continuous endurance testing at the SIG SAUER Academy. Numerous P250s were being shot with most exceeding 10,000 or 20,000 rounds. They weren\u2019t just shooting ball ammo but my jaw dropped at the sight of Speer Gold Dot defensive loads being shot by the pallet. SIG SAUER had invested a considerable amount of money to make sure this product would run.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Shortly after I got home, I received a pair of P250s, one Tactical All Terrain model with the extended barrel and one Digital Camo with a standard barrel. I didn\u2019t waste time before heading out to the range. I collected some military-issue 115-grain FMJ 9mm that I had been saving for a test like this. I wanted to see if these pistols were worthy for duty and if the threaded barrel benefited from any additional accuracy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
These pistols\u2019 7.5-plus-pound long trigger pull meant that a test with a Ransom Rest was out of the question. The test group fired to the best of our ability while standing at 7, 10 and 15 yards. At 25 yards we fired from a supported bench rest position.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We chose to get familiar to the trigger and test the trigger theory at 7 yards before moving back. The best five-shot group obtained at 7 yards was 1.12 inches. This isn\u2019t a result of match accuracy but it is better than the combat accuracy of other DAO pistols in this class. Staging did, in fact, prove worse for accuracy so the rest of this evaluation would be completed while pulling through the trigger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Moving 3 yards back to the 10-yard line, the 5-shot groups didn\u2019t change much, staying well under 2 inches. However, at 15 yards, the groups started opening up by an extra inch. At the 25-yard bench, we shot five 5-shot groups each averaging just under 3 inches for the Tactical All Terrain model with the longer barrel and just over 3.5 inches for the standard-length Digital Camo model. When comparing group size to group size, it was obvious that the Tactical All Terrain pistol benefited from the longer barrel in all except from the 7-yard line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
SIG SAUER\u2019s P250 builds on the proven recoil operated, locked breach design of the 20th century. Production is accomplished here in the United States and the Germans are taking notice. \u201cWith millions of dollars invested in state-of-the-art machinery, our facility in New Hampshire is taking the lead in production of SIG SAUERs,\u201d says Ron Cohen, president of SIG SAUER.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This consistency in production is reflected in the commonality of parts. A shooter doesn\u2019t have to worry about fit when swapping parts or headspace when switching barrels. Quality control is held to strict standards, which was verified in a recent factory tour. Modern manufacturing equipment and tolerance checks were performed with German-engineered computer-aided machines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A finishing department disassembled each product and carefully conducted a multi-point inspection. \u201cWe have nothing to hide,\u201d says Eric VonBosse, product manager. \u201cThe red tags you see on guns are rejects. If something is rejected we find out why and see if we need to change a process. We are always looking for ways to improve things around here.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I don\u2019t expect those faithful to the 1911 will like the trigger and polymer composite feel of this pistol. It is well balanced and certainly brings a new approach to the argument over the definition of a combat gun. It\u2019s not going to win competitive shooting matches without some other options but it isn\u2019t designed to. It\u2019s designed to work reliably and intuitively for a broad spectrum of shooters. Perhaps this complicates matters. In the end, some might find that that SIG SAUER\u2019s P250 solves them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For more information, contact: SIG SAUER, 18 Industrial Dr, Dept. CH, Exeter, NH 03833; 603-772-2302; www.sigsauer.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Sig Sauer P250 9mm Duo Pistol Review","post_excerpt":"New Compact Digital Camo and Tactical All Terrain Digital!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"sig-sauer-p250-9mm-duo","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-10-31 23:08:56","post_modified_gmt":"2023-11-01 03:08:56","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2009\/03\/30\/sig-sauer-p250-9mm-duo\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":160884,"post_author":"361","post_date":"2009-03-30 09:25:26","post_date_gmt":"2009-03-30 15:25:26","post_content":"\r\n\r\nThe past several years, Smith & Wesson has created a lot of industry excitement by introducing or, in some cases, reintroducing new wheelguns. That\u2019s right, round guns are making a big comeback. Part of the new wave started when Clint Smith urged the good folks in Springfield to bring out the Model 21 .44 Special in a Thunder Ranch Edition, followed by the Model 22 TR in .45ACP. Both were popular enough that once the run of Thunder Ranch Editions were completed, they were made a standard production revolver. Clint then redefined the defensive revolver with the introduction of the Model 325 Thunder Ranch. The M325 .45ACP features a detachable accessory rail that allows one to attach a light or laser under the barrel. With the popularity of these and other models on the rise, don\u2019t let anyone tell you the wheelgun is dead.\r\n\r\n
The buzz started around the end of 2007 when there were rumors that S&W was going to introduce a new line of revolvers. No one was saying much more than that but some subtle inquires found that the folks in S&W was going to introduce a series of scandium-framed revolvers based on the L-frame, N-frame, and to everyone\u2019s surprise, the K-frame. They would be designed for personal defense and concealed carry and would feature Cylinder & Slide\u2019s popular Extreme Duty rear sight with an XS front sight.\r\n\r\nBeing a big bore fan, the model that excited me the most was the Model 396. The ideal of a .44 Special cartridge in a medium-sized L-frame seemed to be an ideal match. The .44 Special is over 100 years old but during the last half of the 20th century, it was overshadowed by the .44 Mag. However, real pistoleros keep coming back to the .44 Special for serious social occasions. Folks like Elmer Keith and Skeeter Skelton recognized that while the Mag was great for hunting, it was a little much for a defensive or duty carry. Classic .44 Special platforms included the Colt Model P and S&W\u2019s Triple Lock.\r\n\r\nToday, the .44 Special has become \u201cspecial\u201d again with bullet weights from 135 grains to 250 grains being available in a variety of loads. I placed my request for a M396, and it finally arrived.\r\n\r\nGun Details<\/strong><\/span>\r\nThe M396 Night Guard is based on the L-frame that has proven very durable in the M686 series of .357 Mag revolvers. However, the M396 frame is constructed from a scandium alloy frame allowing a significant reduction in weight. The cylinder is stainless steel while the 2.5-inch barrel is stainless steel with a scandium sleeve that acts as a base for the front sight and shrouds the ejection rod. The finish is matte black that gives the M396 a serious business look.\r\n\r\nMuch to S&W\u2019s credit, the M396 is void of any sharp edges. The trigger and all edges on the frame have been rounded. Five large chambers hold an equal number of .44 Special rounds. The frame is a round butt configuration with Pachmayr Compac stocks. It was here that we ran into the only issue with the M396. The factory Pachmayr stocks are extremely large, even for those with oversized hands. While the cushioned back strap made the M396 more enjoyable to shoot, the overall size of the stocks made obtaining a proper grip difficult. With the factory stocks, the M396 weighs in at a mere 24.2 ounces.\u00a0\r\n\r\nThe selection of sights for the new series of pistols is, in itself, a story. Several years ago a gunsmith, who was working for Bill Laughridge at Cylinder & Slide, came up with the idea of a fixed blade sight that could be retrofitted on any adjustable sight S&W revolver. Bill saw the possibility and the C&S Extreme Duty Sight was born. It is a one-piece casting that replaces the Micro Meter adjustable rear sight and provides a tough and streamlined rear sight with a profile and sight picture similar to a Lo Mount Novak. The original Extreme Duty Sight features a square-shaped notch. Once production started, Bill took the sight to S&W but, at the time, their attention was not focused on wheelguns.\u00a0\r\n\r\nThen came the Night Guard proposal and the Extreme Duty Sight seemed a perfect match for a fighting revolver. For the front sight, S&W wanted to use the XS 24\/7 Standard Size Tritium dot. The XS 24\/7 has a large white bead with a small tritium insert in the center. It is both fast and accurate, and was ideal for the Night Guards. S&W asked if C&S could provide an Extreme Duty Sight with a \u201cU\u201d notch instead of a square notch. Laughridge\u2019s answer was absolutely. A new mold was made and the \u201cU\u201d notch Extreme Duty is now on every Night Guard revolver.\r\n\r\nRange Time<\/strong><\/span>\r\nOn the range the M396 was well behaved. Not surprisingly, \u201ccowboy\u201d loads were the most enjoyable to shoot. Speer\u2019s 200-grain Gold Dot was a little stiffer but well within controllable limits and would be my first choice in a self-defense load. I can tell you that this \u201col\u2019 timer\u201d wants no part of any scandium frame .44 Mags. The double-action (DA), while somewhat heavy, was smooth and consistent. Quarter-size DA groups from 7 yards were easy. The combination of the XS front sight and Extreme Duty rear sight make alignment quick and easy. The Night Guard series are not Performance Center products, so it is not fair to compare my test M325 TR revolver to the M396. However, when shooting them side-by-side, it makes me want to drop an aftermarket spring kit in the M396.