Hogue Sig Sauer P238 Review: A Compact and Reliable Companion
As an avid shooter and outdoors enthusiast, I was excited to get my hands on the Sig Sauer P238 from Hogue. With its compact design, reliability, and killer aesthetics, I was eager to put it through its paces. In this review, I’ll share my experience with the Hogue Sig Sauer P238, highlighting its pros and cons, and discussing whether it’s a great addition to your EDC arsenal.
First Impressions
Upon unboxing the P238, I was impressed by its sleek design and compact size. Weighing in at 10.3 ounces, it’s perfect for daily carry, and the 3.9-inch barrel length makes it easy to conceal. The trigger guard is smooth, and the beavertail tang is comfortable and contoured for a secure grip. I appreciated the attention to detail, with the subtly curved trigger and ambidextrous mag release.
Performance
I was eager to test the P238’s performance, which it delivered on. The short 3.9-inch barrel and 7.7-inch overall length make it a great option for concealed carry, but I was curious to see how it would perform in terms of accuracy and reliability.
Accuracy
During my range testing, I was pleased to find that the P238 delivered impressive accuracy, even with various types of ammunition. With a standard 50-foot Test Target, I averaged 4.5 inches with Winchester 9mm Luger and 5.5 inches with Remington 9mm. Keep in mind that these results are from an unmodified, out-of-the-box gun, with minimal tweaking. While not world-class, the P238’s performance more than meets the needs of a self-defense tool or EDC companion.
Reliability
The P238’s reliability was also put to the test during my range session. I experienced zero malfunctions, sequels, or issues of any kind. After 200 rounds, the gun still maintained its smooth operation, showing no signs of wear or fatigue.
Cons
While the P238 is a solid performer, there are a few areas where it falls short:
• Ergonomics: While the contoured beavertail tang is comfortable, the extremely slim grip profile can be a challenge, especially for those with larger hands. I found myself adjusting my grip to accommodate the gun’s design.
• Magazine capacity: With only 6+1 rounds, the P238 has a limited ammo capacity, which may require more rapid reloads or increased magazine swaps in high-stress situations.
• Takedown: Reassembly and disassembly of the P238 can be a bit finicky due to the take-down latch and lack of manual safety.
Pros
• Compact and light: The P238’s slim profile and 10.3-ounce weight make it an excellent choice for concealed carry or daily wear.
• Smooth trigger: The trigger is smooth, with a crisp, clean break, allowing for easy operation.
• Durable construction: The pistol’s stainless steel slide and durable finish show no signs of wear, and the Hogue grip is comfortable and secure.
• Affordable: The P238’s price point is competitive, especially considering its quality and performance.
• 127-Series reliability: The P238 shares the same proven 127-Series retraction mechanism used in other Sig Sauer pistols, ensuring reliability and consistency.
Conclusion
The Hogue Sig Sauer P238 is a solid choice for those seeking a reliable, compact, and accurate concealed carry firearm. While it may not be perfect, its pros far outweigh its cons. The P238’s slim profile, smooth trigger, and durable construction make it an appealing option for anyone seeking a reliable self-defense tool. If you’re in the market for a compact, reliable, and affordable 9mm pistol, the P238 is definitely worth considering.
Final Verdict
Overall, I’m impressed with the Hogue Sig Sauer P238. Its compact size, reliability, and accuracy make it an excellent addition to your daily carry arsenal. While there are some minor drawbacks, the P238’s pros far outweigh its cons. If you’re in the market for a reliable and compact 9mm, the P238 is an excellent choice.
Rating
Perfomance: 8.5/10
Reliability: 9/10
Ergonomics: 7.5/10
Overall: 8.5/10
Recommendation
For those seeking a compact, reliable, and accurate 9mm pistol for concealed carry, the Hogue Sig Sauer P238 is an excellent choice. However, if you’re deliberating between models, consider the P228 as an alternative, which boasts a higher magazine capacity and more conventional ergonomics.
