Walther PDP Match Steel Frame - An Evolution or Revolution?

Being a long time Walther fan, I purchased my first competition gun to get into this amazing sport which was the Walther Q5 Match Steel Frame. After spending over 45,000 Rounds on one… I made some different decisions for main competition pistols going forward (MPA DS9 & CZ Shadow 2). Then Walther introduced the PDP line and being spoiled by the Q5 SF, it fell short of my expectations… then they came out with the PDP Match Steel Frame.

In the videos below, I have a first shots video in which I take a deep dive to dissect whats special about the PDP Steel Frame vs its predecessor, the Q5 SF. The next video is a 1000 Round Review in which I discuss any findings I have with reliability and overall shooting experience. Finally, I layout some recommendations of how you can improve your PDP Steel frame whether through parts or a couple of tips!

Recommendations - Updated as of 2.12.24

*** These recommendations can and will void factory warranties. Any modifications done to your firearm, equipment, or any other related items are your responsibility and you should seek a professional Gunsmith’s direction on such items before you install and/or perform any modifications.

Polishing - polishing a couple of parts will help smooth out some of the grit you get from break in.

  • Trigger Bar - polish the top side of the Trigger bar that contacts the firing block

  • Firing Block/Plunger - Polish the whole thing including the sides that ride in the channel

  • Feed Ramp - Simple enough!

Springs

  • Recoil and Striker Springs - I actually recommend not touching these and running factory for reliability. You can run aftermarket recoil springs such as the DPM System, the downside for me is I could feel the gun come out of battery when I would run. As I’ve done additional research, ZR Tactical Solutions offers and uncaptured guide rod and some shooters are running a 15lb Spring.

Magazines

Gun ReviewsPaul BoltonWalther, Walther PDP, PDP Steel Frame, PDP Match