The Walther PPS (Polizei-Pistole Schmal / Police Pistol Slim) is a semi-automatic pistol developed by the German company Carl Walther GmbH Sportwaffen of Ulm for concealed carry for civilians and plainclothes law enforcement personnel.
It was first shown in 2007 at the IWA & OutdoorClassics and is a slim polymer framed weapon of similar size to the Walther PPK pistol.
[4] Ergonomics were a key focus in the design of the firearm, and as a result, three interchangeable grip backstraps are included (small, medium and large) to accommodate various hand shapes and sizes; this feature permits most shooters a comfortable and efficient grip on the firearm The injection molded grip frame contains 4 steel guide rails for the slide: two at the rear of the frame, and the remaining pair above the front of the trigger guard.
Under the dust cover the grip frame has an integrated mounting MIL-STD-1913 (Picatinny) rail for attaching accessories, such as a tactical light or laser pointer.
[5] The Tenifer process produces a matte gray-colored, non-glare surface with a 64 Rockwell C hardness rating (by comparison, an industrial diamond has a rating of 70 HRC) and a 99% resistance to salt water corrosion (which meets or exceeds stainless steel specifications),[6] making the PPS particularly suitable for individuals carrying the pistol concealed as the highly chloride-resistant finish allows the pistol to better endure the effects of perspiration.
[5] PPS pistols are delivered in a polymer pistol case containing; the pistol, 2 backstraps of different sizes, 2 magazine (small and medium), magazine loader, instruction manual, warranty papers, factory test target showing 5 shots fired at 15 m (16 yd) distance and an envelope with the case of the proof round fired during the proof test at the C.I.P.
The pistol has a loaded chamber indicator in the form of a witness opening at the top of the slide/ejection port.
The extended +1 and +2 floorplates integrate with the gripframe adding finger rest space for better grip.
[1][4] According to Walther, “Plus-P” (+P) overpressure ammunition may affect the wear characteristics of the PPS pistol or exceed the margin of safety.
Previously another was available in 9 mm which had "First Edition" printed on the slide and a blue-tinted frame (part number WAWAP10003FC).
[10] The PPS M2 general ergonomic design shares similarities with the Walther PPQ M2 series.
The PPS M2 features a push button magazine release, front and rear slide serrations and a redesigned grip.
Walther modified the slide stop lever and an accompanying spring on the PPS pistols to improve reliability.