\u00a0\r\n\r\nAs much as I liked the stock Night Guard, it was simply begging for a set of Crimson Trace Lasergrips. After all, it is a serious self-defense revolver and with \u201cnight\u201d in the title, this was a no-brainer. I ordered the LG-306 grips for the round butt frame. The LG-306 is a very compact design that has an open back strap and fits almost flush with the bottom of the frame. As with all CTC products, the laser is activated by simply holding the revolver in a firing grip. The beam is adjustable for both windage and elevation.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nDuring range time with the CTC Lasergrips, recoil was manageable and follow-up shots proved to be relatively easy with both the laser and iron sights. I would like to see Crimson Trace develop a K\/L-frame stock that follows the lines of the LG-405 for the J-frame. The LG-405 features a back strap pad that reduces felt recoil by 30 percent or more.<\/span>\r\n\r\nCarry Options<\/strong><\/span>\r\nI definitely wanted to carry the M396 to see how well it would fit into a daily carry routine. When looking for a holster, I found that several of my favorite custom holster shops did not have a mold for the new model. The good news that Galco already produces an inside-the-waistband (IWB) holster for an L-frame, 3-inch barrel revolver. The Summer Comfort is a close cousin to the Milt Spark\u2019s Summer Special. The Summer Comfort features a reinforced mouth that prevents the holster from collapsing when the pistol is drawn. The double belt loops are equipped with one-way snaps that allow the holster to be put on or taken off without removing the pant\u2019s belt.\u00a0\r\n\r\nAs with all of Galco holsters, it is cut from premium saddle leather and detail molded for the specific pistol. The Summer Comfort lived up to its name and allowed the M396 to be effectively concealed and comfortably carried. A drop pouch for six extra rounds completed the Galco set.\r\n\r\nFinal Notes<\/strong><\/span>\r\nI feel that it is fair to say the S&W owns the revolver market. From .22LR to the .500S&W Mag, S&W has something for everyone. The Night Guards represent a renewed commitment to the popularity of revolvers for personal defense and the concealed carry market. S&W recognizes that autos are not for everyone. In a .44 Special, the M396 is perhaps the perfect platform for self-defense. I think that Elmer and Skeeter would approve.","post_title":"S&W M396 .44SPL Night Guard","post_excerpt":"Lightweight and compact, it\u2019s ready for concealed carry!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"sw-m396-44spl-night-guard","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-31 20:23:30","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-31 20:23:30","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2009\/03\/30\/sw-m396-44spl-night-guard\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":274},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};
If the digital camouflage doesn\u2019t grab the attention of operators, a threaded barrel just might. Currently, the Digital Camo model features a shorter barrel than the All Terrain model, just like the standard P250. The barrel of the Tactical All Terrain model, however, is cut to a greater length and turned for threads to accept a suppressor. I immediately began thinking about the effect the length would have on this model\u2019s accuracy potential.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I removed the barrels from each and measured the length of the bore to the breach face with a dial caliper. The barrel on the Tactical All Terrain model measured 4.8 inches while the bore length on the standard barrel measured 3.8 inches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
There are very few parts to the Sig Sauer P250 9mm Duo, easing maintenance and cleaning. Those who get the Sig Sauer P250 9mm Duo can decide for themselves, which grip best suits their hand while caliber upgrades can be easily obtained. A modular grip frame allows the shooter to custom fit the pistol<\/a> and the lack of manual safety means that fundamental training could be accomplished more swiftly. And in the field, fewer controls could mean fewer things to fumble during a critical moment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Most repair and maintenance issues of the P250 could be handled at a basic skill level. \u201cWe are having a hard time working up the armorer course for the P250,\u201d says George Harris, director of training at the SIG SAUER Academy. \u201cThe actual armorer course would only take a few hours to teach. We would have to think of a few other things for students to do just to fill a day.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
M1911 and Beretta M9 shooters may require some time to warm up to the P250\u2019s trigger. You can\u2019t stage the trigger of the P250. If you try, more often than not you\u2019ll throw the shot. \u201cYou\u2019ve got to pull through the trigger,\u201d says Rance Deware, senior instructor at the SIG SAUER Academy. This technique goes against my trained wisdom but my groups were unimpressive as I tried to anticipate the shot while gently drawing the trigger to the rear. \u201cJust pull it,\u201d he added. \u201cYou\u2019ll shoot better, trust me.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Deware was right. During the accuracy test I tried each method (\u201cstaging\u201d and \u201cpulling\u201d) with another experienced pistol shooter. The results were clearly definitive. At 7 yards, we shot five 5-shot groups and every single group shot by \u201cpulling\u201d through the trigger resulted in a group that was better than any group shot by \u201cstaging\u201d the trigger. It baffles me, but it is true. Due to this revelation, the accuracy tests at 7, 10, 15 and 25 yards were done by the \u201cpulling\u201d method.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I had already witnessed a team of SIG SAUER employees perform continuous endurance testing at the SIG SAUER Academy. Numerous P250s were being shot with most exceeding 10,000 or 20,000 rounds. They weren\u2019t just shooting ball ammo but my jaw dropped at the sight of Speer Gold Dot defensive loads being shot by the pallet. SIG SAUER had invested a considerable amount of money to make sure this product would run.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Shortly after I got home, I received a pair of P250s, one Tactical All Terrain model with the extended barrel and one Digital Camo with a standard barrel. I didn\u2019t waste time before heading out to the range. I collected some military-issue 115-grain FMJ 9mm that I had been saving for a test like this. I wanted to see if these pistols were worthy for duty and if the threaded barrel benefited from any additional accuracy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
These pistols\u2019 7.5-plus-pound long trigger pull meant that a test with a Ransom Rest was out of the question. The test group fired to the best of our ability while standing at 7, 10 and 15 yards. At 25 yards we fired from a supported bench rest position.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We chose to get familiar to the trigger and test the trigger theory at 7 yards before moving back. The best five-shot group obtained at 7 yards was 1.12 inches. This isn\u2019t a result of match accuracy but it is better than the combat accuracy of other DAO pistols in this class. Staging did, in fact, prove worse for accuracy so the rest of this evaluation would be completed while pulling through the trigger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Moving 3 yards back to the 10-yard line, the 5-shot groups didn\u2019t change much, staying well under 2 inches. However, at 15 yards, the groups started opening up by an extra inch. At the 25-yard bench, we shot five 5-shot groups each averaging just under 3 inches for the Tactical All Terrain model with the longer barrel and just over 3.5 inches for the standard-length Digital Camo model. When comparing group size to group size, it was obvious that the Tactical All Terrain pistol benefited from the longer barrel in all except from the 7-yard line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
SIG SAUER\u2019s P250 builds on the proven recoil operated, locked breach design of the 20th century. Production is accomplished here in the United States and the Germans are taking notice. \u201cWith millions of dollars invested in state-of-the-art machinery, our facility in New Hampshire is taking the lead in production of SIG SAUERs,\u201d says Ron Cohen, president of SIG SAUER.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This consistency in production is reflected in the commonality of parts. A shooter doesn\u2019t have to worry about fit when swapping parts or headspace when switching barrels. Quality control is held to strict standards, which was verified in a recent factory tour. Modern manufacturing equipment and tolerance checks were performed with German-engineered computer-aided machines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A finishing department disassembled each product and carefully conducted a multi-point inspection. \u201cWe have nothing to hide,\u201d says Eric VonBosse, product manager. \u201cThe red tags you see on guns are rejects. If something is rejected we find out why and see if we need to change a process. We are always looking for ways to improve things around here.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I don\u2019t expect those faithful to the 1911 will like the trigger and polymer composite feel of this pistol. It is well balanced and certainly brings a new approach to the argument over the definition of a combat gun. It\u2019s not going to win competitive shooting matches without some other options but it isn\u2019t designed to. It\u2019s designed to work reliably and intuitively for a broad spectrum of shooters. Perhaps this complicates matters. In the end, some might find that that SIG SAUER\u2019s P250 solves them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For more information, contact: SIG SAUER, 18 Industrial Dr, Dept. CH, Exeter, NH 03833; 603-772-2302; www.sigsauer.