Competition King: The Sig Sauer P226 XFIVE LEGION

Over the summer Sig Sauer released a flurry of new models. Each release was not necessarily something new, but a continuation of an existent product. Well, after a brief pause, Sig is back with another new continuation. This time Sig is taking the classic P226 and upgrading it to a peak competition tool.

Revving Up

Much like a car enthusiast, Sig Sauer took the base model and upgraded it with all-new performance parts. For starters, the XFIVE receives the standard LEGION upgrades. This includes the LEGION Gray slide and LEGION pattern black TXG grip panels as well as three 20-round magazines with alloy basepads. I am a fan of the TXG grip panels. They are aggressive enough to ensure a positive grip, even as your palms become sweaty, but not overly so that shooting is uncomfortable. Sig Sauer also includes a magazine well to aid in faster reloads, but to also give the aesthetic that this gun is built for shooting fast.

The additions mentioned above are nice and offer an upgraded look to the classic pistol, but they aren’t the performance enhancers that set this gun apart. A deeper look is needed to discern what this gun has going for it. A noticeable trend in recent Sig releases has been slides with integrated “blast chambers.” More or less, these are compensators. Unlike most compensators that are attached via a threaded barrel, this one is integrated into the slide. The idea is that there is less interference on a barrel and performance isn’t sacrificed. In my experience with the Sig MACRO and P320 AXG LEGION that have this blast chamber, it has minor effects on recoil management with 115gr ball ammo, but with 124 or heavier, there is a noticeable difference. This has more to do with generating enough pressure to actuate the comp. Furthermore, Sig Sauer also added a takedown lever that doubles as a gas pedal to aid in flat shooting.

Next, the slide is fitted with a suppressor height front sight and an adjustable rear. Of course, the gun is optics ready. Presumably, it will fit Leupold Delta Point and Trijicon RMR footprint optics. However, to mount the optic, the rear sight must be removed. But with a taller front sight, a permanent reference point will always be present.

Finally, the most important upgrade—the trigger. While other single-action-only (SAO) P226 LEGIONs have fine triggers, the one on the XFIVE LEGION is truly remarkable. First off, it is flat-faced and sits a bit more vertically than most. However, that angle is adjustable to a user's preference via an Allen screw. It has a short take-up, a very clean and crisp break, and a positive reset. Without a gauge handy to measure in the short time I was able to handle the gun, I’d say it’s in the 3lb range. All but the purest 1911 shooters out there will swoon over the XFIVE’s trigger.

Final Thoughts

Without a doubt, this gun will shoot flat and fast. As it should. Sig Sauer built this gun to compete with stalwarts such as the CZ Shadow 2 and TSO, the Dan Wesson DWX, and the Staccato XC and XL. I think Sig’s pedigree shows that it will match the above-mentioned models. Its only detractor is price—$2199.99. At that price, a user should expect near perfection. Hopefully, Sig Sauer will fulfill it on their end. The P226 XFIVE LEGION will be hitting dealer shelves very soon.