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The Walther PPS, crafted by Walther, a globally recognized manufacturer of innovative and reliable firearms, redefined the standards for concealed carry handguns upon its release. Renowned for their ergonomic and durable designs, Walther engineered the PPS to cater specifically to individuals seeking a slim, lightweight, and highly concealable pistol without compromising on performance.
Chambered in 9mm, the Walther PPS features a 3.2-inch barrel, a single-stack magazine with capacity of 7 rounds, and an ultra-slim 0.9-inch width. Its design prioritizes accuracy, reliability, and ease of carry, making it an excellent choice for self-defense and everyday concealed carry. The PPS is celebrated for its exceptional precision, user-friendly ergonomics, and robust build quality. Its pricing reflects the premium craftsmanship and reliability that Walther firearms are known for.
In this review, we’ll dive into the Walther PPS's key specifications, explore its advantages over other pistols, and recommend the best accessories and holsters for optimal performance. Read on to discover why the Walther PPS remains a standout choice for concealed carry and self-defense needs.
Walther PPS: Background & First Impressions
When I first held the Walther PPS, I immediately appreciated its slim, lightweight profile, which perfectly captures the balance of reliability, precision, and comfort that Walther pistols are known for. Designed to meet the demands of the modern concealed carry market, the Walther PPS offers a highly concealable and ergonomic solution for self-defense without compromising performance. Its sleek design and streamlined mechanics deliver outstanding handling, making it a standout choice for everyday carry.
What truly sets the PPS apart from other Walther pistols is its innovative single-stack design, which emphasizes concealability while maintaining accuracy and ease of use. This pistol highlights Walther’s dedication to producing dependable, user-friendly firearms. Its clean lines, textured grip, and responsive trigger leave a lasting impression, demonstrating that the PPS is a compact pistol built for both practicality and style. Whether you’re new to concealed carry or a seasoned shooter, the Walther PPS exemplifies the high standards that Walther pistols are celebrated for.
Key Features of Walther PPS
The Walther PPS is a compact, semi-automatic pistol designed for concealed carry and self-defense. Chambered in 9mm, the PPS offers a single-stack magazine with capacities of 7 rounds and features a 3.2-inch barrel, making it an excellent choice for everyday carry and personal protection.
The PPS stands out with its polymer frame and steel slide, ensuring durability while maintaining a lightweight design. Its ultra-slim 0.9-inch profile and ergonomic grip provide exceptional concealability and control, even during extended use. The compact dimensions and 22 oz weight make it ideal for discreet carry without compromising performance. The 3.2-inch barrel contributes to impressive accuracy, while the pistol's reliable striker-fired action ensures consistent performance.
A key advantage of the PPS is its modular magazine options, allowing users to customize capacity and grip length according to their preferences. While its single-stack design may limit overall capacity compared to double-stack alternatives, the PPS prioritizes comfort and concealability, meeting the needs of concealed carry enthusiasts.
Main Specs of Walther PPS
The Walther PPS is a compact semi-automatic pistol purpose-built for concealed carry and self-defense. With a 3.2-inch barrel, it offers exceptional accuracy in a lightweight and slim design. Its polymer frame and steel slide enhance durability while maintaining a low profile, making it a versatile option for everyday carry.
The Walther PPS is a compact and lightweight 9mm pistol with a slim 0.9-inch profile and a 3.2-inch barrel, making it an excellent choice for concealed carry and self-defense. Its ergonomic design and reliable performance ensure confidence and comfort for everyday carry.
| Walther PPS Spec | Walther PPS Details |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 9mm |
| Magazine Capacity | 6, 7, or 8 rounds |
| Height | 4.9 inches |
| Width | 0.9 inches |
| Overall Length | 6.3 inches |
| Barrel Length | 3.2 inches |
| Front Sight | 3-dot polymer |
| Rear Sight | Adjustable for windage |
| Frame Material | Polymer |
| Accessory Rail | No |
| Red Dot Ready | No |
| Weight | 22 ounces (unloaded) |
| Price | $400 - $500 |
Walther PPS Pros and Cons
A major advantage of the Walther PPS is its slim, lightweight design, which makes it highly concealable and comfortable for all-day carry. The modular magazine options, allowing for 6, 7, or 8 rounds, provide flexibility for balancing capacity and concealability. Its 3.2-inch barrel delivers impressive accuracy, and the ergonomic grip ensures excellent control and handling, even for those with smaller hands.