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Sig Sauer P250 9mm Duo Pistol Review","post_excerpt":"New Compact Digital Camo and Tactical All Terrain Digital!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"sig-sauer-p250-9mm-duo","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-10-31 23:08:56","post_modified_gmt":"2023-11-01 03:08:56","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2009\/03\/30\/sig-sauer-p250-9mm-duo\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":160884,"post_author":"361","post_date":"2009-03-30 09:25:26","post_date_gmt":"2009-03-30 15:25:26","post_content":"\r\n\r\nThe past several years, Smith & Wesson has created a lot of industry excitement by introducing or, in some cases, reintroducing new wheelguns. That\u2019s right, round guns are making a big comeback. Part of the new wave started when Clint Smith urged the good folks in Springfield to bring out the Model 21 .44 Special in a Thunder Ranch Edition, followed by the Model 22 TR in .45ACP. Both were popular enough that once the run of Thunder Ranch Editions were completed, they were made a standard production revolver. Clint then redefined the defensive revolver with the introduction of the Model 325 Thunder Ranch. The M325 .45ACP features a detachable accessory rail that allows one to attach a light or laser under the barrel. With the popularity of these and other models on the rise, don\u2019t let anyone tell you the wheelgun is dead.\r\n\r\n
The buzz started around the end of 2007 when there were rumors that S&W was going to introduce a new line of revolvers. No one was saying much more than that but some subtle inquires found that the folks in S&W was going to introduce a series of scandium-framed revolvers based on the L-frame, N-frame, and to everyone\u2019s surprise, the K-frame. They would be designed for personal defense and concealed carry and would feature Cylinder & Slide\u2019s popular Extreme Duty rear sight with an XS front sight.\r\n\r\nBeing a big bore fan, the model that excited me the most was the Model 396. The ideal of a .44 Special cartridge in a medium-sized L-frame seemed to be an ideal match. The .44 Special is over 100 years old but during the last half of the 20th century, it was overshadowed by the .44 Mag. However, real pistoleros keep coming back to the .44 Special for serious social occasions. Folks like Elmer Keith and Skeeter Skelton recognized that while the Mag was great for hunting, it was a little much for a defensive or duty carry. Classic .44 Special platforms included the Colt Model P and S&W\u2019s Triple Lock.\r\n\r\nToday, the .44 Special has become \u201cspecial\u201d again with bullet weights from 135 grains to 250 grains being available in a variety of loads. I placed my request for a M396, and it finally arrived.\r\n\r\nGun Details<\/strong><\/span>\r\nThe M396 Night Guard is based on the L-frame that has proven very durable in the M686 series of .357 Mag revolvers. However, the M396 frame is constructed from a scandium alloy frame allowing a significant reduction in weight. The cylinder is stainless steel while the 2.5-inch barrel is stainless steel with a scandium sleeve that acts as a base for the front sight and shrouds the ejection rod. The finish is matte black that gives the M396 a serious business look.\r\n\r\nMuch to S&W\u2019s credit, the M396 is void of any sharp edges. The trigger and all edges on the frame have been rounded. Five large chambers hold an equal number of .44 Special rounds. The frame is a round butt configuration with Pachmayr Compac stocks. It was here that we ran into the only issue with the M396. The factory Pachmayr stocks are extremely large, even for those with oversized hands. While the cushioned back strap made the M396 more enjoyable to shoot, the overall size of the stocks made obtaining a proper grip difficult. With the factory stocks, the M396 weighs in at a mere 24.2 ounces.\u00a0\r\n\r\nThe selection of sights for the new series of pistols is, in itself, a story. Several years ago a gunsmith, who was working for Bill Laughridge at Cylinder & Slide, came up with the idea of a fixed blade sight that could be retrofitted on any adjustable sight S&W revolver. Bill saw the possibility and the C&S Extreme Duty Sight was born. It is a one-piece casting that replaces the Micro Meter adjustable rear sight and provides a tough and streamlined rear sight with a profile and sight picture similar to a Lo Mount Novak. The original Extreme Duty Sight features a square-shaped notch. Once production started, Bill took the sight to S&W but, at the time, their attention was not focused on wheelguns.\u00a0\r\n\r\nThen came the Night Guard proposal and the Extreme Duty Sight seemed a perfect match for a fighting revolver. For the front sight, S&W wanted to use the XS 24\/7 Standard Size Tritium dot. The XS 24\/7 has a large white bead with a small tritium insert in the center. It is both fast and accurate, and was ideal for the Night Guards. S&W asked if C&S could provide an Extreme Duty Sight with a \u201cU\u201d notch instead of a square notch. Laughridge\u2019s answer was absolutely. A new mold was made and the \u201cU\u201d notch Extreme Duty is now on every Night Guard revolver.\r\n\r\nRange Time<\/strong><\/span>\r\nOn the range the M396 was well behaved. Not surprisingly, \u201ccowboy\u201d loads were the most enjoyable to shoot. Speer\u2019s 200-grain Gold Dot was a little stiffer but well within controllable limits and would be my first choice in a self-defense load. I can tell you that this \u201col\u2019 timer\u201d wants no part of any scandium frame .44 Mags. The double-action (DA), while somewhat heavy, was smooth and consistent. Quarter-size DA groups from 7 yards were easy. The combination of the XS front sight and Extreme Duty rear sight make alignment quick and easy. The Night Guard series are not Performance Center products, so it is not fair to compare my test M325 TR revolver to the M396. However, when shooting them side-by-side, it makes me want to drop an aftermarket spring kit in the M396.\u00a0\r\n\r\nAs much as I liked the stock Night Guard, it was simply begging for a set of Crimson Trace Lasergrips. After all, it is a serious self-defense revolver and with \u201cnight\u201d in the title, this was a no-brainer. I ordered the LG-306 grips for the round butt frame. The LG-306 is a very compact design that has an open back strap and fits almost flush with the bottom of the frame. As with all CTC products, the laser is activated by simply holding the revolver in a firing grip. The beam is adjustable for both windage and elevation.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nDuring range time with the CTC Lasergrips, recoil was manageable and follow-up shots proved to be relatively easy with both the laser and iron sights. I would like to see Crimson Trace develop a K\/L-frame stock that follows the lines of the LG-405 for the J-frame. The LG-405 features a back strap pad that reduces felt recoil by 30 percent or more.<\/span>\r\n\r\nCarry Options<\/strong><\/span>\r\nI definitely wanted to carry the M396 to see how well it would fit into a daily carry routine. When looking for a holster, I found that several of my favorite custom holster shops did not have a mold for the new model. The good news that Galco already produces an inside-the-waistband (IWB) holster for an L-frame, 3-inch barrel revolver. The Summer Comfort is a close cousin to the Milt Spark\u2019s Summer Special. The Summer Comfort features a reinforced mouth that prevents the holster from collapsing when the pistol is drawn. The double belt loops are equipped with one-way snaps that allow the holster to be put on or taken off without removing the pant\u2019s belt.\u00a0\r\n\r\nAs with all of Galco holsters, it is cut from premium saddle leather and detail molded for the specific pistol. The Summer Comfort lived up to its name and allowed the M396 to be effectively concealed and comfortably carried. A drop pouch for six extra rounds completed the Galco set.\r\n\r\nFinal Notes<\/strong><\/span>\r\nI feel that it is fair to say the S&W owns the revolver market. From .22LR to the .500S&W Mag, S&W has something for everyone. The Night Guards represent a renewed commitment to the popularity of revolvers for personal defense and the concealed carry market. S&W recognizes that autos are not for everyone. In a .44 Special, the M396 is perhaps the perfect platform for self-defense. I think that Elmer and Skeeter would approve.","post_title":"S&W M396 .44SPL Night Guard","post_excerpt":"Lightweight and compact, it\u2019s ready for concealed carry!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"sw-m396-44spl-night-guard","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-31 20:23:30","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-31 20:23:30","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2009\/03\/30\/sw-m396-44spl-night-guard\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":274},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};
Since the Sig Sauer P250 9mm Duo unveiling, new details make the Sig Sauer P250 9mm Duo stand apart from the model introduced last year. The new Tactical All Terrain Digital pattern mirrors the design worn on the new US Army utilities while the desert Digital Camo pattern mimics the new camouflage uniform worn by US Marines when deployed to desert environments. These dipped coatings should certainly capture the attention of those in the armed forces.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If the digital camouflage doesn\u2019t grab the attention of operators, a threaded barrel just might. Currently, the Digital Camo model features a shorter barrel than the All Terrain model, just like the standard P250. The barrel of the Tactical All Terrain model, however, is cut to a greater length and turned for threads to accept a suppressor. I immediately began thinking about the effect the length would have on this model\u2019s accuracy potential.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I removed the barrels from each and measured the length of the bore to the breach face with a dial caliper. The barrel on the Tactical All Terrain model measured 4.8 inches while the bore length on the standard barrel measured 3.8 inches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
