Table of Contents
Walther, a renowned firearms manufacturer, is best known for its innovative concealed carry pistols, reliable revolvers, and budget-friendly handguns. Introduced in 2011, the Walther PPQ pistol was designed by Walther to offer modern ergonomics, superior trigger performance, and versatility for both defensive and recreational shooting. Featuring impressive Walther PPQ specs—including a 4.25-inch barrel, .45 Auto caliber, and a 12+1 magazine capacity—this handgun delivers exceptional accuracy and control. The Walther PPQ performance is characterized by its Quick Defense trigger and ergonomic design, making it a favorite among enthusiasts. With a Walther PPQ price around $650, it offers excellent value for a high-quality firearm.
In this review, you’ll learn about the PPQ’s key specifications, performance highlights, and pricing details, along with comparisons and recommendations for accessories. Check out our comprehensive Walther PPQ review, discussing the main specs, performance, and price of the Walther PPQ. Keep on reading and find out what makes the Walther PPQ 45 one of the best Walther pistols for concealed carry.
Walther PPQ: Background & First Impressions
When I first held the Walther PPQ, its ergonomic grip and streamlined design immediately stood out, making it feel like an extension of my hand—perfect for precise handling and control. The origin of the Walther PPQ traces back to Walther's ambition to modernize their lineup with a striker-fired pistol that could compete in both professional and civilian markets. Officially released in 2011, the Walther PPQ release date marked the introduction of a firearm that quickly became known for its outstanding trigger and unparalleled comfort.
This model is part of the innovative Walther pistols family and is based on the earlier Walther P99 design, incorporating key improvements such as the Quick Defense trigger system and enhanced ergonomics. The Walther PPQ 45 as well as the PPQ 9mm builds on these foundations, offering a sleek, reliable, and versatile firearm that appeals to shooters of all levels.
Key Features of Walther PPQ
The Walther PPQ features a .45 Auto caliber with a standard magazine capacity of 12 rounds, offering a reliable balance between firepower and manageable size. Built with a polymer frame and a durable steel slide, the Walther PPQ combines lightweight construction with rugged dependability. With a barrel length of 4.25 inches and an overall compact profile, the Walther PPQ size makes it an excellent choice for both concealed carry and home defense.
One of the standout benefits of the Walther PPQ 45 is its Quick Defense trigger, delivering a crisp, consistent pull that enhances accuracy and ease of use. A notable Walther PPQ problem, however, is its slightly bulkier grip, which may not suit shooters with smaller hands. Despite this, the blend of precision, capacity, and durability makes the Walther PPQ a strong contender in the striker-fired pistol market.
Main Specs of Walther PPQ
The Walther PPQ features a 4.25-inch barrel, offering a balance of accuracy and versatility, making it ideal for both home defense and range shooting. Chambered in .45 Auto, it boasts a 12-round magazine capacity, delivering substantial firepower in a manageable frame. With an overall length of 7.4 inches and a weight of approximately 28 ounces, the PPQ 45 is lightweight yet durable, constructed with a polymer frame and a steel slide. Its Quick Defense trigger system ensures a smooth, consistent pull, enhancing performance for shooters of all levels.
| Walther PPQ Specs | Walther PPQ Spec Value |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .45 Auto |
| Magazine Capacity | 12+1 rounds |
| Height | 5.8 inches |
| Width | 1.3 inches |
| Overall Length | 7.4 inches |
| Barrel Length | 4.25 inches |
| Front Sight | Fixed |
| Rear Sight | Adjustable |
| Frame Material | Polymer |
| Accessory Rail | Yes |
| Red Dot Ready | No |
| Weight | 28 ounces |
| Price | Approximately $650 |
Walther PPQ Pros and Cons
When evaluating the pros and cons of Walther PPQ, one key advantage is its exceptional Quick Defense trigger, providing a crisp, consistent pull that enhances accuracy and shooting comfort. This feature makes it a top choice for both recreational shooting and defensive use. However, a notable drawback is its slightly larger grip size, which may feel cumbersome for shooters with smaller hands. Despite this minor limitation, the Walther PPQ 45 stands out as a reliable and versatile handgun, favored by those who prioritize precision and ergonomics.
What are the main advantages of Walther PPQ?
The Walther PPQ benefits make it a standout choice for both professional and civilian use. The main Walther PPQ advantages are outlined below.
- Exceptional Trigger System: The Quick Defense trigger delivers a crisp, light pull with a short reset, enhancing shooting accuracy and speed.
- Ergonomic Grip Design: Its contoured grip fits comfortably in hand, providing excellent control even during extended shooting sessions.
