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The Walther P99, also known as the Walther P99 Final Edition, introduced in the late 1990s, is a modern semi-automatic pistol designed for concealed carry, self-defense, and competition. Known for its cutting-edge features and ergonomic design, the P99 set a new standard for reliability and performance among Walther pistols. One of its standout innovations is the Anti-Stress (AS) trigger system, which enhances both safety and accuracy.
The Final Edition of the Walther P99 celebrates the pistol’s enduring legacy, blending its original design with modern enhancements. Chambered in .40 S&W and featuring a 4.2-inch barrel, this firearm offers an ideal combination of precision and power. As a standout in the lineup of Walther pistols, the P99 continues to be a top-tier choice for discerning shooters. In this review, we’ll explore its specifications, performance, and upgrades, highlighting what makes it a timeless classic.
Walther P99: Background & First Impressions
When Walther introduced the P99, it was designed to address the evolving needs of law enforcement, military, and civilian users. As a successor to older service pistols, the P99 was built to be lightweight, durable, and versatile. Its polymer frame and ambidextrous controls made it a trailblazer, while its modular design appealed to users seeking a custom fit.
Upon first handling the P99 Final Edition, the ergonomic grip immediately stands out. With interchangeable backstraps, the pistol feels natural in the hand and suits a variety of shooters. Its sleek lines, intuitive controls, and lightweight frame make a strong impression, emphasizing its utility for concealed carry or extended shooting sessions. For many, the P99 delivers a balance of innovation and practicality that sets it apart from other pistols in its class.
Key Features of Walther P99
The Walther P99 is a compact, semi-automatic pistol renowned for its innovative design and reliability. Chambered in .40 S&W, it features a 10-12 round magazine and a 4.2-inch barrel, making it ideal for concealed carry, self-defense.
Its lightweight polymer frame and ergonomic grip with interchangeable backstraps ensure comfort and control. The 4.2-inch barrel provides excellent accuracy, while its 26-ounce weight makes it portable for everyday carry. A standout feature is the Anti-Stress (AS) trigger system, offering a safe initial pull and crisp reset for precise follow-up shots. Though the .40 S&W caliber delivers strong stopping power, its recoil may challenge some users. Overall, the Walther P99 is a reliable and versatile firearm for modern shooters.
Main Specs of Walther P99
The Walther P99 is a compact semi-automatic pistol built for reliability and precision, featuring a 4.2-inch barrel that ensures excellent accuracy and consistent performance. Its lightweight polymer frame and ergonomic design make it a versatile choice for concealed carry, self-defense, and competitive shooting.
| Walther P99 Spec | Walther P99 Details |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .40 S&W |
| Magazine Capacity | 10-12 rounds |
| Height | 5.3 inches |
| Width | 1.3 inches |
| Overall Length | 7.2 inches |
| Barrel Length | 4.2 inches |
| Front Sight | 3-dot combat |
| Rear Sight | Adjustable |
| Frame Material | Polymer |
| Accessory Rail | Yes |
| Red Dot Ready | No |
| Weight | 26 ounces |
| Price | $600 $800 (depending on condition) |
Walther P99 Pros and Cons
The pros and cons of the Walther P99 Final Edition highlight its versatility as a concealed carry and self-defense pistol, while acknowledging a few potential trade-offs. One major advantage of the P99 is its innovative Anti-Stress (AS) trigger system, which enhances safety by providing a long, deliberate first pull and a crisp, short reset for follow-up shots. Additionally, its 10-12 round magazine capacity in .40 S&W offers a solid balance of firepower and portability, making it reliable for defensive scenarios.
However, the P99’s lightweight design, at 26 ounces, while excellent for carry, can make the recoil of the .40 S&W caliber more noticeable, especially for newer shooters. Despite this, the Walther P99’s ergonomic grip, interchangeable backstraps, and compact size ensure a comfortable and secure shooting experience. Its blend of advanced features and user-friendly design makes the P99 a standout option for anyone seeking a high-performance, easy-to-carry pistol.
What are the main advantages of Walther P99?
The Walther P99 is a compact semi-automatic pistol known for its innovative features, ergonomic design, and versatile performance, making it a top choice for concealed carry, self-defense, and competition. Below are the key advantages of the Walther P99.
- Walther P99 Magazine Capacity: The P99 offers a 10-12 round magazine capacity in .40 S&W, providing a reliable balance of firepower and portability for defensive scenarios.
- Walther P99 Advanced Trigger System: The innovative Anti-Stress (AS) trigger combines a longer first pull for safety with a crisp, light reset for precise follow-up shots, enhancing accuracy and control.
