SIG P226 and Glock 17 are legendary handguns. They are known for their compact design and excellent accuracy. Gun enthusiasts and owners often love comparing SIG 226 vs. Glock 17 to determine a point of difference between these two solid guns. Both weapons have distinct strengths, influencing their suitability for varying purposes and lifestyles. If you want to learn about them in detail or make an informed choice between the two, our comparison below will help you.
Size Comparison of SIG 226 and the Glock 17
Find the specifications of both the G17 and P226 guns so you know how they differ based on size and related features.
| Pistol | Sig 226 | Glock 17 |
| Type | Semi-Automatic | Semi-Automatic |
| Caliber | 9MM Luger | 9MM Luger |
| Overall Length | 7.7 Inches or 195 MM | 7.95 Inches or 202 MM |
| Height | 5.5 Inches or 140 MM | 5.47 Inches or 139 MM |
| Width | 1.5 Inches or 38 MM | 1.26 Inches or 32 MM |
| Barrel Length | 4.4 Inches or 112 MM | 4.48 Inches or 114 MM |
| Weight (Empty) | 34 Ounces or 964 G | 25.06 Ounces or 710 G |
| Magazine Capacity | 10, 15 (+1) | 17 (+1) |
| Trigger System | Double Action/Single Action | Striker Fired |
| Safety | Decocking lever, firing pin, safety intercept notch, and a trigger bar disconnector | Safe Action system, internal firing pin, and drop safety |
SIG 226 Vs. Glock 17 - Design Comparison
Both the SIG 226 and the Glock 17 are minimalist. Their user-friendly design prioritizes quick and easy firing. G17 uses a polymer frame. It is made from strong plastic. The gun is thus lightweight and durable.
P226 has a metal frame that comes with a Nitron finish. It has a boxier design and a breech block that is pinned in. This block holds the breech face and firing pin.
The P226 is inspired by the design of the classic 1911. It is an upgraded version with respect to design and has advanced features.
So, if you want a gun with traditional aesthetics rich in features, the P226 will be better.
Differences in Trigger and Safety Mechanism
A difference between SIG 226 vs. Glock 17 that you cannot ignore is found in the hammer and firing pin system.
The G17 is a striker-fired pistol. It does not have a hammer. The safety of the firing pin inside prevents the striker from launching forward. Also, the gun has drop safety, preventing it from discharging even if dropped or thrown from a considerable height.
SIG P226 is a DA/SA gun. You can cock back its hammer for a lighter trigger pull or fire with the hammer down. P226's decocking lever is one of the best. Using it, you can shift from single action to double action without much struggle.
In terms of trigger feel, there is nothing exceptional about either of the guns. In the G17, the factory trigger feels less responsive to many users. In P226, the long double-action trigger pull of 10 pounds certainly feels heavy. You need to practice more to use it easily.
Differences in Grip Between the Glock 17 and P226
Both pistols have grips with a rough texture. It aids in improved control and better shooting. The grip width varies a lot in both guns.
The width of SIG P226's grip is 1.50 inches or 38.1 mm). It is broader than the Glock 17. The latter has a grip width of 1.18 inches or 29 mm.
The more curvaceous grip of P226 is beneficial. It provides a more significant hold for larger hands. Glock 17's narrower grip is suitable for people with smaller hands.
The modular back strap design in the Glock 17 is another noteworthy feature. It makes the grip customized so as to fit well with different hand sizes.
SIG 226 Vs. Glock 17 Accuracy
The accuracy of a gun is subjective, which is certainly true for the P226 and the Glock 17.
The G17 gives consistent results in rapid-fire circumstances. The features that make this possible are:
- The "Marksman" barrel design.
- It uses improved rifling.
- Lack of finger grooves.
- Backstraps for custom grips.
- Lighter trigger pull Long sight radius for accurate shots.
Accuracy in SIG P226 results from the natural fit of the grip. Users report shooting accurately at various yards, most prominently, 25 yards. It does not require much effort.
The gun gives a low recoil and muzzle rise. This leads to easy and fast shooting. You will benefit from precise shooting if its trigger does not bother you.
Differences in Recoil Management
Comparing SIG 226 vs. Glock 17 for recoil impulse and management leads to a tie. Both have less recoil but for different reasons.
The Glock 17 has a low bore axis. It aligns a more significant part of the recoil into your hand. This generates less couple torque, so the muzzle rise is low.
SIG P226 has a higher weight of 24 ounces. It evenly disperses and reduces the recoil. So you won't feel snappy when shooting. Controlling both the guns after firing is easy.
Differences in Reliability
SIG 226 and the Glock 17 are weapons that have undergone extensive testing. Both are reliable but have differing characteristics.
They perform optimally with target and defensive rounds. However, for the Glock 17, reliability stems from the fewer moving parts. It also comes from a durable polymer frame.
A lot of aftermarket support is there to make G17 more robust. You should also know that it has consistently performed during dirt tests. Besides, there have been no failures in feeding or battery.
P226, with a unique tank-like build, is also quite durable and reliable. The all-metal frame and smooth trigger, along with the decocking lever, make it easy to handle in stressful situations.
Like the G17, the P226 also did well during Dirt Tests. Many users have also found that it has the ability to fire more than 2000 rounds between stoppages.
Differences in Magazine Compatibility, Size & Availability
The G17 emerges as the winner for magazine compatibility, size, and availability. Its capability to hold 17-round large magazines contrasts with the small 15-round magazine capacity of the P226.
Also, the G17 accepts double-stack 9mm Glock magazines with 17 or more rounds. It is compatible with various double-stack aftermarket magazines. SIG P226's magazine availability is low. Although you can find them, they will be highly priced.
Suitability for Concealed Carry
The SIG P226 is clearly heavier than the G17. It is also wider, making it hard to carry concealed. These factors increase the chances of printing when you are carrying the gun in tighter clothing.
Even with two additional bullets, the total weight of the Glock is less than P226. So, if you're looking for a concealed carry firearm, the G 17 will be a good choice.
Final Take on SIG 226 Vs. Glock 17
SIG P226 and the Glock 17 are both functionally fantastic. The Glock is lightweight, and using it is easier than using the P226. However, the latter is also easy to get used to. When you get a sense of its decocking levers, you'll find it to be the easiest to use.
Both guns are highly accurate. They haven't shown any significant malfunctions in reliability testing. The distinct features of both the guns make them the best for combat and defense usage. Regarding safety mechanisms and control, the SIG is slightly better.
This is because of its advanced four-point safety system. However, with regard to aftermarket support and customization, Glock 17 is always the best option. The capacity of the SIG and its magazine compatibility gives greater convenience.
You can prefer it over the SIG P226 if you want a highly functional yet affordable gun. Remember to test both guns before deciding. Once done, check out the holsters by Wright Leather Works that are customized for each gun.
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