{"id":364,"date":"2022-10-17T21:39:10","date_gmt":"2022-10-17T21:39:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/guncoupons.net\/?p=364"},"modified":"2022-10-17T21:39:10","modified_gmt":"2022-10-17T21:39:10","slug":"the-browning-hi-power-then-and-now","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/guncoupons.net\/?p=364","title":{"rendered":"The Browning Hi-Power \u2014\u00a0Then and Now"},"content":{"rendered":"<p> <br \/>\n<\/p>\n<div>\n<div class=\"article-image\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n<p>It is no secret to the readers of <em>The Shooter\u2019s Log<\/em> that I am an unabashed proponent of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/fnh-usa-inc\/firearms\/handguns\/?brand=FNHUSA%2CInc&amp;utm_source=blog.cheaperthandirt&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=the-browning-hi-power-then-and-now\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Browning Hi-Power<\/a> and have been since the mid-1960s when I purchased my first one at Montgomery Wards in Panorama City California for $84. Over the years since that time, I have recommended it to anyone that would listen and encouraged friends and students to try shooting the most comfortable handgun ever designed.<\/p>\n<p>It was a sad day indeed when FN ceased manufacturing them. I must admit that I feel some validation\/vindication for my Hi-Power love with the introduction of the current crop of Hi-Power style handguns being manufactured by others. Unfortunately, the only one of the new crop of Hi-Powers that I have been able to handle has been the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/springfield\/firearms\/handguns\/?brand=Springfield&amp;utm_source=blog.cheaperthandirt&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=the-browning-hi-power-then-and-now\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Springfield SA-35<\/a>.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"460\" alt=\"Springfield Hi-Power Models SA-35 9mm semi-automatic handgun\" class=\"wp-image-82792 jetpack-lazy-image\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-6.jpg?w=648&amp;ssl=1 648w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-6.jpg?resize=300%2C216&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-6.jpg?resize=150%2C108&amp;ssl=1 150w\" data-lazy-sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-6.jpg?resize=640%2C460&amp;is-pending-load=1#038;ssl=1\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"460\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-6.jpg?resize=640%2C460&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Springfield Hi-Power Models SA-35 9mm semi-automatic handgun\" class=\"wp-image-82792\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-6.jpg?w=648&amp;ssl=1 648w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-6.jpg?resize=300%2C216&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-6.jpg?resize=150%2C108&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><\/noscript><figcaption>The Springfield SA-35 with improved sights, slide release, safety, grips, and hammer clearly visible.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>I was delighted by its execution. In my hand, it seemed only 1\u20132 ounces heavier than any of my Belgian-made examples. It is so slight that most will not notice the difference. Should I get a chance to handle the other Hi-Powers appearing on the market, I will be happy to offer opinions on them also.<\/p>\n<div class=\"code-block code-block-2 ai-viewport-2 ai-viewport-3\" style=\"margin: 8px auto; text-align: center; display: block; clear: both;\">\n<!--Mid Article Ad for Mobile and Tablet--><br \/>\n<a target=\"\u201d_blank\u201d\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/contest.html?cid=contest?utm_source=CTD_Blog_AD&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=blog_range_day_friday_mobile&amp;utm_content=square\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/rdf_oct22_ad_mob.jpg?w=640&amp;is-pending-load=1#038;ssl=1\" srcset=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" class=\" jetpack-lazy-image\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/rdf_oct22_ad_mob.jpg?w=640&amp;ssl=1\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><\/noscript><\/a><\/div>\n<h2>A Bit of History<\/h2>\n<p>Before I explain the differences between the Belgian and Springfield versions, I should probably revisit the development of the Hi-Power for those who are unfamiliar with it. After WWI, John Browning was commissioned by Fabrique National to design a new service pistol for the French military. While working on the Hi-Power design, Browning was frustrated by having to work around his own patents that Colt held on the 1911.<\/p>\n<div class=\"code-block code-block-1 ai-viewport-1\" style=\"margin: 8px auto; text-align: center; display: block; clear: both;\">\n<!--Mid Article Ad for Desktop--><br \/>\n<a target=\"\u201d_blank\u201d\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/financing.html\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" align=\"center\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/credova_ad.jpg?w=500&amp;is-pending-load=1#038;ssl=1\" srcset=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" class=\" jetpack-lazy-image\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/credova_ad.jpg?w=500&amp;ssl=1\" align=\"center\" px=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><\/noscript><\/a><\/div>\n<p>Unfortunately, Browning passed away in 1926 before the design was completed. In 1927 his patent was granted for the locked-breech recoil system he planned on using along with a new staggered magazine design by his prot\u00e9g\u00e9 at FN designer Dieudonn\u00e9 Saive. When the patents for Browning\u2019s 1911 expired, Saive completed the Hi-Power design, He used some of those expired patent designs that Browning struggled with. It was finally ready for production in 1935.