I love this pistol and own one. It's one of my favorites. It's honestly a shame it's being discontinued. Great video as always. Also, as a German American I really appreciate you pronouncing Walther correctly. 🇩🇪🇺🇸
I'm not of German descent (although my wife is German-Canadian) and I also applaud H.R. for pronouncing it correctly! it's painful to hear how it often gets pronounced incorrectly.
Agreed - great video, H.R. and I learned some things about the P99 that I didn't already know. Such a great, forward-thinking design that still works quite well today. I recently picked up a Final Edition, and love it so much that I'm on the hunt for one of the standard AS models as well.
I really like paddle releases because it's easy to release with the middle finger. For a time I would also swap my magazine releases so I could do that normally.
You are the only content provider on TH-cam who pronounces "Walther" properly. Thank you for showing respect for the company name, by not butchering it.
THANK YOU, Howard; this is among your very best video, and I truly approximate your effort and expertise. I particularly liked this TH-cam because I learned so much. The P99 - based on Walther’s very estimable heritage of design innovations and quality - really is a unique, ingenious and VERY intelligent design. I wish I had understood all this long ago (and I am truly embarrassed that I did not). I really like traditional DA / SA designs, for a number of reasons that are important to me (hammer fired sidearms’ crisp SA trigger, their longer and safer DA trigger pull, the ability to “ride” the hammer when re-holstering, and - in most cases - the feel, weight and reliability, durability and accuracy of an all metal autoloader. The CZ 75 series, the Sig P220/P226 series, and the H&K USP series are the semiautomatics that I keep returning to for Winter concealed carry and for year around home defense. As a side note, the Walter CCP-M2 and the 4.25 inch barrel Smith M&P 1.0 “police model” are my smaller, moire concealable 9x19mm defensive firearms. Okay, what I find - thanks to you - so unique and desirable about the P99’s design is, essentially Walther has achieved most of the key advantages of a traditional DA/SA autoloader in a polymer framed, striker fired semiautomatic. The design allows a light and crisp first round trigger break, without a hammer, and (between the cocked and the loaded chamber indicators) it makes re-holstering safer than it is for many striker fired weapons. To summarize, this is a great review of a great autoloader (with a wonderfully innovative design).
Thanks Roy! I've been a fan of these pistols for years. When my department switched from the SW99 to the M&P in 2007, I was not at all sure In would like the new pistols as well as I did my SW99. Ultimately, I did and didn't like the the M&P more. As an instructor, the M&P simplified my life because I no longer had to try to train (often apathetic) officers to use the Walther trigger system. Nor, did I have to watch them throw their first D/A shots (because they never trained enough to master it). The M&P is a great handgun, and over the years I learned to appreciate it a lot. Even so, in the back of my mind, I always missed that S/A Walther trigger. In Saturday's video, you'll get a chance to see the capabilities of the P99 demonstrated. It's been quite a few years since I carried/trained with the SW99, but I don't think my shooting will dretract too much from the pistol's performance.
@@hrfunk You know, my friend, a lot of people believe that change axiomatically implies beneficial progress. I believe that’s false. Are striker / polymer autoloaders better than the P-35, 1911A1, double action revolvers, traditional DA/SA’s, and so forth? Yes, in some ways they are, but not in every way. Which (imho) brings us to the likely use and, therefore, to the attributes most important for that specific mission. To illustrate this, an elderly, untrained and not-firearms-knowledgeable individuals will (imho) probably be better served with an archaic .38 +P DA revolver )perhaps a M19) on the nightstand, than with the “latest and greatest” semiautomatic design. Conversely, the Deputy patrolling a long, isolated and scarcely used stretch of I-85 in Southern Georgia probably needs a 17+1, light and ergonomic, night sight equipped, extra mags at-hand design, 9mm design to deal with druggies.
Great video sir. My first firearm that I purchased was the P99 back in 01. I only wished that it was a 9mm and not 40. I am happy to report as of yesterday that one desire has been fulfilled when I picked up the final edition. I did not think I was going to be able to find one, or for sale at some unreasonable price.
I just found a new in box P99AS at my local gun shop for a steal. These are only going to skyrocket in price since they’re no longer manufactured. Great little concealed carry guns.
A well made video tribute to not only the P99 but also to Walther itself. It has increased my appreciation for the P99 and the Walther brand. Very much copied which is a testament to the quality and the design of their products. I appreciate you taking the time and effort to make this video. I would think Walther would appreciate it as well.
Never really considered a p99 mainly because of some of what I had heard. But after watching your videos it amazes me just how advanced and how innovative this firearm was and honestly still is! Amazing education on a great firearm
The slide finish is Tennifer. I remember checking out the SW99 back in the day and really liked it. Don't know why I never bought one. I suppose there was something else that I wanted more. I found a new production P99 in black on gun broker and bought it. Not a fan of the OD green. It gets delivered to my FFL today. Can't wait. Thanks for the video!
Wow, I really appreciate you for making this video. You did an amazing job on knowledge and presentation. The recently ending P99AS is my favorite Walther large frame, but I've always been a fan of them.
I've always had a great deal of affection for the P99. People don't understand how ergonomic that grip is. I'm keeping an eye out for a used 40 S&W copy for myself. Thanks for the great work you put into this video!
Great Video on a truly wonderful Pistol and you did it very very well!!! I bought an early version P99 around 1998 and it's been a stellar performer at the Range. It's still my favorite CCW. Looking forward to the Range Review and I expect your P99 to be a Tack Driver!
Great video! I’m looking forward to more reviews so I’m definitely subscribing! I just purchased a P99 I’m even more excited about getting this firearm!!
I’ve really been looking forward to this video! Time for some popcorn and iced tea! Feature length glory! And this old man doesn’t want the optic ready version! She’s a winner even without the optic ready dress! It’s time to polka!
I own an earlier (and bought used) Walther P99 both because it fixes a lot of my gripes about Glocks and because James Bond used it in the Brosnan era which is my favorite (and also used it in a ton of the Bond video games).
