Does anyone have a SigArms P-239, .357 sig

[sigluvr]

I own several Sig pistols.  I have one 220, two 239's(.40 cal & .357 sig) and one 239, .357 sig.  My 239 .357 is the ONLY Sig pistol that I shoot that does not lock open after the last round has been spent in the chamber.  At least 80% of the time.  Maybe 20% it does lock open after the last round has been ejected.  I have asked a couple of gunsmiths about this and both of hem tell me the same thing,  . . . that it could be:
1) the quality of the ammunition I am using
2) I might not be locking my wrists tighly when I shoot
3) the rails might need to be oiled

1( I am using good quality ammo.  It is the same .357 sig ammo I use in all my .357 cambered pistols.  It works correctly on all my other handguns properly
2) I am quite sure that I am using my arms and wrists properly
3) The rails are and have been cleaned and oiled properly

Has anyone else experienced this same problem with their own or rented Sig P-239 ?? . . .357 or other chambered 239 ?

I have attached a picture of the handgun in question.

[ratcatcher55]

I tend to think it you but the easiest way to prove it is to have someone else shoot the pistol with your loads in it. Then change to full power loads and repeat the test.

A friend has trouble with all his Sigs, (239,245,228) except his 232. The same gun locks back for me everytime. I have seen Vicki Farnam shoot her 239 in .357 and it functions flawlessly.

I carry my P239 in 9mm about 50% of the time and runs without a hitch.

Good luck and post your results

[Bill Stryker]

I have a P239 in .357 SIG as well. I shoot low power reloads with lead bullets in it with out a similar problem. And Speer Gold Dots for the defense load with no problem. I used the P239 .357 SIG at the SIG Low Light course. Shot over 900 factory rounds through it on one day in the course with no problems.

But, I have an over 10 year old P226 9mm that I only shoot factory ammo in. I probably shoot it the most of all my SIGs. I used it for the SIG Tactical Pistol course with no problem. And I use it for my clubs league.  But now it occasionally exibits the problem you are having. But it is way over due for a 5000 round or annual service. Like two years over due. So, I am thinking new springs are needed. The next step for me after the springs is to isolate magazines if need.

You didn't say how old your pistol was. Have you had it serviced? They are supposed to be serviced every 5000 rounds or annually. Service includes all new springs on the pistol [not the magazines]. I recommend checking the SIG web site. Sometimes they have deals on service and night sights and so on. I have sent SIG 3 pistols for service with excellent results so far.

[Bill Stryker]

Oh yes, I forgot to add the photo you sent is not a P239.

[sigluvr]

As a coincidence, I just watched a Michael Bane video on the SigArms P-220C.  You can watch it too. The same thing happens to him because he uses what he calls a "High Thumb" grip.  On the last shot when the slide comes back his thumb rests on the Slide Release and keeps the slide from locking back all the way.  Interesting that I should happen on this particular video now.

Also, I must commend you and your eye for detail.  You are absolutely correct about the picture.  I acciddentally downloaded the wrong picture . . . it is NOT a 239.  I will not reload a new picture seeing as how I think I have solved my problem, or should I say that Michael Bane answered my question.

My pistol is brand new . . . I did not include that info before so as I said I think that Michael Bane answered my question.  The next time I shoot this 239 I will try a different grip and lower my thumb to see what happens.

Thanks for everyone's reply.

[Sponsor]

[2HOW]

I may be way off base here but it may be simular to the non feed problem many face by the wrist being out of position on the last shot, other than that maybe the magazine . wish I could help more.

[sigluvr]

Thanks for your input.  Nothing I can experiment with today anymore. I'll try all your sugesstions next time I am on the range.  I really think it's the placement of my thumb on the slide release.  Makes the most sence as I have large hands and I just took a look at how I hold this smaller gun. 

All my other sigs work as advertised and they are older sigs.  I will have to remember to drop my thumb a little and reposition my grip.  I must have done so with a few rounds that I've fired because every once in a while it too works as advertised.  My thumb is the key . .. 

I would like to find a way to contact Michael Bane directly and ask him.

Thanks agaian.