Sig P229 Elite vs Standard

**Ronin** · January 26th, 2012, 05:45 PM

So I'm thinking about getting a P229 in .40 for IDPA this year. I wanted to get some opinions from folks that have experience with both the standard P229 and the Elite version.

Also what would be a fair price to pay for either one?

**harold63** · January 26th, 2012, 06:28 PM

The standard used is going for around $450 to $550 and new around $700 to $800. You can find the Elite model (which has the short reset trigger and beavertail) for $900 to $1000. GA had a P229 Platinum Elite for $1050 last week. Just got my P220 Elite model with night sights (finally just got, that is) and it was worth the wait. It is only the second pistol (and the last) that I paid over a G-note for. As far as competing with one over the other, I wish I could say, but I would want the beaver tail and the SRT. JMHO

**IronButt** · January 27th, 2012, 12:47 AM

I have a plain jane P229R in .40 & it's been flawless. I really prefer my 220 though. I have a Glock & the Sig in .40 S&W, but find myself carrying either one of my 9mm's or the .45's. There's nothing wrong with .40 cal. I just never fell in love with it.

**BionicMan** · January 27th, 2012, 10:40 AM

As 300WM mentioned, you can find used models for $450-550, but it gets a bit more complicated when you start looking at new. Many shops are still selling the old version for $750-$775, but the new version (2011+ models) include a few nice new features, however, they're more expensive and still tough to find. The new version includes the short trigger, updated slide, and E2 slim grips in the base model. (the new 9mm version is built on the .40 frame and increases capacity from 13 to 15rds) I personally love all of the updates, but I had a hell of a time finding the new version in stock anywhere. You can expect to pay $790+ for the new version.

As far as the standard vs the elite, I personally love the SRT on my 239SAS, but I don't care for the beavertail on the 226 or 229. Unfortunately buying the base model and having the SRT kit added is no picnic either, as the SRT kits are tough for Sig Armorers to get, and almost impossible for consumers to get their hands on.

If you hadn't noticed, I've been in the market for a 229 recently as well.

**Ronin** · January 28th, 2012, 08:24 AM

I held the P229 Classic with the E2 grip up at Cabela's and I wasn't a fan of how it felt. I then picked up an Elite at the Lebanon gun show and I liked the way that felt in my hands. It was a 9mm, though. My wife's P226 is an Elite and I love the way that one feels and shoots.

Speaking of 9mm is it true that you can put a 9mm barrel in a .40cal model and shoot 9mm (with 9mm mags, of course)? I know you can switch out the barrel in a .40 to .357, but if you can also shoot 9mm, that would be pretty cool too.

I'm definitely leaning towards the P229 Elite right now. I like the feel and the way my hand sits with the beavertail. Also, I like the aesthetics of the new slide vs. the old P229 slide. I want .40 because I want to shoot .357 Sig. I never got around to buying a .357 barrel for my P239. Being able to switch to 9mm would be a bonus.

I just need to find one for the right price. Right now they're in FN FiveseveN territory price-wise, which makes the decision even harder.

**BionicMan** · January 28th, 2012, 08:19 PM

Originally Posted by Ronin

Speaking of 9mm is it true that you can put a 9mm barrel in a .40cal model and shoot 9mm (with 9mm mags, of course)?

No, I'm pretty sure that won't work. However, the NEW 9mm 229 uses the .40 frame, so you can buy a .357SIG X-Change kit and use it on your 9mm frame. The kit is ~$300.

**harold63** · January 28th, 2012, 08:42 PM

Originally Posted by Ronin

I just need to find one for the right price. Right now they're in FN FiveseveN territory price-wise, which makes the decision even harder.

We all have had this dilemma at one time or another. Glad I ain't in it, epecially when tossing around two G-note pistols.

**SAB215** · January 28th, 2012, 10:24 PM

p229 in 40 with a 357 barrel on classifieds.

http://forum.pafoa.org/firearms-6/16...sw-357sig.html

**Ronin** · January 29th, 2012, 12:26 AM

Originally Posted by 300WM

We all have had this dilemma at one time or another. Glad I ain't in it, epecially when tossing around two G-note pistols.

I called Tanner's today and they said they were going to be getting some 229 Elite's in soon. Price is less than $900, which I can live with. Just have to be patient.