HK VP9L OR vs Walther PDP 5” Full Size

[Alex G]

Hello all,

looking for experience/recommendations between the Walther PDP 5” full size, and the HK VP9L OR. Looking for a full size 9mm that will both shoot well for home defense/range use, as well as be an accurate test bed for my handloading 9mm. If anyone has detailed data for the mechanical accuracy/durability of these pistols, please chime in and let me know!

 

[Alex G]

 

[CNobbe]

I prefer the Walther Q5 Match over the PDP, the optic mount design is more durable than the PDP which is smooth under the plate and relies on the plate being tight against the slide rather than sitting on posts like most other optic mount pistols- including the Q5.

As for triggers, the PDP has the VP9 beat, but the VP9L uses an o-ring on the barrel like the HK 45s which supposedly helps with accuracy.

See which one feels better in your hand. They're both fine pistols, though neither really designed for home defense as they're 5" barrel target guns. The VP9 may come with night sights.

 

[Cyberpunk1981]

While I like both, I really love Walther pistols.

 

[Alex G]

I prefer the Walther Q5 Match over the PDP, the optic mount design is more durable than the PDP which is smooth under the plate and relies on the plate being tight against the slide rather than sitting on posts like most other optic mount pistols- including the Q5.

How much do the Q5’s run price wise? I knew this was a factor, but am curious how much cost wise difference there’d be.

As for triggers, the PDP has the VP9 beat, but the VP9L uses an o-ring on the barrel like the HK 45s which supposedly helps with accuracy.

How much difference would you say there is in trigger? Accuracy wise I feel like the HK has a better and tighter lockup, while I feel the PDP has it beat with ergos and trigger. (I’ve handled a PDP, and use to own a P30SK, which are similar to the VP9’s just hammer vs striker)

See which one feels better in your hand. They're both fine pistols, though neither really designed for home defense as they're 5" barrel target guns.

Good advice, though I’d honestly prefer a long barrel full size pistol as a HD gun. More barrel length for velocity, longer slide and barrel to soak up recoil and pull the muzzle back down onto target on the slides travel forward.

 

[CNobbe]

How much do the Q5’s run price wise? I knew this was a factor, but am curious how much cost wise difference there’d be.

How much difference would you say there is in trigger? Accuracy wise I feel like the HK has a better and tighter lockup, while I feel the PDP has it beat with ergos and trigger. (I’ve handled a PDP, and use to own a P30SK, which are similar to the VP9’s just hammer vs striker)

Good advice, though I’d honestly prefer a long barrel full size pistol as a HD gun. More barrel length for velocity, longer slide and barrel to soak up recoil and pull the muzzle back down onto target on the slides travel forward.

Not sure what the Q5 Match (polymer frame) goes for, I actually haven't seen a new one for a while. I think the VP9L is around $799, and the VP9L Match is $899 street price The Match has a 5.2" barrel.

I think the PDP trigger has a little nicer break, it's crisp and clean. The VP9 is good too, but a slightly longer reset. FWIW, I have a PDP compact 4" and really like it. It's my carry gun, no optic installed. My VP I've had for a few years, mostly a range toy.

I echo your thoughts, I think the VP9 may be a wee bit more accurate for target shooting, the PDP has the best grip texture ever, and they're really hard to choose between. I have a VP9, and the grip texture is not the same as the P30..the P30 has a little harsher texture believe it or not.

Another gun I highly recommend is the Canik TP9SFX. They're wonderful shooting guns for a great price and based on the Walther, actually can interchange slides and frames with some models. Lots of guys and gals shoot them for USPSA, they go for $499 usually. I bought one last year and really like it.

 

[peeplwtchr]

I hve been debating which one of these for months. The issue is that I have been walking the range every week for 5 mos. looking for a VP9L to shoot, and haven't seen one yet. The PDP is bad a**, but my regular VP9 is my most intuitive and aims itself. As far as a 5 inch barrel not being suitable for home defense, there is no shred of truth in that. A longer barrel allows for a longer sight radius, which means easier accurcy. Also more velocity, and more accuracy due to the longer barrel .

I've got a TP9 SFX now, which is excellent, but I want an upstairs 5 inch home defense gun too, so it will be VP9L or PDP.

 

[browneu]

I vote H&K especially if it has the paddle magazine release.

 

[JTQ]

If you have a holster preference, see which gun is available in your holster of choice. Neither is a Glock G17 or a 1911 Government Model. Your holster options will be limited.