The Sig Sauer P938 SAS, a popular concealed carry pistol known for its slim profile and snag-free design, has been discontinued. This news has left many gun owners wondering about the reasons behind the discontinuation and what alternatives are available. This article delves into the details surrounding the discontinuation of the Sig P938 SAS and explores the best options for those seeking a similar firearm.
Why Was the Sig P938 SAS Discontinued?
Sig Sauer hasn't publicly declared a definitive reason for discontinuing the P938 SAS. However, several factors likely contributed to this decision:
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Market Demand: The firearms market is dynamic, with shifting trends in consumer preferences. Perhaps sales of the P938 SAS declined to a point where continued production wasn't economically viable for Sig Sauer. Other, newer models might have simply outperformed it in sales.
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Production Costs: Manufacturing costs, including materials and labor, fluctuate. If the cost of producing the P938 SAS increased significantly, it might have impacted its profitability, leading to its discontinuation.
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Supply Chain Issues: The firearms industry, like many others, has experienced significant supply chain disruptions in recent years. This could have made it difficult for Sig Sauer to source the necessary parts for the P938 SAS, leading to production delays and ultimately, discontinuation.
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Strategic Focus: Sig Sauer continually innovates and introduces new firearms. They may have decided to allocate resources to newer models and technologies, making the P938 SAS a lower priority. Focusing on newer, more profitable models is a common business strategy.
It's important to note that this is speculation based on industry trends. Sig Sauer hasn't offered a public statement detailing the exact reason.
What Made the Sig P938 SAS Special?
Before diving into alternatives, let's recap what made the P938 SAS so popular:
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Concealed Carry Optimized: Its slim profile and lightweight design made it ideal for concealed carry. The snag-free features further enhanced its suitability for discreet carry.
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Reliable Performance: Sig Sauer's reputation for reliability is well-established. The P938 SAS was generally regarded as a dependable firearm.
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Night Sights: Many models featured night sights, improving low-light visibility, a crucial feature for self-defense situations.
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Compact Size: Its small size made it very easy to handle and control, despite its powerful 9mm cartridge.
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Short Trigger Reset: Many users appreciated the short reset distance of the trigger, contributing to faster follow-up shots.
Alternatives to the Sig P938 SAS
Now that the P938 SAS is discontinued, what are the viable alternatives for those seeking a similar firearm? Several options present themselves, each with its own strengths and weaknesses:
| Model | Manufacturer | Caliber | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sig Sauer P365 | Sig Sauer | 9mm | Extremely compact, high capacity | Slightly larger grip than P938 |
| Sig Sauer P938 | Sig Sauer | 9mm | Similar size and feel to the SAS, but not snag-free | May not be snag-free |
| Springfield Armory Hellcat | Springfield Armory | 9mm | High capacity for its size, good ergonomics | Can be slightly more expensive |
| Kimber Micro 9 | Kimber | 9mm | Lightweight, good accuracy | Some reports of reliability issues |
| Glock 43X/48 | Glock | 9mm | Reliable, simple design, aftermarket support | Slightly larger than the P938 |
This table provides a starting point, but thorough research is critical before purchasing any firearm. Consider handling and shooting different models to find the best fit for your needs and hand size.
Conclusion: Moving On From the Discontinued Sig P938 SAS
The discontinuation of the Sig Sauer P938 SAS is disappointing for many owners, but the market offers several worthy alternatives. Carefully consider your needs, preferences, and budget when selecting a replacement. Remember to always prioritize safety and training when handling firearms. Remember to check your local laws and regulations regarding firearm ownership and carry.