@@LeonWick526 Yup. Also Blood Stone, Goldeneye Reloaded, and even the godawful piece of shit 007 Legends. Hell, for all the Bond games after Goldeneye N64, the only one that still used the PPK as the primary gun was From Russia With Love. Even Nightfire had you start with the PPK, but after enough gold medals, you upgrade that to the P99 permanently. So I definitely spent a lot of my childhood staring at the P99, which is why I wanted one so much.
Good vid. I have always found the original P99 perhaps the most attractive handgun ever made, or certainly a top one (with competition being the Beretta 92FS, Colt 1911, and not many others in the runnings). The lines are so beautiful. The engineering and reliability were ahead of their time too. Excellent handguns. I own several P99s and love them.
The only real problem I’ve heard of with the p99 is the back strap deteriorating and essentially crumbling into pieces. There’s a few guys who had this problem over on the Walther forum and it’s not really known what caused it as most were stored away when it happened. It could be some chemical in the cleaning or lubricant they used or the actual material in the back strap, who knows. Seems these issues were from older p99’s so maybe Walther fixed it. I’ve had my p99 for about 2 years now and all has been well with it. Just thought I’d mention that back strap issue that has popped up a few times. Other than that the p99 is about as durable and reliable one can get in a compact 9mm.
I'd take a wild guess that those backstraps suffered some chemical corrosion somehow, more than human sweat I mean. Whenever I've had polymers degrade like that it's usually been too much UV light and/or some organic chemicals the plastics didn't like. Otherwise I'd say, squeaky wheel and all that.
Thanks hr this was the first handgun I tried to buy as a young man but it was out of my budget in early 20s. If I hadn’t blown the budget on a 1911 for the month. I’d buy it now. The trigger was special for the time.
I found out about the Final Edition P99 from you when the video first came out. So, I ordered and just picked one up. I inherited, from my older brother, a S&W 99 in 40. I liked the idea of the gun and like you, I like the historical significance of a firearm. I like adding this firearm to my collection. I love how your reviews are very informative and detailed. Keep up the great work.
Thank you Sir for your very informative presentation. Earlier today I stumbled into the fun store to burn some time. The guys know me too well, and handed me a p99 FE. Put that dude on layaway, and looking to pick it up later in the week. Have a p22q, and a 1942 p38. So naturally had to go for it. I’ve used some of the old school p99 AS at a rental range a few times and liked it.
I ordered one, i also own a sw99 and a early one with a satin stainless finish. Smith shared the finish technology with walther and finished the slides in exchange for a certain number of frames. This is why the sw99 was limited. Later they imported them for walther for a couple of years.
I have always liked the Walther P99 and the Final Edition is on my purchase list because I do like the DA/SA trigger, with a second strike option after the decocker has been pressed, the magazine release lever on the trigger guard and it's low bore axis. However the starting price, for a gun that has been in production for some time, is a little too steep at $800. That said, Walther does give you a very nice plastic case and the coin is a nice collectable ! I noticed you have the PPKs that was made in My State of Maine up in Holton ! I have one too and that trigger is very heavy in DA compared to the newer PPks versions. The SW99 is quite the collectable !!
Thank you. The heavy D/A trigger is characteristic of every PPK I’ve ever handled or shot. I think the mechanism is just too short to provide enough leverage for a lighter pull. Still, I love that PPK/s. It’s been completely reliable and it has a rich history of its own. Mine is one of the later S&W produced versions, and it’s a great little handgun.
Awesome video as usual! I own an older P99 in .40 S&W. It's a fantastic pistol! I love the SA/DA/DC and ambi-paddle mag release features on this striker-fired system. Excellent tactical setup.
@@hrfunk In my country, the central government decides for the whole country. A bit like the army in your country (like with the Sig M17/M18). I am happy with the choice my government has made
As you know, i was fortunate enough to get my hands on one last month and although im not a youtuber i was considering doing my own much deserved review on the P99 Final Edition because i wasnt seeing any. Im happy that now i dont have to because theres no way it would have had the quality and depth of your review. Well done Howard, im glad you finally got yours.
Thank you! I’ve been practicing this video in my imagination for about 8 months. I really wanted to do the P99 justice in the review. I wish I could have gotten my pistol sooner. There are a couple other reviews on YT. Thank you for watching mine.
@@hrfunk You gave the P99 the respect it deserved with this review. All your videos are great and I especially enjoy the Police Qualifications and seeing you run through them with different handguns, its truly entertaining, thank you.
I have the PDP Compact and PDP Pro which I like both of them. Also a P38. Had not intended on buying the P99 AS Final Edition until my local range guy handed me one to look at in the shop. Liked it and put down deposit since I was short on cash at that moment. Should pickup next week and looking forward to shooting it. Excellent review and history lesson. Thanks
Really nice review, hrfunk. Thank you. Learned a lot about the P99 that I didn't know, I only knew it as the predecessor to the PPQ (then PDP, as you said) and Canik's polymer pistols. Did not know it had the DA/SA aspect, and didn't know how big a deal that was historically. (I see CZ P07 and P09 and assume DA/SA polymer isn't so odd.) Every mention I see on the internet says, basically, "great pistol, great ergos, great shooter" in one way or another. The range review will be good!
Thanks for the discount code. Saved me some money when I got some night sights for the P99 final edition that I picked up today from optics planet. I can’t wait to go to the range.
I remember when the sw99 came out. Some neighboring agencies with lots of money bought them. We would always swing by and check them out during their range days. A neat operating system. And we have to wonder with some of the discharges with 320s and glocks if this system would have prevented them.
Thanks HR for a very thorough review of an underrated and unappreciated pistol. A local pawn shop near me has one and I may try to work out a deal . Appreciate your Channel and unbiased analysis.
Guten Morgen Herr Funk. Very thorough shop review. But now I have to wait until Saturday to see where the shots grouped in your short video.😂 I think it would look better if the backstrap matched the frame. Hope it does well for you at the range. Auf wiedersehen.
Danke John! I would liked to have included the range footage in this video, but the overall length would've been well over an hour. For that reason, I decided to make two separate videos. I hope you enjoy the range review on Saturday!
i have one in 9mm and a CAS in 40 and love the feel of both. Depends on the day which is in my holster. I HAD to have this final edition. "just because". Now I'm going to have to find one of these S&W variants just to have them all.