However, the single-stack magazine design may feel limiting compared to double-stack alternatives, especially for those who prioritize capacity over slimness. Additionally, while the lack of an accessory rail contributes to its sleek design, it may limit the addition of certain tactical accessories. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Walther PPS's durable polymer frame, striker-fired reliability, and user-friendly ergonomics make it an outstanding option for concealed carry and self-defense. Its modern engineering ensures it remains a practical and dependable choice for everyday use.
What are the main advantages of Walther PPS?
The Walther PPS is a compact, semi-automatic pistol designed for concealed carry and self-defense, offering a blend of reliability, innovation, and modern design. Below are the key advantages of the Walther PPS.
- Walther PPS Slim and Lightweight Design: With a slim 0.9-inch width and a lightweight polymer frame, the PPS is extremely easy to conceal and comfortable for all-day carry.
- Walther PPS Exceptional Accuracy: The 3.2-inch barrel provides precise performance, making it highly effective for self-defense and close-range shooting scenarios.
- Walther PPS Modular Magazine Options: Users can choose between 6-, 7-, or 8-round magazines, offering flexibility to prioritize concealability or capacity.
- Walther PPS Ergonomic Grip: Its textured and contoured grip ensures a secure hold and excellent control, even during rapid fire or extended use.
- Walther PPS Durable Polymer Construction: The polymer frame and steel slide ensure long-lasting performance and reliability in various conditions.
These Walther PPS advantages emphasize its practicality and modern design, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a dependable concealed carry pistol.
What are the main disadvantages of Walther PPS?
The Walther PPS, while a top choice for concealed carry, has a few drawbacks that may affect its appeal for some users. Below are the key disadvantages of the Walther PPS.
- Walther PPS Limited Magazine Capacity: The single-stack design offers a maximum of 8 rounds, which may feel limited compared to double-stack alternatives with higher capacities.
- Walther PPS Lack of Accessory Rail: The absence of an accessory rail prevents users from attaching tactical accessories such as lights or lasers, which some may prefer for self-defense scenarios.
- Walther PPS Slim Grip for Larger Hands: The slim and compact grip, while ideal for concealability, might not feel as comfortable or secure for individuals with larger hands.
- Walther PPS Fixed Sights: The factory sights, though reliable, may limit customization options for users seeking upgraded sight systems.
Despite these minor disadvantages, the Walther PPS remains an excellent concealed carry handgun, excelling in reliability, accuracy, and user comfort.
Best Upgrades for Walther PPS
Aftermarket accessories for the Walther PPS are designed to enhance its performance, accuracy, and usability, making it an even more effective tool for concealed carry and self-defense. These upgrades allow users to optimize sight visibility, grip control, and overall ergonomics, tailoring the pistol to specific needs and preferences.
Enhancing the Walther PPS with upgrades such as night sights improves low-light performance, while extended magazines provide additional capacity without compromising concealability. Grip enhancements, like Talon grip wraps, can offer improved control for a secure hold during rapid fire. Additionally, a high-quality Walther PPS holster ensures safe retention, efficient draw, and comfortable all-day carry.
These aftermarket accessories help refine the Walther PPS, ensuring it remains a reliable and adaptable choice for self-defense and everyday carry needs.
What are the best Walther PPS accessories?
Enhancing your Walther PPS with the right accessories can significantly improve its performance, accuracy, and overall usability. Below is a breakdown of top accessories for the Walther PPS and how they can elevate your shooting experience.
- Best Walther PPS Red Dots: While the Walther PPS isn’t red-dot-ready out of the box, mounting solutions are available to add this functionality. If you opt for a red dot sight, remember that you’ll need a custom red dot holster to accommodate the optic for safe and comfortable carry. Like the Shield RMSc.
- Best Walther PPS Sights: Upgrading to night sights, such as tritium or fiber-optic options, greatly improves target acquisition in low-light environments. These sights offer a significant improvement over the factory options for those prioritizing self-defense. Like the TruGlo TFX Pro Night Sights.
- Best Walther PPS Grips: For enhanced control and comfort, consider grip enhancements like Talon grips or similar products. These add-ons provide better traction and ensure a secure hold, especially during rapid-fire or extended shooting sessions.
- Best Walther PPS Extended Magazines: The Walther PPS offers modular magazine options, but extended magazines are a great way to increase capacity while maintaining a solid grip. Like the 8-round magazine from Walther.
- Best Walther PPS Holsters: Selecting a high-quality PPS holster is crucial for safe and convenient carry. Options range from traditional leather designs to modern Kydex holsters, each offering different levels of retention and accessibility. For instance, the Open Top Belt Holster provides easy access and a quick draw, with a slim, low-profile fit that ensures your Walther PPS remains concealed even in an OWB carry position.
