Inglis High Power: How a Chinese Whim Became A British Service Pistol

Published on January 25, 2018
Duration: 13:11

The Inglis High Power pistol, originally manufactured in Canada for China during WWII, evolved into a British service sidearm. Its production involved collaboration with FN engineers, and it featured a unique shoulder stock doubling as a holster. The pistol's historical significance is tied to international logistics and wartime production shifts.

Quick Summary

The Inglis High Power pistol, manufactured in Canada during WWII, was originally intended for China but later adopted by British forces. It featured a unique shoulder stock that doubled as a holster and was produced with assistance from exiled FN engineers.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Inglis High Power Pistol
  2. 00:53John Inglis Company's WWII Role
  3. 01:32Chinese Order & Mutual Aid Board
  4. 03:20FN Engineers & Production Setup
  5. 04:10British SOE Interest & 9mm Ammo
  6. 05:18Logistics: The 'Hump' to China
  7. 06:30Contract Changes & Military Adoption
  8. 09:01Technical Details & Markings ('CH')
  9. 10:27Shoulder Stock Holster Design
  10. 11:35US Legal Status & NFA Exemption

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the original purpose of the Inglis High Power pistol?

The Inglis High Power pistol was originally manufactured in Canada by the John Inglis Company for a massive order intended for China during World War II, facilitated by the Canadian Mutual Aid Board.

How did FN engineers contribute to the Inglis High Power's production?

Exiled FN engineers, including the pistol's designer Dieudonné Saive, collaborated with the John Inglis Company to establish production in Canada, utilizing original technical data to ensure accurate manufacturing.

Why did the British Special Operations Executive (SOE) become interested in the Inglis High Power?

The SOE was interested because the 9mm Inglis High Power used ammunition that was more readily available in occupied Europe compared to the standard British .38 revolver rounds, making it more practical for resistance fighters.

What unique feature did the Inglis High Power pistol possess?

A notable feature was its wooden shoulder stock, which ingeniously doubled as a holster, manufactured by Small Arms Ltd (S.A. LTD) and marked with the year 1945.

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