Good video. Always wanted a P99. My favorite handgun at this time is the HK P30 v3. I wish the P30 didn’t have that gloved hand trough. Good to see Walther got rid of that. Side note, you are the first person I have seen on video that used your middle finger to operate the paddle mag release. I use the middle finger also and thought I was just an oddity 😂
I enjoyed this very detailed video presentation. I also enjoyed the corporal chevrons in the background 🇺🇸. The first automatic pistol I ever fired (and the one I’m most familiar with) was issued to me in the Marines: Colt M1911-A1.
Great vid, educational, detailed! Like the long duration format and will never complain about that! Now......since you didn't go shooting, address the rust on that Smith's roll pins!!!!!
Ha, ha! That handgun endured 7 years of exposure to rain, snow, humidity; spilled coffee, beer, and other fluids; vomit, blood, and various other biological substances; mud, dirt, and road salt. I’m not feeling too bad about the roll pins. If I decide they bother me, I’ll replace them.
@@hrfunkhaa..... I used to look at the state wildlife officers Glocks in their holsters. Chipped plastic sights, rust. Some of them were so rusty the strikers were stuck. 25 years on the salty beach, my Sig was spotless. Many a time it rolled in the sand, got salt spray everyday.
I'm happy to own two of the Walther P99 Gen 1's in 9mm caliber of course and my first one I bought brand new 2001 I believe and it has the black frame and the stainless slide and my other one was bought off of gunbroker around 20teens brand new with the o.d. green military frame and the tennifer black slide was the name of finish you were searching for and these pistols are still near mint condition and are the only 9mm semi-auto pistols I own for once you find a pistol that fits your hand and shoots great you just don't buy anymore although I digress and have bought me a Smith & Wesson .22LR Compact and boy what a shooter it is as well and it is in the all Flat Dark Earth color and 10 rd. mags !!!! Oh great in-depth video on my one and only favorite 9mm pistol the Walther P99 !!!
The P99 was the very first full sized pistol I ever bought and it will never leave me. It is still my favorite today. My purchase had nothing to do with it being the new 007 gun at the time. Found out several years after purchasing.
I might be the only person on this earth that likes the Sigma pistol. In 1995 I bought my first gun and it was S&W SW40F, and still have it and love it. Also have the S&W SW99 very interesting pistol, I love the trigger reset on it.
Yes my HRFUNK. I enjoyed this video. I wish Smith & Wesson would have kept developing the SW99 with Walther. I think Walther faltered in advertising the P99 here in USA. Possibly had a conversation kit to make the magazine a more traditional version so you can have either or.
From what little bit I've been told, I get the feeling the relationship beteen S&W and Walther was somewhat disharmonious. It seems S&W, after the less than enthusiastic reception of their Sigma series, adopted the SW99 as a "stop gap" measure while they designed the M&P. Then, after only 5 or 6 years, they rather uncermoniously dumped the SW99 and devoted their marketing efforts to their newest pistol. The affiliation between the two companies lasted another few years. During that period, S&W continued to be the official importer for Walther firearms, and they manufactured the PPK and PPK/s pistols under license. Circa 2012, like bad marriage, the two companies parted ways. Neither one ever seems to make reference to their collaborative efforts. However, Walther did maintain S&W's upgrades to the PPK & PPK/s pistols when they started producing them again in their new factory here in the US.
I recently bought one. I went to gun store fully intending to buy an H K 9sk weĺl over 800 bucks. Left with the walther p99as.with 250 some odd dollars stiĺ in my wallet. Life is good.
Thanks HR for the history lesson and comprehensive video. You don't find the engraving on the slide "Final Edition" to be a little cheesy?? Just for the record I really like my blocky, chunky Walther full size PDP. All the best!
haha hell yeah HR you finally got one! i was the guy that got one when you talked about it at gun con or shot show? idk cant afford to go but i saw and commented on the day i got it still haven't shot her and now need 2 more one for my girl and one for the display case hope yu enjoyed it i sure am!
Thanks Josh! Not long after you told me about yours, I was notified that mine was in. I think part of the delay from Walther’s desire to complete the production run, and then ship all the Final Edition pistols at one time. Be sure to tune in Saturday for my range report on the P99.
Like the HK P7, it's sad about the P99 AS being discontinued. Those two pistols are the only two striker fired pistols I'd consider conceal carrying. Otherwise, only I'll only carry revolver or DA/SA pistol. These P99 Final Editions are still available, I better hurry and get one while I can. However, Walther is bringing the PP back in 32 acp, along with threaded barrel 32 acp PPK & PPKs. It looks like Walther will drain my bank account in 2025 😂
Your closing statment is right on. Im a glock nut from mid 90s yes i am a fan of the gl o ck trigger. I still liked the da/sa trigger in my beretta fs and the like.
comprehensive farewell for a great gun . for me it has been the most reliable and favourable striker-fire handgun even if there're many better looking striker-fire ones out there .
Howard, I enjoyed the "long form" review of this pistol. I owned the S&W version of this pistol maybe 20 years ago and liked it. What are your thoughts on the position of the decocking button?
Holy long video Batman! Thought I clicked on a Nutnfancy video for a sec lol jk. Good thing I’m a die hard Walther p99 fan and HR Funk is a solid reviewer. Love my p99, it’s one I carry occasionally but I have went to optics capable guns as of late so it doesn’t get the carry time it once did. The p99 is a top 3 compact 9mm of all time. In no particular order they are p99, glock 19, and sig p229.
Got one in .40 S&W before I really knew anything about diffrent pistol caliber sizes. Glad I was able to pick up the final edition in 9mm before they stop making them altogether
@hrfunk Also love your videos, I like how you go into detail on it's history and talk about other companies that are inspired to use the same ideas and implement it into their own firearms. I definitely added to my subscriptions. Great job
Just bought my p99AS this past Wednesday. Been wanting one for a good while. I went with 900 bucks with me because to be honest the H K9sk was really what I wanted was a gun with mag release at bottom of trigger guard. No other qualifications.. Make a long story short ,walther p99 felt better and heres a big one. 650 for the HK wanted very,very,vet close to 1000 dollars. No brainer.