- Walther P99 Lightweight Construction: With its polymer frame, the P99 weighs just 25 ounces, making it easy to carry and handle for extended periods.
- Walther P99 Ergonomic Grip: The pistol’s interchangeable backstraps allow users to customize the grip for maximum comfort and control, accommodating various hand sizes.
- Walther P99 Ambidextrous Controls: The slide release and magazine release are accessible to both left and right-handed shooters, improving usability for a diverse range of users.
These Walther P99 advantages highlight the pistol’s blend of modern engineering and user-focused design, ensuring its place as a trusted and versatile firearm.
What are the main disadvantages of Walther P99?
The Walther P99, while innovative and reliable, has a few drawbacks that may affect its appeal for certain users or applications. Below are the key disadvantages of the Walther P99.
- Walther P99 Magazine Capacity: With a maximum of 12 rounds in .40 S&W, the P99 offers less capacity than some modern alternatives, requiring more frequent reloads in extended defensive or competitive scenarios.
- Walther P99 Pronounced Recoil: The .40 S&W chambering, while powerful, can produce noticeable recoil, which might be challenging for newer or recoil-sensitive shooters.
- Walther P99 Limited Aftermarket Support: As a discontinued model, finding certain parts and accessories for the P99 may become increasingly difficult.
- Walther P99 Lack of Red Dot Compatibility: The P99 is not red dot ready, limiting options for users who prefer optics for enhanced aiming.
- Walther P99 Older Design: Though still functional and effective, the P99’s design may feel dated compared to newer models with more advanced features.
These Walther P99 disadvantages underscore its trade-offs, particularly for users seeking higher-capacity magazines or cutting-edge enhancements, but it remains a capable and versatile firearm for most applications.
Best Upgrades for Walther P99
Upgrading your Walther P99 with aftermarket accessories can significantly enhance its accuracy, handling, and overall performance, making it even more versatile for self-defense, competition, or concealed carry. Among the most popular Walther P99 Final Edition upgrades are improved sights, such as tritium night sights or fiber-optic options, which enhance visibility and target acquisition in various lighting conditions.
Another key upgrade is a recoil spring kit, which helps reduce felt recoil and improves control during rapid fire, especially with the .40 S&W chambering. Custom grips or grip enhancements, such as rubberized or textured options, can provide better handling and reduce hand fatigue during extended shooting sessions. Finally, a premium Walther P99 holster, such as those offered by Craft Holsters, ensures secure retention, efficient draw, and comfortable carry tailored to your preferred style.
These upgrades allow you to optimize the Walther P99 for your specific needs, refining its performance and user experience while maintaining its innovative design.
What are the best Walther P99 accessories?
Optimizing your Walther P99 with the right accessories can greatly enhance its performance, usability, and comfort. Below are some of the best upgrades for the P99.
- Best Walther P99 Red Dots: Adding a red dot sight improves precision and target acquisition, especially in competitive or defensive scenarios. A Trijicon RMR Type 2 red dot sight is an excellent choice for the P99, offering durability, precision, and a wide field of view. Just remember to use a custom Walther P99 red dot holster.
- Best Walther P99 Lights: A tactical light mounted on the accessory rail is invaluable for low-light situations. The Streamlight TLR-7 is a compact yet powerful tactical light that mounts easily to the P99’s accessory rail, providing up to 500 lumens of brightness. Just remember to use a custom Walther P99 light bearing holster.
- Best Walther P99 Sights: TruGlo TFX Pro Sights are ideal for the P99, combining tritium and fiber optics for superior visibility in any lighting condition. They’re a reliable upgrade to the factory 3-dot sights.
- Best Walther P99 Grips: Custom grips, such as rubberized or textured options, provide better handling and comfort, ensuring a secure hold during extended shooting sessions.
- Best Walther P99 Extended Magazines: Extended magazines increase capacity, reducing the need for frequent reloads during defensive situations or on the range.
- Best Walther P99 Holsters: A high-quality Walther P99 holster ensures safe retention and efficient draw.
- Best Walther P99 Gun Belts: The 1.5” Leather Belt is highly regarded for its durability and support, making it an excellent choice for everyday carry.
- Best Walther P99 Magazine Holders/Pouches: The Leather Double Mag Pouch provides secure storage and quick access to additional magazines, making it the best Walther P99 magazine holder.
These accessories are designed to maximize the potential of your Walther P99, tailoring it to your specific needs and improving your overall shooting experience.
Walther P99 Holsters: How to Choose the Best Holster for Walther P99?
