Walther P990 and rivals

[rubijeep]

Im looking into buying a new 4" lightweight high capacity medium size duty gun after the first of the year and have it narrowed to a few options. I would like some of your opinions please.

First is the Walther P990. I like the DAO mechanism as its the same all the time. Is the DA shot on them long and creepy or short and heavy? Also, I noticed that the gun is capable of high cap mags, but Walther doesnt supply them factory? Are the hi caps readily available? (Im looking at the .40 by the way)

I like the interchangeable backstraps and front sights so I can customize to my hand and shooting habits.

Second is the Springfield XD40 Service. I like the size and the fact that Springfield is shipping them with Hi caps, but dont like that the slide is not as rustproof as Tenifer finish on Walther and Glock. I also dont like that there is no provision for backstrap interchangeability. (The one in the gun store seemed to point a little high for me)

Third is the Springfield Champion GI mil spec lightweight .45. Im trying to get away from 1911s because of the weight, and price. Although the Champion is priced similar to the others, I would have to do some customizing(especially those tiny sights) to get it where I want it, so price jumps about $200 on top of original price. Plus the GI is parkerized and I want something that can stand the abuse of everyday carry and use, Stainless is ok, but again that raises price.

Again any opinions are welcome and I would like to hear from some owners of the Walther and Springfield XD.

[GLD1980]

Well, I know they did make the P990 but know its basically been replaced by the P99QA. This is the model I think your refering to. Its is marketed by Walther as there L.E model. It is a single action pistol with a partially pre-cocked striker,(striker fully cocked and pistol fired upon trigger pull). The trigger travels approximately .31" with trigger force of 8lbs. A short pull with a quick reset allows quick shot delivery. In the 40S&W the high cap mag is a 12rd'er, 2 come with purchase. I am still searching for Higher-caps for my P99QA 40S&W! It was introduced in 1994 and manufactured in 1996 and there are a couple different models,( QA,AS,DAO,)being some of the main models evolved into through this pistols history. The pistols are currently in service in German, Canadian, and also Ireland Law Enforcement. Here in the States, testing, and issuing has began in some Police agencies with Im sure more to follow. The future of the Walther P99 is very bright. I trust mine with the life of my family and I! Here are some links for you to check out:
http://www.waltheramerica.com
http://www.praxagora.com/lunde/WaltherP99FAQ/
http://www.geocities.com/pentagon/quarters/2188/
http://www.lenaburgs.net/james/Guns/Walther.htm
http://www.carl-walther.de/

Alright, heres enough links to answer all your questions! Good Luck!

[rubijeep]

Thanks GLD1980! That definately answered all my questions and has sold me on the Walther p99QA. Today I was holding the lightweight Springfield Champion GI and almost bought it, but I didnt because of Christmas and the fact that I would have another $200 or more on top of the original price of the 1911 just to get what I want. (Better, more visible sights, bobbing the hammer, fitting beavertail, trigger job, refinish to more durable finish etc,etc,etc.)

I was just wanting someone to brag a little on the Walther to sell me on one.

[GLD1980]

Congratulations rubijeep,
I glad that I was able to help you better understand Walther. Let me in on the details and progress once you get it. Take care!
GLD1980 out.