Hopefully they're phasing it out to bring back a modernized version of the P5 or P88. Walther was among the most innovate firearm companies of the 20th century and it would be a shame if the PDP and PPK remained their only offerings.
I know this is late, but somebody might be able to help me out. I have a chance to get one of these, but I have a concern about support and aftermarket parts like Holsters, etc. If they're doing away with the series, is it worth getting one (I'm not a collector, I would be wanting it as a shooter… I really like the idea of the paddle mag release as a lefty lol)(I have avoided the PDP for that reason). Thoughts? And just as background, I have a couple of pistols that got discontinued, and it became a problem with them. They said they still support them, but pretty much anything has to go back to the factory to do it, so I'm trying to avoid that again if possible.
This has the paddle style magazine release. Both of my Canik pistols (SFX Rival and METE SF) have push button style releases. The magazines are not interchangeable with the P99. I don't have any of the older Caniks to test.
ALWAYS WANTED ONE. JUST ORDERED A FINAL EDITION ONE. TRIED TO BUY A NON FINAL EDITION ONE BUT THEY WERE MORE MONEY THAN THE FINAL EDITION ONE I FOUND A GOOD PRICE ON (669). LIKE THE COLOR. COULD HAVE DONE WITHOUT THE ENGRAVING OF FINAL EDITION ON THE SLIDE . ITS KINDA LIKE THE GRIP-ZONE. THE COLOR WAS ENOUGH TO MAKE IT A FINAL ISSUE. BUT STILL HAPPY TO GET IT.
I agree; Walthers tend to be rather under-appreciates. I own a CCP-M2; it’s my frequently carried mini-compact 9mm. I really like it: superb ergonomics, 8+1 (which is plenty for me) capacity, a 3.54 inch barrel (somewhat longer sighting plane and increased muzzle velocity), and a fixed barrel / blowback design (really good accuracy with reduced recoil). It is a little larger than the approximately three inch barrel minis-9’s, BUT not that much.
Considerable amount of effort and knowledge packed into one video. Thanks HR Funk and Team
You are most welcome. Thanks for watching!
I’ve always liked that pistol. I liked the idea of it being a collaboration between Smith and Walther. Two names I respect.
That was the SW99… walther lower, S&W slide assembly
@@p99guy Yessir!
I love this pistol and own one. It's one of my favorites. It's honestly a shame it's being discontinued. Great video as always.
Also, as a German American I really appreciate you pronouncing Walther correctly. 🇩🇪🇺🇸
Thanks Dave. I don’t speak German, but I try to at least get the name right.
@@hrfunk ja
Ja
?
I'm not of German descent (although my wife is German-Canadian) and I also applaud H.R. for pronouncing it correctly! it's painful to hear how it often gets pronounced incorrectly.
Walther P99 was really ahead of its time. Never got one myself but I've eyed it up a few times over the years.
I've got 2 Worth the cost!
It’s kind of sad that this fine pistol never really got it due. Great video as always Howard.
Thanks Ben!
It was featured in the hands of James Bond. Pretty significant praise right there
Canik thought it was good enough to rip off.
That’s the most in-depth review of the p99, very interesting and informative, can’t wait to see how it performs at the range.
Thank you! The Range Report will be up on Saturday.
Agreed - great video, H.R. and I learned some things about the P99 that I didn't already know. Such a great, forward-thinking design that still works quite well today. I recently picked up a Final Edition, and love it so much that I'm on the hunt for one of the standard AS models as well.
I really like paddle releases because it's easy to release with the middle finger.
For a time I would also swap my magazine releases so I could do that normally.
I like it too. It seems as though most shooters who used it enough to become familiar with that style of mag release prefer it to a button type.
You are the only content provider on TH-cam who pronounces "Walther" properly. Thank you for showing respect for the company name, by not butchering it.
You’re welcome. I try to get names correct. Thanks for watching!
THANK YOU, Howard; this is among your very best video, and I truly approximate your effort and expertise. I particularly liked this TH-cam because I learned so much. The P99 - based on Walther’s very estimable heritage of design innovations and quality - really is a unique, ingenious and VERY intelligent design. I wish I had understood all this long ago (and I am truly embarrassed that I did not).
I really like traditional DA / SA designs, for a number of reasons that are important to me (hammer fired sidearms’ crisp SA trigger, their longer and safer DA trigger pull, the ability to “ride” the hammer when re-holstering, and - in most cases - the feel, weight and reliability, durability and accuracy of an all metal autoloader. The CZ 75 series, the Sig P220/P226 series, and the H&K USP series are the semiautomatics that I keep returning to for Winter concealed carry and for year around home defense. As a side note, the Walter CCP-M2 and the 4.25 inch barrel Smith M&P 1.0 “police model” are my smaller, moire concealable 9x19mm defensive firearms.
Okay, what I find - thanks to you - so unique and desirable about the P99’s design is, essentially Walther has achieved most of the key advantages of a traditional DA/SA autoloader in a polymer framed, striker fired semiautomatic. The design allows a light and crisp first round trigger break, without a hammer, and (between the cocked and the loaded chamber indicators) it makes re-holstering safer than it is for many striker fired weapons.
To summarize, this is a great review of a great autoloader (with a wonderfully innovative design).
Thanks Roy! I've been a fan of these pistols for years. When my department switched from the SW99 to the M&P in 2007, I was not at all sure In would like the new pistols as well as I did my SW99. Ultimately, I did and didn't like the the M&P more. As an instructor, the M&P simplified my life because I no longer had to try to train (often apathetic) officers to use the Walther trigger system. Nor, did I have to watch them throw their first D/A shots (because they never trained enough to master it). The M&P is a great handgun, and over the years I learned to appreciate it a lot. Even so, in the back of my mind, I always missed that S/A Walther trigger. In Saturday's video, you'll get a chance to see the capabilities of the P99 demonstrated. It's been quite a few years since I carried/trained with the SW99, but I don't think my shooting will dretract too much from the pistol's performance.
