Sig Sauer P226 Elite SAO 9mm Handgun | Gun Preview

For the August 2014 issue of COMBAT HANDGUNS, author David Bahde applied his knowledge of law enforcement firearms to his testing of the 9mm Sig Sauer P226 Elite SAO. Bahde evaluated the P226 Elite SAO for its abilities as both a duty pistol and its potential for everyday civilian carry.

“Sig Sauer’s Elite SAO starts with the aluminum Elite frame. This frame includes 
a tactical rail and an extended beavertail. More aggressive checkering is found on the front strap, as well as some on the front of the triggerguard. Elite frames will accept the mag well seen on the X-Five Tactical,” says Bahde in his review. “The SAO is a single-action-only (SAO) model with an ambidextrous safety. Unique to this design is the ability to manipulate the slide with the safety engaged. The Elite P226 frame will accept 15-round factory magazines as well as the 20-round tactical versions.”

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Moving to the range, Bahde put the P226 Elite SAO through a series of drills to test its everyday-carry potential. “Although considered a full-sized pistol, it was as good or more comfortable to carry than my usual full-sized 1911 pistols,” says Bahde. Function was as expected—flawless. The P226 Elite SAO is one of the most operationally proven pistols in the world. Over the course of a few weeks it ate up over 500 rounds of Black Hills 115-grain FMJ with almost boring accuracy. Self-defense ammunition, including several +P loads, were equally as reliable. Used as a primary pistol for some concerted work on my draw, reloads and malfunction drills, it was very comfortable to shoot.”

For more information on the Sig Sauer P226 Elite SAO 9mm Handguns, visit: http://www.sigsauer.com/

To read the full article on the Sig Sauer P226 Elite SAO 9mm Handgun, check out the August 2014 issue of COMBAT HANDGUNS, available on newsstands May 6, 2014. To subscribe, go to https://www.personaldefenseworld.com/subscribe/Combat Handguns