A Legacy of Compact Power
The P938’s story is rooted in a desire for a powerful yet manageable pistol for everyday carry. It’s a direct descendant of the smaller P238, sharing similar design principles but chambered in a more potent 9mm cartridge. The P238, beloved for its elegant design and shootability, laid the groundwork for its bigger sibling. The transition to 9mm provided more stopping power, an essential consideration for a defensive firearm.
The SAS, or Anti-Snag, version is a significant refinement. It represents a conscious effort to minimize any potential issues that could hinder a quick draw or, worse, cause the pistol to catch on clothing during a critical moment. The design philosophy behind the SAS is clear: smooth, rounded edges and a focus on streamlining the pistol’s profile.
Anti-Snag Design: A Concealed Carry Essential
The core concept behind the Sig Sauer P938 SAS is its anti-snag design. This includes modifications specifically aimed at minimizing the chance of the firearm snagging on clothing during the draw. Gone are the sharp edges that might catch on fabric. Instead, the slide is de-horned, meaning the sharp corners are rounded off. The controls are also smoothed down and designed to prevent them from catching. This is crucial for concealed carry; every second counts when you need to access your weapon.
This approach extends beyond the slide and controls. Even the sights, often a snag point, are designed to be low-profile. This means a smoother draw and less chance of the weapon getting tangled up. It’s a small detail with potentially life-saving implications, particularly in high-stress situations. The SAS version of the P938 demonstrates a commitment to practicality and a deep understanding of what it takes to make a truly effective concealed carry firearm.
Form and Function: Crafting a Compact Weapon
The overall build quality of the Sig Sauer P938 SAS is impressive. The slide is typically made from stainless steel, often with a Nitron finish for enhanced durability and resistance to wear and corrosion. The frame is often constructed from lightweight alloy, further contributing to the pistol’s compact size and making it easier to carry all day long.
Ergonomics are well-considered. The grip is comfortable and provides a secure purchase, even with the small overall size. The controls are well-placed and easy to manipulate, even for those with smaller hands. The balance of the pistol is also noteworthy; the weight is distributed in a way that makes it feel stable and controllable, despite its compact size. You immediately feel a sense of quality and care in its construction. The attention to detail is noticeable and contributes to a feeling of confidence.
Specifications Unveiled: Decoding the Details
The Sig Sauer P938 SAS, typically, chambers the potent 9mm Parabellum cartridge, providing ample stopping power in a compact package. Magazines typically offer a capacity that is more than sufficient for self-defense situations. The precise number will vary, but it provides a good balance between capacity and concealability.
In terms of dimensions, the P938 SAS is undeniably compact. Its overall length, height, and width are all designed with concealability in mind. The barrel length contributes to its overall portability. The weight, unloaded, is also relatively light, adding to its ease of carry. These specifications are critical for concealed carry, as they directly impact how comfortable and easy the pistol is to carry throughout the day.
The sights are generally low-profile, designed to minimize snagging. Depending on the specific model, they may include tritium night sights, which are essential for low-light conditions. The sight picture is generally clear and allows for quick target acquisition.
The trigger is a single-action-only type. This means the hammer must be manually cocked before each shot. The trigger pull itself is typically crisp and offers a clean break, which facilitates accurate shooting. The trigger pull weight is typically manageable. The reset is also positive, which means the shooter can quickly follow up shots if needed.
Safety features are a crucial element in any handgun, and the P938 SAS includes a manual safety lever, offering an added layer of security. There’s also a firing pin block to prevent accidental discharges. These safety features, when used properly, contribute to safe gun handling practices.
On the Firing Line: Evaluating Performance
Accuracy is a critical measure of any firearm. The Sig Sauer P938 SAS generally performs very well in this regard. With a little practice, most shooters will find they can consistently achieve respectable groupings at typical self-defense distances. The crisp trigger and good sight picture contribute to the pistol’s inherent accuracy.
Reliability is paramount in a defensive firearm. The P938 SAS has generally earned a positive reputation for reliability. Of course, proper maintenance and the use of quality ammunition are essential for optimal performance. Any issues with jams or failures to feed/eject are generally rare, and can usually be addressed through good maintenance or with specific ammunition.
The recoil of the P938 SAS, while noticeable due to the compact size, is still manageable, particularly with a good grip. The all-metal construction helps mitigate some of the recoil. The pistol is designed to be easily controlled during rapid fire, allowing for fast and accurate follow-up shots. The overall shooting experience is generally pleasant and confidence-inspiring.
Ease of use is another area where the P938 SAS shines. The controls are designed for intuitive operation. Loading and unloading are straightforward processes. Field stripping the pistol for cleaning is also a simple task. All of these features contribute to making the P938 SAS a user-friendly firearm.
The Concealed Carry Equation: Weighing the Options
The Sig Sauer P938 SAS excels as a concealed carry firearm. Its compact size is undoubtedly a major advantage, making it easy to conceal in various carry positions. The SAS features further enhance concealability by minimizing the risk of snagging on clothing.
Selecting the right holster is key to comfortable and effective concealed carry. IWB (Inside the Waistband) holsters are a popular choice, as they offer excellent concealment. OWB (Outside the Waistband) holsters can also work well, especially when wearing a covering garment. Pocket carry is another option. The key is to choose a holster that provides good retention, protects the trigger, and is comfortable for all-day wear.
The comfort level of carrying the P938 SAS is generally good. The small size and weight mean it can be comfortably carried for extended periods. The practicality is undeniable. This is a firearm you can genuinely carry every day, providing peace of mind without significant inconvenience.
Navigating the Advantages and Disadvantages
The advantages of the Sig Sauer P938 SAS are numerous. Its compact size makes it easy to conceal. The SAS design ensures a smooth draw, minimizing the risk of snags. The build quality is high, ensuring long-term durability. The trigger is generally excellent. The pistol is chambered in a powerful and readily available cartridge.
However, there are potential downsides to consider. The price point is typically higher than some competitors. The small size, while advantageous for concealment, may not suit all shooters, and may take some practice. The manual safety, although a benefit for some, adds an extra step in the draw process for others.
A Look Across the Landscape: Comparative Analysis
It’s also worth noting that the P938 SAS competes in a crowded market. Pistols like the Springfield Armory 911 and the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield offer compelling alternatives. Each firearm presents its own set of features and trade-offs. The 911 shares many similarities with the P938, offering similar size and features. The M&P Shield is a popular choice, also known for its reliability and affordability. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences.
The Verdict: Concealed Carry Contender
The Sig Sauer P938 SAS is a well-designed and highly capable concealed carry pistol. Its compact size, coupled with the SAS design, makes it exceptionally well-suited for everyday carry. The build quality is excellent, the trigger is good, and the pistol generally delivers excellent performance.
For individuals seeking a reliable, accurate, and easy-to-conceal firearm for personal protection, the Sig Sauer P938 SAS is certainly a strong contender. Its combination of features and performance make it a compelling choice for those prioritizing a small, yet powerful, 9mm option.
Final thoughts
The Sig Sauer P938 SAS offers an appealing blend of features for the concealed carrier. However, it’s always recommended that potential owners handle the weapon before purchasing. If you are looking for a high-quality, compact, and reliable 9mm option, the Sig Sauer P938 SAS should definitely be on your list. Be sure to train with your carry gun and practice safe gun handling.