@@hrfunk
You know, my friend, a lot of people believe that change axiomatically implies beneficial progress. I believe that’s false. Are striker / polymer autoloaders better than the P-35, 1911A1, double action revolvers, traditional DA/SA’s, and so forth? Yes, in some ways they are, but not in every way. Which (imho) brings us to the likely use and, therefore, to the attributes most important for that specific mission. To illustrate this, an elderly, untrained and not-firearms-knowledgeable individuals will (imho) probably be better served with an archaic .38 +P DA revolver )perhaps a M19) on the nightstand, than with the “latest and greatest” semiautomatic design. Conversely, the Deputy patrolling a long, isolated and scarcely used stretch of I-85 in Southern Georgia probably needs a 17+1, light and ergonomic, night sight equipped, extra mags at-hand design, 9mm design to deal with druggies.
A true classic that will always be loved and appreciated by aficionados!
Great video sir.
My first firearm that I purchased was the P99 back in 01. I only wished that it was a 9mm and not 40. I am happy to report as of yesterday that one desire has been fulfilled when I picked up the final edition. I did not think I was going to be able to find one, or for sale at some unreasonable price.
Congratulations! I hope you like yours as much as I do mine. Thanks for watching!
I have an FE in 9. and a compact in 40. I am a 40 fan.
I just found a new in box P99AS at my local gun shop for a steal. These are only going to skyrocket in price since they’re no longer manufactured. Great little concealed carry guns.
Absolutely. Let me know what you think of it when you get a chance to shoot it.
Seeing the P99 is cool, but your presentation of the development from the PP series forward answers a lot of questions for me. Thanks
You’re welcome. Thanks for watching!
A well made video tribute to not only the P99 but also to Walther itself. It has increased my appreciation for the P99 and the Walther brand. Very much copied which is a testament to the quality and the design of their products. I appreciate you taking the time and effort to make this video. I would think Walther would appreciate it as well.
Thank you Ray. I'm glad you liked it!
@@hrfunk You’re very welcome.
Never really considered a p99 mainly because of some of what I had heard. But after watching your videos it amazes me just how advanced and how innovative this firearm was and honestly still is! Amazing education on a great firearm
Thank you!
What did did you hear?
The slide finish is Tennifer. I remember checking out the SW99 back in the day and really liked it. Don't know why I never bought one. I suppose there was something else that I wanted more. I found a new production P99 in black on gun broker and bought it. Not a fan of the OD green. It gets delivered to my FFL today. Can't wait. Thanks for the video!
I hope you like it when it arrives! Thanks for watching!
Just got the final edition making this my third P99. Ive owned an SW99 in .40 and a Black P99 in 9mm. Love these pistols.
Wow, I really appreciate you for making this video. You did an amazing job on knowledge and presentation. The recently ending P99AS is my favorite Walther large frame, but I've always been a fan of them.
I've always had a great deal of affection for the P99. People don't understand how ergonomic that grip is. I'm keeping an eye out for a used 40 S&W copy for myself. Thanks for the great work you put into this video!
My pleasure. Thanks for watching!
Great Video on a truly wonderful Pistol and you did it very very well!!!
I bought an early version P99 around 1998 and it's been a stellar performer at the Range. It's still my favorite CCW.
Looking forward to the Range Review and I expect your P99 to be a Tack Driver!
Great video! I’m looking forward to more reviews so I’m definitely subscribing! I just purchased a P99 I’m even more excited about getting this firearm!!
Thanks for the sub and welcome aboard! I love my P99, I hope you feel the same way about yours.
I’ve really been looking forward to this video! Time for some popcorn and iced tea! Feature length glory! And this old man doesn’t want the optic ready version! She’s a winner even without the optic ready dress! It’s time to polka!
I own an earlier (and bought used) Walther P99 both because it fixes a lot of my gripes about Glocks and because James Bond used it in the Brosnan era which is my favorite (and also used it in a ton of the Bond video games).
The P99 AS was Bond's main sidearm in the video game Quantum of Solace.
@@LeonWick526 Yup. Also Blood Stone, Goldeneye Reloaded, and even the godawful piece of shit 007 Legends. Hell, for all the Bond games after Goldeneye N64, the only one that still used the PPK as the primary gun was From Russia With Love. Even Nightfire had you start with the PPK, but after enough gold medals, you upgrade that to the P99 permanently.
So I definitely spent a lot of my childhood staring at the P99, which is why I wanted one so much.
@@gameragodzilla The P99 AS was only in QoS. The other games featured the regular P99.
@@LeonWick526 Eh, Gen 1 vs. Gen 2 is more pedantic than I usually care about.
Mine is a dead eye runner. Fine platform, excellent quality.
Good vid. I have always found the original P99 perhaps the most attractive handgun ever made, or certainly a top one (with competition being the Beretta 92FS, Colt 1911, and not many others in the runnings). The lines are so beautiful. The engineering and reliability were ahead of their time too. Excellent handguns. I own several P99s and love them.
The only real problem I’ve heard of with the p99 is the back strap deteriorating and essentially crumbling into pieces. There’s a few guys who had this problem over on the Walther forum and it’s not really known what caused it as most were stored away when it happened. It could be some chemical in the cleaning or lubricant they used or the actual material in the back strap, who knows. Seems these issues were from older p99’s so maybe Walther fixed it. I’ve had my p99 for about 2 years now and all has been well with it. Just thought I’d mention that back strap issue that has popped up a few times. Other than that the p99 is about as durable and reliable one can get in a compact 9mm.
Maybe. As you saw, the 23 year old back-strap on my SW99 is in good shape.
I'd take a wild guess that those backstraps suffered some chemical corrosion somehow, more than human sweat I mean. Whenever I've had polymers degrade like that it's usually been too much UV light and/or some organic chemicals the plastics didn't like. Otherwise I'd say, squeaky wheel and all that.
I just took a look at the gun at my LGS. Very nice. I may pick one up as a collector item
Thanks hr this was the first handgun I tried to buy as a young man but it was out of my budget in early 20s. If I hadn’t blown the budget on a 1911 for the month. I’d buy it now. The trigger was special for the time.
I found out about the Final Edition P99 from you when the video first came out. So, I ordered and just picked one up. I inherited, from my older brother, a S&W 99 in 40. I liked the idea of the gun and like you, I like the historical significance of a firearm. I like adding this firearm to my collection. I love how your reviews are very informative and detailed. Keep up the great work.
