Introduction
Overview of the Walther PPS M2
The Walther PPS M2 is a compact, single-stack, semi-automatic pistol designed for concealed carry. It is the successor to the original Walther PPS (Police Pistol Slim), and it brings several enhancements that make it a strong contender in the concealed carry market.
With its slim profile and lightweight design, the PPS M2 is tailored for individuals who need a reliable and easily concealable firearm for everyday carry. The pistol is chambered in 9mm, which is a popular caliber for self-defense due to its balance of power and manageable recoil.
I aim to cover various aspects of the pistol, including its design, build quality, performance, shooting experience, and features.
Whether you’re a seasoned gun owner or someone considering their first concealed carry firearm, this review will offer insights into whether the PPS M2 is the right choice for your needs.
By the end of this article, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of what the Walther PPS M2 offers and how it stacks up against its competitors.
Design and Build Quality
Exterior Design
The Walther PPS M2 boasts a sleek and modern exterior design that immediately catches the eye. Its streamlined profile is designed with concealment in mind, reducing the likelihood of printing when carried under clothing.
The pistol has a snag-free design, which means there are no sharp edges or protruding parts that could catch on clothing or holsters. This feature is particularly important for those who carry concealed on a daily basis.
The PPS M2 also features front and rear slide serrations, providing a secure grip for slide manipulation, whether you’re chambering a round or performing a press check.
Ergonomics
Ergonomics play a crucial role in the usability of a firearm, and the PPS M2 excels in this department. Walther has a reputation for designing pistols that feel natural in the hand, and the PPS M2 is no exception. The grip is textured and contoured to fit comfortably in a variety of hand sizes.
Despite its slim profile, the grip is designed to provide enough surface area to ensure a secure hold, which is essential for controlling the pistol during rapid fire.
The PPS M2 also features interchangeable backstraps, allowing users to customize the grip to their hand size for optimal comfort and control.
Materials Used
High-quality materials are used throughout the construction of the PPS M2. The slide is made from stainless steel, which is known for its durability and resistance to corrosion. The frame is constructed from polymer, which keeps the weight of the pistol down while maintaining structural integrity.
This combination of materials ensures that the PPS M2 can withstand the rigors of daily carry and regular use at the range. The polymer frame also helps absorb some of the recoil, making the pistol more comfortable to shoot over extended periods.
Build Quality and Durability
Build quality is where the Walther PPS M2 truly shines. The pistol is manufactured with tight tolerances and meticulous attention to detail. When you handle the PPS M2, you can feel the solid construction and quality craftsmanship.
The slide operates smoothly, and there are no rattles or loose parts. This level of build quality translates into a durable firearm that can stand up to the demands of everyday carry and frequent range sessions. The PPS M2 is also designed to be low-maintenance, with a simple takedown process that makes cleaning and maintenance straightforward.
Performance
Accuracy
Accuracy is one of the most important aspects of any firearm, and the PPS M2 does not disappoint. The pistol features a 3.18-inch barrel, which provides a good balance between concealability and accuracy.
The sights are well-designed, with a three-dot configuration that makes target acquisition quick and intuitive. In my experience, the PPS M2 is capable of impressive accuracy for a compact pistol.
Whether shooting at close range or stretching out to longer distances, the PPS M2 delivers consistent and precise shots. The crisp trigger pull also contributes to its accuracy, allowing for controlled and steady aim.
Recoil Management
Recoil management is another area where the PPS M2 excels. Despite its small size, the pistol handles recoil remarkably well. The design of the grip and the overall balance of the pistol help mitigate the felt recoil, making it easier to control during rapid fire.
The textured grip provides a secure hold, ensuring that the pistol stays firmly in your hand even when firing multiple rounds quickly. This effective recoil management makes the PPS M2 a pleasure to shoot, even during extended range sessions.
Trigger Mechanism
The trigger mechanism of the PPS M2 is smooth and consistent. It features a relatively short travel distance with a clean break and a short reset. This makes it easy to shoot accurately and quickly, as you can get back on target faster after each shot.
