Walther PDP Optics: Everything You Need to Know

Choosing the best optic for your Walther PDP depends on understanding your specific slide cut and mounting needs. If you want an in-depth breakdown of the red dot optics listed on this page, visit our PDP Optic Fitment Guide.

Walther PDP 1.0 vs. Walther PDP 2.0 Optic Footprint

Before buying a Walther PDP red dot, you must identify which "version" of the slide you have. Walther updated the design in 2022 to improve the mounting surface:

• Version 1.0: The optic cut is roughly 1.85" long and has a smooth surface under the cover plate.

• Version 2.0: The Walther PDP 2.0 optic footprint is longer (approx. 1.93") and features distinct grooves (milling) that allow the adapter plate to "lock" into the slide more securely.

Pro Tip: If your serial number starts with FDL9203, FDM0001, or FDN3124, you likely have the 2.0 cut. This is important because a 1.0 plate will not fit a 2.0 slide, and vice versa.

Top Rated Walther PDP Optics by Use Case

Whether you carry the Full Size or the Walther PDP Compact, your choice of optic should match your situation:

• Duty & Reliability: The Trijicon RMR and Holosun 509T are perfect for ruggedness.

• Competition: For a massive field of view, the Holosun 507 Comp or Trijicon SRO are top picks.

• Concealed Carry: If you want a slim profile, the Holosun EPS Carry offers a great balance of size and performance.

• Direct Mount (No Plate): For 2.0 slides, the Holosun SCS PDP mounts directly to the slide without an adapter plate, allowing for a lower profile and functional co-witness with factory iron sights.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does the Walther PDP come with an optic plate? Walther typically provides one free optic plate per serial number upon request through their website. However, many prefer aftermarket plates (like C&H Precision or Calculated Kinetics) for a more precise fit and better thread engagement.

What is the footprint of the Walther PDP? The Walther PDP footprint itself is a proprietary cut. To mount an optic, you must use an adapter plate that converts the Walther cut into a standard footprint like RMR, DeltaPoint Pro (DPP), or RMSc.

Will my red dot co-witness with factory sights? Because the PDP uses an adapter plate system, most standard RMR footprint optics will sit too high to co-witness with the factory sights. To cowitness with the factory sights we recommend using a RMSc optic or direct mount optic like the Holosun SCS PDP. You can view the co-witness of every Holosun optic on the Walther PDP here.