- Best Walther PPS 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 PPS Magazine Holders/Pouches: The Leather Double Mag Pouch provides secure storage and quick access to additional magazines, making it the best Walther PPS magazine holder.
These accessories allow you to customize and optimize your Walther PPS to suit your specific needs, enhancing its performance and versatility.
Walther PPS Holsters: How to Choose the Best Holster for Walther PPS?
Walther PPS holsters are essential for ensuring the safe, secure, and comfortable carry of this compact concealed carry pistol. Choosing the right holster ensures your firearm is well-protected while remaining accessible when needed.
- Intended Use: Start by identifying how you plan to use your holster. For everyday concealed carry, prioritize discretion, comfort, and a slim profile that keeps the PPS secure and hidden. For range practice, choose a holster that offers durability and allows for smooth repeated draws. For tactical or open carry purposes, select holsters with quick access and adjustable retention.
- Carry Style: Whether you prefer concealed carry or open carry, the holster you choose should align with your style while offering a secure fit. For concealed carry, slim designs reduce printing, while open carry holsters prioritize quick access.
- Material: The material of your holster impacts comfort and durability. Leather provides a classic, comfortable fit that molds to the PPS, while Kydex offers rugged durability and precision molding for better retention.
- Accessory Compatibility: If your Walther PPS has upgrades like extended magazines or night sights, ensure your holster accommodates these features for a proper fit and practicality.
These factors will help you choose the best holster for your Walther PPS, ensuring safety, comfort, and optimal performance.
What are the best Walther PPS concealed carry holsters?
For effective concealed carry, the best Walther PPS concealed carry holsters focus on comfort, accessibility, and discreet placement tailored to your preferred carry style.
- Walther PPS IWB Holsters: Inside-the-waistband (IWB) holsters keep the Walther PPS close to your body, ensuring a secure and discreet carry under clothing, making them a top choice for everyday concealed carry.
- Walther PPS 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 PPS 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 PPS 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 PPS concealed carry holster depends on your specific needs, comfort preferences, and desired level of accessibility.
Best Walther PPS IWB Holster
The Leather IWB Holster with Steel Clip is an excellent option for discreet and secure concealed carry of your Walther PPS. Specifically designed for inside-the-waistband use, this holster is crafted from premium Italian leather, ensuring exceptional durability and comfort throughout the day.
Its sturdy steel clip keeps the holster securely in place, while the custom-molded fit guarantees perfect retention for the Walther PPS. The slim, low-profile design enhances concealment under any clothing, making it ideal for everyday carry. Additionally, the reinforced opening ensures smooth and efficient reholstering, combining practicality with elegance.
Best Walther PPS OWB Holster
The Leather Belt Holster with Belt Tunnel is an outstanding option for outside-the-waistband carry of the Walther PPS. Crafted from premium Italian leather, this holster delivers exceptional durability, comfort, and a refined aesthetic.
The ergonomic design secures the holster firmly to your belt, while the close-to-body profile allows for discreet carry under a jacket or loose clothing. Custom molding ensures a snug and precise fit for the Walther PPS, and the reinforced construction facilitates smooth and efficient draws. This holster is ideal for both everyday carry and range use, combining style and practicality.
Best Walther PPS Shoulder Holster
The Vertical Roto Shoulder Holster with Double Mag Pouch is an exceptional choice for carrying the Walther PPS with comfort and accessibility. Perfect for extended wear, this shoulder holster system distributes weight evenly, making it an excellent option for concealed carry under a jacket.
Its adjustable straps ensure a tailored fit for maximum comfort, while the vertical roto design allows for a smooth and natural draw. The included double magazine pouch provides convenient storage for extra magazines, enhancing practicality for both everyday carry and tactical scenarios.
Why Choose Walther PPS Over Other Handguns?
The Walther PPS is an outstanding choice for those seeking a modern, reliable, and highly concealable semi-automatic pistol. Chambered in 9mm and featuring a 3.2-inch barrel, the PPS delivers impressive accuracy and performance in a slim, lightweight design, making it ideal for concealed carry and self-defense.
What sets the Walther PPS apart is its ultra-slim profile and modular magazine options, offering flexibility with 6-, 7-, or 8-round capacities to suit individual preferences. Its ergonomic grip ensures a secure and comfortable hold, while the lightweight polymer frame enhances portability without sacrificing durability. The striker-fired action provides consistent reliability, and the minimalist design reduces snag risks during carry or draw.