The trigger pull weight is light enough to allow for precision shooting but not so light that it compromises safety. In my experience, the trigger on the PPS M2 is one of its standout features, providing a shooting experience that is both enjoyable and reliable.
Reliability
Reliability is crucial for any firearm, especially one intended for self-defense. The PPS M2 has proven to be exceptionally reliable in my testing. It has functioned flawlessly with various types of ammunition, including both standard and +P loads.
There have been no issues with feeding, firing, or ejecting, which is essential for a concealed carry pistol. You need to trust that your firearm will perform when you need it most, and the PPS M2 delivers on that promise. Its reliability, combined with its other features, makes it a dependable choice for everyday carry.
The Walther PPS M2 is a well-designed, high-performing pistol that excels in many areas. Its sleek design, ergonomic grip, high-quality materials, and reliable performance make it a top choice for concealed carry.
Whether you’re an experienced shooter or new to carrying, the PPS M2 offers a combination of features that make it a standout option in the compact pistol market.
Shooting Experience
Comfort
Comfort is a significant factor when it comes to shooting any firearm, and the Walther PPS M2 excels in this area. From the moment you grip the pistol, you can tell that a lot of thought went into its design. The texture on the grip is just right—not too aggressive, but enough to provide a secure hold even when your hands are sweaty.
The slim profile of the PPS M2 ensures it fits comfortably in various hand sizes without feeling bulky. During extended shooting sessions, the comfort of the PPS M2 becomes even more apparent.
There’s minimal hand fatigue, which is a testament to the ergonomic design. The smooth contours and thoughtful placement of controls make it easy to handle, whether you’re at the range for a quick practice or an all-day session.
Handling
Handling the PPS M2 is a joy, thanks to its balanced design and intuitive controls. The pistol’s low bore axis helps reduce muzzle flip, allowing for quicker follow-up shots. The slide serrations are well-designed, providing a solid grip for racking the slide without being overly aggressive on your hands.
The mag release is easily accessible and can be operated without adjusting your grip, which is a crucial feature during a defensive situation where every second counts. The PPS M2’s light weight and compact size make it easy to maneuver, whether you’re drawing from a holster or engaging targets quickly.
Concealability
When it comes to concealed carry, the PPS M2 is a standout. Its slim profile and lightweight design make it easy to conceal under a variety of clothing options. Whether you’re wearing a suit, casual attire, or even athletic wear, the PPS M2 remains discreet.
The pistol’s rounded edges and lack of sharp protrusions help prevent printing, which is the visible outline of a gun under clothing. This is crucial for maintaining concealment and not drawing unwanted attention.
The PPS M2’s ease of concealment doesn’t come at the cost of capacity or comfort, making it an ideal choice for everyday carry.
Sight Options
The sight options on the PPS M2 are versatile, catering to different shooting needs. The standard three-dot sights are highly functional, providing a clear sight picture for accurate shooting.
They are easy to acquire and align, making them suitable for both beginners and experienced shooters. For those who need enhanced visibility, especially in low-light conditions, the PPS M2 also offers night sight options.
These sights glow in the dark, allowing for quick target acquisition when visibility is limited. This flexibility in sight options ensures that you can customize the PPS M2 to your specific requirements, enhancing your overall shooting experience.
Features
Sights
The standard sights on the PPS M2 are designed for quick and accurate target acquisition. The three-dot configuration is intuitive and easy to use, making it ideal for both range shooting and defensive situations.
The sights are also adjustable for windage, allowing you to fine-tune your point of impact. If you prefer something different, the PPS M2’s design accommodates a variety of aftermarket sights, including fiber optics and tritium night sights.
This customization ensures you can set up the pistol to best suit your shooting style and needs.
Magazine Capacity
The PPS M2 offers flexibility in magazine capacity with three options: a 6-round flush-fit magazine, a 7-round extended magazine, and an 8-round extended magazine. The 6-round magazine is ideal for maximum concealability, fitting flush with the grip and minimizing the pistol’s overall size.
