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Walther PPQ Q5 Match 9mm Review
Price Range:
$1000 - $1200
Specification
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Walther Arms |
| Country of Origin | Germany |
| First Build Date | 2017 |
| Type | Semi-Automatic |
| Caliber | 9mm |
| Capacity | 15+1, 17+1 |
| Barrel Length | 5 inches |
| Weight (Unloaded) | 1.8 lbs (820 grams) |
| Material | Polymer Frame, Steel Slide |
| Price Range | $1,000 – $1,200 |
Overview
The Walther PPQ Q5 Match is a competition-oriented 9mm handgun built for precision, speed, and reliability. Released in 2017, it is designed for tactical and competitive shooting, boasting several key features that make it stand out in the world of competitive firearms. This model incorporates a 5-inch barrel, offering superb accuracy and a longer sight radius, which is particularly beneficial for precision shooting during competitions like IPSC and USPSA.
The gun is equipped with Walther’s signature ergonomics, including a modular grip system with interchangeable backstraps, allowing users to customize the fit for maximum comfort. The trigger is exceptional, with a smooth pull and short reset, making it ideal for rapid, controlled shooting. The Q5 Match is also optics-ready, with a slide cut that allows users to easily mount red dot optics for enhanced target acquisition, offering flexibility for competition setups. Additionally, the pistol is threaded for suppressors, adding to its versatility.
Strength and Quality
Walther is known for producing high-quality firearms, and the PPQ Q5 Match is a prime example of this reputation. The fit and finish are exceptional, with tight tolerances, smooth surfaces, and a polished steel slide. The trigger system is refined, offering a light and short reset that is well-suited for competition shooters. The overall construction, including the polymer frame and steel slide, is built to withstand rigorous use while maintaining high performance.
Safety Features
- Trigger Safety: The PPQ Q5 Match features a trigger safety, ensuring that the firearm will not discharge unless the trigger is fully engaged.
- Striker Safety: Prevents the striker from being released unless the trigger is pulled completely.
- Drop Safety: A drop safety mechanism ensures the firearm will not fire if dropped, preventing accidental discharges.
- Manual Safety: The PPQ Q5 Match does not have an external manual safety but relies on internal safeties for secure operation.
Test Results
Accuracy
During testing, the Walther PPQ Q5 Match demonstrated outstanding accuracy. At 10 yards, it produced groupings within 1.5 inches, and at 25 yards, the accuracy remained within 3 inches, proving its effectiveness in precision shooting. The longer barrel, combined with the red dot sight, allowed for fast target acquisition and improved shot consistency, particularly in rapid-fire situations.
Recoil and Handling
The Q5 Match offers excellent recoil management. The pistol’s low bore axis and balanced weight distribution help reduce muzzle rise, ensuring quick follow-up shots. The grip is ergonomic and textured, providing excellent control, even under rapid fire. The large magazine release and flared magwell further enhance reloading speed, crucial in high-stress environments.
Reliability
Throughout the test, the Walther PPQ Q5 Match exhibited flawless reliability. It fed and ejected various 9mm rounds, including full-metal jacket (FMJ) and hollow point ammunition, without any failures. This makes it a dependable option for both tactical use and competitions where malfunction-free operation is paramount.
Also Read: Tisas Regent BR9 Review
Merits
- Exceptional Trigger: The short, smooth trigger pull and quick reset make it perfect for fast, precise shooting.
- Accuracy: The 5-inch barrel and optics-ready design provide excellent accuracy, particularly for competitive shooting.
- Ergonomics: The modular grip system and textured grip surface ensure comfort and control in various shooting scenarios.
- Flared Magwell: Speeds up magazine reloads, which is a huge advantage in competitive settings.
- Threaded Barrel: Allows for easy attachment of suppressors or compensators for improved performance.
Demerits
- Price: The Walther PPQ Q5 Match is relatively expensive compared to other 9mm pistols, which may limit its appeal for those on a budget.
- Size: With its larger size and longer barrel, it may not be the most ideal choice for concealed carry.
- Magazine Availability: While 17-round magazines are included, additional magazines can be pricey and sometimes harder to find.
Maintenance
Maintaining the Walther PPQ Q5 Match is simple and straightforward. Disassembly is tool-free, allowing easy access to the barrel and recoil spring for cleaning. Regular maintenance should involve oiling the slide and recoil spring to maintain smooth operation. Additionally, it is essential to inspect the slide and trigger assembly for wear and tear. As with any firearm, it is important to check for corrosion, especially in humid or wet environments, to ensure the gun remains in peak working condition.
Comparison with Other Guns
| Feature | Walther PPQ Q5 Match | Glock 34 | Sig Sauer P320 X5 Legion | Springfield XD-M Elite | Smith & Wesson M&P9 Performance Center |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 | 1.8 lbs | 1.5 lbs | 2 lbs | 1.8 lbs | 1.7 lbs |
| Barrel Length | 5 inches | 5.31 inches | 5 inches | 5.28 inches | 5 inches |
| Price Range | $1,000 – $1,200 | $600 – $750 | $1,100 – $1,300 | $650 – $800 | $700 – $900 |
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
The Walther PPQ Q5 Match stands out with its superior ergonomics, exceptional trigger, long sight radius, and optics-ready slide. These features make it highly adaptable to competitive shooting disciplines such as IPSC and USPSA.
While the Q5 Match is excellent for competition and home defense, its size and weight make it less suited for concealed carry compared to more compact 9mm pistols.
The PPQ Q5 Match has a low bore axis and well-balanced design, minimizing recoil and making it very manageable even during rapid fire.
Yes, the Walther PPQ Q5 Match is built with high-quality materials, including a steel slide and polymer frame, ensuring it can handle heavy use without significant wear.
The Q5 Match offers a superior trigger system, better ergonomics, and an optics-ready slide, all contributing to enhanced shooting performance. It also comes at a competitive price compared to other high-end competition handguns.
