Wather p99/990 differences? Problems?

[J.P.]

I'm thinking about picking up a Walther but I'm not sure about the differences in the triggers.
I have only shot a standard P99.
Then there is P990 and P99QA.
Please explain the differences in detail if you would.

Also,are there any problems common to the Walther "P" series that I should be aware of? Bad firing pin,mag release..etc?
Thanks.

[RyanSBHF]

- The P990 is a double action only design that, IIRC, Walther doesn't make anymore. They have a P99 DAO that replaced it, but I'm not sure it's ever been imported here in the U.S.

- The P99QA has a partially pre-coked striker, similar to a Glock trigger. The trigger weight is around 8 lbs. Unlike the standard P99, it doesn't have double strike capability.

- The only serious problem the P99's have had involve the .40 caliber models. Early magazines (w/ orange followers) have had cases of premature slide lock back. I've also hard stories of .40 magazines breaking.

Hope this helps.

[J.P.]

Thanks for the reply.
Looking at the trigger chart,there are 4 types of pull...
P99:
DA,SA,and precocked SA (I am familliar with this model)
P990: DAO
P99QA: light DAO
What is the button on top of the slide of the P99QA?
Not a decocker is it?
If so...how?
Thanks.

[Navy87Guy]

Originally posted by J.P.
What is the button on top of the slide of the P99QA?
Not a decocker is it?
If so...how?
Thanks.

Yes, that is a decocker on the top of the slide. It's designed for maintenance only on the QA model. If you load the gun, then decock it, it will not fire unless you cycle the slide again to cock the striker. It doesn't take much -- only 1/16 to 1/8 of an inch of slide movement. But it does set up the possibility that you can have a loaded pistol that won't go "BANG" when you pull the trigger. I've never heard of anyone accidentally decocking a QA -- notice the decocker is smaller than on the AS model, which is designed to be carried decocked and ready for DA firing.

That chart on the Walther site is the best way to understand the different trigger pulls. Note that the QA is a constant 6.5 lbs -- pretty close to the 5.5 lbs on a Glock. Personally, I like my AS trigger. I have a Glock 17, so I'm familiar with the constant-pull, but it doesn't seem to make me any more accurate. Other people swear by it and report marked improvements in accuracy. I think the only way to be sure is to try them out for yourself.

Walther America (aka S&W) is supposed to stop importing the AS models this year. They want to focus on the QA (which, coincidentally S&W is making, too). Walther is still making them, but they'll probably only be available through Earl's -- which means a ridiculous price. The AS is already getting hard to find and the going price (at least here in my area) is right at $600. I've seen them advertised online for less, but none of those wholesalers could actually produce a gun when I wanted to buy one! The QAs should be in plentiful supply for the forseeable future.

Hope this helps.
Jim

[J.P.]

Interesting.
thanks for the info.

[Mnukedude]

If it has already been said, forgive me (night shift- I'm tired) but which of these mimics the Glock trigger with a 5lb connector and NY1 trigger spring the closest?

It seems like the P-990 mimics Glock's travel distance, but is heavier, and the P-99QA mimics the pul weight, but is markedly shorter before discharge. Does the latter seem so short that the weapon discharges too quickly? (Yes I know rule number three, but I like for it to register for a second that the finger is ON the trigger by having a little takeup before firing)

[Mnukedude]

;d need an answer guys, preferably based on experience:)