I bought a shield 9mm for $279 I think, it was under $300. What does the sig cost? Thats probably hom much difference there is. The smitty is a nice cheap conceal carry pistola. Nothing wrong with it but its a cheaper gun. Step up to a glock, step down a little to a taurus g2. Seems like to me the price translates pretty good on pistols as far as how nice they are. Alot like scopes. But I do have limited experience. Holding the three ive mentioned in your hand with your eyes closed, its hard to tell the difference.