FN Browning Pre-Series Commercial Hi-Power 9mm Semi-Auto Pistol, 1962 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1225.01
LSB#: 220425KS001
Make: Browning, Made by FN in Belgium
Model: Hi Power
Serial Number: 111775
Year of Manufacture: 1962 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 right side of the trigger guard bow is marked with a proof and inspection 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 sides of the barrel lug are marked with small factory markings. The left trigger guard bow is marked “I”. The bottom flat of the firing pin housing, under the slide, is marked with a proof mark, inspection, and small factory markings. The right side of the frame is marked with the serial number. The magazine floor plate is marked “JI”.
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 scratches and compressions on the smooth borders. There is a sizable scuff on the bottom rear corner of both panels. The checkering is sharp. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is somewhat bright and the rifling is sharp. There is scattered light erosion throughout the bore.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 48% of its metal finish. There is considerable finish loss throughout the slide and frame. The strongest remaining finish can be viewed on the right side of the frame. There is scattered erosion with some areas of light pitting. The leading edges of the controls show thinning. There are some infrequently scattered light dings in the metal. The screw heads are sharp and the pins are not peened. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol is in about Good 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 and four 15-round Mec-Gar magazines. Please note, no magazine will be included for purchasers who reside where it cannot be legally transferred.
Our Assessment: On display is a pre-series post-war commercial Hi-Power manufactured in 1962. 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 both lacks the thumb imprint and features the older style internal extractor. 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. This example would make the perfect candidate for restoration. Please see our photos and good luck!