Belgian GP35: The First Military Browning High Power

Published on July 29, 2019
Duration: 11:42

This expert-level entry details the Belgian GP35 High Power, John Browning's final design, completed by Dieudonné Saive at FN. It covers its adoption by the Belgian Army, production during WWII under German occupation, and unique features of early trials models, including the oval ejection port and tangent sights. The information is presented with high authority, drawing on detailed visual and historical analysis.

Quick Summary

The Belgian GP35 High Power, John Browning's last design, was completed by Dieudonné Saive at FN. Early models featured an oval ejection port and 500m tangent sights. Production continued under German occupation, marked by Waffenamt stamps like WaA613, with some design simplifications.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Belgian GP35
  2. 00:42Adoption and Early Production
  3. 01:50German Occupation and Production
  4. 02:46Trials Pistol Features
  5. 03:23Sights and Stock Options
  6. 04:06Shoulder Stocks and Holsters
  7. 05:10Stock Slot and Magazine Details
  8. 07:10Markings and Proofs
  9. 09:00German Occupation Markings

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the Belgian GP35 High Power pistol?

The Belgian GP35 High Power is significant as John Browning's final firearm design, completed posthumously by Dieudonné Saive at FN. It was adopted by the Belgian Army and saw production during WWII under German occupation.

What are the key differences between early and later Belgian GP35 High Power models?

Early trials models featured an oval ejection port and tangent rear sights graduated to 500 meters. Later production versions often had a squared-off ejection port and simplified sights, especially those made under German occupation.

What do Waffenamt stamps on a GP35 High Power indicate?

Waffenamt (WaA) stamps, such as WaA613, signify that the pistol was produced by FN Herstal in Belgium during the German occupation of WWII and accepted by German military inspectors for their own forces.

Was the GP35 High Power designed to use a shoulder stock?

Yes, the original design of the GP35 High Power included a slot milled into the grip frame specifically to attach a flat board wooden shoulder stock, which also often incorporated a holster.

Related News

All News →

More Reviews Videos You Might Like

More from Forgotten Weapons

View all →