What is the best Walther for concealed carry?

Written by Mark Buff , GunZee founder and CEO.

Walther delivers high-quality handguns tailored for everyday concealed carry needs. The right concealed carry weapon is easy to handle and powerful enough for self-defense, yet easy to hide.

The ideal Walther for discreet carry balances a slim profile with power, precision, capacity, and control for reliable protection when you need it most.

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Let’s go through some of the best concealed carry Walthers in different calibers so you can find the right fit for your needs!

Regardless of what you end up choosing, get GunZee's high-quality holster padding and carry your CCW pistol with comfort and confidence.

Walther PPQ

Walter PPQ. Image source: https://waltherarms.com/firearms/ppq

Features	Details
Caliber	9mm
Capacity	15+1
Barrel length	4.0”
Overall length	7.1”
Width	1.3”
Weight (unloaded)	24.5 oz

The Walther PPQ 9mm blends a slim, ergonomic profile with accuracy-focused traits to balance concealability with reliable performance.

The frame features textured gripping surfaces and three swappable backstraps for comfort and control during firing. A smooth 5.5-pound trigger pull aids precision shot placement, complemented by standard polymer three-dot sights. This striker-fired pistol operates via a locked-breech Browning-style barrel tilt system for misfire safety.

Ambidextrous slide releases, reversible magazine releases, front cocking serrations, and 15+1 double stack magazines round out the PPQ package. Shooters can also opt for optics-ready versions without iron sights.

Practical handling paired with accuracy-enhancing details establishes the Walther PPQ in 9mm as an adaptable semi-automatic gun good for concealed carry, home security, sporting, and service roles.

Walther PDP

Walter PDP. Image source: https://waltherarms.com/firearms/pdp

Features	Details
Caliber	9mm
Capacity	18+1
Barrel length	4.5”
Overall length	8.5”
Width	1.34”
Weight (unloaded)	22.3 oz

The Walther PDP is a full-sized pistol that features an optics-ready slide with enlarged serrations for easy manipulation under stress. The barrel and chamber design enables reliable function with +P ammunition.

Ergonomics are enhanced with interchangeable backstraps and grip panels allowing customization to suit user preference. The frame accommodates red dot sights while retaining steel 3-dot iron sights for co-witness capability.

A Performance Duty Trigger delivers a light, crisp pull for accuracy. Stippling on the grip plus an undercut trigger guard promotes a solid grasp and good control.

The Walther PDP balances ruggedness, customization, and precision with its stainless steel barrel, stepped chamber, tactile gripping surfaces, optics integration, and improved trigger.

The full-size frame and optics-ready slide of the Walther PDP make it a good defensive option for experienced shooters who are looking for customizability and an accurate pistol.

This Walther fan loves his PDP because of its ambidextrous controls.

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Walther PPS M2

Features	Details
Caliber	9mm
Capacity	6+1
Barrel length	3.2”
Overall length	6.3”
Width	1.0”
Weight (unloaded)	19.4 oz

The Walther PPS M2 represents the continued evolution of the revolutionary single-stack concealed carry pistol. With a width of just 1”, this refined design maintains the thin profile that transformed the industry when Walther first introduced polymer concealed carry.

Despite its slim dimensions, the grip frame provides ample surface area for a secure hold and improved recoil control. An undercut trigger guard promotes a higher hand position for better handling. The minimalist profile still delivers reliable accuracy thanks to Walther's renowned barrel manufacturing and a rigid internal steel chassis optimizing slide-to-frame fit.

Though often imitated, the accuracy, concealability, and shootability of Walther's PPS series remain unmatched. The M2 version refines these attributes further with an improved trigger pull for precision shot placement.

The slim, ergonomic grip of the Walther PPS M2 makes it a good option for new shooters seeking an accurate and controllable self-defense pistol.

Walther PPK

Features	Details
Caliber	.380 ACP
Capacity	6+1
Barrel length	3.3”
Overall length	6.1”
Width	1”
Weight (unloaded)	19 oz

The Walther PPK pistol combines a compact, concealable profile with reliable performance. Chambered in .380 ACP, it provides adequate stopping power for self-defense without sacrificing concealability.

