Walther TPH

The Walther TP and TPH handguns are extremely compact double-action lightweight semiautomatic pistols in .22 Long Rifle and .25 ACP calibers.

The TP was produced from 1961-1971 and the improved TPH has been produced continuously since 1968. Models have been produced in Germany and (by Interarms) in the US.

Pistols in this size range are sometimes referred to as pocket pistols.

Walther bite
Due to the extremely compact nature of the Walther TPH, it suffers from a particularly acute case of what is termed by gun enthusiasts as "Walther Bite". The TPH slide is vertically so close to the hand holding the pistol that, when the gun is fired, the bottom of the slide hits the web of the hand between thumb and forefinger. After a few firings, this typically leaves bruises and eventually two linear abrasions, one from each side of the slide.

Other Walther compact pistols such as the Walther PPK or PP are better known for this phenomenon due to their higher popularity, with more people encountering them this way than with the TPH. However, the TPH has the most significant effects of Walther Bite. Persons firing TPH models over large numbers of rounds for target practice or for familiarization should wear thick leather or other protective shooting gloves with reinforcement between the thumb and forefinger.

Controversy and issues
The TPH has been the subject of criticism in gun magazines. US-manufactured models of the TPH were widely criticized for on average having rougher fit and rougher trigger mechanisms than German-made pistols, along with lower reliability than competing pistols from other manufacturers. German manufactured models can no longer be imported into the US.

These criticisms are in a sense relative. US made TPH handguns are still average or better quality handguns, and German made models and the best of the American models are highly reliable and smooth operating weapons.

One operating issue with all light blowback pistols, including the TPH, is that the slide may not cycle properly if the pistol is fired with a weak grip in the firing hand. A firm grip is required for reliable operation.