Will do. Thanks for watching!
Thank you Sir for your very informative presentation. Earlier today I stumbled into the fun store to burn some time. The guys know me too well, and handed me a p99 FE. Put that dude on layaway, and looking to pick it up later in the week. Have a p22q, and a 1942 p38. So naturally had to go for it. I’ve used some of the old school p99 AS at a rental range a few times and liked it.
Excellent presentation!
Best to ya',,,,!
Thank you Walter!
I ordered one, i also own a sw99 and a early one with a satin stainless finish. Smith shared the finish technology with walther and finished the slides in exchange for a certain number of frames. This is why the sw99 was limited. Later they imported them for walther for a couple of years.
Bought P99 FE while watching your video..:) Thanks!
You’re welcome! I love mine. Please let me k ow what you think of yours.
I have always liked the Walther P99 and the Final Edition is on my purchase list because I do like the DA/SA trigger, with a second strike option after the decocker has been pressed, the magazine release lever on the trigger guard and it's low bore axis. However the starting price, for a gun that has been in production for some time, is a little too steep at $800. That said, Walther does give you a very nice plastic case and the coin is a nice collectable ! I noticed you have the PPKs that was made in My State of Maine up in Holton ! I have one too and that trigger is very heavy in DA compared to the newer PPks versions. The SW99 is quite the collectable !!
Thank you. The heavy D/A trigger is characteristic of every PPK I’ve ever handled or shot. I think the mechanism is just too short to provide enough leverage for a lighter pull. Still, I love that PPK/s. It’s been completely reliable and it has a rich history of its own. Mine is one of the later S&W produced versions, and it’s a great little handgun.
@@hrfunk ...Yes, I have the same PPK/s version too.
Awesome video as usual! I own an older P99 in .40 S&W. It's a fantastic pistol! I love the SA/DA/DC and ambi-paddle mag release features on this striker-fired system. Excellent tactical setup.
This gun was ahead of its time, and sadly the U.S. may never catch up with this excellent pistol.
46:40 46:42 I enjoyed your review. I just purchased the Walther P99 AS Final Edition. Looking forward to going to the range with it!
Congratulations. I hope you like yours as much as I do mine.
Excellent video Sir! Following along with your presentation allowed me to visualize what's happening with the trigger action. NOW I understand it.
Received mine yesterday. Conceal Carried the Gen1 P99AS Titanium Coated Slide version for 20 years.
I hope you like it as much as I like mine!
The Walther P99Q still is my duty pistol
Interesting. Is it a department issue firearm, or did you have to purchase it on your own?
@@hrfunk In my country, the central government decides for the whole country. A bit like the army in your country (like with the Sig M17/M18). I am happy with the choice my government has made
@@borderline7781 They chose a very good pistol for you. May I ask what country you are in?
As you know, i was fortunate enough to get my hands on one last month and although im not a youtuber i was considering doing my own much deserved review on the P99 Final Edition because i wasnt seeing any. Im happy that now i dont have to because theres no way it would have had the quality and depth of your review. Well done Howard, im glad you finally got yours.
Thank you! I’ve been practicing this video in my imagination for about 8 months. I really wanted to do the P99 justice in the review. I wish I could have gotten my pistol sooner. There are a couple other reviews on YT. Thank you for watching mine.
@@hrfunk You gave the P99 the respect it deserved with this review. All your videos are great and I especially enjoy the Police Qualifications and seeing you run through them with different handguns, its truly entertaining, thank you.
I have the PDP Compact and PDP Pro which I like both of them. Also a P38. Had not intended on buying the P99 AS Final Edition until my local range guy handed me one to look at in the shop. Liked it and put down deposit since I was short on cash at that moment. Should pickup next week and looking forward to shooting it. Excellent review and history lesson. Thanks
Really nice review, hrfunk. Thank you. Learned a lot about the P99 that I didn't know, I only knew it as the predecessor to the PPQ (then PDP, as you said) and Canik's polymer pistols. Did not know it had the DA/SA aspect, and didn't know how big a deal that was historically. (I see CZ P07 and P09 and assume DA/SA polymer isn't so odd.)
Every mention I see on the internet says, basically, "great pistol, great ergos, great shooter" in one way or another. The range review will be good!
Stay tuned Sean. The Range Report will be up on Saturday.
Very very informative and interesting. I'm anxious to see the range review.
Stay tuned. It will be up on Saturday!
Definitely learned some things from this one. Thanks, HR.
I'm glad. Thanks for watching!
Thanks for the discount code. Saved me some money when I got some night sights for the P99 final edition that I picked up today from optics planet. I can’t wait to go to the range.
Outstanding! I hope they work very well for you.
Used your discount code for my Glock 19X gold trigger, saved me a couple of bucks again from optics planet. Thanks again.
I remember when the sw99 came out. Some neighboring agencies with lots of money bought them. We would always swing by and check them out during their range days. A neat operating system. And we have to wonder with some of the discharges with 320s and glocks if this system would have prevented them.
Good question. It’s hard to answer because so much depends upon the operator.
P38 instrumental to handgun manufacture for a long long time.
Thanks HR for a very thorough review of an underrated and unappreciated pistol. A local pawn shop near me has one and I may try to work out a deal . Appreciate your Channel and unbiased analysis.
You’re welcome. I’m glad it was helpful.
Guten Morgen Herr Funk. Very thorough shop review. But now I have to wait until Saturday to see where the shots grouped in your short video.😂 I think it would look better if the backstrap matched the frame. Hope it does well for you at the range. Auf wiedersehen.
Danke John! I would liked to have included the range footage in this video, but the overall length would've been well over an hour. For that reason, I decided to make two separate videos. I hope you enjoy the range review on Saturday!
@@hrfunk Bitte HR. When I put in the smiley it's my attempt at humor, not being critical.
The double-action-only version was originally the P990, later renamed to the P99 DAO.
That sounds right.
Grip shape is what I like and great looker.
