Walther GSP500 Rapid Fire
Carl Walther GmbH Sportwaffen · Pistol · In Production · 2024
Also known as: GSP500 Rapid Fire, Walther GSP500 RF
Overview
The Walther GSP500 Rapid Fire is a semi-automatic .22 Long Rifle target pistol built for the ISSF 25 metre rapid fire pistol discipline, in which shooters engage five targets under strict time limits. Introduced in 2024 as a rapid-fire evolution of Walther's GSP500 match line, it pairs a skeletonized lightweight slide with spring-loaded tungsten muzzle weights and a tuned recoil buffer to suppress muzzle jump between shots. Its adjustable Blue Angel laminated wood grip, interchangeable target sights and removable rapid-fire trigger module continue the legacy of the original 1968 GSP, long one of the best-selling match pistols in the world.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 1140 g (40.2 oz) |
| Overall Length | 300 mm (11.81") |
| Barrel Length | 123 mm (4.84") |
| Height | 140 mm (5.51") |
| Width | 50 mm (1.97") |
| Sight Radius | 220 mm (8.66") |
| Action Type | Blowback |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Action |
| Trigger Pull | 9.8 N (2.2 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 6 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 320 m/s (1050 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 133 J (98 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 25 m (27 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right-Hand |
| Frame Material | Aluminum Alloy |
| Slide Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Laminated Wood |
| Finish | Matte |
Calibers
- .22 Long Rifle · primary — also known as .22 LR, 5.6x15mmR
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety
- Features: Adjustable Target Sights, Interchangeable Front Sight, Adjustable Laminated Wood Grip, Skeletonized Lightweight Slide, Spring Loaded Tungsten Muzzle Weights, Removable Trigger Module, Tension Free Barrel Mounting, Slide Control Recoil Buffer
Production
Production years: 2024-present
In production; a specialized low-volume competition target pistol.
Origin
Country of origin: Germany
Designer: Carl Walther GmbH Sportwaffen
Notes
The GSP500 Rapid Fire chambers .22 Long Rifle, following the ISSF's 2005 switch of the rapid fire pistol event from .22 Short to .22 LR. Weight of 1140 g includes the magazine and muzzle weight bars.
Background
The GSP lineage began in 1968 and became the world's best-selling match pistol, dominating Olympic and ISSF pistol podiums for decades. The GSP500 Rapid Fire carries that heritage into the modern era with a dedicated rapid-fire configuration for the fast five-target 25 metre event.