The P226 Nitron 9mm is the baseline full-size P226, featuring a Nitron stainless steel slide and black polymer grips. Introduced in 1983 for the US military XM9 pistol trials, the P226 lost narrowly on cost to the Beretta M9 despite outperforming it in every reliability metric. The Nitron variant is the most affordable entry into the P226 family and serves as the platform for all upgraded variants. Type: Pistol Action: DA/SA Caliber: 9mm Capacity: 15 Year introduced: 1983, Germany Weight: 34 oz Overall length: 7.7" Status: Active Intended use: duty, carry