The 7-round and 8-round magazines provide additional capacity, which can be a critical advantage in a defensive situation. They also offer an extended grip for those with larger hands, improving comfort and control.
This range of magazine options allows you to balance between concealability and firepower based on your specific needs.
Safety Features
Safety is a paramount consideration in the design of the PPS M2. The pistol includes multiple safety features to ensure it can be carried and used with confidence. It has a trigger safety that prevents the trigger from being pulled unless it is fully depressed, reducing the risk of accidental discharge.
Additionally, the PPS M2 features a striker safety and a drop safety, ensuring the pistol will not fire if dropped. These features provide peace of mind, knowing that the firearm is safe to carry with a round chambered.
The absence of a manual safety lever means there’s one less control to manipulate in a high-stress situation, simplifying the operation of the pistol.
Customization Options
The PPS M2 offers several customization options, allowing you to tailor the pistol to your preferences. One of the key features is the interchangeable backstraps, which enable you to adjust the grip size to fit your hand perfectly.
This customization improves comfort and shooting accuracy. The accessory rail under the barrel allows for the attachment of lights or lasers, enhancing the pistol’s functionality for defensive use.
Additionally, the PPS M2’s compatibility with various aftermarket parts means you can upgrade components such as the sights, trigger, and grip texture to suit your specific needs and preferences.
Pros and Cons
Advantages
Slim Profile: The PPS M2’s slim design makes it ideal for concealed carry, reducing the chance of printing and increasing comfort when carried under clothing.
Ergonomics: The pistol’s ergonomic grip and thoughtful design make it comfortable to shoot and handle, even during extended sessions.
Accuracy: The PPS M2 delivers consistent accuracy, aided by its crisp trigger and clear sight picture.
Reliability: Known for its dependable performance, the PPS M2 functions flawlessly with various types of ammunition, making it a reliable choice for self-defense.
Customization: The ability to customize the grip, sights, and other components allows you to tailor the pistol to your preferences, enhancing its overall functionality.
Limitations
Magazine Capacity: The single-stack design limits the magazine capacity compared to some double-stack competitors. While the extended magazines offer more rounds, they do increase the size of the grip.
Grip Texture: Some users may find the grip texture too aggressive for their liking, particularly during extended shooting sessions. However, this can often be mitigated with aftermarket grip sleeves or by choosing a smoother backstrap.
Sight Options: While the standard sights are functional, some shooters may prefer more advanced options out of the box, such as fiber optic or night sights, which are typically available only as aftermarket upgrades.
The Walther PPS M2 is a well-rounded pistol that excels in its intended role as a concealed carry firearm. Its combination of comfort, accuracy, reliability, and customization options make it a strong contender in the compact pistol market.
While it has a few limitations, particularly in magazine capacity, its overall performance and user-friendly design make it a solid choice for anyone looking for a dependable and versatile concealed carry option.
Comparison with Competitors
Similar Models
When considering the Walther PPS M2, it’s useful to compare it with other popular models in the compact concealed carry market. The Smith & Wesson M&P Shield and the Glock 43 are two well-known competitors.
Smith & Wesson M&P Shield
The Shield is renowned for its slim profile and reliability, much like the PPS M2. It comes in both 9mm and .40 S&W calibers, offering slightly more versatility in terms of caliber choice. The Shield also has a similar capacity with a standard 7-round magazine and an 8-round extended magazine.
Glock 43
The Glock 43 is another direct competitor. It shares the same single-stack design and 9mm chambering. Glock is known for its simplicity and reliability, and the 43 is no exception. It features a 6-round magazine, which is comparable to the PPS M2’s flush-fit option.
Both the Shield and Glock 43 are well-regarded for their reliability and ease of use, making them strong alternatives to the PPS M2.
Key Differences
Trigger: One of the standout differences is the trigger feel. The PPS M2’s trigger is often praised for its crisp break and short reset, which some shooters prefer over the Glock 43’s and M&P Shield’s triggers.
