Walther Launching New PDP Modular Handgun Series

Walther Arms is introducing a new line of defensive and service pistols called the PDP, or Performance Duty Pistol. Based on existing Walther pistols, the PDP adds modern, modular features.

The PDP is being launched with three models, the PDP Compact 4-inch, the PDP Full Size 4-inch and the PDP Full Size 4.5-inch. All three are polymer-framed, striker-fired, double-stack handguns chambered for 9mm Luger.

“At Walther, we believe it is our duty to engineer the best possible pistol for anything our customers may encounter,” said Walther vice president Jens Krogh. “We want them to focus on being ready for anything and not thinking about how or if their pistol will perform, we have done our job so they don’t have to worry about it.”

The Full Size models come with an 18+1-round standard capacity and slightly longer grips. The 4-inch Full Size model has a shorter accessory rail than the 4.5-inch model. The Compact is only compact in that it’s a little shorter than the Full Size models, with a grip built around 15-round magazines.

All three models come with three interchangeable backstraps and the slides are optics-ready, cut for a wide range of mini red dot sights using adapter plates. They have long, extended ambidextrous slide release levers for easy manipulation and reversible “American” push-button magazine releases.

Other features that make the PDP series stand out from other Walther pistols include the new Super Terrain slide serrations (front and back), aggressive diamond-pattern grip texture, and improved Performance Duty Trigger. While Walther’s striker-fired handguns are known for their good triggers, the PDP trigger system offers an even cleaner break and shorter reset.

For now all three are offered with black frames and slide assemblies. PDP owners can request one optics adapter plate for free, with plates available for Docter, Leupold, Trijicon, Vortex, and other compatible red dot sights.

See Also: Walther Q4 Steel Frame

Walther is planning to offer the slides and frames separately which will allow buyers to mix-and-match slide lengths and frame sizes to fit their exact needs. In addition to the 4- and 4.5-inch slides, Walther will release a 5-inch slide assembly that will drop in on existing frames.

Also, the PDP uses some parts and components from other Walther pistols. Walther has a full list of which parts are common across PDP models as well as compatible with some PPQ pistols.

All are fairly lightweight, around 25 ounces unloaded with a magazine, and thin, at just 1.3 inches wide at the controls. Every PDP pistol will ship with two magazines and all have the same suggested retail price of $649, which is competitive with other premium service pistols.

For more information about the new PDP series and the rest of the Walther catalog, check out the company website.

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