While Walther Arms (also known as Carl Walther) has been around for decades and built guns during the rule of the Third Reich, the company has become synonymous with suave spies looking to up their aesthetic. The PPK/S is the quintessential spy gun thanks to Hollywood and Ian Fleming. Since then, Walther has generated a cult following. The PPK/S is a fine weapon, but it has its drawbacks, especially in today’s concealed carry market. The gun is heavy, the trigger pull is long and heavy, and the recoil spring, especially for new shooters, is heavy (see a trend). Fortunately, Walther builds other quality firearms so you can keep your PPK/S for more clandestine missions that require tailored suits.

Modernizing Carry

Walther, in recent memory, has consistently been putting out quality products. The company has read the market well, whether it be the introduction of the PPQ or PDP series of handguns or the remake of the classic PPK and PPK/S. However, they haven’t modernized within the concealed carry market. Traditionally, Walther’s primary options for carry had been the PPS and PK380—both of which are outdated by current trends. However, as of this writing, Walther has changed that and introduced to the market an updated version of its longstanding PK380—the PD380.

At first glance, the PD380 looks like a smaller sibling of the PDP with its shared grip stippling, but while those guns are striker-fired, the PD380 is hammer-fired. As the name states, the gun is chambered in 380ACP and seems like a similar entry as the Shield EZ from Smith & Wesson. This “should” be an easy-to-operate pistol perfect for newer shooters or those with dexterity issues in their hands. Now for the rundown on specs:

• Industry-standard sights, also known as Glock sights. That’s a plus, aftermarkets will be easy to find.
• Enhanced grip texture.
• SuperTerrain slide serrations. These serrations protrude on the slide for a more positive hand engagement during manipulation.
• Paddle magazine release. This is something that is uniquely German. It’s beneficial for those who have smaller hands, so you don’t have to break your grip to release it. For others, it is something to get used to.
• 380 ACP caliber. This is fine, the 380 is the best of the small caliber options available (maybe if 30 Super Carry ever catches on it could challenge 380), and while I’d prefer a 9mm, the 380 is a good choice for inexperienced shooters and those with grip limitations.
• 9+1 capacity. It’s an additional round over the previous model. It’s better, but it still lacks compared to other options.
• Slide mounted safety. The safety is ambidextrous and easy to get to. If you want a gun with a safety, those two items are a must.

Final Thoughts

I am largely confident in Walther due to their recent track record. Hopefully, they did enough with an updated design to create intrigue. This gun will be in direct competition with the Shield EZ. Competition is always a good thing and forces companies to innovate. Time will tell how the consumer base will respond to the new gun. MSRP is $449 but I’d expect street pricing to be $400 or less. Now go get a tailored suit and remember to take your martini shaken, not stirred.