The combination of precision, user-friendly features, and a compact design tailored for everyday carry makes the Walther PPS a top choice for those prioritizing discretion and performance. While some modern alternatives may offer higher capacities, the PPS excels in comfort, concealability, and reliability.
How Does the Walther PPS Differ From the SIG P365?
The Walther PPS and SIG P365 are both compact 9mm pistols designed for concealed carry but differ in priorities. The Walther PPS has a slim 0.9-inch profile, a 3.2-inch barrel, and modular magazine options (6, 7, or 8 rounds), prioritizing comfort and concealability. Its ergonomic design and lightweight build make it ideal for discreet everyday carry.
The SIG P365 offers higher capacity with a 10-round flush-fit magazine (up to 15 rounds with extensions) and a slightly wider profile. It comes with night sights and an aggressive grip texture, catering to those seeking more firepower and tactical features. In short, choose the PPS for slim concealability or the P365 for higher capacity and extra features.
How Does the Walther PPS Differ From the Springfield XDs?
The Walther PPS is a slim, single-stack handgun with a 3.2-inch barrel and modular magazine options offering 6, 7, or 8 rounds. It is designed for maximum concealability, with a lightweight polymer frame and a slim 0.9-inch profile, making it a top choice for discreet everyday carry. The Springfield XDs, also a single-stack 9mm, has a slightly shorter 3.3-inch barrel and a slightly wider profile. It offers a similar capacity with 7, 8, or 9-round magazine options, but it features a more aggressive grip texture and a loaded chamber indicator, appealing to those who prioritize tactile feedback and handling security.
While the PPS excels in ultra-slim portability and simplicity, the XDs provides a more tactile grip and slightly higher capacity, catering to users who prefer a more robust feel in their concealed carry pistol. Both are excellent choices, but the decision depends on whether you prioritize extreme slimness (PPS) or enhanced grip features (XDs).
Frequently Asked Questions about Walther PPS
Now that we’ve covered everything you need to know about the Walther PPS, let’s address some frequently asked questions to clarify remaining details and offer further insights into this iconic handgun.
Yes, the Walther PPS is a good gun. Its compact size, slim profile, and modular magazine options make it particularly well-suited for concealed carry and self-defense. The pistol offers reliable performance, ergonomic design, and excellent accuracy, all of which are essential features for an everyday carry firearm.
Yes, the Walther PPS is excellent for concealed carry. With a width of just 0.9 inches and a weight of 19.4 ounces unloaded, it is slim and lightweight, making it easy to conceal inside the waistband. The pistol’s ergonomic grip and smooth edges ensure comfortable all-day carry without printing.
The Walther PPS is chambered in 9mm, a popular caliber known for its balance of manageable recoil and effective stopping power.
The Walther PPS offers modular magazine options with capacities of 6, 7, or 8 rounds, allowing users to choose between maximum concealability or extra capacity.
The Walther PPS measures 6.3 inches in overall length, 4.9 inches in height, and 0.9 inches in width. Its compact dimensions make it one of the best choices for concealed carry.
It depends on your needs. The Walther PPS is slimmer, lighter, and designed for modern concealed carry with a modular magazine offering up to 8 rounds. It’s ideal for those prioritizing comfort, reliability, and ease of concealment.The Walther PPK, while compact, is heavier due to its steel construction and offers a 6+1 capacity in .380 ACP. Its iconic design and historical significance appeal to collectors and those who value a classic aesthetic, though its weight and smaller capacity may limit practicality for extended concealed carry. Choose the PPS for its modern design and functionality or the PPK for its timeless appeal and craftsmanship.
No, the Walther PPS will not fit in a Walther PPK/s holster due to significant differences in size and design. The PPS has a slimmer, more angular profile and a polymer frame, whereas the Walther PPK/s features a more compact, rounded design with a steel frame. To ensure proper fit, retention, and performance, it’s essential to use a holster specifically designed for the Walther PPS.
Conclusion: Is Walther PPS Worth It?
Yes, the Walther PPS is worth buying, especially for those seeking a reliable, lightweight, and easily concealable handgun for self-defense. Its compact dimensions, including a slim 0.9-inch profile and a 3.2-inch barrel, make it ideal for discreet carry, while its modular magazine options (6, 7, or 8 rounds) provide flexibility for different needs. The PPS’s performance is exceptional, with a striker-fired design that ensures consistent reliability and accuracy.
The Walther PPS is the perfect choice for concealed carry and self-defense enthusiasts who prioritize comfort, portability, and simplicity in their firearm. Its competitive price point makes it accessible, and its durable polymer frame ensures long-term value.
