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Walther P99

Carl · Pistol

Walther P99

Short recoil (semi-automatic) · 9x19mm Parabellum · introduced 1997

Also known as P99 AS, P99 QA, P99 DAO

About the Walther P99

The Walther P99 is a semi-automatic pistol chambered in 9x19mm Parabellum, produced by Carl Walther GmbH since 1997. This German-manufactured firearm reflects the engineering traditions and quality standards of its country of origin, designed to meet the demands of both civilian and professional users in a competitive global marketplace. Featuring a 15-round magazine capacity, this pistol offers generous firepower for duty use and home defense. The striker-fired action provides a consistent trigger pull for every shot, simplifying training and reducing the manual of arms - a design philosophy that has become the dominant paradigm in modern defensive handguns. The 4.0-inch barrel provides an excellent balance between sight radius and portability, making it equally suitable for duty carry and recreational shooting. Weighing 680g (24.0 oz) empty, this firearm strikes a practical balance between manageable carry weight and sufficient mass to moderate felt recoil during shooting. The polymer frame construction reduces weight while providing a textured, ergonomic grip surface designed for secure handling in all conditions. This firearm represents its manufacturer's commitment to delivering a well-engineered, reliable product that serves the needs of discerning shooters seeking quality, accuracy, and dependable performance from a proven platform.

The P99 became the fictional sidearm of James Bond starting with 'Tomorrow Never Dies' (1997), replacing the iconic Walther PPK. It was one of the first striker-fired pistols to incorporate a decocker mechanism, bridging the gap between traditional DA/SA hammer-fired designs and modern striker-fired pistols. The P99 AS 'Final Edition' was announced in 2024, marking the end of an era as Walther transitions to the PDP platform.

Walther P99 specifications

General

Type
Pistol
Action
Short recoil (semi-automatic)
Firing mechanism
Striker-fired
Trigger
Double action
Trigger pull
4.1 kg (9.0 lb)
Calibres
9x19mm Parabellum, .40 S&W
Magazine capacity
15 rounds
Magazine
Detachable box magazine

Dimensions

Barrel length
102 mm (4.0 in)
Overall length
180 mm (7.1 in)
Height
135 mm (5.3 in)
Width
32 mm (1.3 in)
Weight (empty)
0.68 kg (1.50 lb)
Weight (loaded)
0.88 kg (1.94 lb)
Sight radius
155 mm (6.1 in)

Barrel

Rifling twist
1:10 in (250 mm)
Rifling
Right hand
Grooves
6

Materials

Barrel
Steel
Receiver / frame
Polymer
Slide
Steel
Finish
Tenifer

Performance

Muzzle velocity (typical)
408 m/s (1339 fps)
Muzzle energy (typical)
519 J (383 ft·lb)
Effective range
60 m

History

Introduced
1997
Production status
In production
Country of origin
DE
Designer
Horst Wesp

Available calibres

9x19mm Parabellum.40 S&W

Features

  • Interchangeable backstraps
  • Ambidextrous mag release
  • Accessory rail
  • Adjustable rear sight
  • Decocker button
  • 3 dot sights

Safety

  • Striker decocker
  • Firing pin safety
  • Drop safety
  • Loaded chamber indicator

The P99 was one of the first striker-fired pistols to incorporate a decocker mechanism and DA/SA-like trigger. It was produced under license in Poland by Fabryka Broni Radom as the P99 RAD. Smith & Wesson also produced a licensed variant called the SW99. The P99 AS Final Edition was announced in 2024, marking the eventual end of production as Walther transitions to the PDP platform. Standard magazine capacity is 15 rounds in 9mm and 12 rounds in .40 S&W.

Walther P99 variants

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