File:WestGermanSIGSauerP226twotone.jpg

English: This is one of my favorite shots I've ever done, especially since it was off my smart phone. This is a West German-made SIG-Sauer P226 mostlikely made circa 1996. How do I know that it's an old German P226? A few different ways. First, note that the aluminum alloy frame has no accessory rail. This is not necessarily exclusive to the German SIGs, though, because some American-made variants, like the P226 NYPD and the P226 Tribal, do not have rails. But there are very few American SIGs that do not have rails. If you look under the nosepiece near the muzzle you will see that there are some symbols. This is a coded serial number, exclusive to only Geman SIGs. The blued hammer is not carried over to modern SIGs, either. Notice that the magazine release and the takedown lever also look different than that of an American-made SIG. The trigger also is not only of the classic SIG "Thick" type, but is also completely filled-in, something few modern SIGs have. Also the grips are the old German grips, which actually do not work on modern SIGs because of sturdier parts used in the handle. Now turn your eyes to the reflection of the top of the slide in the mirror. It shows that the front half of the stamped slide is flat, something that the new American milled slides do not have. It is a shame, since I think that makes the slides look more unique and gives them more character. You can also note that the extractor (located right behind the chamber) is internal, as opposed to external, like the modern SIGs. The slide serrations to not go all the way to the back of the slide. I don't think anyone can see this, but the sights are factory-standard two-dot combat sights. The reason for this is that the P226 was designed for the US Military in the 1980s, so selling the P226 to militaries and governments was the primary goal. New SIGs have three-dot sights. Also note the beautiful matte electrolysis nickel finish. That was factory standard on some old SIGs. I wanted this gun for months but some other lucky person bought it before I could. It's truly a story of lost love. ;o) What I cannot explain, however, is how the P226's slide reads: "Exeter, New Hampshire". That's something only modern SIGs say. I may have an explanation: the SIG was brought back to the factory and refurbished, which may have diminished the value slightly. This isn't saying much, however, because these old SIGs aren't worth half as much as they should be, even one in such good condition like this.