- Impressive Magazine Capacity: With a 12+1 capacity in .45 Auto, the Walther PPQ offers ample firepower for defensive or competitive use.
- Versatile Accessory Rail: The integrated rail allows for easy attachment of lights or lasers, adding versatility to its functionality.
These Walther PPQ pros showcase its precision, comfort, and adaptability, making it a trusted choice among modern handguns.
What are the main disadvantages of Walther PPQ?
Just like previously mentioned, the biggest disadvantage of the Walther PPQ 45 is its slightly larger grip size, which can be uncomfortable for shooters with smaller hands. Besides that, quite a few shooters have highlighted the Walther PPQ problems listed below. Fortunately, most of these Walther PPQ issues are easy to address with the right adjustments or practice.
- Bulkier Profile: While ergonomic, the grip size and overall width of 1.3 inches may hinder concealability for some users.
- Heavier Recoil in .45 Auto: The Walther PPQ’s lightweight polymer frame can result in more felt recoil when chambered in .45 Auto, potentially affecting follow-up shots.
- Limited Red Dot Compatibility: The standard Walther PPQ is not red dot ready, which may disappoint shooters seeking modern optics integration.
- Trigger Safety Concerns: While praised for its trigger, the absence of a manual safety may be a concern for users prioritizing additional safety features.
Despite these Walther PPQ disadvantages, its overall performance and versatility continue to make it a strong contender in the striker-fired pistol market.
Best Upgrades for Walther PPQ
Investing in Walther PPQ upgrades is an excellent way to enhance the pistol’s performance, accuracy, and usability. Aftermarket accessories, such as tritium or fiber optic sights, improve target acquisition in various lighting conditions, while trigger kits refine the Quick Defense trigger with a lighter pull and shorter reset. Extended magazines increase capacity, providing an edge in self-defense or competition, and custom grip sleeves or panels enhance comfort and control during prolonged use. Adding a weapon light or laser to the accessory rail further boosts precision in low-light scenarios. These enhancements allow shooters to optimize the Walther PPQ 45 for self-defense, competition, or recreational shooting, ensuring superior performance and adaptability.
What are the best Walther PPQ accessories?
Outfitting your handgun with the right Walther PPQ accessories can significantly enhance its performance, usability, and practicality. Below are the top recommendations to consider.
- Best Walther PPQ red dot: Optics like the Trijicon RMR or Holosun 507C are excellent choices for enhanced accuracy and target acquisition. For a red dot-equipped Walther PPQ, custom Walther PPQ red dot holsters are essential for secure and accessible carry.
- Best Walther PPQ lights: Weapon lights such as the Streamlight TLR-1 or SureFire X300 improve low-light performance. Pairing your PPQ with a light requires custom Walther PPQ light-bearing holsters for optimal carry options.
- Best Walther PPQ sights: TruGlo TFX Pro or Meprolight Tru-Dot sights offer superior visibility in all lighting conditions, improving shooting precision.
- Best grip for Walther PPQ: Talon Grips or custom stippled panels enhance comfort and control, making them the best grip for Walther PPQ, especially during extended use.
- Best Walther PPQ extended magazine: Magazines with extended base plates, such as those from Walther or aftermarket brands, increase capacity for added versatility.
- Best Walther PPQ gun belt: The 1.5'' Leather Belt provides unparalleled support and stability for concealed or open carry, combining durability and style for everyday use.
- Best Walther PPQ magazine holder: The Double Magazine Pouch is ideal for organized and secure storage, offering quick access to spare magazines when needed.
- Best Walther PPQ holster: No accessory setup is complete without the right holster. Let’s now take a closer look at the best Walther PPQ holsters for safe and reliable carry.
Walther PPQ Holsters: How to Choose the Best Holster for Walther PPQ?
Walther PPQ holsters are among the best accessories to enhance the functionality, security, and versatility of this highly regarded handgun. Choosing the best holster for Walther PPQ is essential for ensuring safe carry, comfort, and quick access, making it a crucial addition for both everyday carriers and shooting enthusiasts.
When selecting the best Walther PPQ holster, consider the following factors.
- Intended Use: Decide whether you need the holster for concealed carry, open carry, or range use, as this determines the ideal design and retention features.
- Carry Style: Options such as IWB (inside the waistband) holsters offer discreet concealment, while OWB (outside the waistband) holsters prioritize comfort and easy accessibility.
- Material: Leather holsters provide comfort and a classic aesthetic, while Kydex holsters deliver rugged durability and precise firearm retention.
- Accessory Compatibility: Ensure the holster accommodates any attachments, such as a red dot sight or weapon light, to maintain full functionality.
By focusing on these factors, you can find the best Walther PPQ holsters to suit your specific needs and maximize your handgun's potential.
