When asking, “what should my first gun be?” It came down to 3 guns, which we will cover in the future, but the one I chose was the Sig Sauer P226 chambered in .40.

Make: Sig Sauer
Model: P226 Equinox
Calibers: 9mm, .40

First, let me say that this was my first handgun. Like most people nowadays I did lots and lots of research online. I fired friends weapons, rented at the firing range, held hundreds of different handguns and multiple gun shops and asked and asked and asked experienced owners “what should my first gun be?” It came down to 3 guns, which we will cover in the future, but the one I chose was the Sig Sauer P226 chambered in .40. So if you think I am biased, I probably am a little. But like you, it was only AFTER research, research and research with plenty of live testing beforehand.

The 226 platform is a gun. A great gun. It has the weight and feel of holding a weapon that instantly makes you understand, this should be respected. A similar feeling to holding a broadsword in a kindergarten classroom. It looks cool, it is solid as solid can be and commands your attention. The standard SigLite tritium night sights are amazingly accurate and reliable, and glow like little green suns. The control surfaces are ergonomically comfortable and accessible without having to angle or fidget with the weapon and serve legitimate purpose. The balance is good in your hand and points naturally which helps handle recoil and reacquisition for follow up shots. Disassembly is fairly easy as most handguns are today for field stripping and general cleaning is a breeze.

The 9mm is way cheaper over time to fire due to ammo cost, is an effective round and is much easier for a first timer to get used to. I chose the .40 based on personal taste (big badaboom) as well as the availability of the model I wanted. I highly recommend either caliber, but for a new shooter, definitely 9mm. Spare me your arguments of lethality and stopping power, learn to hit a target standing still first, and then we will talk about your “combat effectiveness” cowboy. It’s your local range, not Blackhawk Down.

The “cons” in my eyes are few, especially from the view of the new gun buyer. It is a little heavier than say, a Glock, and almost no difference between a Beretta. The price tag may scare away a first time buyer, but it is worth the cost. I have never had a jam or misfire in over 5000 rounds, and the worst thing that has happened was the slide not locking back because I never cleaned my mags (which I promptly fixed).

In summary, the Sig Sauer P226 is a great platform for new and experienced shooter. The benefits and reliability out weigh the cost, the gun feels LIKE A GUN and this is a pistol that will stand the test of time.

Pros:
Reliable.
Easy to use.
Ergonomics.
Sights and sight picture.
Life expectancy

Cons:
Price tag
Weight