There are very few parts to the Sig Sauer P250 9mm Duo, easing maintenance and cleaning. Those who get the Sig Sauer P250 9mm Duo can decide for themselves, which grip best suits their hand while caliber upgrades can be easily obtained. A modular grip frame allows the shooter to custom fit the pistol<\/a> and the lack of manual safety means that fundamental training could be accomplished more swiftly. And in the field, fewer controls could mean fewer things to fumble during a critical moment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Most repair and maintenance issues of the P250 could be handled at a basic skill level. \u201cWe are having a hard time working up the armorer course for the P250,\u201d says George Harris, director of training at the SIG SAUER Academy. \u201cThe actual armorer course would only take a few hours to teach. We would have to think of a few other things for students to do just to fill a day.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
M1911 and Beretta M9 shooters may require some time to warm up to the P250\u2019s trigger. You can\u2019t stage the trigger of the P250. If you try, more often than not you\u2019ll throw the shot. \u201cYou\u2019ve got to pull through the trigger,\u201d says Rance Deware, senior instructor at the SIG SAUER Academy. This technique goes against my trained wisdom but my groups were unimpressive as I tried to anticipate the shot while gently drawing the trigger to the rear. \u201cJust pull it,\u201d he added. \u201cYou\u2019ll shoot better, trust me.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Deware was right. During the accuracy test I tried each method (\u201cstaging\u201d and \u201cpulling\u201d) with another experienced pistol shooter. The results were clearly definitive. At 7 yards, we shot five 5-shot groups and every single group shot by \u201cpulling\u201d through the trigger resulted in a group that was better than any group shot by \u201cstaging\u201d the trigger. It baffles me, but it is true. Due to this revelation, the accuracy tests at 7, 10, 15 and 25 yards were done by the \u201cpulling\u201d method.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I had already witnessed a team of SIG SAUER employees perform continuous endurance testing at the SIG SAUER Academy. Numerous P250s were being shot with most exceeding 10,000 or 20,000 rounds. They weren\u2019t just shooting ball ammo but my jaw dropped at the sight of Speer Gold Dot defensive loads being shot by the pallet. SIG SAUER had invested a considerable amount of money to make sure this product would run.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Shortly after I got home, I received a pair of P250s, one Tactical All Terrain model with the extended barrel and one Digital Camo with a standard barrel. I didn\u2019t waste time before heading out to the range. I collected some military-issue 115-grain FMJ 9mm that I had been saving for a test like this. I wanted to see if these pistols were worthy for duty and if the threaded barrel benefited from any additional accuracy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
These pistols\u2019 7.5-plus-pound long trigger pull meant that a test with a Ransom Rest was out of the question. The test group fired to the best of our ability while standing at 7, 10 and 15 yards. At 25 yards we fired from a supported bench rest position.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We chose to get familiar to the trigger and test the trigger theory at 7 yards before moving back. The best five-shot group obtained at 7 yards was 1.12 inches. This isn\u2019t a result of match accuracy but it is better than the combat accuracy of other DAO pistols in this class. Staging did, in fact, prove worse for accuracy so the rest of this evaluation would be completed while pulling through the trigger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Moving 3 yards back to the 10-yard line, the 5-shot groups didn\u2019t change much, staying well under 2 inches. However, at 15 yards, the groups started opening up by an extra inch. At the 25-yard bench, we shot five 5-shot groups each averaging just under 3 inches for the Tactical All Terrain model with the longer barrel and just over 3.5 inches for the standard-length Digital Camo model. When comparing group size to group size, it was obvious that the Tactical All Terrain pistol benefited from the longer barrel in all except from the 7-yard line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
SIG SAUER\u2019s P250 builds on the proven recoil operated, locked breach design of the 20th century. Production is accomplished here in the United States and the Germans are taking notice. \u201cWith millions of dollars invested in state-of-the-art machinery, our facility in New Hampshire is taking the lead in production of SIG SAUERs,\u201d says Ron Cohen, president of SIG SAUER.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This consistency in production is reflected in the commonality of parts. A shooter doesn\u2019t have to worry about fit when swapping parts or headspace when switching barrels. Quality control is held to strict standards, which was verified in a recent factory tour. Modern manufacturing equipment and tolerance checks were performed with German-engineered computer-aided machines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A finishing department disassembled each product and carefully conducted a multi-point inspection. \u201cWe have nothing to hide,\u201d says Eric VonBosse, product manager. \u201cThe red tags you see on guns are rejects. If something is rejected we find out why and see if we need to change a process. We are always looking for ways to improve things around here.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I don\u2019t expect those faithful to the 1911 will like the trigger and polymer composite feel of this pistol. It is well balanced and certainly brings a new approach to the argument over the definition of a combat gun. It\u2019s not going to win competitive shooting matches without some other options but it isn\u2019t designed to. It\u2019s designed to work reliably and intuitively for a broad spectrum of shooters. Perhaps this complicates matters. In the end, some might find that that SIG SAUER\u2019s P250 solves them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For more information, contact: SIG SAUER, 18 Industrial Dr, Dept. CH, Exeter, NH 03833; 603-772-2302; www.sigsauer.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Sig Sauer P250 9mm Duo Pistol Review","post_excerpt":"New Compact Digital Camo and Tactical All Terrain Digital!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"sig-sauer-p250-9mm-duo","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-10-31 23:08:56","post_modified_gmt":"2023-11-01 03:08:56","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2009\/03\/30\/sig-sauer-p250-9mm-duo\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":160884,"post_author":"361","post_date":"2009-03-30 09:25:26","post_date_gmt":"2009-03-30 15:25:26","post_content":"\r\n\r\nThe past several years, Smith & Wesson has created a lot of industry excitement by introducing or, in some cases, reintroducing new wheelguns. That\u2019s right, round guns are making a big comeback. Part of the new wave started when Clint Smith urged the good folks in Springfield to bring out the Model 21 .44 Special in a Thunder Ranch Edition, followed by the Model 22 TR in .45ACP. Both were popular enough that once the run of Thunder Ranch Editions were completed, they were made a standard production revolver. Clint then redefined the defensive revolver with the introduction of the Model 325 Thunder Ranch. The M325 .45ACP features a detachable accessory rail that allows one to attach a light or laser under the barrel. With the popularity of these and other models on the rise, don\u2019t let anyone tell you the wheelgun is dead.\r\n\r\n
The buzz started around the end of 2007 when there were rumors that S&W was going to introduce a new line of revolvers. No one was saying much more than that but some subtle inquires found that the folks in S&W was going to introduce a series of scandium-framed revolvers based on the L-frame, N-frame, and to everyone\u2019s surprise, the K-frame. They would be designed for personal defense and concealed carry and would feature Cylinder & Slide\u2019s popular Extreme Duty rear sight with an XS front sight.\r\n\r\nBeing a big bore fan, the model that excited me the most was the Model 396. The ideal of a .44 Special cartridge in a medium-sized L-frame seemed to be an ideal match. The .44 Special is over 100 years old but during the last half of the 20th century, it was overshadowed by the .44 Mag. However, real pistoleros keep coming back to the .44 Special for serious social occasions. Folks like Elmer Keith and Skeeter Skelton recognized that while the Mag was great for hunting, it was a little much for a defensive or duty carry. Classic .44 Special platforms included the Colt Model P and S&W\u2019s Triple Lock.\r\n\r\nToday, the .44 Special has become \u201cspecial\u201d again with bullet weights from 135 grains to 250 grains being available in a variety of loads. I placed my request for a M396, and it finally arrived.\r\n\r\nGun Details<\/strong><\/span>\r\nThe M396 Night Guard is based on the L-frame that has proven very durable in the M686 series of .357 Mag revolvers. However, the M396 frame is constructed from a scandium alloy frame allowing a significant reduction in weight. The cylinder is stainless steel while the 2.5-inch barrel is stainless steel with a scandium sleeve that acts as a base for the front sight and shrouds the ejection rod. The finish is matte black that gives the M396 a serious business look.