<\/p>\n<p>Ironically, the Hi-Power that was originally designed for the French was not initially purchased by them. The Grand Rendement (French for \u201chigh yield\u201d), or alternatively Grande Puissance (literally \u201chigh power\u201d) was first adopted by Belgium for military service in 1935 as the Browning P-35.<\/p>\n<p>During its service life, it was adopted as the standard service pistol by over 50 armies and 93 countries. Those numbers make it the most used and highly regarded pistol in history being continuously manufactured from 1935 until 2018. An impressive record by any measure.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"563\" alt=\"two barrels for Browning Hi-Power 9mm handguns\" class=\"wp-image-82787 jetpack-lazy-image\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-1.jpg?w=648&amp;ssl=1 648w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-1.jpg?resize=300%2C264&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-1.jpg?resize=150%2C132&amp;ssl=1 150w\" data-lazy-sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-1.jpg?resize=640%2C563&amp;is-pending-load=1#038;ssl=1\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"563\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-1.jpg?resize=640%2C563&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"two barrels for Browning Hi-Power 9mm handguns\" class=\"wp-image-82787\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-1.jpg?w=648&amp;ssl=1 648w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-1.jpg?resize=300%2C264&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-1.jpg?resize=150%2C132&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><\/noscript><figcaption>The top barrel is the original from a T Series Hi-Power with an arched feed ramp. The bottom barrel is a custom Bar-Sto barrel from an Austin Behlert modified Hi-Power with a modified straight feed ramp.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<h2>Hi-Power for Defense<\/h2>\n<p>I have and still believe the Browning Hi-Power is the best 9mm fighting handgun one could possess. I recommend it to all my students. If they have never fired one, I encourage all of them to shoot one of mine.<\/p>\n<p>I find that ladies, especially, find it comfortable and shoot it better than most other handguns. Even those with smaller hands find it allows them to feel confident handling it. I will admit that my Hi-Powers have all had some work done to them but that in no way diminishes the excellence of the design, it only exaggerates it.<\/p>\n<p>One needs to remember that when the Hi-Power was designed there was no hollow point <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/ammunition\/?utm_source=blog.cheaperthandirt&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=the-browning-hi-power-then-and-now\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">ammunition<\/a>, everything was ball. That was the case for all automatic pistols until well into the 1970s. So, if you wanted to shoot the new hollow points reliably in your automatic pistol, you needed to have a good pistol smith modify your feed ramp and throat the barrel.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\" alt=\"Browning Hi-Power T series 9mm handgun circa 1960\" class=\"wp-image-82788 jetpack-lazy-image\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-2.jpg?w=648&amp;ssl=1 648w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-2.jpg?resize=300%2C225&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-2.jpg?resize=150%2C113&amp;ssl=1 150w\" data-lazy-sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-2.jpg?resize=640%2C480&amp;is-pending-load=1#038;ssl=1\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-2.jpg?resize=640%2C480&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Browning Hi-Power T series 9mm handgun circa 1960\" class=\"wp-image-82788\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-2.jpg?w=648&amp;ssl=1 648w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-2.jpg?resize=300%2C225&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-2.jpg?resize=150%2C113&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><\/noscript><figcaption>The author\u2019s 1960s-era T-Series Hi-Power.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>This was especially true with the Hi-Power. The magazine disconnect, a feature the French wanted, also needed to be removed to improve the trigger and allow the magazines to fall away freely. New sights, a custom safety, and slide release were also popular aftermarket options. The need for those modifications in no way reflects negatively on the excellence of the Hi-Power \u2014 even though they were needed improvements the factory failed to keep up with.<\/p>\n<p>My first Browning Hi-Power was a fixed-sight \u201cT\u201d Series pistol. The gun was a plain blue with checkered walnut stocks that came in a black leather gun case with a red felt interior. I still have an all-original very collectible \u201cT\u201d Series but not that very first one. I never had a problem with the \u201chammer bite\u201d that many complained about, but I did have the hammer changed on the ones that received a full custom treatment.<\/p>\n<p>I have Hi-Powers that represent all the modern variants since the T Series, and most are <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/ammunition\/handgun-ammo\/9mm-luger-or-9x19mm\/?utm_source=blog.cheaperthandirt&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=the-browning-hi-power-then-and-now\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">9mm<\/a> save those in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/.40-sandw\/ammunition\/handgun-ammo\/?brand=.40S&amp;W=&amp;utm_source=blog.cheaperthandirt&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=the-browning-hi-power-then-and-now\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">.40 S&amp;W<\/a>. I am not a fan of the .40 S&amp;W, but I like the Browning so much that after they got the problem of cracking frames fixed \u2014 by going to a heavier cast frame from the forged frame \u2014 I succumbed. Because of the weight of that all-steel gun, shooting the .40 caliber wasn\u2019t bad with a Hi-Power.