Walther P99 holsters are crucial for safe, accessible, and comfortable carry of this versatile handgun. Choosing the right holster ensures your firearm remains secure while being readily available when needed.
- Intended Use: Start by identifying your primary use for the holster. For everyday concealed carry, prioritize holsters that offer discretion, comfort, and secure retention. If you plan to use your P99 for open carry or tactical scenarios, look for holsters designed for fast access and adjustable retention. For range use, durability and ease of repeated draws are key considerations.
- Carry Style: Your preferred carry style will guide your holster choice. IWB (Inside the Waistband) holsters are ideal for concealed carry, offering a discreet profile that keeps your firearm close to the body. In contrast, OWB (Outside the Waistband) holsters provide quicker access, making them better suited for open carry, range use, or tactical applications.
- Material: The material of your holster impacts comfort and longevity. Leather holsters provide a classic aesthetic, comfort, and a snug fit that conforms to the P99 over time. Kydex holsters, known for their rugged durability and precise molding, are perfect for users prioritizing function and secure retention.
- Accessory Compatibility: If your Walther P99 is equipped with a tactical light, red dot sight, or other modifications, ensure the holster is designed to accommodate these accessories. Custom holsters offer a secure fit for enhanced or modified P99 models without sacrificing functionality.
By evaluating factors like intended use, carry style, material, and accessory compatibility, you can select the perfect holster for your Walther P99, ensuring optimal safety, comfort, and quick accessibility in any scenario.
What are the best Walther P99 concealed carry holsters?
For effective concealed carry, the best Walther P99 concealed carry holsters focus on comfort, accessibility, and discreet placement tailored to your preferred carry style.
- Walther P99 IWB Holsters: Inside-the-waistband (IWB) holsters keep the Beretta 92 close to your body, ensuring a secure and discreet carry under clothing, making them a top choice for everyday concealed carry.
- Walther P99 OWB Holsters: Outside-the-waistband (OWB) holsters provide quicker access and can be concealed with a cover garment. They are ideal for users prioritizing fast draw while maintaining some level of concealment.
- Walther P99 Shoulder Holsters: Shoulder holsters offer an alternative off-the-waist carry option, perfect for cooler weather when jackets or outer layers can easily conceal the firearm.
- Walther P99 Chest Holsters: Chest holsters provide hands-free carry and quick access, making them excellent for outdoor activities or situations where waist carry may not be practical.
Selecting the best Walther P99 concealed carry holster depends on your specific needs, comfort preferences, and desired level of accessibility.
Best Walther P99 IWB Holster
The Walther P99 Leather IWB Holster with Steel Clip is an outstanding option for secure and comfortable concealed carry. Designed specifically for inside-the-waistband use, this holster is made from high-quality Italian leather, providing exceptional durability and a soft, comfortable feel suitable for all-day wear.
Its low-profile design ensures excellent concealment under clothing, making it ideal for everyday carry. The precise molding offers a snug, secure fit tailored to the Walther P99, while a reinforced opening allows for smooth and quick draws. The holster's compact and sleek construction minimizes printing, ensuring discretion without sacrificing accessibility.
Best Walther P99 OWB Holster
The Walther P99 Comfortable Leather Belt Holster is an excellent option for those seeking a combination of comfort, durability, and accessibility in an outside-the-waistband (OWB) holster. Handcrafted from premium Italian leather, this holster offers a secure fit on your belt while ensuring a smooth and reliable draw for quick access to your P99.
The ergonomic design provides optimal comfort for everyday carry, while its close-to-body profile allows for discreet carry under a jacket or loose clothing. The precise molding ensures a snug fit tailored specifically for the Walther P99, preventing unwanted movement while maintaining accessibility.
Best Walther P99 Shoulder Holster
The Walther P99 Vertical Roto Shoulder Holster with Double Mag Pouch is an exceptional choice for those seeking comfort, versatility, and convenience in a shoulder holster. Crafted from premium Italian leather, this holster offers a durable, stylish, and highly functional solution for carrying your P99.
Its vertical orientation ensures a secure fit and natural concealment, making it ideal for extended wear under a jacket or coat. The innovative roto design allows for a smooth, quick draw while maintaining optimal retention. The included double magazine pouch adds practicality, providing easy access to spare magazines for defensive or tactical scenarios.
Why Choose Walther P99 Over Other Handguns?
Choosing the Walther P99 offers unique advantages for those who value innovation, reliability, and versatility in a firearm. Chambered in .40 S&W and featuring a 4.2-inch barrel, the P99 delivers impressive accuracy and performance, making it a great choice for concealed carry, self-defense, and competition shooting.