\r\n\r\nMuch to S&W\u2019s credit, the M396 is void of any sharp edges. The trigger and all edges on the frame have been rounded. Five large chambers hold an equal number of .44 Special rounds. The frame is a round butt configuration with Pachmayr Compac stocks. It was here that we ran into the only issue with the M396. The factory Pachmayr stocks are extremely large, even for those with oversized hands. While the cushioned back strap made the M396 more enjoyable to shoot, the overall size of the stocks made obtaining a proper grip difficult. With the factory stocks, the M396 weighs in at a mere 24.2 ounces.\u00a0\r\n\r\nThe selection of sights for the new series of pistols is, in itself, a story. Several years ago a gunsmith, who was working for Bill Laughridge at Cylinder & Slide, came up with the idea of a fixed blade sight that could be retrofitted on any adjustable sight S&W revolver. Bill saw the possibility and the C&S Extreme Duty Sight was born. It is a one-piece casting that replaces the Micro Meter adjustable rear sight and provides a tough and streamlined rear sight with a profile and sight picture similar to a Lo Mount Novak. The original Extreme Duty Sight features a square-shaped notch. Once production started, Bill took the sight to S&W but, at the time, their attention was not focused on wheelguns.\u00a0\r\n\r\nThen came the Night Guard proposal and the Extreme Duty Sight seemed a perfect match for a fighting revolver. For the front sight, S&W wanted to use the XS 24\/7 Standard Size Tritium dot. The XS 24\/7 has a large white bead with a small tritium insert in the center. It is both fast and accurate, and was ideal for the Night Guards. S&W asked if C&S could provide an Extreme Duty Sight with a \u201cU\u201d notch instead of a square notch. Laughridge\u2019s answer was absolutely. A new mold was made and the \u201cU\u201d notch Extreme Duty is now on every Night Guard revolver.\r\n\r\nRange Time<\/strong><\/span>\r\nOn the range the M396 was well behaved. Not surprisingly, \u201ccowboy\u201d loads were the most enjoyable to shoot. Speer\u2019s 200-grain Gold Dot was a little stiffer but well within controllable limits and would be my first choice in a self-defense load. I can tell you that this \u201col\u2019 timer\u201d wants no part of any scandium frame .44 Mags. The double-action (DA), while somewhat heavy, was smooth and consistent. Quarter-size DA groups from 7 yards were easy. The combination of the XS front sight and Extreme Duty rear sight make alignment quick and easy. The Night Guard series are not Performance Center products, so it is not fair to compare my test M325 TR revolver to the M396. However, when shooting them side-by-side, it makes me want to drop an aftermarket spring kit in the M396.\u00a0\r\n\r\nAs much as I liked the stock Night Guard, it was simply begging for a set of Crimson Trace Lasergrips. After all, it is a serious self-defense revolver and with \u201cnight\u201d in the title, this was a no-brainer. I ordered the LG-306 grips for the round butt frame. The LG-306 is a very compact design that has an open back strap and fits almost flush with the bottom of the frame. As with all CTC products, the laser is activated by simply holding the revolver in a firing grip. The beam is adjustable for both windage and elevation.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nDuring range time with the CTC Lasergrips, recoil was manageable and follow-up shots proved to be relatively easy with both the laser and iron sights. I would like to see Crimson Trace develop a K\/L-frame stock that follows the lines of the LG-405 for the J-frame. The LG-405 features a back strap pad that reduces felt recoil by 30 percent or more.<\/span>\r\n\r\nCarry Options<\/strong><\/span>\r\nI definitely wanted to carry the M396 to see how well it would fit into a daily carry routine. When looking for a holster, I found that several of my favorite custom holster shops did not have a mold for the new model. The good news that Galco already produces an inside-the-waistband (IWB) holster for an L-frame, 3-inch barrel revolver. The Summer Comfort is a close cousin to the Milt Spark\u2019s Summer Special. The Summer Comfort features a reinforced mouth that prevents the holster from collapsing when the pistol is drawn. The double belt loops are equipped with one-way snaps that allow the holster to be put on or taken off without removing the pant\u2019s belt.\u00a0\r\n\r\nAs with all of Galco holsters, it is cut from premium saddle leather and detail molded for the specific pistol. The Summer Comfort lived up to its name and allowed the M396 to be effectively concealed and comfortably carried. A drop pouch for six extra rounds completed the Galco set.\r\n\r\nFinal Notes<\/strong><\/span>\r\nI feel that it is fair to say the S&W owns the revolver market. From .22LR to the .500S&W Mag, S&W has something for everyone. The Night Guards represent a renewed commitment to the popularity of revolvers for personal defense and the concealed carry market. S&W recognizes that autos are not for everyone. In a .44 Special, the M396 is perhaps the perfect platform for self-defense. I think that Elmer and Skeeter would approve.","post_title":"S&W M396 .44SPL Night Guard","post_excerpt":"Lightweight and compact, it\u2019s ready for concealed carry!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"sw-m396-44spl-night-guard","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-31 20:23:30","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-31 20:23:30","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2009\/03\/30\/sw-m396-44spl-night-guard\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":274},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};
Many firearm enthusiasts are already aware of the P250 concept. Take a universal chassis and serialize it. Then allow the operator to decide which grip frame best fits their hand, select a caliber that best serves all things considered and attach the slide. It is already recognized as one of the most revolutionary ideas conceived in this century. It\u2019s ambidextrous. It\u2019s straightforward. It\u2019s that simple.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Since the Sig Sauer P250 9mm Duo unveiling, new details make the Sig Sauer P250 9mm Duo stand apart from the model introduced last year. The new Tactical All Terrain Digital pattern mirrors the design worn on the new US Army utilities while the desert Digital Camo pattern mimics the new camouflage uniform worn by US Marines when deployed to desert environments. These dipped coatings should certainly capture the attention of those in the armed forces.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If the digital camouflage doesn\u2019t grab the attention of operators, a threaded barrel just might. Currently, the Digital Camo model features a shorter barrel than the All Terrain model, just like the standard P250. The barrel of the Tactical All Terrain model, however, is cut to a greater length and turned for threads to accept a suppressor. I immediately began thinking about the effect the length would have on this model\u2019s accuracy potential.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I removed the barrels from each and measured the length of the bore to the breach face with a dial caliper. The barrel on the Tactical All Terrain model measured 4.8 inches while the bore length on the standard barrel measured 3.8 inches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
There are very few parts to the Sig Sauer P250 9mm Duo, easing maintenance and cleaning. Those who get the Sig Sauer P250 9mm Duo can decide for themselves, which grip best suits their hand while caliber upgrades can be easily obtained. A modular grip frame allows the shooter to custom fit the pistol<\/a> and the lack of manual safety means that fundamental training could be accomplished more swiftly. And in the field, fewer controls could mean fewer things to fumble during a critical moment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Most repair and maintenance issues of the P250 could be handled at a basic skill level. \u201cWe are having a hard time working up the armorer course for the P250,\u201d says George Harris, director of training at the SIG SAUER Academy. \u201cThe actual armorer course would only take a few hours to teach. We would have to think of a few other things for students to do just to fill a day.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
M1911 and Beretta M9 shooters may require some time to warm up to the P250\u2019s trigger. You can\u2019t stage the trigger of the P250. If you try, more often than not you\u2019ll throw the shot. \u201cYou\u2019ve got to pull through the trigger,\u201d says Rance Deware, senior instructor at the SIG SAUER Academy. This technique goes against my trained wisdom but my groups were unimpressive as I tried to anticipate the shot while gently drawing the trigger to the rear. \u201cJust pull it,\u201d he added. \u201cYou\u2019ll shoot better, trust me.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Deware was right. During the accuracy test I tried each method (\u201cstaging\u201d and \u201cpulling\u201d) with another experienced pistol shooter. The results were clearly definitive. At 7 yards, we shot five 5-shot groups and every single group shot by \u201cpulling\u201d through the trigger resulted in a group that was better than any group shot by \u201cstaging\u201d the trigger. It baffles me, but it is true. Due to this revelation, the accuracy tests at 7, 10, 15 and 25 yards were done by the \u201cpulling\u201d method.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I had already witnessed a team of SIG SAUER employees perform continuous endurance testing at the SIG SAUER Academy. Numerous P250s were being shot with most exceeding 10,000 or 20,000 rounds. They weren\u2019t just shooting ball ammo but my jaw dropped at the sight of Speer Gold Dot defensive loads being shot by the pallet. SIG SAUER had invested a considerable amount of money to make sure this product would run.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Shortly after I got home, I received a pair of P250s, one Tactical All Terrain model with the extended barrel and one Digital Camo with a standard barrel. I didn\u2019t waste time before heading out to the range. I collected some military-issue 115-grain FMJ 9mm that I had been saving for a test like this. I wanted to see if these pistols were worthy for duty and if the threaded barrel benefited from any additional accuracy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