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"205\" alt=\"Austin Behlert modified Hi-Power pistol\" class=\"wp-image-82789 jetpack-lazy-image\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-3.jpg?w=648&amp;ssl=1 648w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-3.jpg?resize=300%2C96&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-3.jpg?resize=150%2C48&amp;ssl=1 150w\" data-lazy-sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-3.jpg?resize=640%2C205&amp;is-pending-load=1#038;ssl=1\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"205\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-3.jpg?resize=640%2C205&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Austin Behlert modified Hi-Power pistol\" class=\"wp-image-82789\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-3.jpg?w=648&amp;ssl=1 648w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-3.jpg?resize=300%2C96&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-3.jpg?resize=150%2C48&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><\/noscript><figcaption>Here is an Austin Behlert modified Hi-Power with custom touches. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>Included here is a photo of my \u201cT\u201d Series Hi-Power for your consumption. As you sharp-eyed Hi-Power nerds can see, the only thing done to it was the removal of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/parts-and-accessories\/magazines\/?utm_source=blog.cheaperthandirt&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=the-browning-hi-power-then-and-now\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">magazine<\/a> safety. Basically, it can be considered a stock gun for comparison with the Behlert and Hoag customs.<\/p>\n<p>Next are three photos of an Austin Behlert custom Hi-Power. Austin was considered by many to be the dean of custom Hi-Powers for the incredibly imaginary work he performed on them such as his Mini Hi-Power. This example is one of my carry guns and has been modified with some of his signature touches that include the extended beavertail and the flared magazine well.<\/p>\n<div class=\"code-block code-block-4 ai-viewport-2 ai-viewport-3\" style=\"margin: 8px auto; text-align: center; display: block; clear: both;\">\n<!--End of Article Ad for Mobile and Tablet--><br \/>\n<a target=\"\u201d_blank\u201d\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/contest.html?cid=contest?utm_source=CTD_Blog_AD&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=blog_range_day_friday_mobile&amp;utm_content=square\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/rdf_oct22_ad_mob.jpg?w=640&amp;is-pending-load=1#038;ssl=1\" srcset=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" class=\" jetpack-lazy-image\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/rdf_oct22_ad_mob.jpg?w=640&amp;ssl=1\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><\/noscript><\/a><\/div>\n<div class=\"code-block code-block-3 ai-viewport-1\" style=\"margin: 8px auto; text-align: center; display: block; clear: both;\">\n<!--End of Article Ad for Desktop--><br \/>\n <img decoding=\"async\" align=\"center\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/rdf_oct22_ad.jpg?w=500&amp;is-pending-load=1#038;ssl=1\" srcset=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" class=\" jetpack-lazy-image\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/rdf_oct22_ad.jpg?w=500&amp;ssl=1\" align=\"center\" px=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><\/noscript><\/div>\n<p>This pistol also has an ambidextrous safety, extended slide release, custom barrel bushing, serrated slide, his special contoured grips, checkered front and rear grip panels, adjustable sights, and lots of internal work. It is great to shoot, and carry, and one of my favorite Hi-Power handguns. Take special note of the checkering on the front of the grip \u2014 something no one has the skill to do today, because they say the front strap is too thin\u2026 Balderdash!<\/p>\n<p>The next Hi-Power I would like to share with you is a stock, mint condition, Hi-Power in .40 Smith &amp; Wesson. As mentioned, the ones I have are post frame-cracking issues and are very nice. They have a two-tone finish and rubber grips with the Browning gold medallion \u2014 all-in-all, a handsome package. The slide is slightly wider than the frame to beef it up a bit more. I think the added weight \u2014 strengthening the entire package \u2014 made it a more comfortable platform to launch the .40 S&amp;W from.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"470\" alt=\"mint condition .40 S&amp;W Browning Hi-Power 9mm handgun\" class=\"wp-image-82790 jetpack-lazy-image\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-4.jpg?w=648&amp;ssl=1 648w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-4.jpg?resize=300%2C220&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-4.jpg?resize=150%2C110&amp;ssl=1 150w\" data-lazy-sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-4.jpg?resize=640%2C470&amp;is-pending-load=1#038;ssl=1\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"470\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-4.jpg?resize=640%2C470&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"mint condition .40 S&amp;W Browning Hi-Power 9mm handgun\" class=\"wp-image-82790\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-4.jpg?w=648&amp;ssl=1 648w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-4.jpg?resize=300%2C220&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-4.jpg?resize=150%2C110&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><\/noscript><figcaption>Here is a mint condition .40 S&amp;W Browning Hi-Power. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>The last Hi-Power comes with features added by my favorite custom pistol smith, Jim Hoag \u2014 his like will not pass this way again. This Hi-Power has been well used and well cared for over many years. The finish is showing wear, but the skill of the craftsman is still apparent.<\/p>\n<p>Everything, from the Smith &amp; Wesson adjustable sight that is flawlessly installed flush with the top of the slide to the 50 line-per-inch checkering on the rear of the slide \u2014 you read that correctly, 50 LPI \u2014 was perfectly executed. From the 30 LPI on the front strap to the custom barrel bushing for the barrel, one would be hard-pressed to find fault with the execution. That is why it was rewarded with ivory grips.<\/p>\n<h2>Springfield SA-35<\/h2>\n<p>As I mentioned earlier the new Springfield SA-35, out of the box provides many of the things we used to have a custom pistol smith attend to. Springfield has added a nicely sized safety that is perfectly positioned and easy to operate and good sights that are easy to see. Springfield removed the magazine safety, tuned the trigger, and improved the feed ramp on the SA-35.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"210\" alt=\"Montage of customized Browning Hi-Power pistols\" class=\"wp-image-82791 jetpack-lazy-image\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-5.jpg?w=648&amp;ssl=1 648w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-5.jpg?resize=300%2C99&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-5.jpg?resize=150%2C49&amp;ssl=1 150w\" data-lazy-sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-5.jpg?resize=640%2C210&amp;is-pending-load=1#038;ssl=1\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"210\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-5.jpg?resize=640%2C210&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Montage of customized Browning Hi-Power pistols\" class=\"wp-image-82791\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-5.jpg?w=648&amp;ssl=1 648w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-5.jpg?resize=300%2C99&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-5.jpg?resize=150%2C49&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><\/noscript><figcaption>Here are four photos of a custom Jim Hoag Browning Hi-Power. Please note the checkering.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>What I would like to see them add as options perhaps would be an ambidextrous safety and adjustable sights. I understand it\u2019s about price point and competing with plastic guns. However, as options, I think they would be popular.<\/p>\n<p>There was one thing that vexed me, until I realized what was going on. After field stripping the pistol for cleaning and examination, I started to reassemble it \u2014 as I had done with scores of Hi-Powers, thousands of times. When I put the slide on the frame and started to slide it into position (to lock it in place, so the slide release pin could be fed through the frame) the slide hit an obstruction.<\/p>\n<p>At first, I thought the ejector had somehow become loose and was catching the top of the grove in the slide. When closely examining it, I saw that could not be the issue. After additional investigation, I realized that the barrel has enough play that it had rotated slightly, causing the recoil spring guide to catch on the frame. I found a significant amount of rotation in the barrel that allows that to happen. Not the end of the world but a bit disconcerting. Other than that, I have no negative comments.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"199\" alt=\"Two slides from Browning Hi-Power models\" class=\"wp-image-82793 jetpack-lazy-image\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-7.jpg?w=648&amp;ssl=1 648w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-7.jpg?resize=300%2C93&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-7.jpg?resize=150%2C47&amp;ssl=1 150w\" data-lazy-sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-7.jpg?resize=640%2C199&amp;is-pending-load=1#038;ssl=1\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"199\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-7.jpg?resize=640%2C199&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Two slides from Browning Hi-Power models\" class=\"wp-image-82793\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-7.jpg?w=648&amp;ssl=1 648w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-7.jpg?resize=300%2C93&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-7.jpg?resize=150%2C47&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><\/noscript><figcaption>These photos show the bottom of the slide. In the top image, you can see the barrel correctly aligned. However, in the bottom image, you can see the amount of rotation or play that exists in the barrel that caused the reassembling issue. I trust this rotation will not present any issues during firing.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>At the range, our setup was limited to 20 yards off the bench for the initial rough accuracy testing with some of my remaining 9mm stock. We used <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/fiocchi\/ammunition\/?brand=Fiocchi&amp;utm_source=blog.cheaperthandirt&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=the-browning-hi-power-then-and-now\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Perfecta<\/a> 115-grain FMJ, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/federal\/ammunition\/?brand=Federal&amp;utm_source=blog.cheaperthandirt&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=the-browning-hi-power-then-and-now\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">American Eagle<\/a> 115-grain FMJ, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/winchester\/ammunition\/?utm_source=blog.cheaperthandirt&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=the-browning-hi-power-then-and-now\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Winchester<\/a> USA 115-grain FMJ, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/magtech\/ammunition\/?brand=Magtech&amp;utm_source=blog.cheaperthandirt&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=the-browning-hi-power-then-and-now\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Magtech<\/a> 124-grain FMJ. All loads tested printed Minute of Felon, close to the point of aim with the Winchester load getting the nod. The SA-35\u2019s least favorite was the Perfecta loading, but they all fed reliable with no hiccups.