[JLA]

an insufficient hold will cause an auto to jam, this is called limp wristing. essentially, the pistol will use all the rearward force on the slide to rotate your hand and cause the next round to hang up in the magazine or more commonly the spent case will stovepipe between the slide and breech. This is a fairly common problem with beginning shooters and all it takes is a firm grip to correct the problem. Other causes of jams or failures to feed are dirt in the weapon system or low quality ammo. The sigmas are pretty reliable and i have run some pure crap through mine without a hiccup, and they will function well when dirty but no pre-existing mechanical problems can exist like weak springs, broken parts, etc. etc. etc. I was a beginner to the auto world about 7 years ago and sold 2 perfectly good pistols because i was too foolish to seek professional training and too damn proud to admit i needed it... you have taken a wise step to become better educated. The sigmas are very reliable weapons and will serve you well...