Description
Every once in a while, a firearm comes along that quietly commands respect, not just for how it shoots, but for what it represents. The Walther P5 Lang, bearing the ultra-early serial number 002, is one of those rare pieces. It’s more than just a stretched-out version of the P5. That extended barrel? It doesn’t just look sharp—it tips its hat to the legendary P38 while offering a tangible boost in accuracy and balance. It’s sleek, it’s steady, and it’s striking.
When the P5 line launched in the mid-1970s, it wasn’t trying to follow the crowd—it was trying to lead. And in many ways, it did. Walther engineers went with an aluminum alloy frame, shaving off weight without compromising strength. Then came the firing pin safety—an internal feature designed to prevent accidental discharge. Subtle, smart, and ahead of its time.
Mechanically, the P5 kept its roots in check, operating on the same locked-breech, recoil-operated action seen in the P38. That means the barrel stays perfectly aligned with the frame after each shot—something serious shooters will appreciate. But Walther didn’t stop there.
Here’s where it gets interesting: instead of ejecting spent casings to the right like most pistols, the P5 throws them out to the left. Why? To give left-handed shooters a break for once. And while it might seem like a small detail, it’s one of those quirks that makes the P5 Lang stand out even more.
And speaking of standing out—this isn’t a gun you’re likely to stumble across at your local gun show. Fewer than 70 of these extended-barrel P5 Lang models were ever made. That kind of rarity doesn’t just make it desirable; it gives it real weight in collector circles.
Even though the P5 series—including the standard and compact variants—never became a blockbuster success, it carved out a place in the story of modern firearm design. Each version marks a step forward: in materials, in safety, in form. The P5 Lang? That’s the bold chapter.
So if you’re holding this pistol—or even considering it—know this: it’s not just a functional 9mm with a bit of historical flair. It’s a conversation piece, a collector’s gem, and a physical link to a moment when Walther wasn’t just making guns—they were making statements.