Ergonomics: The PPS M2 has an edge in ergonomics, thanks to its customizable grip backstraps. This feature is not present in the Glock 43 or M&P Shield, which have fixed grips. The PPS M2’s grip texture also provides a balance between comfort and control, which some users find more comfortable during extended shooting sessions.
Sights: Out of the box, the PPS M2’s sights are highly functional and easy to acquire. While the Shield and Glock 43 offer good sight options, the PPS M2 often receives higher marks for its sight picture and ease of target acquisition.
Build Quality: Walther’s attention to detail and build quality is another differentiator. The PPS M2 feels robust and well-crafted, which instills confidence in its durability and performance.
Maintenance and Upkeep
Cleaning Procedures
Maintaining your Walther PPS M2 is straightforward and essential for ensuring its reliability and longevity. Here’s a step-by-step guide based on my own experience:
- Unload the Pistol: Always ensure the firearm is unloaded. Remove the magazine and check the chamber.
- Field Strip the Pistol: Lock the slide back and remove the takedown lever. Release the slide forward and separate it from the frame.
- Remove the Barrel and Recoil Spring: Take out the recoil spring and guide rod assembly, followed by the barrel.
- Clean the Barrel: Use a bore brush to scrub the inside of the barrel, followed by a patch to remove residue. Apply a light coat of gun oil to prevent rust.
- Clean the Slide and Frame: Use a nylon brush to clean the slide, frame, and other components. Wipe down with a cloth and apply a small amount of oil to the slide rails.
- Reassemble: Reassemble the pistol by reversing the disassembly steps. Ensure everything is properly aligned and functioning smoothly.
Maintenance Schedule
Regular maintenance is key to the PPS M2’s performance:
After Each Range Session: Clean the barrel, slide, and frame. Lubricate the moving parts.
Monthly: Perform a thorough inspection of all parts for wear and tear. Clean and lubricate as needed.
Annually: Conduct a detailed inspection and deep cleaning. Replace any worn-out parts, such as springs or pins.
Following this schedule helps ensure your PPS M2 remains in top working condition, ready for use whenever you need it.
Pricing and Value
Price Range
The Walther PPS M2 typically falls within the $400 to $500 price range, depending on the specific model and any included accessories. This places it competitively within the market for high-quality concealed carry pistols.
Prices can vary based on location, availability, and any promotional offers or packages that include additional magazines or night sights.
Value Proposition
The PPS M2 offers excellent value for its price point. You’re getting a well-built, reliable, and accurate firearm that’s ideal for concealed carry. The ergonomics and customizable features set it apart from many competitors, providing a level of comfort and personalization not often found in this price range.
Considering its performance and durability, the PPS M2 represents a smart investment for those seeking a dependable self-defense pistol.
Conclusion
The Walther PPS M2 is a standout in the world of concealed carry firearms. Its slim design, ergonomic grip, and reliable performance make it an excellent choice for those seeking a dependable everyday carry pistol.
The PPS M2’s customization options, from adjustable backstraps to sight choices, allow it to cater to a wide range of users and preferences. Whether you’re an experienced shooter or new to concealed carry, the PPS M2 offers a blend of comfort, accuracy, and reliability that’s hard to beat.
Its competitive pricing further enhances its appeal, making it a solid choice for anyone in the market for a compact, high-quality pistol.
FAQ
What is the capacity of the PPS M2?
The PPS M2 offers a 6-round flush-fit magazine, a 7-round extended magazine, and an 8-round extended magazine.
Is the PPS M2 suitable for new shooters?
Yes, the PPS M2 is user-friendly with a comfortable grip and manageable recoil, making it suitable for new shooters.
Can the PPS M2 handle +P ammunition?
Yes, the PPS M2 is rated for +P ammunition, though regular use of +P rounds can accelerate wear.
Does the PPS M2 come with night sights?
Night sights are available as an aftermarket option, though the standard model comes with three-dot sights.
Is there a warranty for the PPS M2?
Yes, Walther offers a limited lifetime warranty for the original owner, ensuring peace of mind and support for your firearm.