Walther PPQ SC 9mm Review
December 14, 2024
Walther PDP 9mm Review
December 14, 2024
Walther PPQ Q4 TAC 9mm Review
Price Range:
$700 - $850
Specification
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Walther Arms |
| Country of Origin | Germany |
| First Build Date | 2020 |
| Type | Semi-Automatic |
| Caliber | 9mm |
| Capacity | 15+1, 17+1 |
| Barrel Length | 5.5 inches |
| Weight (Unloaded) | 1.6 lbs (725 grams) |
| Material | Polymer Frame, Steel Slide |
| Price Range | $700 – $850 |
Overview
The Walther PPQ Q4 TAC is a high-performance variant of Walther’s PPQ series, designed specifically for competitive shooting and tactical use. Released in 2020, it stands out due to its blend of premium features, including a longer 5.5-inch barrel for enhanced accuracy, an optics-ready slide, and a threaded barrel for suppressors or compensators. This tactical pistol is ideal for both professional and recreational shooters looking for superior ergonomics, accuracy, and speed.
It features a modular grip system with interchangeable backstraps, allowing users to customize the fit to their hand size and preference. The textured grip enhances control during rapid-fire sequences. The PPQ Q4 TAC’s smooth and light trigger pull is one of its major selling points, providing a short reset and a crisp break that is ideal for precision shooting. Additionally, its optics-ready slide and the inclusion of suppressor-height sights make it adaptable to various accessories for professional use.
Strength and Quality
Walther has a reputation for producing high-quality firearms, and the PPQ Q4 TAC is no exception. The fit and finish of the gun are outstanding, with smooth surfaces and tight tolerances. The steel slide provides durability and a robust feel, while the polymer frame is both lightweight and durable. The trigger mechanism is smooth with a crisp break and short reset, making it ideal for fast-paced shooting. The overall construction ensures that the firearm is ready for rigorous use without sacrificing comfort or performance.
Safety Features
- Trigger Safety: A trigger safety prevents accidental discharge if the trigger is not fully engaged.
- Striker Safety: Prevents the striker from being released unless the trigger is pulled completely.
- Drop Safety: The gun includes a drop safety mechanism that prevents accidental discharge in the event of a drop.
- Manual Safety: The Walther PPQ Q4 TAC does not feature a manual safety but uses internal safeties for safe operation.
Test Results
Accuracy
During testing, the PPQ Q4 TAC exhibited exceptional accuracy. At 10 yards, groupings remained tight within 2 inches, and at 25 yards, the groupings stayed within 4 inches—impressive for a tactical pistol with a longer barrel. The optics-ready slide allows for quick, accurate target acquisition, and with a red dot sight mounted, groups shrunk further, indicating its potential for precision shooting.
Recoil and Handling
Recoil management on the PPQ Q4 TAC is excellent. Thanks to its larger grip, extended barrel, and compensator-ready barrel, muzzle rise is minimal during rapid-fire sequences. The ergonomics of the pistol, paired with the smooth recoil spring system, allow for quick follow-up shots with minimal control loss.
Reliability
The Walther PPQ Q4 TAC proved to be extremely reliable during testing. It cycled a variety of 9mm ammunition, including full-metal jacket (FMJ) and hollow point rounds, without any failures to feed or eject. This high level of reliability is crucial in both competitive and tactical situations, where performance under stress is a priority.
Also Read: Tisas Fatih 13 Review
Merits
- Optics-Ready: Equipped with an optics-ready slide and suppressor-height sights, the PPQ Q4 TAC can easily accommodate a red dot sight or suppressor.
- Exceptional Trigger: The trigger is one of the best in its class, offering a crisp, light pull and short reset.
- Accuracy: The longer barrel provides enhanced accuracy, making it ideal for both tactical use and competitive shooting.
- Ergonomics: The modular grip system and textured surface provide excellent control and comfort, even in rapid-fire situations.
- Reliability: The PPQ Q4 TAC functions flawlessly with a wide variety of 9mm ammunition.
Demerits
- Price: The PPQ Q4 TAC is on the higher end of the price spectrum, which may not be suitable for all budgets.
- Size: Due to its larger frame and longer barrel, the PPQ Q4 TAC may not be the best choice for concealed carry.
- Magazine Availability: While the capacity is great, extra magazines can be harder to find compared to more popular models like the Glock 17 or Sig Sauer P320.
Maintenance
The Walther PPQ Q4 TAC is relatively easy to maintain. Disassembly involves removing the slide, which can be done without tools, allowing for easy access to the barrel and recoil spring for cleaning. Regular maintenance involves oiling the barrel and recoil spring to ensure smooth operation. Inspecting the slide and trigger assembly for wear is recommended, particularly if the gun is used for competition or tactical situations. As with all firearms, periodic checks for rust and corrosion are also advised to ensure long-term reliability.
Comparison with Other Guns
| Feature | Walther PPQ Q4 TAC | Glock 17 | Sig Sauer P320 | Springfield XD-M Elite | Smith & Wesson M&P9 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Semi-Automatic | Semi-Automatic | Semi-Automatic | Semi-Automatic | Semi-Automatic |
| Caliber | 9mm | 9mm | 9mm | 9mm | 9mm |
| Capacity | 15+1, 17+1 | 17+1 | 17+1 | 20+1 | 17+1 |
| Weight | 1.6 lbs | 1.5 lbs | 1.8 lbs | 1.75 lbs | 1.5 lbs |
| Barrel Length | 5.5 inches | 4.49 inches | 4.7 inches | 4.5 inches | 4.25 inches |
| Price Range | $700 – $850 | $500 – $600 | $550 – $700 | $600 – $700 | $500 – $600 |
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
The Walther PPQ Q4 TAC is designed for tactical and competitive shooters, with an optics-ready slide, a longer barrel for increased accuracy, and an outstanding trigger for rapid, precise shots. Its customizable ergonomics and suppressor-ready features make it a standout in the market.
Compared to the Glock 17 and Sig Sauer P320, the PPQ Q4 TAC offers superior ergonomics, a more refined trigger, and added customization options. Its longer barrel provides better accuracy, making it ideal for competition shooters and tactical users.
Yes, the PPQ Q4 TAC is an excellent choice for home defense, thanks to its reliability, accuracy, and ergonomic design. However, its larger size may make it less ideal for concealed carry.
Yes, the PPQ Q4 TAC comes with a threaded barrel, making it compatible with suppressors and muzzle devices.
While the PPQ Q4 TAC has advanced features, its smooth trigger, ergonomic design, and low recoil make it a great option for shooters of all skill levels, though it may be better suited to
