FN Browning Pre-Series Commercial Hi-Power 9mm Semi-Auto Pistol, 1961 C&R
SOLD FOR: $2078.89
LSB#: 211027GL19
Make: Browning, Made by FN in Belgium
Model: Hi Power
Serial Number: 93253
Year of Manufacture: 1961 C&R (https://www.browning.com/support/date-your-firearm/hi-power-pistol.htm)
Caliber: 9mm Luger
Action Type: Single Action Semi-Auto with Removable Magazine and Thumb Safety
Markings: The left side of the slide is marked “BROWNING ARMS COMPANY St LOUIS Mo. & MONTREAL P.Q. / MADE IN BELGIUM”. The left side of the slide and frame is marked with a “* / A” inspection mark and a “lion / P.V” proof mark. The right side of the chamber is marked with the same inspection mark and proof as well as a crowned and ovalled “E / LG / *” proof and “CAL.9m/mP.”. The left side of the chamber is marked “93253”. The sides of the barrel lug are marked with small factory markings. The right trigger guard bow is marked “3”. The bottom flat of the firing pin housing, under the slide, is marked with small factory markings. The right side of the slide and frame are marked with the serial number.
Barrel Length: 4 5/8”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a rounded blade fixed to the front of the slide. The rear sight is a U-notch dovetailed to the rear of the slide.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered walnut panels with smooth borders. The grips show some hardly notable marks on the smooth borders. The checkering is sharp. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore, just some faint fouling in the grooves.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 98% of its metal finish. There are a few faint scratches on the slide, notably on the top, front right side, and on the left. The right side of the slide, behind the serrations, shows an ever so faint spot of thinning. There is hardly any operational wear. The screw heads are sharp and the pins are not peened. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol is in about Fine-Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. There is a tiny amount of play between the slide and frame. The magazine disconnect safety is present and functional. 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 that is in Excellent condition. Please note, no magazine will be included for purchasers who reside where it cannot be legally transferred.
Our Assessment: *Hot piece alert* This here is a pre-series post-war commercial Hi-Power manufactured in 1961. This pistol was manufactured near the period when the thumb print impression on the right side of the slide that was characteristic of early Hi-Powers was eliminated. Another important feature is the internal extractor. Beginning in 1962, the external extractor was implemented for the purpose of functionality and cost effectiveness, though deterred from the pleasing aesthetic appeal of the internal extractor. This pistol was manufactured during the last year before this change was made. Browning Hi-Power pistols are known to be quality tried and trusted pistols. They have been the chosen sidearm by armies and police forces across the world throughout the millennia. Though practical for self-defense, any true collector wouldn’t think twice putting rounds through this pistol. This is one for the collection. Please see our photos and good luck!