FNP-9 same as a SIG?

[His lordship.]

I have read that the FN pistol, the FNP-9 series is similar to or called a "cheaper SIG".  Since the SIG pistols are getting old, it seems to me that the patent is expired and the FN pistols are copies, or are they just similar in appearance? 

[williamlayton]

The Sig format is the same as a Walther.
Like all 1911's, there are many Walther formats out there.
Blessings