S/W PPK

Question
I purchased a Smith & Western Walther Modell PPK/S  Cal 9mm  Kurz/.380ACP and I am having problems with the gun jamming a lot. Is there anything that cam be done about this problem?

Answer
Hi Ronald.

There are many causes for pistol malfunctions so you need to run a number of tests to isolate the root cause.

Make sure the pistol is properly cleaned and lubricated. Even if it was brand new then you still have to clean it before the first shot, then shoot it for a few hundred rounds to break it in. Also clean it after a few hundred rounds or after every trip to the range.

Slide the cartridges all the way to the rear of the magazine when loading and do not overload the magazine. Tap the back of the full magazine swiftly and firmly against your palm to make sure the cartridges are properly aligned.

Make sure you are seating the magazine firmly into the magazine well with a smooth quick motion where the base of the magazine is resting on the base of your palm when you drive it home.

Hold the pistol firmly with two hands, straight arms, and locked wrists. Let another shooter try it as well. If it works for someone else then it is your grip.

Try a different magazine, preferably one that is clean and new and that hasn't been dropped, and an original factory magazine is best.

Try using round-nose FMJ cartridges from several different manufacturers (Remington, Winchester, Federal, etc.) and with several different bullet weights (115, 124, 145, etc.)

These tests will resolve the most common causes of pistol malfunctions but it is also possible that your firearm is defective or damaged so do not continue to shoot it if you are uncertain about the condition. Any reputable gunsmith should be able to check it out for you in quick order and most will do a basic inspection for free.

Hope this helps.

Bob