A Carry Gun that is Spy Worthy: The Walther PD380

In large part due to popular media, especially film, firearm manufacturers are synonymous with certain models of guns they manufacture. Examples include Magnum Research with the Desert Eagle or Colt with the 1911. But the most prominent example may be Walther Arms and the PPK/S. The small, 380ACP chambered, hammer-fired pistol is the gun of choice for the very suave and uncompromising James Bond. While many are drawn to the firearm because of the exposure given to it by the Bond franchise, it is not the easiest to carry or even operate. The gun is heavy for its size, and the double-action trigger pull, to put it nicely, is heavy. But James Bond used it and gave it global fame. Because of this, Walther Arms has generated a cult following.

Modernizing Carry

Walther, in recent memory, has consistently been putting out quality products. Walther has been reading the market well, whether it be the PPQ or PDP series of handguns or the remake of the classic PPK and PPK/S. However, they haven’t modernized within the concealed carry market. Traditionally, Walther’s primary options for carry had been the PPS and PK380—both of which are outdated by current trends. While many may buy a PPK or PPK/S for “carry,” I’d be surprised if many do, especially with all of today’s options. But as of this writing, Walther has changed that and introduced to the market an updated version of its longstanding PK380—the PD380.

At first glance, the PD380 looks like a smaller sibling of the PDP with its shared grip stippling, but while those guns are striker-fired, the PD380 is hammer-fired. As the name states, the gun is chambered in 380ACP and seems like a similar entry as the Shield EZ from Smith & Wesson. This “should” be an easy-to-operate pistol perfect for newer shooters or those with dexterity issues in their hands. Now for the rundown on specs:

• Industry-standard sights, also known as Glock sights. That’s a plus, aftermarkets will be easy to find.
• Enhanced grip texture.
• SuperTerrain slide serrations. These serrations protrude on the slide for a more positive hand engagement during manipulation.
• Paddle magazine release. This is something that is uniquely German. It’s beneficial for those who have smaller hands, so you don’t have to break your grip to release it. For others, it is something to get used to.
• 380 ACP caliber. This is fine, the 380 is the best of the small caliber options available (maybe if 30 Super Carry ever catches on it could challenge 380), and while I’d prefer a 9mm, the 380 is a good choice for inexperienced shooters and those with grip limitations.
• 9+1 capacity. It’s an additional round over the previous model. It’s better, but it still lacks compared to other options.
• Slide mounted safety. The safety is ambidextrous and easy to get to. If you want a gun with a safety, those two items are a must.

Final Thoughts

The Walther PD380 will sell well because of its following as a brand. It will also trend well for those wanting an easier gun to operate that is easy recoiling. Right now, Smith & Wesson has that corner of the market with Sig’s P365 in 380 making some inroads. But competition always breeds a better product, and more options are better. MSRP is $449 but I’d expect street pricing to be $400 or less.