I test drove a P238 and absolutely loved it. I am especially interested in the reliability and the easy racking of the slide. But I'm a lefty and need an Ambi safety. The LGS tells me to just get the P938 then. I test drove that and I didn't think it was the same at all. Is the P938 as easy to rack? I've nearly talked myself into having the Ambi added to the P238, which will make it a pretty darn expensive gun. Or should I settle for the 938? I really don't want the Scorpion version of the 238 that has the ambi. Opinions?
I'm a lefty, have a P938, and really like it. The slightly deeper frame is easier to hold onto than the smaller 238, but if I were looking for a real pocket gun, the size and weight difference might be the deciding factor.
As a carry gun between the two, I'd opt for the P938. You get 9mm not .380 which to me is a marginal defensive round, particularly in hollow points. Size wise, they are close, but of course, the P938 is slightly larger. With the extended magazine, you get 7+1 with the P938. I don't recall the capacity on the P238. The only down side I can think of is the recoil spring is a PITA to remove and reinstall during cleaning, but with practice it becomes easy. As far as how hard it is to rack the slide, I've never had any issues.
———- Do not meddle in the affairs of wizards, for thou art crunchy and taste good with catsup.
Posts: 4306 | Location: DFW | Registered: May 21, 2012
Personally, I went with the 938 as I couldn't justify 380 versus the 9. That being said, you have to go with what makes you the most comfortable. I think the 938 is a great little gun and I am sure the 238 is right there with it.
Posts: 151 | Location: Florida | Registered: May 02, 2013
I have a Scorpion P238 and really like...the color...lol
Looking at a P938 right now and I found it interesting that the Equinox is smaller/lighter than the other P938's. I will have to call SIG tomorrow to find out if their add is accurate or not.
I love my 938. I had Robert Burke convert it to a left side safety only, when he had it. It is perhaps the best sub-compact gun I've ever shot. I have used it in about 6 BUG matches now, including an IDPA classifier, and it performs flawlessly and is right on accurate. The hardest thing I find doing is to change mags quickly (drop one and reload a spare). It seems the mag "drop" will catch in the palm of my hand if I don't do it the way I practiced. I shoot the same load I use in my 320, 147gr JHP at about 900 fps.
Posts: 10887 | Location: South Congress AZ | Registered: May 27, 2006
I have a P938 and my wife has a P238. I have arthritis in my hands and have no trouble racking the slide on either pistol. Both pistols have been 100% reliable. The P938 is my primary daily carry and I am very happy with it.
Posts: 112 | Location: Wisconsin | Registered: March 25, 2012
Originally posted by SteveR2012: I have a P938 and my wife has a P238. I have arthritis in my hands and have no trouble racking the slide on either pistol. Both pistols have been 100% reliable. The P938 is my primary daily carry and I am very happy with it.
Good to know. I think I will rent a P938 again and give it another try.