SIG Sauer is celebrating the 40th anniversary of their iconic P226 pistol with a special edition model that pays homage to the original design. First announced in January, the company is having a year-long celebration for one of their most famous sidearms.

The P226 was originally developed to compete in the U.S. military's XM9 service pistol trials. While it wasn't chosen, it caught the eye of the Navy SEALs, who adopted it in 1989 as the MK25. This marked the beginning of a long and fruitful relationship between SIG Sauer and the U.S. military. The P226's design served as the foundation for several successful collaborations, including the M17, M18, and the Next Generation Squad Weapons program.

The P226 MK25, a civilian version identical to the SEALs' sidearm, became a popular choice for firearm enthusiasts. The P226's impact transcended the military. Its adoption by the SEALs sparked widespread interest, and its popularity grew further with the big expansion of the airsoft hobby in the 2000s. Particularly, airsoft versions from Tokyo Marui and KJ Works cemented the P226's place in the hearts of airsoft enthusiasts globally.

“With millions upon millions of rounds of proven performance, the SIG P226 has rightfully earned a legacy of accuracy and reliability,” said Tom Taylor, Chief Marketing Officer and Executive Vice President, SIG SAUER, inc. “With 2024 being the 40th Anniversary year of the iconic SIG P226, we are offering this exclusive promotion to coincide with P226 Day in celebration of the rich military and law enforcement history of the pistol.”

Guns.com were able to produce a video that gives us a close look at the 40th Anniversay Edition of the P226:

The 40th anniversary edition P226 faithfully replicates the original design, complete with period-correct packaging, a user manual replica, and a limited-edition booklet chronicling the P226's history. This commemorative model retains the original's functionality – an alloy frame, double-stack magazine with a 15+1 capacity, DA/SA trigger system, and a 4.4-inch barrel.

Those looking to own a piece of SIG Sauer history can find the 40th anniversary P226 available online at the P226 series page on the company's official website. This special edition offers a unique opportunity to experience the legacy of a firearm that has served with distinction in the hands of both military and civilian users for four decades.