Which Hi-Power Pistol Should You Buy? (Surplus vs SA-35 vs High Power)

Published on April 2, 2024
Duration: 19:08

This video provides a comparative review of three Browning Hi-Power variants: a 1978 Belgian Police Surplus FN Hi-Power, a Springfield Armory SA-35, and the modern FN High Power (2022). The presenters offer shooting impressions, discuss historical context, and highlight key differences in ergonomics, sights, and trigger feel. They emphasize the reliability and iconic status of the original, the modernized features of the new FN High Power, and the SA-35 as a contemporary clone.

Quick Summary

The Browning Hi-Power has a rich history, with original models like the 1978 Belgian Police Surplus FN Hi-Power offering iconic status and proven reliability. Modern versions, such as the 2022 FN High Power, provide updated features like ambidextrous controls and improved sights, while the Springfield SA-35 serves as a contemporary clone.

Chapters

  1. 00:05Introduction to Hi-Power Pistols
  2. 00:27The Original FN High Power
  3. 00:49Welcome Back to Classic Firearms
  4. 01:08History of the Browning High Power
  5. 01:55WWII Production and Canadian Move
  6. 02:47Discontinuation and Clones
  7. 03:13Belgian Police Surplus FN Hi-Power (1978)
  8. 03:51Springfield SA-35 (2019)
  9. 04:17Gears EAA MCB35 Mentioned
  10. 04:32Modern FN High Power (2022)
  11. 05:00Capacity and Historical Context
  12. 05:26Range Day Preparations
  13. 06:12At the Range: First Shots
  14. 06:33Identifying the Pistols
  15. 07:06Shooting the 1978 Surplus FN Hi-Power
  16. 08:22Trigger Pull and Sights on Surplus
  17. 10:57Shooting the Springfield SA-35
  18. 12:22SA-35 Performance and Issues
  19. 14:39Shooting the Modern FN High Power (2022)
  20. 15:24Impressions of the 2022 FN High Power
  21. 16:19Slide Interference Technique Lesson
  22. 17:06Final Recommendations
  23. 17:47Viewer Thoughts and Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key differences between the original FN Hi-Power and modern versions?

The original FN Hi-Power, like the 1978 Belgian Police Surplus model, features a heavy trigger pull and older sight designs. Modern versions, such as the 2022 FN High Power, offer ambidextrous controls, improved sights, lighter triggers, and updated ergonomics for a more contemporary shooting experience.

Which Browning Hi-Power variant is best for collectors?

For collectors, the 1978 Belgian Police Surplus FN Hi-Power is highly recommended. Its historical significance, association with law enforcement, and status as an original production model make it an iconic and collectible firearm.

How does the Springfield SA-35 compare to the original FN Hi-Power?

The Springfield SA-35 is a modern clone that offers a lighter trigger pull and better sights than the original surplus FN Hi-Power. While it provides a more user-friendly shooting experience, it lacks the historical provenance of a genuine surplus model.

What are the advantages of the new FN High Power (2022)?

The 2022 FN High Power boasts significant upgrades, including ambidextrous slide release and safety, a more refined trigger, and modern sights. Its improved ergonomics and balanced feel make it an excellent choice for defensive use or range enjoyment, representing a well-executed modernization of the classic design.

Related News

All News →

More Reviews Videos You Might Like

More from ClassicFirearms

View all →