SIG Sauer P238

The SIG Sauer P238 is a compact .380 ACP caliber, single-action pistol announced by SIG Sauer at the 2009 SHOT Show. It is modelled after the classic M1911A1, similar to the Colt Mustang^[1][2] pistol, with a classic SIG Sauer scalloped slide and finger relief under the trigger guard. Grip panels are fluted polymer making this an all-metal frame firearm in competition with plastic-framed pistols in the same class like the Ruger LCP and the Kel-Tec P-3AT.^[3]

The P238 has an aluminum frame and a stainless steel slide. Initially, P238 pistols had standard sights with night sights as a more expensive option. However, all models currently produced have night sights standard. Starting in 2012, many variants have an ambidextrous thumb safety standard or as an option.

Variants

When introduced in 2009, the P238 was available in a matte black finish and a two-tone finish with a matte silver colored slide and black frame. Since then, SIG Sauer has produced a number of variants including some short run commemorative editions. Among the variants are versions with various finishes, with a stainless steel frame and different grips and embellishments.

Recalls

In July 2009, SIG Sauer issued a recall of all P238s sold within a certain serial number range, which they referred to as a "Mandatory Safety Upgrade." The reason stated for the recall is that a small number of P238s were built with defective manual safety levers, leading to "the remote possibility that the gun could fire unintentionally, thus creating a risk of injury or death," although SIG Sauer emphasized that no such injuries had actually occurred.^[4] According to SIG Sauer, the recall did not affect any pistols with a serial number that started with "27Axxxxx".^[5]

There have been three updates applied to the magazine used by the P238. The third generation magazine has been so far the most reliable. The recoil spring was also updated in late 2010. The new spring is a flat coil spring with better performance and longer life expectancy.

References