The 20 Inch Pistol? - SIG PE90P

Overview of the SIG PE90P and its origins

The SIG PE90P is described as an unusually long pistol, measuring about 28.8 inches overall. It is a Swiss-made, semi-automatic pistol based on the SIG 550 design used by the Swiss armed forces. Developed around 1980 as a sporter version, it differs from the original select-fire rifles by being semi-automatic only. To meet import requirements, the stock was removed so it could be classified and brought in as a pistol. Some owners reportedly use adapters to mount pistol braces, but the platform itself remains a rare and very expensive firearm, presented here as a distinctive example of Swiss small-arms engineering.

Muzzle device, grenade mounting, and bayonet lug

At the muzzle, the PE90P features a metal flash hider that is integral to the barrel. The flash hider has slits on all sides except the bottom, intended to help control recoil while minimizing disturbance from the lower side. Just behind the flash hider is a knob used for mounting rifle grenades. Beneath this area sits a bayonet lug, allowing attachment of a bayonet. The combination of flash hider, grenade mounting point, and bayonet lug reflects the rifle heritage of the PE90P despite its pistol classification for import purposes.

Front sight, gas system, handguard, and bipod

Moving back from the muzzle, the firearm uses a metal front sight assembly. Below the front sight is a gas adjustment knob, along with a sling attachment point. The handguard is made of polymer and includes slits along the top that give the front end a distinctive appearance. A notable feature is the built-in bipod. The bipod legs are relatively long, can swivel slightly, and fold neatly into cutouts in the handguard when stowed. This integral bipod reinforces the PE90P’s connection to the SG 550-style rifle platform while remaining part of a pistol-configured firearm.

Charging handle, dust protection, and bolt hold-open

The charging handle on the PE90P extends outward more than on many other designs and is relatively long and thin. Around the charging slot are rubber pieces described as lips, which allow the charging handle to travel while still helping to keep out dust, dirt, and other debris. This detail emphasizes environmental protection for the action. The firearm also includes a last-round bolt hold-open feature, allowing the bolt to lock to the rear after the magazine is empty. These elements combine to support reliable operation and easier handling during loading and clearing.

Trigger guard, winter trigger, and ambidextrous controls

The metal trigger guard incorporates a winter trigger arrangement. The trigger can be actuated in a way that accommodates large gloves, addressing the needs of users operating in cold environments common to Switzerland. This design is contrasted with a different winter trigger solution previously seen on a BM59, which used a lever that pulled down, though both approaches serve the same purpose. The PE90P’s winter trigger is presented as one of several ambidextrous or user-friendly features, allowing operation by right- or left-handed shooters while wearing bulky gloves.

Magazine, grip storage compartment, and labeling feature

The PE90P uses a magazine with transparent sections, allowing the shooter to see how many rounds remain. The grip area includes an unusual storage compartment accessed by removing a bottom cover. Inside is space for cleaning supplies or other small items. The grip itself is polymer, similar to the handguard, and is textured with ribs for improved purchase. A distinctive detail is a piece of material resembling cardboard within the semi-transparent grip, intended for writing a name or identifier. This allows the firearm to be clearly labeled as belonging to a specific person when viewed through the grip.

Ambidextrous safety and diopter rear sight

Above the grip, the PE90P features an ambidextrous safety selector that can be operated from either side of the firearm. At the rear, the sighting system includes a diopter-style rear sight with a rotating drum. The rear sight offers four different aperture settings, allowing adjustment based on distance and shooting conditions. The sight assembly has some swivel movement as part of its design. Together with the metal front sight, this diopter rear sight system reflects the rifle lineage of the platform and provides multiple sighting options without additional optics.

Rarity, shooting character, and closing thoughts

The video concludes by emphasizing that SIG created a highly distinctive firearm in the PE90P, combining SG 550-style features with a pistol import configuration. The model is described as very rare and positioned as a piece of history that stands out at the range due to its length, integral bipod, and Swiss design details. Viewers who have experience with the PE90P are invited to share their impressions in reviews or comments. The presentation ends by reiterating the firearm’s uniqueness and rarity rather than focusing on performance claims beyond what is shown and described.