The Company That Never Settles | Sig Sauer History

Published on July 21, 2022
Duration: 9:21

This video traces the historical lineage of SIG Sauer firearms, beginning with the Swiss Wagon Factory's pivot to rifle manufacturing in 1864 after winning a Swiss military contract. It details the company's evolution through name changes to 'SIG' and its eventual integration with the historic German 'Sauer' company, known for its hunting rifles since the mid-18th century. The narrative highlights key milestones like the development of the SIG P49 for the Swiss Army and SIG's strategic expansion into the American market in the 1980s, culminating in the adoption of the SIG Sauer name.

Quick Summary

The history of SIG Sauer begins in 1853 with the Swiss Wagon Factory, which later won a military rifle contract in 1864. The company evolved through name changes, eventually integrating with the historic German Sauer company. SIG officially became SIG Sauer in 2007, signifying its global expansion and product demand.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: European Quality Perception
  2. 01:01SIG Sauer Origins in the Swiss Alps
  3. 01:37The Swiss Wagon Factory (1853)
  4. 02:38First Military Rifle Contract (1864)
  5. 03:42Name Change to SIG
  6. 04:10The Sauer Company History
  7. 04:50Sauer's Military and Civilian Production
  8. 05:31WWII Gap in SIG and Sauer History
  9. 05:59Post-WWII SIG Innovations: P49
  10. 06:51SIG Expands to Include J.P. Sauer & Sohn
  11. 07:14SIG Sets Sights on America (1980s)
  12. 07:31Founding of SIG Arms (1985)
  13. 07:53Introduction of P225, P226, P228
  14. 08:09Sauer Rifles in the American Market
  15. 08:20Official Adoption of SIG Sauer Name (2007)
  16. 08:35Company Growth and Investment
  17. 08:52Headquarters Move to New Hampshire
  18. 09:02Conclusion: Is the Name Worth the Hype?

Frequently Asked Questions

When was the Swiss Wagon Factory, the precursor to SIG Sauer, founded?

The Swiss Wagon Factory (Schweizerische Waggon-Fabrik) was founded in 1853 by three men with the initial goal of building and selling wagons. It later pivoted to firearms manufacturing.

What was the first firearm contract won by the Swiss Wagon Factory?

In 1864, the Swiss Wagon Factory secured a contract from the Swiss Federal Ministry of Defense for their 'Prela's Brunen Dad' rifle, marking its significant entry into the firearms industry.

How did the Sauer company contribute to the SIG Sauer legacy?

The Sauer company, a German firm with origins around 1751, was known for its high-quality hunting rifles. Its integration with SIG in the 1970s and 80s expanded the product line and global reach.

When did SIG officially become known as SIG Sauer?

SIG officially adopted the SIG Sauer name in 2007. This name change was implemented to reflect the company's vast worldwide growth and the increasing demand for its products across the globe.

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