Springfield Armory SA-35, The Hi power is back as the SA-35

Published on December 5, 2021
Duration: 28:45

This review of the Springfield Armory SA-35, a modern take on the Browning Hi-Power, highlights its historical significance and potential. However, the expert assessment points out significant reliability issues, particularly with extraction failures after 800 rounds, and quality control concerns with the finish on early samples. Despite these drawbacks, the SA-35 features an improved trigger and sights compared to original Hi-Powers.

Quick Summary

The Springfield Armory SA-35, a modern interpretation of the Browning Hi-Power, offers an improved trigger and sights but suffers from significant reliability issues, including extraction failures and double feeds starting around 800 rounds. Early samples also showed cosmetic defects in the finish.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Skit
  2. 03:01Springfield Armory Relationship and Initial Issues
  3. 04:21History of the Hi-Power
  4. 06:44Barrel and Construction
  5. 08:29Finish and Sights
  6. 10:31Reliability and Extraction Failures
  7. 15:56Ergonomics and Parts Compatibility
  8. 18:09Trigger and Magazine
  9. 22:11Comfort and Quality Control
  10. 26:46Final Assessment

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main reliability concerns with the Springfield Armory SA-35?

The Springfield Armory SA-35 experienced significant reliability issues, particularly failures to extract and double feeds, which began to occur around 800 rounds. These problems persisted across various ammunition types and despite cleaning efforts.

How does the SA-35's trigger compare to original Hi-Powers?

The SA-35 features what is described as the best out-of-the-box trigger for a Hi-Power variant. This improvement is largely due to the removal of the magazine disconnect safety, offering a cleaner and crisper pull.

What are the construction differences between the SA-35 and original Hi-Powers?

Unlike original FN Hi-Power models which used cast components, the SA-35 features a forged carbon steel slide and frame. This results in a tighter fit and potentially greater durability, though early samples showed finish quality concerns.

What are the key upgrades on the SA-35 compared to older Hi-Powers?

The SA-35 includes significant upgrades such as a modern U-notch rear sight with Novak cuts for easy replacement, a cold hammer-forged barrel, and the removal of the magazine disconnect safety for an improved trigger pull. It also ships with reliable 15-round Mec-Gar magazines.

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