Favorite Firearms: A Walther PPK/S Honeymoon

by
posted on September 23, 2020
** 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. **
ppkff.jpg

On our honeymoon in 1980, my husband taught me how to shoot. He brought several firearms to learn with, but my favorite was the Walther PPK/S. It fit my hand, I could hit my target shooting either left- or right-handed, and it was lightweight enough for me to hold steady. Little did I know that six years later this firearm would be used to protect myself, my mother and two of my children.

On a bright, sunny Wednesday at about 10 a.m., we were exiting Wilson’s Shoe Store when a man, walking toward us, asked if Mr. Wilson was in the store. We didn’t think anything about it, and answered that we didn’t know; he’d have to go in and ask. He followed my mother around the car commenting on my daughter’s beautiful red hair. As my mother was leaning over to put the nine-month-old baby into her car seat, the man attacked her.

I spun around to assist but realized that wasn’t going to work. I turned around again and took my Walther PPK/S out of the glove box. Standing up out of the car, I ordered the man to stop and ordered his accomplice in the car parked behind my car to leave. They decided to leave and leave quickly—the man who was attacking my mother had to jump through the window of the moving vehicle.

From that day forward, my Walther PPK/S has always been by my side. I hope I never have to defend myself again, but I will if necessary. That is why my Walther PPK/S is my favorite firearm!

Windy Brinkman, Florida

Latest

Gotw Savage Axis 2 Pro 1
Gotw Savage Axis 2 Pro 1

Gun of the Week: Savage Arms Axis 2 Pro Western

Savage Arms has a whole new line of Axis rifles to suit the needs of a new generation of hunters and shooters, all loaded with premium features, and we took a closer look at the company's Axis 2 Pro Western.

Bookshelf: Rifle Cartridges for the Hunter

Richard Mann's latest book offers all the color of hunting stories with plenty of practical information, to boot.

The Armed Citizen® March 27, 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.

Statements to Members Regarding Indemnification

A statement to members regarding indemnification insurance for directors and officers of the National Rifle Association of America.

Review: Colt Enhanced Patrol Rifle II Pro

For many AR-15 enthusiasts, the Colt 6920 remains the benchmark for a solidly built rifle. The company's new Enhanced Patrol Rifle II Pro builds on that legacy with a number of welcome updates.

Winchester Ammunition: More Than Just Ammo

Winchester Ammunition has proven its commitment to the community through several initiatives that show the company is dedicated to making more than just ammunition.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.