What are the best Walther PPQ concealed carry holsters?
The best Walther PPQ concealed carry holsters provide a blend of discretion, comfort, and reliable retention. Below are the top styles ideal for carrying the Walther PPQ 45.
- Walther PPQ IWB holsters: Perfect for everyday concealed carry, these holsters fit securely inside the waistband, offering excellent concealment and easy access under most clothing.
- Walther PPQ OWB holsters: For those prioritizing comfort and a smooth draw, OWB holsters can work effectively with appropriate cover garments for discreet outside-the-waistband carry.
- Walther PPQ shoulder holsters: Designed to distribute weight evenly across the shoulders, these holsters are ideal for extended wear and for users who prefer a cross-draw option.
- Walther PPQ chest holsters: A practical choice for outdoor activities, chest holsters keep the handgun accessible while ensuring secure retention and comfort.
Each of these Walther PPQ concealed carry holsters caters to different preferences and scenarios, offering solutions that balance security, ease of use, and concealability.
Best Walther PPQ IWB Holster
The best IWB holster for Walther PPQ is the Walther PPQ IWB Holster with Steel Clip, ideal for those seeking comfort, concealment, and durability. This Walther PPQ inside waistband holster is crafted from premium leather, ensuring a secure and precise fit for your firearm.
This Walther PPQ concealed holster features a steel clip that provides reliable attachment to your waistband, keeping the holster firmly in place throughout the day. Its slim profile minimizes printing, making it an excellent choice for discreet everyday carry. The reinforced top ensures smooth and quick reholstering, while the leather construction adds a touch of elegance and long-lasting quality. For anyone looking for a dependable and functional Walther PPQ IWB holster, this option is a standout choice.
Best Walther PPQ OWB Holster
The best OWB holster for Walther PPQ is the Walther PPQ Comfortable Belt Holster, a perfect combination of comfort, durability, and practicality. This Walther PPQ outside waistband holster is crafted from premium leather, providing a secure fit and reliable retention for your firearm.
Designed with a molded profile, this Walther PPQ belt holster ensures your firearm stays snug while allowing for a quick, effortless draw. Its pancake-style design keeps the holster close to your body, improving concealability under a jacket or loose clothing. The leather construction offers long-lasting durability and exceptional comfort, making it a top choice for both everyday carry and range use. For those seeking the best OWB holster for Walther PPQ, this is an outstanding option.
Best Walther PPQ Shoulder Holster
The best shoulder holster for Walther PPQ is the Walther PPQ Vertical Roto Shoulder Holster System, combining comfort, versatility, and secure firearm retention. This Walther PPQ shoulder holster is crafted from premium leather, ensuring durability and a precise fit for your handgun.
Featuring a vertical carry design, this holster allows for excellent concealment under a jacket or coat while providing quick and easy access to your firearm. The adjustable harness evenly distributes the weight, making it comfortable for extended wear. Additionally, the system includes a double magazine pouch for convenient spare ammunition storage. For anyone seeking the best shoulder holster for Walther PPQ, this option delivers reliability and practicality for both everyday carry and professional use.
Why Choose Walther PPQ Over Other Handguns?
The Walther PPQ stands out among other handguns due to its exceptional ergonomics, superior trigger system, and robust performance, making it a top choice for both professional and civilian use. Its Quick Defense trigger provides a crisp, short pull and rapid reset, offering unparalleled precision and control.
With a 4.25-inch barrel and chambered in .45 Auto, the PPQ balances power and accuracy while maintaining a manageable size for concealed carry. Compared to similar striker-fired pistols, the Walther PPQ excels in comfort, thanks to its contoured grip and lightweight polymer frame. These features, combined with its reliability and versatility, make the Walther PPQ 45 a preferred option for those seeking a high-performance handgun.
How does Walther PPQ differ from PDP?
The primary difference between the Walther PPQ and the Walther PDP lies in their intended design upgrades and adaptability. The Walther PPQ features a 4.25-inch barrel, Quick Defense trigger, and an ergonomic grip designed for precision and comfort, making it a versatile option for both concealed carry and recreational shooting.
In contrast, the Walther PDP was introduced as a more modular platform with a focus on optics-readiness. It features an enhanced Performance Duty trigger, a slightly larger grip texture for better control, and compatibility with red dot sights straight out of the box. While both models deliver exceptional reliability and accuracy, the Walther PPQ is ideal for those seeking a straightforward, high-performance striker-fired pistol, while the PDP caters to shooters prioritizing modern upgrades and customization.
How does Walther PPQ differ from Glock 19?