Very interesting shop review. Looking forward to the range session.
i have one in 9mm and a CAS in 40 and love the feel of both. Depends on the day which is in my holster. I HAD to have this final edition. "just because". Now I'm going to have to find one of these S&W variants just to have them all.
I had one of the SW99 compacts. Like a moron, I traded it some years ago. There weren’t a lot of them made, and now I kick myself for letting it go.
Good video. Always wanted a P99. My favorite handgun at this time is the HK P30 v3. I wish the P30 didn’t have that gloved hand trough. Good to see Walther got rid of that. Side note, you are the first person I have seen on video that used your middle finger to operate the paddle mag release. I use the middle finger also and thought I was just an oddity 😂
The fact that I do it probably confirms your “oddity” status. Even so, that just seems like the most natural way to do it.
Outstanding video HR! Great history of the evolution of this fine firearm. Thanks
Thanks Dan!
I enjoyed this very detailed video presentation. I also enjoyed the corporal chevrons in the background 🇺🇸. The first automatic pistol I ever fired (and the one I’m most familiar with) was issued to me in the Marines: Colt M1911-A1.
Semper Fi!
I never knew how a Walther P99 trigger worked. I thought it was like a Glock trigger or something similar. Very nice video.
Thank you!
Great vid, educational, detailed! Like the long duration format and will never complain about that! Now......since you didn't go shooting, address the rust on that Smith's roll pins!!!!!
Ha, ha! That handgun endured 7 years of exposure to rain, snow, humidity; spilled coffee, beer, and other fluids; vomit, blood, and various other biological substances; mud, dirt, and road salt. I’m not feeling too bad about the roll pins. If I decide they bother me, I’ll replace them.
@@hrfunkhaa..... I used to look at the state wildlife officers Glocks in their holsters. Chipped plastic sights, rust. Some of them were so rusty the strikers were stuck. 25 years on the salty beach, my Sig was spotless. Many a time it rolled in the sand, got salt spray everyday.
I'm happy to own two of the Walther P99 Gen 1's in 9mm caliber of course and my first one I bought brand new 2001 I believe and it has the black frame and the stainless slide and my other one was bought off of gunbroker around 20teens brand new with the o.d. green military frame and the tennifer black slide was the name of finish you were searching for and these pistols are still near mint condition and are the only 9mm semi-auto pistols I own for once you find a pistol that fits your hand and shoots great you just don't buy anymore although I digress and have bought me a Smith & Wesson .22LR Compact and boy what a shooter it is as well and it is in the all Flat Dark Earth color and 10 rd. mags !!!! Oh great in-depth video on my one and only favorite 9mm pistol the Walther P99 !!!
Thanks! I keep thinking about getting a Walther .22 to compliment my P99. They’re fairly inexpensive, and I’m curious to see how they shoot.
Finally a reviewer who doesn't over-Anglicize the pronunciation of Walther.
Agreed. I don't know why so many insist on calling it "Wal-TH-er" - it sounds ridiculous.
Great Presentation! My semiautomatics are all DA/SA now, although I mostly carry my 2.5” S&W 686+ nowadays. 👍💥👍💥👍
The P99 was the very first full sized pistol I ever bought and it will never leave me. It is still my favorite today. My purchase had nothing to do with it being the new 007 gun at the time. Found out several years after purchasing.
Someone at MI 5 selected a very good handgun for Mr. Bond.
I might be the only person on this earth that likes the Sigma pistol. In 1995 I bought my first gun and it was S&W SW40F, and still have it and love it. Also have the S&W SW99 very interesting pistol, I love the trigger reset on it.
Black looks much better imho
I’ve always liked two-tone pistols, but I know not everyone does.
Yes my HRFUNK. I enjoyed this video. I wish Smith & Wesson would have kept developing the SW99 with Walther. I think Walther faltered in advertising the P99 here in USA. Possibly had a conversation kit to make the magazine a more traditional version so you can have either or.
From what little bit I've been told, I get the feeling the relationship beteen S&W and Walther was somewhat disharmonious. It seems S&W, after the less than enthusiastic reception of their Sigma series, adopted the SW99 as a "stop gap" measure while they designed the M&P. Then, after only 5 or 6 years, they rather uncermoniously dumped the SW99 and devoted their marketing efforts to their newest pistol. The affiliation between the two companies lasted another few years. During that period, S&W continued to be the official importer for Walther firearms, and they manufactured the PPK and PPK/s pistols under license. Circa 2012, like bad marriage, the two companies parted ways. Neither one ever seems to make reference to their collaborative efforts. However, Walther did maintain S&W's upgrades to the PPK & PPK/s pistols when they started producing them again in their new factory here in the US.
I want one. Excellent review.
Thank you!
What an enjoyable review. Love the p99, I'll probably still get one
Thanks for all your work
You are most welcome. Thanks for watching.
I recently bought one. I went to gun store fully intending to buy an H K 9sk weĺl over 800 bucks. Left with the walther p99as.with 250 some odd dollars stiĺ in my wallet. Life is good.
Very good review! I received a Final Edition after 6 Months. Very glad to have one.
Me too. Thanks for watching!
Think the exposed striker indicator would cause any issues in nasty dirty environments?
I really don’t.
That was an amazing breakdown on an amazing firearm!
Thank you!
Thanks HR for the history lesson and comprehensive video. You don't find the engraving on the slide "Final Edition" to be a little cheesy?? Just for the record I really like my blocky, chunky Walther full size PDP. All the best!
I actually like the “Final Edition” engraving. I hope your PDP serves you well for many years to come.
haha hell yeah HR you finally got one! i was the guy that got one when you talked about it at gun con or shot show? idk cant afford to go but i saw and commented on the day i got it still haven't shot her and now need 2 more one for my girl and one for the display case hope yu enjoyed it i sure am!
Thanks Josh! Not long after you told me about yours, I was notified that mine was in. I think part of the delay from Walther’s desire to complete the production run, and then ship all the Final Edition pistols at one time. Be sure to tune in Saturday for my range report on the P99.
@@hrfunk thats awesome worth tha wait definitely, and for sure man ill be there 👍🏼
Like the HK P7, it's sad about the P99 AS being discontinued. Those two pistols are the only two striker fired pistols I'd consider conceal carrying. Otherwise, only I'll only carry revolver or DA/SA pistol.