These pistols\u2019 7.5-plus-pound long trigger pull meant that a test with a Ransom Rest was out of the question. The test group fired to the best of our ability while standing at 7, 10 and 15 yards. At 25 yards we fired from a supported bench rest position.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We chose to get familiar to the trigger and test the trigger theory at 7 yards before moving back. The best five-shot group obtained at 7 yards was 1.12 inches. This isn\u2019t a result of match accuracy but it is better than the combat accuracy of other DAO pistols in this class. Staging did, in fact, prove worse for accuracy so the rest of this evaluation would be completed while pulling through the trigger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Moving 3 yards back to the 10-yard line, the 5-shot groups didn\u2019t change much, staying well under 2 inches. However, at 15 yards, the groups started opening up by an extra inch. At the 25-yard bench, we shot five 5-shot groups each averaging just under 3 inches for the Tactical All Terrain model with the longer barrel and just over 3.5 inches for the standard-length Digital Camo model. When comparing group size to group size, it was obvious that the Tactical All Terrain pistol benefited from the longer barrel in all except from the 7-yard line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
SIG SAUER\u2019s P250 builds on the proven recoil operated, locked breach design of the 20th century. Production is accomplished here in the United States and the Germans are taking notice. \u201cWith millions of dollars invested in state-of-the-art machinery, our facility in New Hampshire is taking the lead in production of SIG SAUERs,\u201d says Ron Cohen, president of SIG SAUER.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This consistency in production is reflected in the commonality of parts. A shooter doesn\u2019t have to worry about fit when swapping parts or headspace when switching barrels. Quality control is held to strict standards, which was verified in a recent factory tour. Modern manufacturing equipment and tolerance checks were performed with German-engineered computer-aided machines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A finishing department disassembled each product and carefully conducted a multi-point inspection. \u201cWe have nothing to hide,\u201d says Eric VonBosse, product manager. \u201cThe red tags you see on guns are rejects. If something is rejected we find out why and see if we need to change a process. We are always looking for ways to improve things around here.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I don\u2019t expect those faithful to the 1911 will like the trigger and polymer composite feel of this pistol. It is well balanced and certainly brings a new approach to the argument over the definition of a combat gun. It\u2019s not going to win competitive shooting matches without some other options but it isn\u2019t designed to. It\u2019s designed to work reliably and intuitively for a broad spectrum of shooters. Perhaps this complicates matters. In the end, some might find that that SIG SAUER\u2019s P250 solves them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For more information, contact: SIG SAUER, 18 Industrial Dr, Dept. CH, Exeter, NH 03833; 603-772-2302; www.sigsauer.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Sig Sauer P250 9mm Duo Pistol Review","post_excerpt":"New Compact Digital Camo and Tactical All Terrain Digital!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"sig-sauer-p250-9mm-duo","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-10-31 23:08:56","post_modified_gmt":"2023-11-01 03:08:56","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2009\/03\/30\/sig-sauer-p250-9mm-duo\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":160884,"post_author":"361","post_date":"2009-03-30 09:25:26","post_date_gmt":"2009-03-30 15:25:26","post_content":"\r\n\r\nThe past several years, Smith & Wesson has created a lot of industry excitement by introducing or, in some cases, reintroducing new wheelguns. That\u2019s right, round guns are making a big comeback. Part of the new wave started when Clint Smith urged the good folks in Springfield to bring out the Model 21 .44 Special in a Thunder Ranch Edition, followed by the Model 22 TR in .45ACP. Both were popular enough that once the run of Thunder Ranch Editions were completed, they were made a standard production revolver. Clint then redefined the defensive revolver with the introduction of the Model 325 Thunder Ranch. The M325 .45ACP features a detachable accessory rail that allows one to attach a light or laser under the barrel. With the popularity of these and other models on the rise, don\u2019t let anyone tell you the wheelgun is dead.\r\n\r\n
The buzz started around the end of 2007 when there were rumors that S&W was going to introduce a new line of revolvers. No one was saying much more than that but some subtle inquires found that the folks in S&W was going to introduce a series of scandium-framed revolvers based on the L-frame, N-frame, and to everyone\u2019s surprise, the K-frame. They would be designed for personal defense and concealed carry and would feature Cylinder & Slide\u2019s popular Extreme Duty rear sight with an XS front sight.\r\n\r\nBeing a big bore fan, the model that excited me the most was the Model 396. The ideal of a .44 Special cartridge in a medium-sized L-frame seemed to be an ideal match. The .44 Special is over 100 years old but during the last half of the 20th century, it was overshadowed by the .44 Mag. However, real pistoleros keep coming back to the .44 Special for serious social occasions. Folks like Elmer Keith and Skeeter Skelton recognized that while the Mag was great for hunting, it was a little much for a defensive or duty carry. Classic .44 Special platforms included the Colt Model P and S&W\u2019s Triple Lock.\r\n\r\nToday, the .44 Special has become \u201cspecial\u201d again with bullet weights from 135 grains to 250 grains being available in a variety of loads. I placed my request for a M396, and it finally arrived.\r\n\r\nGun Details<\/strong><\/span>\r\nThe M396 Night Guard is based on the L-frame that has proven very durable in the M686 series of .357 Mag revolvers. However, the M396 frame is constructed from a scandium alloy frame allowing a significant reduction in weight. The cylinder is stainless steel while the 2.5-inch barrel is stainless steel with a scandium sleeve that acts as a base for the front sight and shrouds the ejection rod. The finish is matte black that gives the M396 a serious business look.\r\n\r\nMuch to S&W\u2019s credit, the M396 is void of any sharp edges. The trigger and all edges on the frame have been rounded. Five large chambers hold an equal number of .44 Special rounds. The frame is a round butt configuration with Pachmayr Compac stocks. It was here that we ran into the only issue with the M396. The factory Pachmayr stocks are extremely large, even for those with oversized hands. While the cushioned back strap made the M396 more enjoyable to shoot, the overall size of the stocks made obtaining a proper grip difficult. With the factory stocks, the M396 weighs in at a mere 24.2 ounces.\u00a0\r\n\r\nThe selection of sights for the new series of pistols is, in itself, a story. Several years ago a gunsmith, who was working for Bill Laughridge at Cylinder & Slide, came up with the idea of a fixed blade sight that could be retrofitted on any adjustable sight S&W revolver. Bill saw the possibility and the C&S Extreme Duty Sight was born. It is a one-piece casting that replaces the Micro Meter adjustable rear sight and provides a tough and streamlined rear sight with a profile and sight picture similar to a Lo Mount Novak. The original Extreme Duty Sight features a square-shaped notch. Once production started, Bill took the sight to S&W but, at the time, their attention was not focused on wheelguns.\u00a0\r\n\r\nThen came the Night Guard proposal and the Extreme Duty Sight seemed a perfect match for a fighting revolver. For the front sight, S&W wanted to use the XS 24\/7 Standard Size Tritium dot. The XS 24\/7 has a large white bead with a small tritium insert in the center. It is both fast and accurate, and was ideal for the Night Guards. S&W asked if C&S could provide an Extreme Duty Sight with a \u201cU\u201d notch instead of a square notch. Laughridge\u2019s answer was absolutely. A new mold was made and the \u201cU\u201d notch Extreme Duty is now on every Night Guard revolver.\r\n\r\nRange Time<\/strong><\/span>\r\nOn the range the M396 was well behaved. Not surprisingly, \u201ccowboy\u201d loads were the most enjoyable to shoot. Speer\u2019s 200-grain Gold Dot was a little stiffer but well within controllable limits and would be my first choice in a self-defense load. I can tell you that this \u201col\u2019 timer\u201d wants no part of any scandium frame .44 Mags. The double-action (DA), while somewhat heavy, was smooth and consistent. Quarter-size DA groups from 7 yards were easy. The combination of the XS front sight and Extreme Duty rear sight make alignment quick and easy. The Night Guard series are not Performance Center products, so it is not fair to compare my test M325 TR revolver to the M396. However, when shooting them side-by-side, it makes me want to drop an aftermarket spring kit in the M396.