Walther PPS Classic .40 S&W Semi-Automatic Pistol – Early 2008 German-Made, Tenifer Finish, Paddle Mag Release
This early-production Walther PPS Classic in .40 S&W offers the slim, single-stack profile that made the PPS famous, paired with the less common .40 caliber chambering that was discontinued before later generations. Built in Germany and imported by Smith & Wesson in 2008, it features the original paddle-style magazine release, Tenifer-nitrided slide and barrel, and the innovative QuickSafe backstrap that deactivates the striker when removed.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good – Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good – Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: Minor superficial scratches and blemishes are present on the slide and frame. The bore is clean and shiny.
What’s Included
- Walther factory hard case with molded logo (black)
- 1× 6-round Walther PPS .40 S&W magazine with extended finger-rest baseplate
- 1× 5-round Walther PPS .40 S&W flush-fit magazine
- Spare interchangeable QuickSafe backstrap (black polymer)
- Walther Owner Declaration card
The PPS Classic was the first slimline striker-fired pistol Walther offered, and this example retains all of the original design cues. The paddle-style, ambidextrous magazine release allows fast, gloved operation without altering grip angle.
Chambered in .40 S&W, this variant was produced in smaller numbers than the 9 mm version, giving collectors a harder-to-find option. Matching serial numbers on slide, barrel, and frame confirm factory integrity.
Both the slide and the 3.2 inch barrel receive Walther’s Tenifer treatment for corrosion resistance and a matte black finish that reduces glare. German nitro proof marks, DE proof house code, and date code “AI” are clearly stamped, along with the early Smith & Wesson Springfield, MA import mark.
Safety features include the trigger safety tab, internal firing-pin block, and the QuickSafe backstrap disconnect that decocks the striker when the backstrap is removed, adding an extra layer of security during storage or transport.
An integral single-slot accessory rail sits ahead of the trigger guard for compact lights or lasers, while 3-dot iron sights give a clean sight picture. The stippled polymer frame offers a secure grip without added bulk, keeping weight manageable for daily carry.