Walther P1 with feeding problems

Use this section for all other firearms
Post Reply
Wacousta
Junior member
Posts: 10
Joined: June 26th, 2014, 11:57 pm
Location: Northeastern USA

Walther P1 with feeding problems

Post by Wacousta »

I just picked up a Walther P1 from SOG. It is a 1963 Bundeswehr surplus without the hex pin or fat slide, and although it looks like it's been around the block a bit, it is in good functional condition.

I fired it for the first time today with Winchester 115 grain FMJ ammo, which most P1/P38 shooters seems to recommend. I could not make it through a mag without several failures to feed and stovepipes. The gun came with only one mag, so I thought I'd get a few others to try. I'll also try a few other kinds of ammo in case it's picky.

Any other suggestions? I want to like this gun!
Teneo lupum auribus.
User avatar
Hurryin' Hoosier
Forum supporter
Forum supporter
Posts: 166
Joined: July 16th, 2013, 9:08 am
Location: Columbus, Indiana

Re: Walther P1 with feeding problems

Post by Hurryin' Hoosier »

P1s have a pretty spotty reputation. P38s they ain't.
"I'm just a poor white man, trying to make my way in the world." - Officer Andy Renko, "Hill Street Blues"
Wacousta
Junior member
Posts: 10
Joined: June 26th, 2014, 11:57 pm
Location: Northeastern USA

Re: Walther P1 with feeding problems

Post by Wacousta »

"Eight warning shots followed by a well-aimed throw." Hahaha!

I read more good than bad when researching, so I'm not ready to give up on it just yet.
Teneo lupum auribus.
User avatar
Hurryin' Hoosier
Forum supporter
Forum supporter
Posts: 166
Joined: July 16th, 2013, 9:08 am
Location: Columbus, Indiana

Re: Walther P1 with feeding problems

Post by Hurryin' Hoosier »

At least you have the comfort of knowing that it's not a Glock! :wink:
"I'm just a poor white man, trying to make my way in the world." - Officer Andy Renko, "Hill Street Blues"
User avatar
Curly1
Elite member
Elite member
Posts: 2529
Joined: September 20th, 2011, 11:35 pm
Location: Upstate NY

Re: Walther P1 with feeding problems

Post by Curly1 »

Mine feeds the Winchester WB no problem but fails on the Remingtons.

I would also disassemble the mag and clean it.

Make sure you note the orientation of the mag spring.

You also may want to replace the recoil springs.
Laugh Hard and Often.

Gary
OHGUNNER
Posts: 6
Joined: October 9th, 2014, 10:02 pm

Re: Walther P1 with feeding problems

Post by OHGUNNER »

MOST auto pistol failures are due to magazine problems. They are the "heart" of your pistol. Used mags that come with a surplus weapon are always a question mark. Might be damaged, bent lips, weak springs, victim of home-gunsmith, etc. Brand new, made by Walther, P38/P1 mags are common at about $25. Never scrimp on magazines, get the best, avoid "after-market" at all cost. I would start there. And, of course, a good, detail cleaning. I have found all Walther pistols to be top shelf. Good luck!
Post Reply