P245 & P220 Compact Differences

Sig Sauer is a manufacturer that makes a variety of different firearms types, including pistols. The P245 is a discontinued model that is a compact version of the original full-size P220. The P245 was replaced by the P220 Compact. Although they are similar weapons -- both are compact semi-automatic .45-caliber pistols with six-shot magazines -- several differences exist.

  1. P220 Compact Specifications

    • The P220 Compact is slightly larger and heavier than the P245 it replaces. It weighs 29.6 oz., including the empty magazine. In its current configuration it is 7.60 inches long. The earliest models had a feature known as a "beaver tail" -- a longer extension on the grip directly below the hammer -- that added significant length to those editions. It is 5 inches tall, and the overall width is 1.5 inches. The barrel is 3.9 inches.

    P245 Specifications

    • The P245, at 28.7 oz. with an unloaded magazine, is slightly lighter than the P220 Compact. The pistol's overall length is 7.28 inches, which is also somewhat shorter. The barrel is 3.9 inches and the height is the same, although the width is 1.34 inches. In the category of "compact" pistols, therefore, the P245 is somewhat more compact and therefore more concealable with the same firepower.

    Manufacturing Differences

    • The slide is the rectangular top part of the pistol that is pulled backward to initially chamber a round. The way the slide is made can affect both the overall weight of the pistol and its balance. The P245 has a folded slide, meaning that a flat piece of metal is formed into the slide. The P220 compact has a slide machined out of a solid piece of stainless steel. Folded slides tend to be lighter and possibly better balanced. Moreover, the P245 was manufactured in Germany and the P220 Compact is made in the United States.

    Appearance and Price

    • The two pistols are remarkably similar in appearance. However, the beaver-tail was a significant visual difference on early models of the P220 Compact. This contributed to some of the heavier weight, but it has since been redesigned and now looks more similar to the P245. Because the P245 has been discontinued, a "New In Box" model sells for around $800, and a used pistol can be had for much less. As of 2011, the P220 Compact retails for $1,068.