The eternal recurrence of the same is a central notion not just in Nietzsche’s philosophy, but in the gun world as well: after a long hiatus – during which time they were available in .380 ACP and .22 LR only – Walther is re-introducing the iconic PPK and PPK/S pistols in .32 ACP chambering and in both stainless and a black QPQ (Quench Polish Quench) nitride finish versions.
Walther PPK and PPK/S, timeless classics
“A timeless classic reborn for modern enthusiasts steeped in history and nostalgia,” as the manufacturer claims. It all started in 1929, when the progenitor Polizeipistole (police pistol), or PP for short, was launched in Germany for police use.
From the PP, a more compact version with smaller barrel and frame was soon derived: named Polizeipistole Kriminal, or PPK, and originally chambered in .32 ACP (known as 7.65x17mm in the Old World), it offered undercover officers a more-practical and reliable option than cumbersome full-size service sidearms or feeble “pocket pistols”.
It was the birth of the idea of the concealed carry gun, and the new blowback-operated semi-automatic pistol was immediately successful. It featured a double-action/single-action trigger that decocks when rotating the safety down into the safe position, a system first introduced by Walther. The PPK was subsequently also offered in .380 ACP, while for the U.S. market the PPK/S model was also developed, featuring the “sport” frame which is approximately one-quarter inch – that is, around 6 mm – longer than the standard PPK frame.
And here we are, with Walther's homage to the legendary PPK lineage. All the classic design elements are there, including fully-machined components (as opposed to metal injection molding) and checkered grips, with those of the PPK wrapping around the rear of the grip while the PPK/s features two independent side panels separated by the frame’s integral steel backstrap. Barrel length is 3.3”/84 mm for both the PPK and PPK/S, but thanks to the higher frame the PPK/S has a capacity of 8 cartridges in .32 ACP instead of 7 (PPK).
If you are spoilt for choice between the PPK or PPK/S, and the stainless or black versions, comparing prices won't help you, since they are all priced the same at $969.00 (MSRP in the U.S.).
