WALTHER Q5 MATCH SF

Posted Jun 14, 2023

Walther Q5 Match SF: A Match Grade Pistol for the Serious Shooter

As a relatively new offering from Walther, the Q5 Match SF pistol is engineered to provide the highest accuracy and performance of any striker-fired handgun. This polymer frame, semi-automatic pistol of outstanding ergonomics and a smooth trigger pull has been built to meet the specific demands of shooters in competitive shooting sports.

Walther began as a small German arms manufacturer in 1886. Ever since, the company has been known for their innovation and attention to detail. The legendary PPK and the P99 pistol are among the company’s many accomplishments. The Q5 Match SF is a relatively new addition to their lineup that exemplifies their commitment to quality and reliability.

Having briefly owned one of Walther’s competitors, I was especially curious to see how this pistol compared. From the first time I handled the Q5 Match SF, it became evident that I was holding a superior weapon. The gun was heavier and felt sturdier than expected. The ergonomics and the fit of the pistol make for a Shooter’s dream.

The Q5 Match SF is the perfect match grade pistol. Out of the box, it’s configured for competition with all necessary features like the optics ready slide, pre-installed slide milling and optics mounting plates for reflex sights. Customizable features like the interchangeable backstraps, ambidextrous slide lock/release, and trigger shoe are ideal for various shooting sports.

The frame of the pistol features a powerful steel slide with a rubber overcoat for desirable resistance against wear. For supporting the weight of the slide, Walther engineered the frame in a manner that distributes the stress evenly to avoid the accumulation of fatigue or deformation. The interconnecting steel rails are also designed to maximize handling and control, making for comfortable and accurate shots.

The magazine release is reversible for left-handed shooters and can be switched back in a matter of minutes. The extended slide release is also just the right length for an easier manual racking of the slide.

The overall design of the pistol was clearly made with the aim of providing comfort and accuracy. Even with bulky gloves, the full size grip is comfortable and provides a secure grip. The magazine well is wide and a good fit. There are also multiple stylized slots for extra grip which add to the ergonomics.

The trigger of the Q5 match SF stands out and is one of the gun’s most noticeable features. It has a short reset, fast takeup with a fairly light pull weight. I especially appreciate the flat-faced aluminum trigger which has the optimal texture for a comfortable trigger press.

The recoil spring is strong yet controllable, allowing the slide to reset quickly for subsequent shots. The slide is easy to operate with its swept-back serrations for a comfortable grip. The dual recoil spring makes the recoil manageable under rapid fire and helps make up for the technical recoil felt by the shooter.

The sights on the Q5 Match SF are many shooter’s first choice. They have a lowered profile which aids for a lower profile when shooting. The fiber optics provide a clear image for sighting and the rear sight includes adjustable elevation and windage.

The Walther Q5 match SF hits all the marks for a superior handgun. It provides the most accurate and reliable performance of any striker-fired pistol in its range. It has a superior coordination with ergonomics and features, leading to improved accuracy and smooth handling. For competition shooters, the Q5 match SF is a no-brainer. It isn’t the most affordable pistol available, but is well worth the investment for those who are serious about taking their competitive shooting to the next level.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Compatible with all Q5 accessories

• Stunning accuracy and low felt recoil

• Adjustable trigger for a custom fit

• Exceptional reliability

• User-friendly ergonomic design

• Excellent balance and weight distribution

Cons:

• Expensive compared to other models

• Low magazine capacity

• Long trigger reset makes double-taps slower

• Heavy for concealed carry

Who Should Buy

Anyone who is interested in a competitive-style pistol and has the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to safely handle the weapon should consider purchasing a Walther Q5 Match SF. This model is designed for serious competition shooting and offers superior accuracy and performance.

Novice shooters or those who are inexperienced in firearms should not purchase the Walther Q5 Match SF, as it is a powerful competition pistol and requires proper technique and training in order to use safely and effectively.

Comparisons

Feature	WALTHER Q5 MATCH SF	SMITH & WESSON PERFORMANCE CENTER PC1911	WILSON COMBAT CQB TACTICAL LE	HECKLER & KOCH HK 416
Caliber	9mm Luger	.45 ACP	.45 ACP	5.56x45mm NATO
Barrel Length	5”	5”	5”	14.5”
Overall Length	8.7"	8.6”	8.7”	31.1”
Magazine Capacity	15	8	8	30
Trigger System	Walther Precision	Single Action	Single Action	Gas Operated
Sight Radius	n/a	6.5”	6.5”	14.5”
Weight Unloaded	n/a	38.3 oz.	35.4 oz.	7.6 lbs

Features / Specs

• Caliber: 9mm Luger

• Grip: Interchangeable, replaceable polymer backstraps

• Barrel Length: 5”

• Magazine Capacity: 15 rounds or 10 rounds for restricted areas

• Trigger Pull: 5.6 lbs

• Frame: Steel

• Slide Finish: Coyote Tan

• Safety: 3 Automatic

• Sight Radius: 7.1”

• Sights: Fiber Optic front and adjustable rear

Popular Accessories

2018

Walther Q5 Match SF Pro Trigger Kit

Walther Q5 Match SF 4.6" Barrel

Walther Q5 Match SF Optics Mount

Walther Q5 Match SF Magwell

Walther Q5 Match SF Mag Extension

Walther Q5 Match SF Extended Slide Stop Lever

Walther Q5 Match SF Magazine Base Plate

Walther Q5 Match SF Optic Mount Plates

Walther Q5 Match SF Grip Enhancements

Walther Q5 Match SF Red Dot Adapter

Accuracy

The WALTHER Q5 MATCH SF is one of the most accurate handguns on the market today. Its features include a 5-inch barrel length, adjustable rear sights, and an extended slide that gives the shooter optimal comfort and control. The precision of the Match SF allows for very consistent performance and accuracy, providing consistently tight shot groups even at long range. As a competition grade handgun, the Match SF is designed to shoot far more accurately than any stock Walther Q5. With proper maintenance and use, this gun can easily keep shots in the 2-inch range at 25 yards, making it one of the most accurate handguns available for recreational shooting and competition.