New For 2022: Walther Arms WMP

In an effort to provide a reliable, capable semi-automatic handgun chambered in .22 WMR, Walther Arms spent years perfecting its Walther Magnum Pistol (WMP). At the 2022 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits, firearm enthusiasts finally got a chance to see the new offering, which marks Walther's first-ever .22 WMR-chambered semi-automatic handgun.

"The WMP puts Walther in a whole new category," said Jens Krogh, Walther vice president of marketing and product development. "This pistol is a completely new platform and is a game-changer for us and our customers. We have worked tirelessly to create the most reliable and ergonomically correct .22 Mag. pistol ever made, and it turned out perfect."

Each Walther WMP ships with two 15-round magazines, and each magazine comes with a thumb tab that allows users to relieve spring pressure when loading magazines. The guns are also outfitted with milled slides, and two optics adapter plates ship with each gun, giving owners the opportunity to install their preferred micro red-dot (MRD). One of the other standout features on the WMP is the inclusion of Walther's new Quad 4U magazine-release mechanism, which provides a paddle-style and push-button magazine release on each side of the pistol's frame.

Should users choose to not mount an optic, the gun is equipped with a contoured cover plate, as well as a capable set of open sights. A fiber-optic front sight is paired with a serrated rear sight, and Walther includes two rear sights of differing heights to allow users to change the point of impact. Another critical feature on the new Walther WMP is the addition of a fluted chamber, which increases reliability and compatibility with a range of ammunition types. The gun is also outfitted with a double-action trigger and a bladed trigger safety. Each pistol is also equipped with mirrored slide-stop levers, as well as a Picatinny accessory rail on the dust cover of the frame.

In addition to the 15-round standard model, a 10-round variant is available for consumers living in capacity-restricted states. The 7075-aluminum slide measures 8.2" long and contains a 4.5" barrel. Overall height measures in at 5.66", and the gun weighs 27.8 ozs. with an unloaded magazine. The suggested retail price on the Walther WMP is $549. For more information, visit waltherarms.com.