Description
The SIG Sauer P220 Joint Combat Pistol Program (JCP) was a U.S. military program that aimed to replace the M9 Pistol. It was initiated in 2005 and overseen by the United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM). The JCP program resulted from the merger of two earlier programs: the Army’s Future Handgun System (FHS) and the Special Operations Forces Combat Pistol program. The program had specific requirements, including:
1. Chambered for caliber .45 ACP.
2. Equipped with an integrated Picatinny rail for attaching accessories.
3. Featuring day/night sights for improved visibility.
4. Capable of accepting a suppressor to reduce noise signature.
The objective of the JCP program was to procure a more modern and effective sidearm for U.S. military forces. However, the program had a relatively short lifespan, running from late 2005 to early 2006, and it eventually led to the adoption of the M17 and M18 Modular Handgun System (MHS) as the replacements for the M9 pistol in the U.S. military.
These SIG Sauer P220 pistols were developed exclusively by SIG SAUER Germany for the U.S. Joint Combat Pistol Program (JCP). The key features and characteristics of these pistols are as follows:
Trigger Systems:
– V711: Equipped with a DAK (Double Action Kellermann) trigger system, combined with a manual safety. This combination is unique to this specific pistol, and it stands out from other SIG SAUER pistols.
– V712: Features a SA/DA (Single Action / Double Action) trigger system, also combined with a manual safety. This configuration is exclusive to this pistol and differs from other SIG SAUER models.
Manual Safety:
– Both SIG Sauer P220s have a left-hand/right-hand safety lever made of sheet metal. In contrast, the SIG SAUER Classic line (including models like the P220, P226, P228, P229) typically uses milled or MIM safety levers.
Consecutive Prototype Serial Numbers:
– These SIG Sauer P220 have consecutive prototype serial numbers. These are assigned by the manufacturer to mark internal prototype firearms and are not commonly sold to individuals outside of the SIG SAUER company.
– The consecutive prototype V-numbers are particularly rare and challenging to find, making them highly sought-after by collectors and enthusiasts.
The inclusion of original boxes, paperwork, and supporting documents that describe the history of these unique SIG Sauer P220 prototype pistols further enhances their collectible value and historical significance. These documents provide valuable context and provenance for these rare firearms, making them even more attractive to collectors and enthusiasts.
With the combination of their distinctive features, rarity, and well-documented history, these SIG Sauer P220s are exceptional additions to any collection and represent an important part of firearms history.
