At first glance, the Walther PDP Success & Comfort strongly resembles a PDP Pro SD with compensator. However, on closer inspection it becomes clear that Walther has done more here than just fit a compensator. The newly developed Walther compensator is based on that of the P14, with which the Ulm-based company equips the special forces of the German Armed Forces (a topic we have already reported on here at all4shooters.com). However, the mount and contour of the civilian compensator for the PDS Success & Comfort have been modified. Visually, it blends seamlessly into the design of the PDP. When the slide is locked, the compensator is hardly noticeable. Walther deliberately decided against a permanently integrated solution, as is familiar from the US market, for example. Instead, the compensator is clamped on and can be removed. This has several advantages: It allows flexible use of the pistol in different disciplines, easier cleaning and offers uncomplicated handling during conversion. But even if the "Comp" is the most obvious feature of the new variant, it offers even more on the inside, as already mentioned.
PDP Success & Comfort: Optimized for less recoil
In addition to the compensator, Walther has implemented another technical detail that has rarely been seen on the market to date. In the sport shooting world, the so-called "long-stroke" system, which uses longer springs to modify the slide travel, is well-known from the USA. Walther has further developed this approach. The slide geometry has been adjusted and the recoil spring modified. The result is that the slide now travels further to the rear instead of stopping earlier as usual. The advantage lies in the shooting behavior. Normally, contact occurs between the slide and the frame at the end of the recoil path, causing additional felt recoil and an impulse that translates into muzzle flip. The extended slide travel reduces the energy of the impact and delays it. The aim is to achieve noticeably less recoil, a smoother shooting behavior and better control during rapid firing.
The compensator of the pistol in 9mm Luger ensures a further reduction in muzzle flip of around 30 percent when using 124-grain standard ammunition. According to the manufacturer, in practice the gun is "as stable as a rock"
Walther PDP Success & Comfort: Why compensators are increasingly in demand for handguns
Compensators are becoming increasingly important in the handgun sector. Similar to silencers on hunting rifles, they improve shooting behavior and therefore also accuracy. However, their use depends heavily on the discipline in question. Compensators are permitted in some competitions, but not in others. Nevertheless, demand is steadily increasing – including for an original Walther solution that many shooters have been waiting for. Thanks to the combination of compensator and optimized slide travel, the new PDP is designed to meet this demand, and at the same time offer more comfort and control. Hence the name: Success and Comfort.
Price and availability of the Walther PDP Success & Comfort
The manufacturer's recommended retail price for the new PDP "Success and Comfort" is expected to be €1,399, including compensator. The official market launch should take place very soon. This should also guarantee immediate availability.
Upgrade kit for existing PDP models
In addition to the complete gun, Walther also plans to offer an upgrade kit for existing PDP models. In addition to the compensator and the modified recoil spring, this package will also include a barrel with muzzle thread.
This allows owners of a 4.5-inch PDP to upgrade their gun accordingly.
Wrapping up...
With the PDP Success & Comfort, Walther combines two features that are currently in high demand: a proprietary compensator and a system designed to mitigate the impulse from end-of-travel impact of the slide with the frame when cycling. This combination of features is worth a closer look, especially for sports-oriented shooters. A detailed practical test is still pending, but our first impressions of the new pistol already show where developments in the field of modern sports pistols are heading.
