The CZ 75 and the Sig P226 are two of the most popular personal defense handguns on the market. Both guns are quite famous on the market.
Not just gun enthusiasts, but law enforcement officers love both these guns. Although both guns usually shouldn’t be compared, some small but significant differences between these two handguns may influence a shooter’s choice.
In this article, the CZ 75 vs Sig P226 will be compared on their features, strengths, and weaknesses. Hopefully, it will help you decide which one is the better fit for your needs.
A Complete Comparison Between CZ 75 Vs Sig P226
Quick Comparison Chart
Features | CZ 75 | Sig P226 |
Cartridge | 9mm, .40 S&W | 9mm, .357 SIG, .40 S&W, .22 LR |
Sight | Fixed or Adjustable | Fixed or Adjustable |
Magazine | 10-16 rounds | 10-20 rounds |
Weight | 2.5 lbs | 2.2 lbs |
Length | 8.1 in (205 mm) | 7.7 in (196 mm) |
Barrel length | 4.6 in (117 mm) | 4.4 in (112 mm) |
Width | 1.4 in (36 mm) | 1.5 in (38 mm) |
Grip | Checkered | Checkered or Textured |
Safety | Manual safety and de-cocker | De-cocker or Safety |
Height | 5.4 in (137 mm) | 5.5 in (140 mm) |
Gun Type | Semi-Automatic | Semi-Automatic |
Frame | Steel or Alloy (Nickel) | Aluminum or Stainless Steel |
If you ask which one of the two is better, you will be disappointed. The term “better” is too subjective to provide you with any answer(s) that are remotely correct for you.
They are two very different pistols. For that reason, the answers are based on personal preference. Hopefully, the following section will explain why:
1. Sights:
The CZ 75 has a fixed rear sight and a front sight that is dovetailed into the slide. Meanwhile, the Sig P226 has a three-dot sight system that is adjustable for windage and elevation.
The contrast between the front and rear sights of the P226 allows for quick and accurate target acquisition. Additionally, the Sig’s sight radius is longer than the CZ 75’s, providing greater accuracy at longer distances.
2. Weight and Recoil:
The CZ 75 is all steel so it’s heavier than the Sig P226. Additionally, the CZ 75 has a lower bore axis. Consequently, the added extra weight results in less felt recoil with less muzzle flip.
The Sig Sauer P226 has a stronger recoil. But the CZ 75 is faster in rapid successive shots.
3. Grip:
The ergonomics and grip angle of the CZ 75 allow for a natural point of aim and a comfortable shooting experience. The grip is known for its thin profile, which makes it easy to wrap your fingers around and keep a firm grip on the pistol.
The grip’s texturing provides adequate traction without being too aggressive. Although users with larger hands will find the CZ 75’s grip too small.
When it comes to the Sig P226, the grip also has a more pronounced beavertail than the CZ 75. This helps reduce recoil and makes shooting more comfortable.
Furthermore, the checkering on the grip adds a nice amount of texture without being too abrasive. However, users with smaller hands have reported that the grip on the P226 is too large for them.
4. Trigger:
The Sig custom shop worked on the 228’s trigger and action, and they did an excellent job. Now it has a much better trigger out of the box.
The SA pull has zero creep and breaks very suddenly. Moreover, the initial double-action trigger is smoother on the P220 on the German-made guns.
The second-best double action would be on the CZ 75. That being said, the CZ has the option of a double action or cocked and locked start.
However, the first trigger pull from the start of the double-action is quite long, and not everyone enjoys it.
5. Ergonomics:
A CZ just feels right. The grip on the 75 is slightly more ergonomic. It holds one more round. But it lacks any treatment to the front and back straps. The CZ 75 has a lower bore axis than the Sig P226.
However, if you have beefy hands, you might hate the CZ 75. But in the case of the CZ, the slide is housed within the frame. This results in a thinner profile, improved recoil management, and increased accuracy.
Moreover, the poly coat finish of the CZ 75 is very durable and easy to the touch. The Sig P226 finish is long-lasting. But once it begins to wear, there’s nothing you can do except refinish it.
6. Cartridge:
The CZ 75 platform in all its various configurations, is one of the best platforms for the 9mm round. It is also available in .40 S&W.
On the other hand, the Sig P226 is also available in .357 SIG. This gives the P226 an advantage over the CZ 75 in terms of versatility.
7. Accuracy:
They are both as good shooters as the person holding them. The CZ is easier to shoot for pinpoint accuracy with stock sights. However, the Sig P226s are faster for target acquisition (bigger dots and bars).
If you shoot 50 rounds of the CZ 75 at 25 yards with CCI 115 grain FMJ, you will get a fairly rapid fire. You might have a slide locking back every 10 rounds.
In the case of the Sig P226, if you shoot .40 S&W with American Eagle FMJ 180 gr. and 9mm with 115 gr. Bulk at 7 or 10 yards, you will get smooth shots. You might have a slide locking back every 10 rounds.
8. Range:
The effective range of the Sig P226 is 50 meters approximately. While the effective firing range is 25 meters.
Overall, both the CZ 75 and Sig P226 are excellent handguns for range shooting, and the choice between the two largely comes down to personal preference.
9. Safety:
The manual safety located on the gun’s frame can be engaged or disengaged by the shooter. It is a common safety feature of both guns. When the safety is engaged, it blocks the trigger and prevents the gun from firing.
Additionally, the decocking lever on both guns allow the shooter to safely lower the hammer without firing a round. This is especially useful when the gun is loaded and you need to secure the weapon without firing it.
Cost Details Between CZ 75 Vs Sig P226
The CZ 75 and the Sig P226 are both premium handguns. It costs more than many other options on the market.
A new CZ 75 costs around $649.00 approximately. Whereas used ones cost between $599.99 or lesser depending on the condition.
On the other hand, A Sig Sauer P226 pistol is approximately priced $1,187.22. while a used one is in the range of $906.09 to $1,000. It may be lesser depending on the price.
The Sig P226 is more costly than the CZ 75.
CZ 75 Vs Sig P226 – FAQs
Which handgun is better for beginners between the CZ 75 or the Sig P226?
The CZ 75 may be a better choice for beginners due to its lower recoil and easier disassembly process.
Is the CZ 75 suitable for concealed carry?
No. But the CZ 75 Compact and CZ P-01 are better suited for concealed carry.
Where is the CZ 75 made?
The CZ 75 is manufactured by Česká zbrojovka Uherský Brod (CZ) in the Czech Republic.
Can the Sig P226 be used for concealed carry?
It is a larger handgun that may be more difficult to conceal than some other options. Mechanically, neither one is superior to the other.
What is the maximum effective range of the Sig P226?
Typically ranges from 25 to 50 yard