Over the course of three different sessions I put 300+ rounds through the Virtus. It ate everything I fed it, from six different types of common metal and polymer magazines. No stoppages or failures of any kind, and no lube whatsoever. All mags fed and fell free easily from the slightly flared mag well. The Virtus handled nimbly, was quick to shoulder, with the ambidextrous controls simple to manipulate. Recoil was soft and manageable, making it easy to take good follow up shots. I particularly liked the proprietary Sig pistol grip, which is similar to a Magpul K2.
Topped with my Trijicon 4-16x AccuPower on a Larue SPR 1.5 QD mount and shooting from a bench at 100 yards, the Virtus shot an average of about two inches with most of the six different types of ammo I put through it. Under normal circumstances this would be considered quite acceptable, but I knew it could be better. Often I would have four rounds at about an inch, but throw a flyer to open things up despite the Virtus’ very good two-stage trigger. (Insert deleted expletive here). The best groups, not unexpectedly given the Virtus 1:7 barrel twist, came from Hornady .223 75-gr. TAP FPD at 1.25 inches, with the best four in .75 inches. Bottom line, I firmly believe that the Virtus is capable of consistent MOA groups or better. Regardless, as-is the Virtus is capable of excellent practical accuracy, which—combined with its many other redeeming qualities—is what really matters.
The Sig MCX Virtus was everything I expected it to be, and I expected a lot. It is no surprise the MCX is the choice of top end professional gunfighters, and I anticipate this new version will be part of their kit in the not too distant future, if it’s not already. See it at your firearms retailer ($2,233), or contact Sig Sauer, Dept. OT; Tel.: (603) 610-3000; Web: www.sigsauer.com
