Soft and Flat but not Kerchunky

Published on March 7, 2026
Duration: 13:04

Ben Stoeger, an expert competitive shooter, analyzes the Zermatt Arms Waltz 9 pistol, focusing on its unique 'soft and flat' recoil impulse. He contrasts this with his preferred 'fast and snappy' recoil characteristic found in pistols like the Atlas Titan, emphasizing the importance of quick slide reciprocation and return to center for competitive performance. Stoeger highlights that the Waltz 9 achieves its desirable feel through a unique roller-bearing action, avoiding the sluggishness often associated with soft-recoiling firearms.

Quick Summary

The Zermatt Arms Waltz 9 offers a unique 'soft and flat' recoil impulse, avoiding the sluggishness often found in similar designs due to its innovative roller-bearing action. Expert Ben Stoeger prefers pistols with fast reciprocation and return to center, but acknowledges the Waltz 9's effectiveness for precise, rapid follow-up shots.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Zermatt Arms Waltz 9
  2. 00:09Initial Impressions on Waltz 9 Suitability
  3. 00:33Preferred Pistol Characteristics for Competition
  4. 01:20Waltz 9's Fast and Precise Feel
  5. 02:18Critique of Soft/Dull Recoil Philosophy
  6. 02:59Waltz 9's Unique Soft and Flat Performance
  7. 03:53Waltz 9 Avoids 'Kerchunky' Feel
  8. 04:23Summary of Waltz 9's Appeal
  9. 04:50Viewer Feedback & Purchase Intent
  10. 05:04Waltz 9 Not a Novelty Gun
  11. 05:27Viewer Comments: Lubrication & Other Pistols
  12. 05:55Durability and Expectations for Waltz 9
  13. 06:14Off-Topic: Door County, Wisconsin
  14. 06:33Viewer Comment: N320 Powder
  15. 06:49Viewer Disappointment & Thumbnail Choice
  16. 07:16Waltz 9 vs. Other Comp Pistols
  17. 08:37Trigger Design and Glock Comparison
  18. 09:03Waltz 9 vs. Atlas Carry Optics
  19. 09:23Dynamic Pie Concepts History
  20. 09:40Lubrication: Grease vs. Oil
  21. 10:29Waltz 9 vs. 2011s: Purchase Decision
  22. 11:41Build Quality and Unique Features
  23. 12:53Conclusion: Continued Testing

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Zermatt Arms Waltz 9's recoil unique?

The Zermatt Arms Waltz 9 achieves a 'soft and flat' recoil impulse, which is unusual. This is attributed to its unique roller-bearing action, allowing for smooth operation without the sluggishness often associated with reduced recoil designs.

What are Ben Stoeger's preferred pistol characteristics for competition?

Ben Stoeger prefers pistols that reciprocate quickly with a fast return to center, even if they have more 'snap.' He values immediate feedback and predictable handling for rapid follow-up shots, citing the Atlas Titan as a prime example.

How does the Zermatt Arms Waltz 9 compare to other competition pistols?

Unlike some pistols that feel flat but sluggish, the Waltz 9 is described as flat but not sluggish. It provides a smooth, non-kerchunky feel, offering a different performance concept than many traditional competition firearms.

Is the Zermatt Arms Waltz 9 a novelty gun?

No, the Zermatt Arms Waltz 9 is not a novelty gun. It is built for serious shooters and power users, offering a distinct performance characteristic that appeals to those seeking advanced firearm dynamics for competition.

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