sigma-----different generations?

[deputy125]

Hello,
What are the primary differences in the various generations of the sigma line?

A little history, sometime back in the early 90's, my brother-in-law gave me a 40 cal sigma. This was a terrible weapon as far as function with multiple FTF problems on 5 different magazines with different ammo. I parted ways with it.....but that was many, many years back.

From what I understand, Smith has in recent years worked out any problems with the current "3rd" generation sigma line. I looked over a sigma at Academy the other day and the gun still feels good in the hand. I also noticed a "divet" witness hole in the top of the slide so that's new. What else has changed from the 1st generation?

By accounts i have read, the current sigma is trustworthy as a duty weapon. Money is unfortunately a consideration, so I am down to deciding between the sigma sw9ve and ruger P95. Costs are more or less equal while looking at Bud's gun shop. On the positive side, i have been given a Safriland 070 security 3 holster for a sigma......though this holster is also from the early 90's. Will the 3rd gen sigma fit the 1st gen sigma holster? The safri SSIII holsters are very unforgiving to extreme variations. But a free $100+ holster is never turned down.

What is your opinions comparing the sigma head to head with the ruger p95 as far as durability, reliability? The sigma revolver-like trigger is not a concern.

 

[ab4ka]

I had a P95 and it just didn't "move" me. The slide seemed too big and fat. It shot well but the trigger had an awful lot of gritty creep to it. I ended up selling it. I'd like to get a Sigma if for no other reason that it really feels good in my hand (much better than the Ruger). I was hoping to get one while S&W had the promotion going on but it doesn't look like that will happen.

 

[foxtail]

Sigma

I own a Sigma 9v. It has been flawless. I just ordered a new 9ve on gunbroker for $298.99. After the $50.00 rebate my cost only $248.99. All reports that I have heard say all the problems have been fixed except the bad reputation. The trigger pull is still hard but it was designed that way, so I don't concider that a problem. I shoot a DA revolver so I don't notice it.

 

[OKFC05]

I use the SW9VEs as primary trainers and have had ONE problem, ever: one magazine was bad right out of the box, mis-cut mag catch slot. S&W replaced the magazine free, of course.
The stock SW9VE is extremely reliable; most of the popular mods compromise that one way or another, particularly with high power LE ammo.
Put the M&P 9Pro trigger in it, and it would be ideal; wait, I can just buy the M&P if I want that trigger, can't I?

 

[deputy125]

but what are the differences between 1st gen, 2nd gen, and 3rd generation sigmas?

How does one tell the difference?

 

[Walthernut]

Take the holster into Bud's and see how it fits.
As far as generations questions I hope someone answers you. I'd like to know the answer myself.

 

[WildCard ZX6R]

but what are the differences between 1st gen, 2nd gen, and 3rd generation sigmas?

How does one tell the difference?

As far as I know there is only 2 generations of sigmas. The original pre-rail models and the new "enhanced" series.

 

[yelohamr]

My local gun shop has Sigmas on sale (.40 and 9MM) with a $50.00 rebate. I'm going there tomorrow hoping to get a .40. I've owned several S&W wheel guns and 1911s and I currently carry a Sig Sauer.

How does the latest Sigma compare to what I'm used to using?

 

[conn ak]

but what are the differences between 1st gen, 2nd gen, and 3rd generation sigmas?

How does one tell the difference?

The first series, the "F" series, has a half inch longer barrel. The "F" series also has a better trigger assembly. The trigger assembly may or may not have been the subject of the Glock lawsuit-I think it was. I own a 9F and it has been flawless.Bought it for $150, used. I sold my 9VE and it was a great gun inspite of a stout trigger. I currently own a 40VE I bought used with no plans of parting with it. The original F series is an ugly pistol and the 40F was/is prone to frame fractures. The 9F, in my case, has been more accurate than either my 40VE or 9VE.

 

[OKFC05]

My local gun shop has Sigmas on sale (.40 and 9MM) with a $50.00 rebate. I'm going there tomorrow hoping to get a .40. I've owned several S&W wheel guns and 1911s and I currently carry a Sig Sauer.

How does the latest Sigma compare to what I'm used to using?

It has the trigger pull of a stock S&W wheelgun shot double-action, the grip angle of a 1911, and is easier to strip and clean than either of your semi-autos.
The Sigma is a good basic defense pistol, but there are not many accessories for it, and attemps to "improve" the trigger usually compromise reliability, especially with defense ammo. 10# is about normal but it gets smoother with use. If you can't stand the trigger, buy something more expensive, like the M&P.

For someone who understands proper grip and trigger control, it shoots very well. Sitting and resting my arms on my knees, poppers at 50 yds are no great trick.

I like it for trainers because improper technique is easy to see and diagnose, and ANYBODY can learn to strip and clean one. It is not picky about ammo and goes BANG every time.

 

[yelohamr]

Thanks for the input.
I just got home from buying one. Instead of the $50.00 rebate, I'm opting for 2 more mags.
Now I can shop for ammo and stuff during the 10 day wait.

 

[reyno2ac]

Thanks for the input.
I just got home from buying one. Instead of the $50.00 rebate, I'm opting for 2 more mags.
Now I can shop for ammo and stuff during the 10 day wait.

Please tell me you got 16rd mags! If so, that is a great deal. The mags alone are $35 each.

 

[yelohamr]

Please tell me you got 16rd mags! If so, that is a great deal. The mags alone are $35 each.

I wish!! In CA, we're confined to 10 rounds max. and those sell for $35 each or a little less.

 

[dondavis3]

I own a S&W Sigma 40VE and I had a trigger job done on it and it's much better - but still long and heavy.

I bought it for $299 - a $50 rebate = $249 - great gun for the price.

I really like the feel of the gun, and it carries very well.

 

[Thunderhawk88]

I have carried my 9VE every day for the last 2-3 years. It carries easy in a Don Hume holster, and has performed flawlessly.

 

[MK]

Take the holster into Bud's and see how it fits.
As far as generations questions I hope someone answers you. I'd like to know the answer myself.

Should fit being as the original F model had a slightly longer barrel.
I don't know how much the overall length changed, but I'd bet the VE
will fit the old holster just fine.

 

[Timber Wolf]

I have a 40GVE and really like it. I don't think the trigger is bad at all. I have put around 500 rounds through mine and dry fired it a lot also and it is feeling pretty good. A dang sight better then the Glock 22 I just got this week. I wanted the Glock for mag compatability with my Keltec Sub2000 and to have a 40 with a rail I could hang a light on without an adaptor. I definitely like the Sigma's trigger and grip a lot better then the Glock. I was planning on getting rid of the Sigma after I got the Glock and shot it but I don't see myself ever liking the Glock as much as I like the Sigma so it stays.