FN Browning Hi-Power Factory Nickel 9mm 4.7” Semi Auto Pistol, 1981
SOLD FOR: $1,725.50
LSB#: LSB250824GS019
Make: FN Herstal/Browning
Model: Hi-Power
Serial#: 245PZ66115
Year of Manufacture: 1981 / Modern
Caliber: 9mm Luger
Action Type: Semi-Automatic Pistol, Exposed Hammer Single Action with Detachable Magazine.
Markings:
Barrel Length: 4.7”
Sights/ Optics: The front sight is a ramped serrated blade fixed to the slide. The rear sight is an adjustable square notch dovetailed to the slide.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: This pistol includes 1 x 10 round magazine in Excellent Condition.
Stock Configuration & Condition/ Grip: The grips are two piece checkered walnut panels with brass Browning medallions. There is no notable wear. The checkering is sharp. There are no chips or cracks. Overall the grips are in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Nickel
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright, the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore. The feed ramp is smooth and shiny. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 10/10 and appears unfired outside factory testing.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 99% of its metal finish. There are faint handling marks and hairline scratches throughout. The screw heads are sharp, the markings are clear. Overall the pistol is in Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this pistol. As with all previously owned firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box Paperwork and Accessories: Browning soft case, magazine.
Our Assessment: This 1981 FN Browning Hi-Power is a factory nickel-finished example of one of the most enduring and celebrated semi-automatic handguns of the 20th century. Built by FN Herstal in Belgium and chambered in 9mm Luger, this Hi-Power showcases the refined Mk. II-era features: adjustable rear sight, upgraded walnut grips with brass Browning medallions, and a sleek, corrosion-resistant nickel finish that adds both practical durability and visual distinction. The high polish nickel contrasts beautifully with the deep checkering of the grips, making this pistol as much a display-worthy classic as it is a historically significant sidearm. Designed by John Browning and completed by Dieudonné Saive after Browning’s death, the Hi-Power introduced the double-stack magazine to military service handguns and quickly became a favorite of armed forces worldwide. This pistol retains about 99% of its original factory nickel with only faint handling marks visible, and the bore is exceptional—bright with sharp rifling and no signs of wear, rating 10/10 and appearing unfired outside of factory testing. The action functions flawlessly and includes a clean, correct 10-round magazine and soft Browning-branded case, making for a well-preserved, factory-authentic package.
Hi-Powers with original factory nickel finishes are highly sought after for both their rarity and aesthetic appeal, and this one offers exceptional mechanical and cosmetic condition in addition to its historical significance. With its classic silhouette, near-mint finish, and tight factory tolerances, this 1981 Hi-Power stands as a premium example for Browning collectors, 9mm aficionados, or anyone who appreciates one of the finest full-size service pistols ever produced. -R.E.
