The SIG Sauer P938 SAS, a favorite among concealed carry enthusiasts for its sleek design and manageable size, has indeed been discontinued. This news has left many wondering about the reasons behind the decision and what alternatives are now available. This article delves into the discontinuation, exploring potential causes and offering guidance for those seeking a similar firearm.
Why Was the SIG P938 SAS Discontinued?
SIG Sauer hasn't publicly stated the precise reason for discontinuing the P938 SAS. However, several factors likely contributed:
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Market Demand: The firearms market is dynamic, with shifting trends in popularity. The P938 SAS, while well-regarded, might have experienced a decline in sales compared to other models in SIG's lineup. This could have made its continued production economically unviable.
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Production Costs: Manufacturing costs, including raw materials and labor, have been rising. If the profit margins on the P938 SAS became too thin, SIG might have chosen to discontinue it to focus resources on more profitable models.
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Strategic Restructuring: Large firearms manufacturers often adjust their product lines to streamline production and better meet evolving consumer demands. The discontinuation could be part of a broader strategic shift within SIG Sauer.
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Supply Chain Issues: The global supply chain has experienced significant disruptions in recent years. Difficulties sourcing parts or materials necessary for the P938 SAS's production may have played a role in its discontinuation.
What Makes the SIG P938 SAS Unique?
Before moving on to alternatives, it's worth remembering what made the P938 SAS stand out:
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Concealed Carry Optimized: Its compact size and lightweight design made it exceptionally suitable for concealed carry.
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Night Sights: The SAS model often featured night sights, enhancing its utility in low-light conditions.
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No External Safety: Its lack of an external manual safety appealed to many users who prioritized a faster draw and presentation.
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SIG Sauer Reliability: The P938 SAS benefited from SIG Sauer's reputation for producing reliable and durable firearms.
Finding Alternatives to the SIG P938 SAS
While the P938 SAS is no longer in production, several similar pistols offer comparable features and performance:
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SIG P365: A popular alternative, the SIG P365 offers similar concealability with potentially higher magazine capacity.
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Other Subcompact 9mm Pistols: The market boasts a wide array of subcompact 9mm pistols from various manufacturers like Glock, Smith & Wesson, and Springfield Armory. Researching models with similar features to the P938 SAS will reveal suitable alternatives.
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Used Market: Checking online gun forums and marketplaces might yield a used SIG P938 SAS. However, always prioritize purchasing from a reputable seller and verifying the firearm's condition before making a purchase.
Conclusion: The Legacy of the SIG P938 SAS
The discontinuation of the SIG P938 SAS marks the end of an era for many concealed carry enthusiasts. While its absence is felt, the market offers several worthy successors. The key is to carefully consider individual needs and preferences when choosing a replacement pistol. Researching different models and potentially handling them at a local gun range will help in making an informed decision. Remember to always comply with all local, state, and federal laws regarding firearm ownership and usage.