This semi-automatic, blowback-operated pistol utilizes a double-action/single-action trigger mechanism. The trigger decocks when rotating the safety lever down into the safe position, a novel feature when Walther first introduced the PPK.

Despite its small size, the all-steel construction provides durability and aids controllability while firing. The fixed barrel contributes to consistent accuracy while standard iron sights align quickly for rapid targeting.

The slim grip frame conceals well under light clothing and offers a solid shooting grip. Single-stack magazines allow for a thinner profile compared to many double-stack options. After over 80 years, the PPK remains one of the most popular choices for concealed carry.

The Walther PPK's slim, compact frame makes it a good concealed carry option for female shooters seeking a lightweight, easy-to-handle CCW.

Walther PK380

Features	Details
Caliber	.380 ACP
Capacity	8+1
Barrel length	3.66”
Overall length	6.5”
Width	1.2”
Weight (unloaded)	22.4 oz

The Walther PK380 features a slim polymer frame with steel slide and barrel for reduced weight and improved control. The ambidextrous safety and magazine release promote ease of operation for both left and right-handed shooters.

Though compact, the grip design enables a solid shooting hold with 8+1 round capacity single-stack magazines. The Browning tilt-barrel locked breech operation delivers reliable functioning, while dovetail sight cuts accommodate aftermarket sights.

While retaining Walther's signature ergonomics and styling, the PK380 balances lightweight carry convenience with trusted operational reliability. Its combination of useful traits makes the PK380 well-suited for those with smaller hands seeking an easily concealable and controllable self-defense pistol.

Both this redditor and his wife love the PK380.

review

Walther PPQ M2

Features	Details
Caliber	9mm
Capacity	15+1
Barrel length	4”
Overall length	7.1”
Width	1.3”
Weight (unloaded)	24.5 oz

The Walther PPQ M2 is a full-size semi-automatic pistol designed for self-defense and recreational shooting. It utilizes a striker-fired mechanism with a light, smooth trigger pull to aid shooting precision.

The polymer frame features stippling and interchangeable backstraps to customize grip fit. The ambidextrous slide stop and reversible magazine release allow operation by both right and left-handed users.

A Browning-style tilting barrel lockup enables reliable cycling. The 4” barrel provides adequate sight radius for accuracy, and steel three-dot sights align quickly on target. Some models come optic-ready from the factory. This model also features factory-installed XS Tritium Night Sights for clear, rapid target acquisition.

With its full-size frame and enhanced accuracy, the PPQ M2 is well-suited as a home defense pistol for experienced shooters. It is the heaviest pistol on our list, which is an important consideration for those prioritizing lightweight concealability.

How to choose the right Walther for concealed carry?

Walther offers several excellent concealed carry guns, so choosing the right one for your needs and preferences can get overwhelming. To find your best match, consider the following factors:

Body type. Larger pistols can be harder to conceal on petite or slender frames. Full-size grips may print significantly through clothing. But tiny pistols sacrifice controllability and ammo capacity.
Hand size. A compact pistol grip that fits snugly in a smaller hand may feel cramped and awkward for someone with thicker fingers or larger palms. Conversely, generously sized grips can feel loose and unwieldy in smaller hands.
Hand strength. Polymer frames help reduce fatigue compared to all-steel builds since they weigh less. This allows you to carry it comfortably for longer, but it is important to note that recoil may be sharper. Those with weaker hand strength may prefer calibers with softer recoil like 9mm over .40 S&W or .45 ACP.
Carry position. Guns carried in an appendix holster require a shorter barrel and grip to avoid discomfort and printing issues when sitting. Positioning a handgun at 4-5 o'clock on the hip can conceal full-size models well, especially for larger people with bigger backs.
Priorities. Increased ammunition capacity requires larger magazines, but guns with high round counts tend to be less concealable. If power is important alongside concealability, larger calibers like .45 ACP offer enhanced stopping power but come with more punishing recoil than smaller rounds.
Accessories. While lights, lasers, and red dot sights can enhance a pistol's capabilities, they also add bulk that hinders concealed carry. Only add accessories that align with your intended use and balance their utility against concealability needs.
Handedness. Left-handed shooters will benefit most from ambidextrous magazine and slide releases. Though not necessary, they do provide more flexibility.