<\/p>\n<p>I had two guest shooters, one was a student with a medium level of experience, and a young lady with no prior shooting experience. Both shot the SA-35 well at standard IPSC targets. In particular, the lady found the SA-35 comfortable and comforting to handle and shoot. No surprise there. It is, after all, a Hi-Power. Once again, I don\u2019t like pistols without manual safeties for <a href=\"https:\/\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/carry-choices-modes\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">concealed carry<\/a>, self-defense, or any serious pursuits.<\/p>\n<p>In my opinion \u201cSafe Trigger Systems\u201d are accidents looking for a place to happen, and given time and opportunity, they will. Springfield has created a worthy progeny to John Browning\u2019s masterpiece. If you don\u2019t have one, I recommend picking one up. Kudos to Springfield on its execution of a classic, and for the improvements that make it an out-of-the-box ready to shoot and carry choice.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"542\" alt=\"Springfield SA-35 on a pistol rest with several boxes of ammunition at an outdoor range\" class=\"wp-image-82795 jetpack-lazy-image\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-9.jpg?w=648&amp;ssl=1 648w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-9.jpg?resize=300%2C254&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-9.jpg?resize=150%2C127&amp;ssl=1 150w\" data-lazy-sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-9.jpg?resize=640%2C542&amp;is-pending-load=1#038;ssl=1\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"542\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-9.jpg?resize=640%2C542&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Springfield SA-35 on a pistol rest with several boxes of ammunition at an outdoor range\" class=\"wp-image-82795\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-9.jpg?w=648&amp;ssl=1 648w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-9.jpg?resize=300%2C254&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/LaPorta-Hi-Power-9.jpg?resize=150%2C127&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><\/noscript><figcaption>Pistol rest and ammunition tested by the three of us in informal drills to test function, accuracy, and reliability.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>I hope you have enjoyed the vintage Hi-Powers. If you have never handled a Browning Hi-Power, you might think I\u2019m biased, but remember I also have more than 50 years of experience on the subject. I have fired just about everything that has come before and since the Hi-Power. I\u2019m confident you will like it. A finer <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/9mm\/firearms\/handguns\/?srule=relevance&amp;brand=9mm&amp;utm_source=blog.cheaperthandirt&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=the-browning-hi-power-then-and-now\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">9mm handgun<\/a> to defend yourself with, you will not find (no matter what they say on the internet).<\/p>\n<h4><strong>Are you a Hi-Power fan? How does it compare to your favorite <em>fighting handgun<\/em>? Share your answers in the comment section<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p><span id=\"tve_leads_end_content\" style=\"display: block; visibility: hidden; border: 1px solid transparent;\"\/><!-- AI CONTENT END 1 -->\n\t<\/div>\n<p><br \/>\n<br \/><a href=\"https:\/\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/the-browning-hi-power-then-and-now\/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=the-browning-hi-power-then-and-now\">Source link <\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>It is no secret to the readers of The Shooter\u2019s Log that I am an unabashed proponent of the Browning Hi-Power and have been since the mid-1960s when I purchased my first one at Montgomery Wards in Panorama City California for $84. Over the years since that time, I have recommended it to anyone that [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":365,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[15],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-364","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-gun-news"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/guncoupons.net\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/364","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/guncoupons.net\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/guncoupons.net\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/guncoupons.net\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/guncoupons.net\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=364"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/guncoupons.net\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/364\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/guncoupons.net\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/365"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/guncoupons.net\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=364"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/guncoupons.net\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=364"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/guncoupons.net\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=364"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}