FN Browning Hi-Power “Bolivian Army” 9mm Semi-Auto Pistol, 1935-1940 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1400
LSB#: 210423DW11
Make: Fabrique Nationale FN Browning
Model: 1935 GP (High Power), Bolivian Army Contract
Serial Number: 6305
Year of Manufacture: 1935-1940
Caliber: 9mm Parabellum
Action Type: Single Action Semi-Auto with Detachable Magazine
Markings: The left side of the slide is marked “FABRIQUE NATIONALE D’ARMES DE GUERRE / HERSTAL BELGIQUE”, “BROWNING’S PATENT DEPOSE”, and with a proof and inspector’s mark. The top of the slide is marked with a Bolivian Army Crest. The right side of the frame, the left protected portion of the chamber, and the slide are marked “6305”. The right side of the frame is also marked “EJERCITO BOLIVIANO”. The chamber is marked with two Belgian proofs, an inspector’s mark, and “CAL 9m/mP”. There are numerous small factory markings on protected areas.
Barrel Length: 4 5/8”
Sights / Optics: The pistol is equipped with Type 2 tangent sights. The front sight is a serrated, tapered blade dovetailed to a boss at the front of the slide. The rear sight is a “V”-notch tangent sight in a base integral to the slide. The arm graduates from “50” to “500” meters.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered wood grips. The grips show moderated-heavy wear with the most notable imperfections being on the left grip panel that include compressions, scratches, and nicks. There is a notable compression on the right panel as well. The checkering is worn yet defined. The panels have darkened with age. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Good condition. The backstrap is slotted for a shoulder stock (none included).
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is dim with scattered erosion and the rifling is slightly rounded yet well defined.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 98% of its metal finish. There are some light handling marks and minor grease in some crevices. There is light operational wear. The slide serrations are sharp. The markings are clear. The screw heads are sharp. Overall, this pistol is in about Fine-Plus condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. It has a frame mounted safety and the round hammer has a half cock safety position. This pistol still has a functioning magazine disconnect and the trigger pull is crisp. The slide has minor play on the frame. We have not fired this pistol. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This pistol comes with a single 13-round magazine. The magazine shows light operational thinning with some scattered little marks. The magazine rates in about Very Good-Fine condition. Please note, no magazine will be included where prohibited by law.
Our Assessment: This is a Bolivian Army contract Model 1935 High Power. What makes this pistol so interesting is perhaps how little information about it there is available. Even in our vast library of FN Browning pistol books, there is no mention of this Bolivian Army Hi Power and there isn’t much more available on the web either. Based on mechanical features and inspector markings, we were able to narrow down the date of manufacture being between 1935 and 1940. Aside from rarity, this gun is also in beautiful condition, retaining about 98% of its original finish. There is some erosion in the bore yet the rifling is strong and the mechanics are sound. This would be a very desirable piece for any collector looking to do a deep research dive to find out more about this unique pistol. Please see our photos and good luck!