FN Browning Pre-War Hi Power Belgian Contract 9mm Semi-Automatic Pistol C&R
SOLD FOR: $2001
LSB#: 210904DJ60
Make: Fabrique Nationale FN Browning
Model: 1935 GP (Hi Power) Pre-War Belgian Military
Serial Number: 19739
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 as well as a circled “crown / PH” military acceptance. The left trigger guard bow is marked with an enclosed “A / ME” (Manufacture d’Armes de l’Etat). The left side of the frame under the grip panel is marked with a boxed “A” and a circled “H” acceptance mark. The right side of the frame, slide, and the left protected portion of the chamber are marked “19739”. The chamber is marked with three 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 “7179”. The right side of the barrel lug is marked with a circled “H” acceptance stamp. The left side of the trigger and hammer are marked with a circled “H”.
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. There are several nicks and scratches along the smooth borders. The checkering shows moderate wear along the edges, more so on the right panel. The checkering is generally sharp on the left and defined on the right. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Good-Plus condition. The backstrap is slotted for a shoulder stock (not included).
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 right side of the slide shows some notable dings on the top edge and there is pitting on the left side of the slide at the front. There is standard operational wear. The slide serrations are sharp. The markings are legible. The screw heads are lightly tool-marked 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 disconnect safety is present and functional. 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 two 13-round magazines.
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!