Walther Model 9

The Walther Model 9 was a semi-automatic pistol produced by Carl Walther GmbH and chambered in .25 ACP.

Walther Model 9
A Walther Model 9 pistol with a loaded magazine and a 2 Euro coin
TypeSemi-automatic pistol
Place of originGermany
Production history
Designed1921[1]
ManufacturerCarl Walther GmbH
Produced1921-1945[1]
No. builtappx. 200,000
Specifications
Mass9.2 oz (260 g)[1]
Length3.9 in (9.9 cm)[1]
Barrel length2 in (5.1 cm)[1]
Width0.669291 in (1.70000 cm)[1]
Height2.75591 in (7.0000 cm)[1]
Cartridge.25 ACP[1]
Caliber.25 (6.35 mm)
ActionBlowback-operated semi-automatic
Feed system6-round magazine
Sightsfixed

History

The decision to use a striker vs. that of an internal hammer like on the Walther Model 8 was to reduce overall size of the gun, but sacrificed reliability. If the striker spring is compressed for extended periods of time it can weaken and not have enough force to ignite the primer causing a miss-fire.[2] This can be avoided by not keeping the pistol cocked when not in use. It has a 6-round detachable box magazine. The Model 9 is similar in size and function to the Baby Browning pistol which is only slightly larger. The Browning is also chambered in the .25 ACP cartridge.

During World War II, thousands of the model 9 pistols were delivered to the Wehrmacht and it was seen used in 1944. According to general Wilhelm Burgdorf, chief of staff of the OKH Hans Krebs purchased this pistol as his sidearm due to its small size and it was one of the favourite small pistols to the nazi party officials and several high-ranking generals and officers.

References
  1. Peterson, Philip. Gun Digest Book of Modern Gun Values: The Shooter's Guide to Guns 1900 to Present (16th ed.). p. 258.
  2. "Walther Model 9".


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