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Quick Look

The Walther P5, introduced in the late 1970s, was developed as a modern service pistol to replace earlier designs. It features a compact, steel frame with optimized ergonomics and safety. Though no longer in production, it remains respected among collectors and enthusiasts.

Why It's a Top Choice

Durable all-steel construction for longevity
Simplified double-action trigger mechanism
Ambidextrous safety/decocker lever
Reliable feeding with single-stack 8-round magazine
Balanced weight aids recoil management

Key Variants

Walther P5 Compact

A smaller frame favored for concealed carry and officers requiring lighter sidearms.

Walther P5 Standard

Full-size model designed primarily for police and military use in West Germany.

Competitor Comparison Table

Feature	Walther P5	Sig Sauer P220	Glock 17
MSRP	Discontinued	$1,149	$599
Capacity/Size	8 rounds / 4.3 in barrel	8–10 rounds / 4.4 in barrel	17 rounds / 4.49 in barrel
Weight	31 oz	34 oz	22 oz
Optics-ready	No	Some models	Yes
Trigger Type	Double-action/Single-action	Double-action/Single-action	Striker-fired
Notable Pro	Steel frame durability	Proven military service	Lightweight, high capacity
Notable Con	Limited aftermarket support	Heavier weight	Less tactile trigger reset

Best Use Cases

Law enforcement sidearm during its service era
Collectors seeking classic late-20th-century pistols
Range shooting with steel-frame pistols
Self-defense for users preferring double-action triggers

FAQs

Can I use modern 9mm ammo in the Walther P5?

Yes, the Walther P5 is chambered in 9x19mm Parabellum, compatible with standard modern 9mm rounds.

What safety features does the Walther P5 have?

It includes an ambidextrous safety-decocker lever that safely lowers the hammer and blocks the firing mechanism.

How does the Walther P5 compare in weight to modern pistols?

At about 31 ounces with steel construction, it is heavier than many polymer-framed modern pistols.

WALTHER P5 for Sale