FN Browning M1935 High Power Belgian Pre-war 9mm Semi-Automatic Pistol, C&R
SOLD FOR: $1135
LSB#: 210720DW16
Make: Fabrique Nationale FN Browning
Model: 1935 GP (Hi Power) Pre-War
Serial Number: 15018
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”, two circled “H” acceptance marks, two Belgian proofs and an inspector’s mark. Those same acceptance, proof, and inspection marks are found on the left side of the frame. The right side of the frame, mainspring housing, and slide, and the left protected portion of the chamber are marked “15018”. The chamber is marked with two Belgian proofs, an inspector’s mark, circled “H” acceptance stamp, and “CAL 9m/mP”. There are numerous small factory markings on protected areas. The bottom of the barrel lug is marked “2728”. The right side of the barrel lug is marked with a circled “H” acceptance stamp. The front of the magazine is marked “JI”.
Barrel Length: 4 5/8”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated blade dovetailed to a boss at the front of the slide. The rear sight is a “V”-notch type 1 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 appear to have been refinished at some point. The grips show heavy wear with the most notable wear on the left panel which shows heavy weathering. There are several nicks and scratches along the smooth borders. The checkering is generally sharp on the right and defined on the left. Overall, the grips are in about Good condition as refinished. The backstrap is slotted for a shoulder stock.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is dark with visible rifling. There is scattered erosion and pitting throughout the bore.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 78% of its metal refinish. There are scattered little scratches and nicks throughout the metal surfaces. There is thinning at all leading edges. There is scattered faint surface oxidation. The front strap shows a streak of finish loss. There is standard operational wear. The slide serrations are sharp. The markings are legible. The screw heads are slightly disfigured with serviceable slots. Overall, this pistol is in about Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. It has a frame mounted safety and the round hammer has a half cock safety position. 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. There is heavy erosion on the follower and the magazine has turned to a light patina color.
Our Assessment: This is a pre-war Hi-Power, The Belgian military was the largest customer for the High Power, placing orders between 1935and May of 1940. Belgian procurement was based on a detailed acquisitions plan similar to the Dutch “werkplan”. This pistol retains about 78% original finish and is in about Very good condition. Please see our photos and good luck!