I have a P228 (NH, not German) coming my way soon. Does it cycle well with light loads such as Hornady Critical Defense Lite 9mm? I have a pinched nerve that is causing some loss of strength in my right hand. Any experience with lighter loads in the 228?

Thanks,

Gordon G

I would say trial an error.
With lighter powder charge.
Lighter recoil spring.
147 1or 150 gr.
Lightest low friction grease you can find.

Does the nerve issue affect grip and hold framing, of just the pain from recoil impulse?

The above will make if more like a .45 ACP with a less sharp felt recoil.

It’s always been a thing, light loads reliably cycling in a semi-auto. You can do experimentation, with whatever loads you have. Another thing, you could ‘re-spring’ it, may not be worth it. With many common handguns there are lighter recoil springs available, easy change out.

If you really wanted to use that gun with lighter ammo, a lower power spring makes sense.

I will give the light loads a try for sure and do some checking on the lighter springs.

The pinched nerve has definitely decreased the strength in my right hand, and I’m doing exercises to try to avoid surgery. It was enough of an issue that I changed my EDC to a comped .380 (P365 Luxe) which I easily handle.

Several years ago I had a lightly customized 228 that I liked so well that I gave it to my son. Recently we came across a minty 228 in our favorite fun shop, and I bought it so we would have father and son 228s.

Thanks,

Gordon

You had me at P228. Congrats. Hey, just a thought, have you ever considered a small red light device for the hand/s. I've heard positive reports.

Bought this in 2020 for my shoulder.

https://a.co/d/0b3Q0Hb6

I have found most legacy SIGs (P22x/SIG Pro etc.) to be pretty forgiving in terms of what you feed them in general.

Sentry: I couldn’t resist the idea of father and sons 228s! The pinched nerve is in my neck. A TENS device for my neck and exercises for grip strength are giving me pain relief, but are not a long term solution.

Chris, Good to hear that legacy Sigs are forgiving. I will definitely try some lighter loads when I get my 228 early next month.

Thanks!

Gordon

I reload with 6.0gr power pistol for 115 and 124gr bullets. It is below starting data for 115s, and is the starting load for 124s. It cycles every 9mm pistol I own, shoots fantastic in my 228.

Glad to hear that light loads work in your 228.

Thanks!

GG