The Walther PPQ and Glock 19 differ significantly in design, ergonomics, and performance features, catering to distinct shooter preferences. The Walther PPQ features a 4.25-inch barrel, is chambered in .45 Auto, and is known for its exceptional Quick Defense trigger, providing a lighter, crisper pull and shorter reset compared to the Glock 19’s standard trigger.
In contrast, the Glock 19, with its 4.02-inch barrel and 9mm chambering, is celebrated for its rugged simplicity, larger aftermarket support, and modularity. The Glock’s polymer frame is slightly more compact and versatile for concealed carry, whereas the Walther PPQ’s ergonomic grip and superior trigger system make it ideal for precision shooting and extended use. Shooters seeking a premium trigger and comfort may prefer the PPQ, while those prioritizing widespread accessories and simplicity might lean toward the Glock 19.
Frequently Asked Questions about Walther PPQ
Now that we've been through everything you need to know about the Walther PPQ, let’s wrap it up by addressing some of the most common questions shooters have about this outstanding handgun. From its standout features to customization options and practical advice for concealed carry, these Walther PPQ 45 frequently asked questions will provide the final insights you need to make the most of this versatile firearm.
Yes, the Walther PPQ is a good gun, especially for those seeking a versatile, high-performance handgun. Its Quick Defense trigger stands out for its crisp pull and short reset, enhancing accuracy and shooting speed. The ergonomic grip design provides exceptional comfort and control, making it ideal for extended use. With a 4.25-inch barrel and chambered in .45 Auto, it balances power and precision effectively. While its slightly larger grip may not suit everyone, the PPQ’s reliability, superior trigger, and overall performance make it an excellent choice for both defensive and recreational shooting.
Yes, the Walther PPQ is a good option for concealed carry, though it may not be ideal for everyone. With a 4.25-inch barrel and a relatively slim profile for its class, the Walther PPQ for concealed carry offers a balance of accuracy and portability. Its ergonomic grip and lightweight polymer frame ensure comfort during extended wear. However, its slightly larger grip and overall size may require careful holster selection and appropriate clothing for effective concealment. Despite this, the PPQ’s reliability, excellent trigger, and versatility make it a dependable choice for concealed carry.
The Walther PPQ caliber is .45 Auto, a powerful and widely respected choice for defensive and recreational shooting. Known for its excellent stopping power, .45 Auto provides reliable performance in high-stress situations. This caliber complements the Walther PPQ’s design, offering a balance of precision and firepower, making it a dependable option for those seeking a versatile and effective handgun.
The magazine capacity of Walther PPQ is 12+1 rounds, meaning it holds 12 rounds in the magazine plus one in the chamber. This capacity is well-suited for its .45 Auto caliber, providing ample firepower for defensive or recreational use. Despite being slightly larger than some compact handguns, this capacity ensures the Walther PPQ remains a reliable and effective option for those prioritizing both performance and practicality.
The Walther PPQ size strikes a balance between performance and portability. It features an overall length of 7.4 inches, a height of 5.8 inches, and a width of 1.3 inches. The Walther PPQ barrel length is 4.25 inches, offering excellent accuracy for defensive and recreational shooting. These dimensions make the PPQ a versatile handgun that is manageable for concealed carry while maintaining a substantial grip and control for effective use.
No, the Walther PPQ is not necessarily better than the Walther P99, as both cater to different preferences and uses. The Walther PPQ excels in its Quick Defense trigger, offering a lighter and crisper pull with a shorter reset compared to the P99’s AS (Anti-Stress) trigger system. Its ergonomic grip and 4.25-inch barrel make it ideal for precision shooting and extended use.
No, the Walther PPQ will not fit properly in a Walther P99 holster, as the two models have distinct frame and slide dimensions. Differences in the trigger guard shape and overall contours can lead to improper fit and inadequate retention when using a holster designed for the P99.
Conclusion: Is Walther PPQ Worth It?
In my opinion, the Walther PPQ is absolutely worth it, especially for those seeking a high-performance, versatile handgun. Its standout specifications, such as the 4.25-inch barrel, ergonomic grip, and excellent .45 Auto chambering, deliver a perfect balance of power, precision, and comfort. What I personally love about the Walther PPQ 45 is its exceptional Quick Defense trigger, which sets it apart from many other pistols in its class, providing unmatched shooting accuracy and control. Its price reflects the value you get in terms of reliability, performance, and modern design.
This pistol is an ideal choice for defensive shooters, firearm enthusiasts, and anyone who values top-tier performance and comfort. Pairing the Walther PPQ with the right Walther PPQ holster enhances its usability, ensuring secure and comfortable carry. For me, the Walther PPQ represents the perfect combination of functionality and shooting enjoyment, making it a firearm I wholeheartedly recommend.