A standout feature of the Walther P99 is its Anti-Stress (AS) trigger system, which enhances safety and shooting precision by providing a controlled initial pull and a crisp, short reset. The ergonomic grip, complete with interchangeable backstraps, ensures comfort and control for users with varying hand sizes. Additionally, the lightweight polymer frame makes the P99 easy to carry without sacrificing durability.
With its advanced trigger system, excellent accuracy, and ergonomic design, the Walther P99 is a versatile and dependable handgun, perfect for shooters seeking a modern and practical firearm for a variety of applications.
How Does the Walther P99 Differ from the HK P7?
The Walther P99 Final Edition and HK P7 differ significantly in design philosophy, functionality, and user experience, catering to distinct preferences and applications. The Walther P99, with its 4.2-inch barrel and 10-12 round capacity in .40 S&W, is a modern, polymer-framed handgun designed for versatility. Its standout Anti-Stress (AS) trigger system provides a controlled, longer initial pull and a crisp reset for follow-up shots, making it suitable for concealed carry, self-defense, and competition. The P99’s lightweight construction and ergonomic grip with interchangeable backstraps enhance comfort and adaptability for a variety of shooters.
The HK P7, by contrast, is a compact, all-steel pistol chambered in 9mm with an 8-round magazine capacity. Its most distinctive feature is the squeeze-cocking mechanism, which doubles as a safety and cocking system. This innovative design requires the shooter to squeeze the front strap to cock the firearm, offering unparalleled safety and quick readiness. While the P7 excels in precision and durability due to its fixed barrel design, it is heavier and has a lower magazine capacity than the P99.
How Does the Walther P99 Differ from the FN Hi-Power?
The Walther P99 and FN Hi-Power each offer distinct benefits tailored to different preferences. The Walther P99 features a 4.2-inch barrel, 10-12 round capacity in .40 S&W, and a lightweight polymer frame. Its Anti-Stress (AS) trigger system provides a safe, deliberate first pull with a crisp reset for precision, while its interchangeable backstraps and accessory rail enhance versatility for self-defense and concealed carry.
The FN Hi-Power, with its 4.7-inch barrel and 13-round capacity in 9mm, is built on a durable all-steel frame. Its single-action-only (SAO) trigger ensures a consistent, light pull, delivering exceptional accuracy. The classic design lacks modern features like an accessory rail but remains a favorite for its historical appeal and rugged construction.
Frequently Asked Questions about Walther P99
Now that we’ve covered all the essential details about the Walther P99, let’s wrap up with answers to some commonly asked questions. These will provide additional insights into this versatile and innovative handgun.
Yes, the Walther P99 is an excellent firearm. It is renowned for its reliability, innovative Anti-Stress (AS) trigger system, and ergonomic design, making it a top choice for concealed carry, self-defense, and competition.
Yes, the Walther P99 is well-suited for concealed carry. Its compact size, lightweight polymer frame, and ergonomic grip make it easy to carry discreetly while maintaining comfort and control.
The Walther P99 is chambered in .40 S&W, offering a balance of stopping power and manageable recoil.
The standard magazine capacity of the Walther P99 is 10-12 rounds, depending on the configuration.
The Walther P99 has an overall length of 7.2 inches and weighs 26 ounces, making it a compact and portable handgun.
It depends on your needs. The Walther P99 offers an advanced trigger system, lighter weight, and ergonomic features, making it ideal for concealed carry and versatility. The H&K USP Compact, on the other hand, is highly durable and modular, with a reputation for excelling in harsh conditions, making it a better fit for tactical applications.
In some cases, yes, the Walther P99 can fit in a Walther PPQ holster due to their similar dimensions. However, for the best fit and retention, it’s always recommended to use a holster specifically designed for the P99.
Conclusion: Is Walther P99 Worth It?
Yes, the Walther P99 Final Edition is absolutely worth it. With its innovative features, such as the Anti-Stress (AS) trigger system, a lightweight polymer frame, and a 10-12 round capacity in .40 S&W, the P99 is a reliable choice for concealed carry, self-defense, and competition shooting. It excels in performance, offering exceptional accuracy, ergonomic comfort, and proven reliability. While no longer in production, its advanced design and functionality make it a timeless option for discerning shooters.
The Walther P99 is ideal for those who value modern engineering, versatility, and premium performance. Pairing it with a high-quality Walther P99 holster enhances its practicality, ensuring safe and comfortable carry for any scenario.
