The North Carolina State Highway Patrol (NCSHP) are tooling-up with the SIG SAUER P226 in .357SIG. Given that the NCSHP has 1600 sworn officers, the order’s probably around 2k guns. SIG’s press release (after the jump) attributes the agency’s selection to the pistol’s “reliability, accuracy and durability.” These days, most all polymer pistols can make that claim; with proper maintenance, the minor variations in performance probably aren’t mission critical. What is important: customer service, price and, in this case, the round. “For law enforcement officers who work around vehicles and safety glass, the .357SIG is a fantastic choice for a duty pistol caliber,” said Tom Jankiewicz, Executive Director of Law Enforcement Sales. In other words, the round’s rep for barrier penetration is key. I wonder if the cartridge – producing what Hickock45 calls “significantly increased blast” – beats up a gun as much as .40 cal . . .
NEWINGTON, N.H. – SIG SAUER is pleased to announced that the P226, chambered in .357SIG, has been selected as the new duty pistol of the North Carolina State Highway Patrol.
After extensive testing, the P226 came out on top for its reliability, accuracy, and durability. The .357SIG cartridge provides the NCSHP troopers with enhanced barrier penetration, which is a key concern for highway patrol duties.
“For law enforcement officers who work around vehicles and safety glass, the .357SIG is a fantastic choice for a duty pistol caliber,” said Tom Jankiewicz, Executive Director of Law Enforcement Sales.
“We’re extremely proud to add an agency with the legacy associated with the North Carolina State Highway Patrol to the SIG SAUER family.”
Founded in 1929, the NCSHP has more than 1,600 sworn troopers, covering more than 78,000 miles of roadway. SIG SAUER will deliver 1,800 P226 handguns to the agency.