Walther P5 Tabletop Review and Field Strip

Published on March 27, 2020
Duration: 13:41

This review provides an in-depth look at the Walther P5, a unique semi-automatic pistol developed in the 1970s. The video details its uncommon design features, including a non-tilting barrel action, a decocker that renders the firearm inert by disengaging the firing pin, and a left-side ejection port. It also covers a straightforward field stripping procedure, highlighting the dual recoil spring system and the barrel's removal method. The presenter notes its historical context, potential for accuracy, and its rarity in the commercial market.

Quick Summary

The Walther P5 features a unique left-side ejection port designed to aid right-handed shooters in clearing malfunctions by utilizing gravity. Its decocker system retracts the firing pin into a recess, rendering the firearm inert for enhanced safety.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Walther P5
  2. 00:29Development and History
  3. 01:13Walkaround and Exterior Features
  4. 01:54Magazine Release and Magazine Design
  5. 02:32Front End and Press Checks
  6. 02:42Trigger Guard and Trigger Pull
  7. 03:02Decocker and Safety Mechanism
  8. 04:18Grip Serrations and Checkering
  9. 04:49Magazine Well and Heel Release
  10. 05:11Grip Checkering and Back Strap
  11. 05:16Rear Slide to Frame Fit
  12. 05:30Right Side View: No Ejection Port
  13. 05:41Logic Behind Left-Side Ejection
  14. 06:26Extractor and Sight Picture
  15. 06:46Field Strip Procedure
  16. 07:07Recoil Assembly
  17. 07:25Frame Construction
  18. 07:41Barrel Removal
  19. 07:44Slide Interior and Locking Block
  20. 08:16Feed Ramp and Chamber Support
  21. 08:51Chamber Support and Brass Expansion
  22. 09:30Historical Context: James Bond
  23. 09:53Reassembly
  24. 10:09Decocker Lever Feel
  25. 10:24Manual Hammer Control
  26. 10:40Holster Search
  27. 10:48Magazine Capacity
  28. 11:32Shooting Impressions Preview
  29. 11:49What's for Dinner Test Preview
  30. 11:55Accuracy Potential
  31. 12:11Longer Barrel Variants
  32. 12:24Availability and Price
  33. 12:31Century Arms Surplus Find
  34. 12:43P5 vs. Q5
  35. 13:07Finding Surplus Guns
  36. 13:21Final Thoughts on Ejection Port
  37. 13:28Range Visit Preview

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Walther P5's safety system unique?

The Walther P5 features a decocker that not only lowers the hammer but also retracts the firing pin into a recess. This design renders the firearm inert, preventing it from firing even if the trigger is pulled, offering a high level of safety.

Why does the Walther P5 have an ejection port on the left side?

The left-side ejection port on the Walther P5 is a deliberate design choice intended to benefit right-handed shooters. It allows for easier visualization and clearing of malfunctions, as gravity can assist in ejecting the round when the gun is tilted towards the shooter.

How is the Walther P5 field stripped?

To field strip the Walther P5, ensure it's unloaded, pull the slide back, rotate the takedown lever down, and slide the slide off the frame. The recoil assembly, consisting of two independent springs and pins, is then removed, followed by the barrel, which slides out the front.

What is the magazine capacity of the Walther P5?

The Walther P5 is a single-stack 9mm pistol with a magazine capacity of 8 rounds, plus one in the chamber, for a total of 9 rounds. This capacity is comparable to other single-stack pistols like the Smith & Wesson Shield.

More Reviews Videos You Might Like

More from GBGuns

View all →