When was the Browning Hi-Power Made?
The Browning Hi-Power is a semi-automatic pistol designed by John Browning and designed by Fabrique Nationale (FN) in the 1930s. It was originally designed for the Belgian military, but it also became popular for civilian use.
Design and Development
The Hi-Power was designed as a high-capacity pistol that could fire a range of cartridges, including.380 ACP, 9x19mm Parabellum, and.45 ACP. It featured a unique double-column magazine design that allowed it to hold 13 rounds of 9mm Parabellum, which was a significant advantage over other pistols of its time.
The Hi-Power was also designed with safety in mind. It features a firing pin safety that prevents accidental discharge, as well as a trigger safety that requires the trigger to be fully pulled before the pistol will fire.
Production History
The Hi-Power was first produced in 1935, with the first batch of 1,000 pistols delivered to the Belgian military in 1936. Production continued throughout World War II, with the Hi-Power becoming a popular sidearm among Allied forces.
In the 1950s and 1960s, the Hi-Power became popular among civilian shooters, with many countries lifting their handgun import restrictions during this time. The pistol’s popularity was further boosted by its use in international shooting competitions, where it won several championships.
Variants and Models
Over the years, several variants of the Hi-Power have been produced. Some of the most common include:
• Mark I: The original production model, introduced in 1935.
• Mark II: Introduced in the 1950s, this model featured a simplified design and a more rugged construction.
• Mark III: Introduced in the 1970s, this model featured a lightweight aluminum alloy frame and a reduced trigger pull.
• US Military Model: The Hi-Power was adopted by the US military in the 1950s and was used during the Vietnam War.
• Tiger: A high-precision target version of the Hi-Power, featuring a heavier trigger and a target-style barrel.
Features and Specifications
Here are some of the key features and specifications of the Browning Hi-Power:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Calibre | 9x19mm Parabellum,.45 ACP,.380 ACP |
| Magazine Capacity | 13 rounds (9mm Parabellum), 10 rounds (.45 ACP), 8 rounds (.380 ACP) |
| Barrel Length | 4.7 inches (12 cm) |
| Overall Length | 8.1 inches (20.6 cm) |
| Width | 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) |
| Height | 5.4 inches (13.7 cm) |
| Weight | 37 oz (1,040 grams) |
| Sights | Fixed sights (rear sight adjustable for windage) |
Collectibility and Value
The Browning Hi-Power is highly collectible and valuable among firearms enthusiasts. Prices can vary depending on the condition, rarity, and age of the pistol, as well as the demand in the market.
Here are some rough estimates of the value of a Browning Hi-Power:
- Common model: $500-$1,000
- Mark I or early model: $1,000-$3,000
- Mark II or US Military Model: $2,000-$5,000
- Tiger or high-precision model: $5,000-$10,000
Conclusion
The Browning Hi-Power is a highly respected and sought-after pistol that has a rich history dating back to the 1930s. With its unique design, high-quality construction, and reputation for reliability and accuracy, it’s no wonder why the Hi-Power has become a beloved firearm among shooters and collectors alike.
Whether you’re a collector looking to add a piece of history to your collection or a shooter looking for a reliable and accurate sidearm, the Browning Hi-Power is definitely worth considering.