Walther CCW FAQ

Is Walther CCP good for concealed carry?

The Walther CCP's slim, lightweight polymer frame and smooth contours make it an excellent choice for concealed carry. Its 9mm chambering provides adequate stopping power while the soft recoil system helps mitigate felt recoil for accurate follow-up shots. The CCP balances concealability, control, and self-defense performance.

What Walther pistol did James Bond use?

James Bond famously carried the Walther PPK 7.65 mm pistol in the Ian Fleming novels and early Bond films. Its compact size made it well-suited for undercover work and concealed carry assignments. The PPK defined the concealed carry pistol category and remains an iconic Bond gadget.

What did replace the Walther PPQ?

The Walther PDP was introduced in 2020 as the next evolution of the PPQ platform. It retains the PPQ's ergonomics and triggers while adding new features like optics integration, enhanced grip texture, and a Picatinny rail. The PDP aims to blend the PPQ's strengths with modern defensive handgun traits.

What is the difference between Walther Creed and PPQ?

The Walther Creed is a budget-friendly, entry-level model with a polymer frame and basic feature set. The PPQ is a premium-tier pistol with higher-quality construction including a steel chassis, better trigger, and more accessory options. The Creed prioritizes affordability while the PPQ focuses on performance and handling.

Is Walther PDP as reliable as Glock 17?

With rigorous testing and its steel internal chassis, the Walther PDP equals or potentially exceeds the reliability of the Glock 17. Both utilize proven locked breech short recoil operation. The PDP adds features like a superior trigger and ergonomics but matches the Glock's reputation for dependable functioning.

What is the most accurate Walther?

The Walther Q5 Match SF is designed for competitive and precision shooting. Its 5” barrel, fiber optic front sight, adjustable target rear sight, and tuned action produce match-grade accuracy. The PPQ platform also delivers excellent accuracy with its crisp trigger and barrels manufactured to strict tolerances.

What is the most famous Walther pistol?

The PPK is arguably Walther's most iconic model. As James Bond's signature pistol, it defined and popularized the concept of concealed carry handguns. Its revolutionary design and role in pop culture cemented the PPK as one of the most famous and influential Walther pistols.

What kind of grip surface does the Walther PPQ have?

The PPQ features a sturdy polymer frame with a molded front strap and backstrap grip texturing. This grip includes three interchangeable backstraps so users can customize the feel and frame fit for their hand size. These modern enhancements promote a confident grasp and good weapon control.

Does the PPQ slide have enhanced serrations?

The Walther PPQ utilizes enlarged serrations at both the front and rear of the slide. Having these accessible slide serrations at both ends ensures easy slide manipulation and positive functioning when rapidly cycling the action, especially under stressful defensive scenarios.

Does the PPQ have ambidextrous slide release levers?

The PPQ is equipped with ambidextrous slide locks, meaning the slide release levers are mirrored on both sides of the frame. This ambi control scheme allows left or right-handed shooters to easily lock the slide back and reload.

What type of magazine release comes standard on the Walther PDP?

The Walther PDP comes equipped with an extended paddle magazine release, providing both comfort and easy access when reloading. This differs from the small button release commonly found on many polymer service pistols. The placement enables rapid magazine ejection using your thumb or trigger finger without substantially changing your hold on the grip. This paddle release gives a natural and efficient means to reload the PDP quickly, as needed in any law enforcement or self-defense situation.

About the Author

Mark Buff is the founder and CEO of GunZee. He is an ardent firearms enthusiast and has been carrying concealed for more than 15 years. He created GunZee to solve his own problem: that of uncomfortable KYDEX holsters. His patented GunZee memory foam holster pad makes inside-the-waistband carry super comfortable.