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

Published on January 25, 2018
Duration: 13:11

This video provides an expert-level overview of the Inglis High Power pistol, a unique firearm manufactured in Canada during WWII. Ian McCollum details its history, from Chinese procurement to British adoption, highlighting key features like the tangent rear sight, 13-round capacity, and the distinctive wooden shoulder stock/holster. The discussion also touches upon its logistical challenges and current legal status in the US, making it a valuable piece for firearms historians and collectors.

Quick Summary

The Inglis High Power pistol, manufactured in Canada during WWII, is a notable variant of the Browning Hi-Power. It features a 9mm Parabellum caliber, 13-round capacity, a tangent rear sight up to 500m, and a wooden shoulder stock/holster. Originally produced for China, it was later adopted by British forces and holds a unique legal status in the US regarding NFA regulations.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Inglis High Power
  2. 00:53History of the John Inglis Company
  3. 01:32Chinese Interest and the Mutual Aid Board
  4. 03:20Setting Up Production with FN Engineers
  5. 04:10British and SOE Interest
  6. 05:18Logistics and the 'Hump' to China
  7. 06:30Contract Cancellations and Military Adoption
  8. 09:01Technical Details and Markings
  9. 10:27Shoulder Stocks and Holsters
  10. 11:35Practicality and Legal Status

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the historical significance of the Inglis High Power pistol?

The Inglis High Power is significant as a Canadian-manufactured variant of the Browning Hi-Power, produced during WWII primarily for China and later adopted by British forces. Its production involved collaboration with FN engineers and overcame significant logistical hurdles.

What are the key features of the Inglis High Power pistol?

Key features include its 9mm Parabellum caliber, a 13-round capacity, a tangent rear sight graduated to 500 meters, and a distinctive wooden shoulder stock that doubles as a holster. Slide markings often indicate 'MK. I*', 'BROWNING FN 9MM HP', and 'INGLIS CANADA'.

Why was the Inglis High Power produced in Canada?

Production in Canada by the John Inglis Company was initiated to fulfill a large order from China during WWII. Canada's industrial capacity and proximity made it a suitable location, especially with exiled FN engineers available.

What is the legal status of the Inglis High Power with a shoulder stock in the US?

In the United States, Inglis High Power pistols equipped with their original-style wooden shoulder stocks are generally exempt from the National Firearms Act (NFA) regulations that classify short-barreled rifles, making them legally accessible for collectors.

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