First Look: Walther Arms P22QD Pistol

Walther Arms added a number of updates to its popular P22 rimfire pistol, relaunching the gun under the P22QD line.

The new Walther P22QD features many of the same elements found in the company's original P22 pistol. The frame offers the same ergonomic fit as the original gun, and much of the profile is unchanged, ensuring that shooters have access to the same look and feel as the company's previous offering, as well as the reliability that comes with the system.

However, Walther made a select few changes to improve the versatility and safety of the pistol. The company added a decocking safety. The new setup ensures that users cannot cock the pistol with the safety engaged. If owners load the gun and then engage the safety, the external hammer will safely move into a forward position, decocking the P22QD and allowing users to operate the pistol with a double-action trigger pull on the first shot. All Walther P22 pistols operate using a DA/SA action.

Each Walther P22 pistol comes equipped with three-dot combat sights made from polymer. The rear sight is adjustable for windage, and the sights feature a low-profile design that won't catch on clothing or holster during a draw. The pistol also features a Picatinny accessory rail that allows users to attach an optional light or laser.

The double-action/single-action system used on the pistol provides users with an 11-pound trigger pull on double-action shots, while single-action follow-up shots can be performed using the gun's 4-pound single-action pull. The pistol includes an ambidextrous, paddle-style magazine release, as well as a loaded-chamber indicator and an external slide stop that locks the magazine back on an empty chamber.

The Walther P22QD, like other P22 pistols, can be used with an aftermarket adapter that allows users to equip a suppressor onto the company's M8x.075 target barrel with 1/2-28 TPI threads. The suggested retail price on a Walther P22 pistol starts at $319.