CCW - Bersa vs. Walther

Question
Sir,

I was wondering if you can...

1. Tell me the main differences, pros, cons, and personal opinion regarding the Bersa Thunder and the Walther PPK.  I'm looking to purchase a pistol for concealed carry, and think that the PPK would be an excellent choice simply because of its size, enjoyable shooting, and reliable reputation.  However, I noticed that the Bersa Thunder is essentially the same pistol but for about $200.00 cheaper brand new. Any thoughts?

2. What cal. would you recommend for these handguns? .380 or 9mm?

3. If either of these guns fail to meet a recommendation from you, is there another you personnally prefer?

Thank you for your time and response,
Lt. Barbour

Answer
Hello Lt.

The Bersa is imported by Eagle Imports who have been selling pistols in the U.S. since the mid 70's. The Thunder was introduced in 1993 so it does not have a "long" service record.

It is a double action, equiped with an ambidextrous safty and slide release.  It has an adjustable trigger stop and three dot sights with a blue finish. New in box is around $350.

There have been reports of it being a bit difficult to operate the safty and has had some issues concerning machining of the slide.

The PPK: It holds 6/7 rounds (half of the Bersa) and has a straight blowback semi-auto action with double action/single action trigger. It has a S.S. slide and frame with a external hammer dropping safety on the left side along with an internal automatic safty. This pistol will probably set you back $500 - $600 (depending).

The PPK's workmanship is excellent but I personally do not believe the over all performance measures up to the retail price. They have a tendancy to jam or "stove pipe" from time to time. The accuracy is also marginal. However, since you obviously are not looking for a P.P.C. gun, I'm sure this is not an issue for self defense/concealed carry/off duty purposes.

In my opinion it is over rated and over priced. You are paying additional money for the "collect-ability" factor and for the Walther name stamped on it. Many PPK's also require the services of a gunsmith to polish the ramp to assure proper feeding with all ammo.

I most often recommend top name and grade firearms that "make big holes". However, in this case given the choice of these two for the price, I'm afraid that I would have to go with the Bersa. For the purposes that you want it for and all other factors considered, I think that you would be making a good choice with this selection.

That said, I would always go for a 9mm over a .380 , all things being equal. If you would like to take a look at some other options (may as well really confuse the issue eh?), take a look at the Glock 26, Sig 230, and if you really want to go "light" .... the Keltec P3AT which is very light with a ultra slim profile. However, be prepared for "sticker shock".

I hope that this will aid you in your selection process Lt.

Thanks for the question.

Sid Lark