Walther Model 9
Carl Walther GmbH · Pistol · Discontinued · 1921
Also known as: Walther Modell 9, Walther Westentaschenpistole
Overview
The Walther Model 9 is a German vest-pocket semi-automatic pistol introduced by Carl Walther in 1921 and chambered in the diminutive .25 ACP (6.35mm Browning) cartridge. One of the smallest and lightest production pistols of its era, it was designed as a discreet personal-defence and backup weapon, weighing only about 260 grams. Its tiny size, blowback action, and striker-fired mechanism made it a popular concealed-carry pistol throughout the interwar period and into World War II.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 260 g (9.2 oz) |
| Overall Length | 99 mm (3.90") |
| Barrel Length | 51 mm (2.01") |
| Height | 65 mm (2.56") |
| Action Type | Blowback |
| Firing Mechanism | Striker Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 6 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 230 m/s (755 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 87 J (64 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 15 m (16 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Number of Grooves | 6 |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Slide Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- .25 ACP · primary — also known as .25 Auto, 6.35mm Browning, 6.35x16mmSR
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety
- Features: Vest Pocket Size, Fixed Sights, Striker Fired Mechanism, Open Top Slide
Service history
Conflicts
- World War II (1939-1945)
Production
Estimated total produced: 200,000 · Production years: 1921-1945
Approximately 200,000 produced; popular as a civilian concealed-carry and officer's backup pistol
Origin
Country of origin: Germany
Discontinued: 1945
Notes
The Model 9 was prized as a deep-concealment 'last-ditch' pistol; its open-top slide and minimal sights reflect its purely close-range defensive role.
Background
At roughly the size of a deck of cards and weighing about as much as a small smartphone, the Walther Model 9 was marketed as the 'vest pocket' pistol you could carry and forget you were wearing.