Walther PPQ M1 Classic 40S Authenticity and Experience
As a firearms enthusiast, I was thrilled to get my hands on the Walther PPQ M1. With its rich history and reputation for excellence, I had high expectations. In this review, I’ll share my experience with this iconic pistol, highlighting its pros and cons, and discuss whether it lives up to its legend.
First Impressions
When I unboxed the PPQ M1, I was struck by its sleek design and attention to detail. The gun’s lines are unmistakable, with a classic silhouette that exudes elegance. The matte black finish and subtle texturing on the grip provide a secure hold, making it easy to grasp and manipulation.
Ergonomics and Handling
Handling the PPQ M1 was a joy. The familiar contoured grip, with its subtle checkering and rounded edges, felt natural in my hand. The slight palm shelf and subtle index finger cutout allowed me to get a secure grip, even with my smaller hands. The trigger guard, though slightly larger than some modern offerings, did not compromise my shooting stance or ability to quickly acquire the trigger.
Trigger and Accuracy
The trigger is where the PPQ M1 truly shines. With a crisp, slightly gritty take-up and a smooth, consistent break, it effortlessly transitions from a 4.5-pound trigger pull to a light, 1.5-pound reset. The result is a shooting experience that’s both enjoyable and accurate. While I wouldn’t call it a "match-grade" trigger, it’s more than adequate for self-defense or competition shooting.
Magazine and Reliability
The 12-round magazine, a unique feature among modern polymer-framed pistols, is a testament to Walther’s commitment to innovation. It expels empties quickly and reliably, making reloads/reloads easier. The magazine’s design also helps to reduce the infamous "double-stack" curl, allowing for a more comfortable grip.
Reliability and Durability
In my experience, the PPQ M1 proved to be remarkably reliable, with over 500 rounds fired without a single malfunction (including 9mm, 40S-W, and .45 ACP). Occasionally, it might require some extra persuasion with the slide, but this is a trait shared with many double-action/single-action (DA/SA) pistols.
Cons
• Weight: At 34.5 oz (977g), the PPQ M1 is slightly heavier than some other full-size pistols on the market.
• Ergonomics (for larger/larger-handed users): While the grip is adjustable, it might be too compact for some, leading to compromised shooting comfort.
• Magazine capacity (12 rounds): While the 12-round magazine is innovative, some users might find it restrictive compared to more capacity-oriented designs.
Final Thoughts and Verdict
The Walther PPQ M1 is an authentic, high-quality pistol that delivers on its promise. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a DA/SA pistol with a rich heritage. While it may not be perfect, its pros far outweigh its minor cons. If you’re looking for a reliable, accurate, and pleasant shooting experience, the PPQ M1 Classic 40S is well worth considering.
Conclusion: 4.8/5 stars
Recommendation: If you’re seeking a more substantial pistol, consider pairing the PPQ M1 with a suitable optic, such as the Trijicon HD Series or Vortex Optics’ SPARC Solar. For a more compact option, consider the Walther PPQ M2 4-5" or PPQ SC 4" 9mm.