\u00a0\r\n\r\nAs much as I liked the stock Night Guard, it was simply begging for a set of Crimson Trace Lasergrips. After all, it is a serious self-defense revolver and with \u201cnight\u201d in the title, this was a no-brainer. I ordered the LG-306 grips for the round butt frame. The LG-306 is a very compact design that has an open back strap and fits almost flush with the bottom of the frame. As with all CTC products, the laser is activated by simply holding the revolver in a firing grip. The beam is adjustable for both windage and elevation.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nDuring range time with the CTC Lasergrips, recoil was manageable and follow-up shots proved to be relatively easy with both the laser and iron sights. I would like to see Crimson Trace develop a K\/L-frame stock that follows the lines of the LG-405 for the J-frame. The LG-405 features a back strap pad that reduces felt recoil by 30 percent or more.<\/span>\r\n\r\nCarry Options<\/strong><\/span>\r\nI definitely wanted to carry the M396 to see how well it would fit into a daily carry routine. When looking for a holster, I found that several of my favorite custom holster shops did not have a mold for the new model. The good news that Galco already produces an inside-the-waistband (IWB) holster for an L-frame, 3-inch barrel revolver. The Summer Comfort is a close cousin to the Milt Spark\u2019s Summer Special. The Summer Comfort features a reinforced mouth that prevents the holster from collapsing when the pistol is drawn. The double belt loops are equipped with one-way snaps that allow the holster to be put on or taken off without removing the pant\u2019s belt.\u00a0\r\n\r\nAs with all of Galco holsters, it is cut from premium saddle leather and detail molded for the specific pistol. The Summer Comfort lived up to its name and allowed the M396 to be effectively concealed and comfortably carried. A drop pouch for six extra rounds completed the Galco set.\r\n\r\nFinal Notes<\/strong><\/span>\r\nI feel that it is fair to say the S&W owns the revolver market. From .22LR to the .500S&W Mag, S&W has something for everyone. The Night Guards represent a renewed commitment to the popularity of revolvers for personal defense and the concealed carry market. S&W recognizes that autos are not for everyone. In a .44 Special, the M396 is perhaps the perfect platform for self-defense. I think that Elmer and Skeeter would approve.","post_title":"S&W M396 .44SPL Night Guard","post_excerpt":"Lightweight and compact, it\u2019s ready for concealed carry!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"sw-m396-44spl-night-guard","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-31 20:23:30","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-31 20:23:30","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2009\/03\/30\/sw-m396-44spl-night-guard\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":274},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};
Many firearm enthusiasts are already aware of the P250 concept. Take a universal chassis and serialize it. Then allow the operator to decide which grip frame best fits their hand, select a caliber that best serves all things considered and attach the slide. It is already recognized as one of the most revolutionary ideas conceived in this century. It\u2019s ambidextrous. It\u2019s straightforward. It\u2019s that simple.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Since the Sig Sauer P250 9mm Duo unveiling, new details make the Sig Sauer P250 9mm Duo stand apart from the model introduced last year. The new Tactical All Terrain Digital pattern mirrors the design worn on the new US Army utilities while the desert Digital Camo pattern mimics the new camouflage uniform worn by US Marines when deployed to desert environments. These dipped coatings should certainly capture the attention of those in the armed forces.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If the digital camouflage doesn\u2019t grab the attention of operators, a threaded barrel just might. Currently, the Digital Camo model features a shorter barrel than the All Terrain model, just like the standard P250. The barrel of the Tactical All Terrain model, however, is cut to a greater length and turned for threads to accept a suppressor. I immediately began thinking about the effect the length would have on this model\u2019s accuracy potential.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I removed the barrels from each and measured the length of the bore to the breach face with a dial caliper. The barrel on the Tactical All Terrain model measured 4.8 inches while the bore length on the standard barrel measured 3.8 inches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
There are very few parts to the Sig Sauer P250 9mm Duo, easing maintenance and cleaning. Those who get the Sig Sauer P250 9mm Duo can decide for themselves, which grip best suits their hand while caliber upgrades can be easily obtained. A modular grip frame allows the shooter to custom fit the pistol<\/a> and the lack of manual safety means that fundamental training could be accomplished more swiftly. And in the field, fewer controls could mean fewer things to fumble during a critical moment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Most repair and maintenance issues of the P250 could be handled at a basic skill level. \u201cWe are having a hard time working up the armorer course for the P250,\u201d says George Harris, director of training at the SIG SAUER Academy. \u201cThe actual armorer course would only take a few hours to teach. We would have to think of a few other things for students to do just to fill a day.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
M1911 and Beretta M9 shooters may require some time to warm up to the P250\u2019s trigger. You can\u2019t stage the trigger of the P250. If you try, more often than not you\u2019ll throw the shot. \u201cYou\u2019ve got to pull through the trigger,\u201d says Rance Deware, senior instructor at the SIG SAUER Academy. This technique goes against my trained wisdom but my groups were unimpressive as I tried to anticipate the shot while gently drawing the trigger to the rear. \u201cJust pull it,\u201d he added. \u201cYou\u2019ll shoot better, trust me.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Deware was right. During the accuracy test I tried each method (\u201cstaging\u201d and \u201cpulling\u201d) with another experienced pistol shooter. The results were clearly definitive. At 7 yards, we shot five 5-shot groups and every single group shot by \u201cpulling\u201d through the trigger resulted in a group that was better than any group shot by \u201cstaging\u201d the trigger. It baffles me, but it is true. Due to this revelation, the accuracy tests at 7, 10, 15 and 25 yards were done by the \u201cpulling\u201d method.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I had already witnessed a team of SIG SAUER employees perform continuous endurance testing at the SIG SAUER Academy. Numerous P250s were being shot with most exceeding 10,000 or 20,000 rounds. They weren\u2019t just shooting ball ammo but my jaw dropped at the sight of Speer Gold Dot defensive loads being shot by the pallet. SIG SAUER had invested a considerable amount of money to make sure this product would run.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Shortly after I got home, I received a pair of P250s, one Tactical All Terrain model with the extended barrel and one Digital Camo with a standard barrel. I didn\u2019t waste time before heading out to the range. I collected some military-issue 115-grain FMJ 9mm that I had been saving for a test like this. I wanted to see if these pistols were worthy for duty and if the threaded barrel benefited from any additional accuracy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
These pistols\u2019 7.5-plus-pound long trigger pull meant that a test with a Ransom Rest was out of the question. The test group fired to the best of our ability while standing at 7, 10 and 15 yards. At 25 yards we fired from a supported bench rest position.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We chose to get familiar to the trigger and test the trigger theory at 7 yards before moving back. The best five-shot group obtained at 7 yards was 1.12 inches. This isn\u2019t a result of match accuracy but it is better than the combat accuracy of other DAO pistols in this class. Staging did, in fact, prove worse for accuracy so the rest of this evaluation would be completed while pulling through the trigger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Moving 3 yards back to the 10-yard line, the 5-shot groups didn\u2019t change much, staying well under 2 inches. However, at 15 yards, the groups started opening up by an extra inch. At the 25-yard bench, we shot five 5-shot groups each averaging just under 3 inches for the Tactical All Terrain model with the longer barrel and just over 3.5 inches for the standard-length Digital Camo model. When comparing group size to group size, it was obvious that the Tactical All Terrain pistol benefited from the longer barrel in all except from the 7-yard line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