These P99 Final Editions are still available, I better hurry and get one while I can.
However, Walther is bringing the PP back in 32 acp, along with threaded barrel 32 acp PPK & PPKs. It looks like Walther will drain my bank account in 2025 😂
Sorry I missed the debut. It is a more interesting pistol than I ever suspected.
Excellent discussion on the features of the gun, trigger and gun's history. Enjoyable.
Thank you!
Your closing statment is right on. Im a glock nut from mid 90s yes i am a fan of the gl o ck trigger. I still liked the da/sa trigger in my beretta fs and the like.
comprehensive farewell for a great gun .
for me it has been the most reliable and favourable striker-fire handgun even if there're many better looking striker-fire ones out there .
Howard, I enjoyed the "long form" review of this pistol. I owned the S&W version of this pistol maybe 20 years ago and liked it. What are your thoughts on the position of the decocking button?
That position always worked well for me. I actuated it with the thumb of my shooting hand, the same as I did when de-cocking a,3rd Gen.
Fantastic, thorough review. Thank you for the great content.
Thank you!
Great video! Can't wait for the firing line review.
It will be up on Saturday. Thanks for watching!
👍👍Thanks for the history behind the pistol…….I learned a lot today.
I’m so glad you did. Thanks for watching!
Good morning, HRFUNK and family. Happy Friday to you and your wife there. 😎🤘🇺🇸🍻
Thanks Jim. Same to you!
Very smart design…
Holy long video Batman! Thought I clicked on a Nutnfancy video for a sec lol jk. Good thing I’m a die hard Walther p99 fan and HR Funk is a solid reviewer. Love my p99, it’s one I carry occasionally but I have went to optics capable guns as of late so it doesn’t get the carry time it once did. The p99 is a top 3 compact 9mm of all time. In no particular order they are p99, glock 19, and sig p229.
That’s a stellar trio.
Got one in .40 S&W before I really knew anything about diffrent pistol caliber sizes. Glad I was able to pick up the final edition in 9mm before they stop making them altogether
I’m glad you found a final edition. I hope you like yours as much as I do mine. Thanks for watching!
@hrfunk Also love your videos, I like how you go into detail on it's history and talk about other companies that are inspired to use the same ideas and implement it into their own firearms. I definitely added to my subscriptions. Great job
Thank you, and welcome aboard!
This will be a classic for sure, prices are gonna balloon once they stop making em.
Thanks. I think so too.
Awesome video! Thanks for the great info!
You’re welcome. Thanks for watching!
Just bought my p99AS this past Wednesday. Been wanting one for a good while. I went with 900 bucks with me because to be honest the H K9sk was really what I wanted was a gun with mag release at bottom of trigger guard. No other qualifications..
Make a long story short ,walther p99 felt better and heres a big one. 650 for the HK wanted very,very,vet close to 1000 dollars. No brainer.
650 p99 ,almost 1000 for the HK.
I hope you like it as much as I like mine. Thanks for watching.
Another , 👏 OUTSTANDING 👏 review video, HRFUNK.
Thank you James!
I like a SA/DA pistol with a de-cocker. My Sig 239 has that feature.
Looks like the HK borrowed from the slide design for the VP9.
Hopefully they're phasing it out to bring back a modernized version of the P5 or P88. Walther was among the most innovate firearm companies of the 20th century and it would be a shame if the PDP and PPK remained their only offerings.
What's your opinion of the German made Walther P99 in 40 S&W? Any know problems?
No. I have a SW99 in 40 S&W (which is essentially the same pistol) and it has been a great handgun.
Thank you. I have a P99 9mm and recently located an early 1998 P99 40 S&W I was thinking of buying.
Nice pistol. The closest thing I own to it is the CO2 CP99 pellet pistol.
I do have a PPK/S .380 though.🤠
I know this is late, but somebody might be able to help me out. I have a chance to get one of these, but I have a concern about support and aftermarket parts like Holsters, etc. If they're doing away with the series, is it worth getting one (I'm not a collector, I would be wanting it as a shooter… I really like the idea of the paddle mag release as a lefty lol)(I have avoided the PDP for that reason). Thoughts? And just as background, I have a couple of pistols that got discontinued, and it became a problem with them. They said they still support them, but pretty much anything has to go back to the factory to do it, so I'm trying to avoid that again if possible.
The P99 has been in production for over 25 years. I think you will have no trouble finding holsters, parts, and support gear for a long time to come.
Canik mags work in the Walther ppq and I’m sure in this pistol so you can have 18 rds.
This has the paddle style magazine release. Both of my Canik pistols (SFX Rival and METE SF) have push button style releases. The magazines are not interchangeable with the P99. I don't have any of the older Caniks to test.
@@hrfunk Thanks for the correction. Never gave the paddle release any consideration.
ALWAYS WANTED ONE. JUST ORDERED A FINAL EDITION ONE. TRIED TO BUY A NON FINAL EDITION ONE BUT THEY WERE MORE MONEY THAN THE FINAL EDITION ONE I FOUND A GOOD PRICE ON (669). LIKE THE COLOR. COULD HAVE DONE WITHOUT THE ENGRAVING OF FINAL EDITION ON THE SLIDE . ITS KINDA LIKE THE GRIP-ZONE. THE COLOR WAS ENOUGH TO MAKE IT A FINAL ISSUE. BUT STILL HAPPY TO GET IT.
Good for you! I hope you end up liking yours as much as I like mine.
IM SURE I WILL!! THANKS FOR THE GREAT VIDEOS!!! @@hrfunk
I have a PPS M2. It’s better than a Glawk 43 and half the price. For some reason Walthers never caught on.
I’ll discuss that topic too.
I agree; Walthers tend to be rather under-appreciates. I own a CCP-M2; it’s my frequently carried mini-compact 9mm. I really like it: superb ergonomics, 8+1 (which is plenty for me) capacity, a 3.54 inch barrel (somewhat longer sighting plane and increased muzzle velocity), and a fixed barrel / blowback design (really good accuracy with reduced recoil). It is a little larger than the approximately three inch barrel minis-9’s, BUT not that much.