Expert: Dean Speir - 2/25/2006

Question
Thank you for your help on this...

A friend recently purchased a Sigma 40VE at a local gun show here in Tampa, FL. They were selling for $299, which was in my friends price range. It is very accurate but it has a trigger on it that that is unbelieveable. I do not have a trigger pull scale but I would estimate the trigger to be around 15 to 18 pounds or so. My Ruger P90 is stiff in double action but only about half that of the Sigma.

What, if anything, can be done to reduce the trigger pull of this firearm? (I usually shoot wheel guns that are light, smooth, and reliable - I would like to see my friend's Sigma at least approach something like this)

Again, thank you for your help

Answer
Presumably, since it was purchased at a gun show, your friend was able to try the trigger prior to acquiring that Sigma, and found it acceptable, so you are actually the one who's displeased with it.

Unfortunately, there's not a lot to do with the Sigma's trigger. Although it was only introduced in Spring 1994, I'm not sure Smith & Wesson even still supports the Sigma series any longer, having moved on to their new M&P series of firearms.

And since your friend is probably not the original owner, the "lifetime warranty" is is unlikely to be honored by the factory, but they should be contacted to ascertain what their policy is concerning his status with their pistol, and if they have any suggestions.

FWIW, I was presented with one of the original .40 S&W Sigmas, and while it didn't have anything like the "match trigger" on a K or L-frame, it wasn't as ghastly as you are making it seem. Could be a "lemon," though... talk to S&W, #1, and, #2, if it's not already too late, try not to make your friend dissatisfied with his acquisition.

Thanks for writing....