FN Browning 1935 Hi-Power Lithuania Contract 9mm SA Semi-Automatic 1936 C&R
SOLD FOR: $3175
LSB#: 210720DW17
Make: Fabrique Nationale FN Browning
Model: 1935 GP (High Power), Lithuanian Contract
Serial Number: 740
Year of Manufacture: 1936-1937
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 left side of the frame is with a Belgian proof and inspector’s mark. The ‘Pillars of Gediminas’ acceptance stamp is marked at the bottom of the mainspring housing on both sides. This acceptance stamp is found again on the top of the slide and the left side of the hammer. The chamber is marked with two Belgian proofs, an inspector’s mark, and “CAL 9m/mP”. The right side of the slide, the hidden left side of the chamber, and the frame are marked with the serial number “740”. The right side of the trigger guard bow is marked “8”. The front strap is marked “POLY USA INC. / ATL GA”. The front of the magazine is marked “IJ”.
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 moderate-heavy wear with the most notable imperfections being two small gashes on the right panel. There are also scattered compressions, draglines, nicks, and scratches. The panels have darkened with age. The checkering is generally defined with some interruptions on either side. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Fair-Good condition. The backstrap is slotted for a shoulder stock (none included). There is a fixed lanyard at the bottom of the mainspring housing (no lanyard included).
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is dim with scattered erosion and the rifling is worn yet defined.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 65% of its metal finish. The finish has thinned heavily at all leading edges. There is scattered surface oxidation on the metal as well as light pitting on the thinned edges. There are scattered little nicks, dings, and scratches throughout the metal. The front strap shows some finish loss, the front and back strap have turned a dark patina. There is moderate operational wear. The markings are clear. The screw heads are legible. Overall, this pistol is in about Good 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. 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 13-round magazine.
Our Assessment: This is a Lithuanian contract Model 1935 High Power. Lieutenant Aleksandras Stauskas, who was the chairman of the Lithuanian Pistol Acquisition Commission, played an important role in the Lithuanian High Power acquisition. He was stationed in Liege early in 1937 and worked in Herstal. While he was there, Lithuania purchased High Powers, among other arms, from FN. Early in 1937, approximately 7,000 pistols were shipped to the port of Klaipeda in Lithuania. This example is number 740. It retains about 65% of its metal finish and the Pillars of Gediminas on the top of the slide are crisp. Please see our photos and good luck!