Walther CP99 Compact Review

Overall Rating

Appearance
Ergonomics & feel
Blowback action
Magazine capacity & Ease of loading
Sound
Safety system is very safe

BBs load and fall out if you pull the trigger even when un-cocked or on safe
CO2 cartridge can be a hassle to load and puncture
Safety system is overkill

I am extremely impressed with the CP99 Compact. I had my eye on several guns to mess about with but ultimately settled on the Compact for it's price and good reviews. Firstly the gun just looks and feels right. I've handled probably two dozen pistols in my life and the P99/CP99 feels so comfortable that it shames other designs ergonomically. The gun feels every bit real, though a bit lighter, than the real P99. The blowback action along with an authoritative report (loud but definitely not obnoxious) when firing makes the gun so enjoyable to fire. I seriously recommend that those looking to grab this gun, buy it with the laser or as a separate add-on. The sights are not adjustable and I felt that the rear was too wide to be accurate. My gun shoots low and a little left but as the laser is adjustable, I was able to dial in some pretty decent accuracy though this gun will never be a great target shooter unless you are the steadiest of marksmen. I like having a high capacity magazine though loading is a breeze from BB canisters with a spout if you cut the hole right. The clip goes in smooth and easy.

The only things keeping this gun from being a 10, are small nuisances. The biggest peeve was the fact that pulling the trigger loads a BB into the breech (even un-cocked or on safety) resulting in BBs falling out if the gun is pointed down or possible double loading if the gun is held up. You also must be deliberate in your trigger pulls or this can happen when you actually do intend to shoot. I also wasn't fond f the CO2 loading system. Every cartridge I've loaded required a couple of tries to either get the canister to puncture and once I ended up getting it too tight resulting in having to get a towel and pair of pliers to loosen it. Fortunately there have been no gas leaks and power is good for plinking. Lastly the safety is an interesting 2-step system where you must pull back and move the lever up or down. It's is very safe as you must disengage it very deliberately and it is not easy to disengage while pointing the gun as the "back" action requires both traction and a fair bit of finger strength. I've managed to do it a few times but it's not easy.

All in all, I strongly recommend the CP99 Compact for anyone who wants a reasonably authentic replica and fun plinker. This is my third air gun and I think I've found my shooting soulmate in this one.