SIG SAUER\u2019s P250 builds on the proven recoil operated, locked breach design of the 20th century. Production is accomplished here in the United States and the Germans are taking notice. \u201cWith millions of dollars invested in state-of-the-art machinery, our facility in New Hampshire is taking the lead in production of SIG SAUERs,\u201d says Ron Cohen, president of SIG SAUER.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This consistency in production is reflected in the commonality of parts. A shooter doesn\u2019t have to worry about fit when swapping parts or headspace when switching barrels. Quality control is held to strict standards, which was verified in a recent factory tour. Modern manufacturing equipment and tolerance checks were performed with German-engineered computer-aided machines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A finishing department disassembled each product and carefully conducted a multi-point inspection. \u201cWe have nothing to hide,\u201d says Eric VonBosse, product manager. \u201cThe red tags you see on guns are rejects. If something is rejected we find out why and see if we need to change a process. We are always looking for ways to improve things around here.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I don\u2019t expect those faithful to the 1911 will like the trigger and polymer composite feel of this pistol. It is well balanced and certainly brings a new approach to the argument over the definition of a combat gun. It\u2019s not going to win competitive shooting matches without some other options but it isn\u2019t designed to. It\u2019s designed to work reliably and intuitively for a broad spectrum of shooters. Perhaps this complicates matters. In the end, some might find that that SIG SAUER\u2019s P250 solves them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For more information, contact: SIG SAUER, 18 Industrial Dr, Dept. CH, Exeter, NH 03833; 603-772-2302; www.sigsauer.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Sig Sauer P250 9mm Duo Pistol Review","post_excerpt":"New Compact Digital Camo and Tactical All Terrain Digital!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"sig-sauer-p250-9mm-duo","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-10-31 23:08:56","post_modified_gmt":"2023-11-01 03:08:56","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2009\/03\/30\/sig-sauer-p250-9mm-duo\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":160884,"post_author":"361","post_date":"2009-03-30 09:25:26","post_date_gmt":"2009-03-30 15:25:26","post_content":"\r\n\r\nThe past several years, Smith & Wesson has created a lot of industry excitement by introducing or, in some cases, reintroducing new wheelguns. That\u2019s right, round guns are making a big comeback. Part of the new wave started when Clint Smith urged the good folks in Springfield to bring out the Model 21 .44 Special in a Thunder Ranch Edition, followed by the Model 22 TR in .45ACP. Both were popular enough that once the run of Thunder Ranch Editions were completed, they were made a standard production revolver. Clint then redefined the defensive revolver with the introduction of the Model 325 Thunder Ranch. The M325 .45ACP features a detachable accessory rail that allows one to attach a light or laser under the barrel. With the popularity of these and other models on the rise, don\u2019t let anyone tell you the wheelgun is dead.\r\n\r\n
The buzz started around the end of 2007 when there were rumors that S&W was going to introduce a new line of revolvers. No one was saying much more than that but some subtle inquires found that the folks in S&W was going to introduce a series of scandium-framed revolvers based on the L-frame, N-frame, and to everyone\u2019s surprise, the K-frame. They would be designed for personal defense and concealed carry and would feature Cylinder & Slide\u2019s popular Extreme Duty rear sight with an XS front sight.\r\n\r\nBeing a big bore fan, the model that excited me the most was the Model 396. The ideal of a .44 Special cartridge in a medium-sized L-frame seemed to be an ideal match. The .44 Special is over 100 years old but during the last half of the 20th century, it was overshadowed by the .44 Mag. However, real pistoleros keep coming back to the .44 Special for serious social occasions. Folks like Elmer Keith and Skeeter Skelton recognized that while the Mag was great for hunting, it was a little much for a defensive or duty carry. Classic .44 Special platforms included the Colt Model P and S&W\u2019s Triple Lock.\r\n\r\nToday, the .44 Special has become \u201cspecial\u201d again with bullet weights from 135 grains to 250 grains being available in a variety of loads. I placed my request for a M396, and it finally arrived.\r\n\r\nGun Details<\/strong><\/span>\r\nThe M396 Night Guard is based on the L-frame that has proven very durable in the M686 series of .357 Mag revolvers. However, the M396 frame is constructed from a scandium alloy frame allowing a significant reduction in weight. The cylinder is stainless steel while the 2.5-inch barrel is stainless steel with a scandium sleeve that acts as a base for the front sight and shrouds the ejection rod. The finish is matte black that gives the M396 a serious business look.\r\n\r\nMuch to S&W\u2019s credit, the M396 is void of any sharp edges. The trigger and all edges on the frame have been rounded. Five large chambers hold an equal number of .44 Special rounds. The frame is a round butt configuration with Pachmayr Compac stocks. It was here that we ran into the only issue with the M396. The factory Pachmayr stocks are extremely large, even for those with oversized hands. While the cushioned back strap made the M396 more enjoyable to shoot, the overall size of the stocks made obtaining a proper grip difficult. With the factory stocks, the M396 weighs in at a mere 24.2 ounces.\u00a0\r\n\r\nThe selection of sights for the new series of pistols is, in itself, a story. Several years ago a gunsmith, who was working for Bill Laughridge at Cylinder & Slide, came up with the idea of a fixed blade sight that could be retrofitted on any adjustable sight S&W revolver. Bill saw the possibility and the C&S Extreme Duty Sight was born. It is a one-piece casting that replaces the Micro Meter adjustable rear sight and provides a tough and streamlined rear sight with a profile and sight picture similar to a Lo Mount Novak. The original Extreme Duty Sight features a square-shaped notch. Once production started, Bill took the sight to S&W but, at the time, their attention was not focused on wheelguns.\u00a0\r\n\r\nThen came the Night Guard proposal and the Extreme Duty Sight seemed a perfect match for a fighting revolver. For the front sight, S&W wanted to use the XS 24\/7 Standard Size Tritium dot. The XS 24\/7 has a large white bead with a small tritium insert in the center. It is both fast and accurate, and was ideal for the Night Guards. S&W asked if C&S could provide an Extreme Duty Sight with a \u201cU\u201d notch instead of a square notch. Laughridge\u2019s answer was absolutely. A new mold was made and the \u201cU\u201d notch Extreme Duty is now on every Night Guard revolver.\r\n\r\nRange Time<\/strong><\/span>\r\nOn the range the M396 was well behaved. Not surprisingly, \u201ccowboy\u201d loads were the most enjoyable to shoot. Speer\u2019s 200-grain Gold Dot was a little stiffer but well within controllable limits and would be my first choice in a self-defense load. I can tell you that this \u201col\u2019 timer\u201d wants no part of any scandium frame .44 Mags. The double-action (DA), while somewhat heavy, was smooth and consistent. Quarter-size DA groups from 7 yards were easy. The combination of the XS front sight and Extreme Duty rear sight make alignment quick and easy. The Night Guard series are not Performance Center products, so it is not fair to compare my test M325 TR revolver to the M396. However, when shooting them side-by-side, it makes me want to drop an aftermarket spring kit in the M396.\u00a0\r\n\r\nAs much as I liked the stock Night Guard, it was simply begging for a set of Crimson Trace Lasergrips. After all, it is a serious self-defense revolver and with \u201cnight\u201d in the title, this was a no-brainer. I ordered the LG-306 grips for the round butt frame. The LG-306 is a very compact design that has an open back strap and fits almost flush with the bottom of the frame. As with all CTC products, the laser is activated by simply holding the revolver in a firing grip. The beam is adjustable for both windage and elevation.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nDuring range time with the CTC Lasergrips, recoil was manageable and follow-up shots proved to be relatively easy with both the laser and iron sights. I would like to see Crimson Trace develop a K\/L-frame stock that follows the lines of the LG-405 for the J-frame. The LG-405 features a back strap pad that reduces felt recoil by 30 percent or more.<\/span>\r\n\r\nCarry Options<\/strong><\/span>\r\nI definitely wanted to carry the M396 to see how well it would fit into a daily carry routine. When looking for a holster, I found that several of my favorite custom holster shops did not have a mold for the new model. The good news that Galco already produces an inside-the-waistband (IWB) holster for an L-frame, 3-inch barrel revolver. The Summer Comfort is a close cousin to the Milt Spark\u2019s Summer Special. The Summer Comfort features a reinforced mouth that prevents the holster from collapsing when the pistol is drawn. The double belt loops are equipped with one-way snaps that allow the holster to be put on or taken off without removing the pant\u2019s belt.\u00a0\r\n\r\nAs with all of Galco holsters, it is cut from premium saddle leather and detail molded for the specific pistol. The Summer Comfort lived up to its name and allowed the M396 to be effectively concealed and comfortably carried. A drop pouch for six extra rounds completed the Galco set.\r\n\r\nFinal Notes<\/strong><\/span>\r\nI feel that it is fair to say the S&W owns the revolver market. From .22LR to the .500S&W Mag, S&W has something for everyone. The Night Guards represent a renewed commitment to the popularity of revolvers for personal defense and the concealed carry market. S&W recognizes that autos are not for everyone. In a .44 Special, the M396 is perhaps the perfect platform for self-defense. I think that Elmer and Skeeter would approve.","post_title":"S&W M396 .44SPL Night Guard","post_excerpt":"Lightweight and compact, it\u2019s ready for concealed carry!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"sw-m396-44spl-night-guard","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-31 20:23:30","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-31 20:23:30","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2009\/03\/30\/sw-m396-44spl-night-guard\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":274},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};