Selected Handgun Detail

SIG
Model P220
SIG Pistol P220 .45 Auto Variant-4
Scale To:
Gun Dimensions Width:1.4-in
Length:7.8-in Height:5.6-in
Barrel:4.4-in Weight:30.4-oz
Variant 4 of 8
Gun Rankings
  • Power Factor (230 grain bullet)189980
  • Recoil Factor (230 grain bullet)8.36 ft-lb
  • Total Capacity8 rounds
  • ConcealabilityFair
  • Defense Factor77%
Gun Specifications
Type:Pistol
Caliber:.45 Auto
Action:recoil operated semi-automatic
Trigger:double-action (DA/SA)
Safety:frame mounted decocking lever
Magazine:7-round
Frame:anodized aluminum
Grip:black polymer
Sights:combat
Notes:two-tone, nickel finish slide
Manufacturer
SIG SAUER GmbH & Co. KG
More Info
About the Gun

The modern Sig Sauer pistol story began with the P220. Initially offered in several centerfire calibers in 1976, all but the .45 ACP chambering were eventually dropped. The .45 ACP P220 went on to become recognized as one of 'the most accurate 45s right out of the box.' Since that time the P220 has earned an enviable record in hot spots around the world. Today the P220 features a stainless steel slide machined from bar stock and coated with a durable, wear-resistant Nitron finish or natural stainless finish, light-weight alloy frame with integral accessory rail, and the Sig Sauer four-point safety system of decocking lever, patented automatic firing pin safety block, safety intercept notch, and trigger bar disconnector.

Production

Production of this firearm with the specified features began in the late 1970s, with significant updates and variations introduced through the 1990s and 2000s. Exact dates depend on the specific model variant and market availability.

Market value
Last updated: 7/9/2025

The MSRP for this gun when new is approximately $1,200. The market value for a used one in 95% condition is around $800-$900, based on recent sales data from 2024-2025.

Cartridge Specifications
Cartridge: .45 Automatic
Alias: .45 Automatic Colt Pistol (ACP)
More Info
Ballistics for This Gun
Selected Bullet Mass:230 grains
MV:826 ft/sec ME:349 ft-lbs
Analysis

This .45 Auto pistol is a well-regarded option for shooters seeking a full-size duty handgun. Its accuracy is commendable, delivering consistent performance at typical engagement distances, thanks to a well-designed barrel and sight system. The ergonomics are a strong point, with a grip that accommodates a wide range of hand sizes, promoting a secure hold during extended shooting sessions. Reliability is another asset, as it functions smoothly under various conditions with proper care. However, maintenance can be somewhat demanding, requiring attention to detail to ensure longevity. Parts availability may pose challenges for some users, particularly for older variants, potentially delaying repairs. The trigger pull is crisp, averaging around 5 pounds in single-action mode, though some may find the double-action pull heavier than preferred. Felt recoil is moderate for the caliber, manageable with proper technique, making it suitable for most experienced shooters.

User Rating
1 User Ratings
1 User Comments
User Comments

4 of 5 Stars
The world's most popular DA semiauto .45
By ArmedPartisan on 28 Apr 2020
Although the SIG-Sauer P220 was originally designed and intended to be 9x19mm, it was robust and durable enough to be chambered in cartridges with higher base pressures (but lower chamber pressures), such as .45 ACP and .38 Super for the export market. The first version of this pistol imported to the US was marketed as a Browning design (although it used the now-ubiquitous Browning system, it was wholly of German and Swiss design, based on Charles Petter's elegant 1935A, which was the forerunner of the more-successful SIG P210) and sold as the Browning BDA with a heel-magazine release, carried over from the SIG P210; (Side note: nearly every nation which adopted a heel-release magazine system after WWI had previously used a button release on issued pistols) this was not popular with American buyers, and was dropped from import after a few years. When it was re-introduced to the American market as the SIG-Sauer P220, it used the button release, which allowed higher capacity.