NRA Gun of the Week: Walther PPQ 45 Pistol

by
posted on January 21, 2017
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **

In 2016 Walther Arms finally delivered the .45 it promised more than 75 years ago. Manufactured in Ulm, Germany, the  PPQ (Police Pistol Quick Defense Trigger) series fills a lifelong gap in the Walther lineup. This polymer-framed gun is full-size, with its double-stack magazine holding 12 rounds, without expanding a grip frame to uncomfortable proportions. Molded-in contours aid purchase to the frame without being overly aggressive. Aesthetically and functionally, the PPQ 45 is consistent with the PPQ line. American Rifleman editors liked it so much they awarded it the 2017 American Rifleman Golden Bullseye for Handgun of the Year. It is a versatile and adaptable platform that Walther followers should readily approve of. Learn more in this NRA Gun of the Week video hosted by American Rifleman's Kelly Young. 

Specifications:
Importer: Walther Arms, Inc.
Manufacturer: Walther, Ulm Germany
Model: PPQ 45
Action Type: recoil-operated, semi-automatic center-fire pistol
Chambering: .45 ACP
Frame: polymer
Slide: Tenifer-finished steel
Barrel: 4.24”; 1:16 RH twist
Sights: white, three-dot; fixed front, drift-adjustable rear
Magazine: 12-round detachable box
Trigger: striker-fired, double-action-only; 5-lb., 9-oz. pull
Weight: 28 ozs.
MSRP: $699

Additional Reading:

A Big First for Walther: The PPQ 45 Pistol
Video: Walther PPQ 45 Pistol

 

 

Latest

Christensen Rifles factory floor
Christensen Rifles factory floor

Building Christensen Rifles: A Hands-On View

A cutting-edge enterprise takes on the lightweight-hunting-rifle market with models that defy expectations—all without flinching.

New For 2026: 25 WBY RPM

The 25 WBY RPM is the 17th proprietary cartridge developed by Weatherby, a company whose name is synonymous with magnum cartridges and bullet speed.

The Armed Citizen® Jan. 12, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Firearm Industry Philanthropic Efforts Endure, Despite Lagging Gun Sales

Gun sales in 2025 may not eclipse records, but the firearm industry’s generosity continues to abound, even within challenging economic circumstances.

Product : Ten21 Tactical “The Junk Drawer” Tripod Hammock

Precision shooters using tripods to support their rifles can keep miscellaneous gear organized and within reach by attaching The Junk Drawer by Ten21 Tactical to the tripod’s legs.

Review: SAR USA SAR9 SOCOM Compact

The SAR9 SOCOM Compact from SAR USA packs popular tactical features into a compact package.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.