Canadian Inglis No.1 Mk. 1* Browning Hi-Power 9mm Semi-Auto Pistol, C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,131.66
LSB#: WY240915JF037
Make: Inglis, Canada
Model: Hi Power Mk. 1*
Serial#: 3CH3784
Year of Manufacture: Circa, 1940s
Caliber: 9mm Luger
Action Type: Semi-Automatic Pistol, Exposed Hammer, Single Action, Fed with Detachable Magazine with Magazine Disconnect
Markings: The right side of the frame and slide is marked, “3CH3784” with an import mark on the slide. The barrel is marked, “5C9400”. The left side is marked, “MK.1* BROWNING FN 9MM HP / INGLIS CANADA.”.
Barrel Length: 4.75”
Sights/ Optics: The front sight is a serrated triangular post dovetailed to the slide. The rear sight is a V-notch tangent leaf sight pinned to the slide marked out to 500.
Stock Configuration & Condition/ Grip: The grips are a two piece checkered plastic panels. There are scratches, nicks, and grime throughout. There are no chips or cracks. The checkering has lightly worn peaks. There is a stock lug in the back of the grip frame. Overall, the grips are in Good condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: One 13rd 9mm Magazine in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Oil Blued Finish
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is light gray and the rifling is worn. There is light erosion in the bore along with stubborn fouling. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 5/10.
Overall Condition: The pistol retains about 60% of its mettle finish. There is light to moderate thinning throughout. The leading edges are worn. Much of the finish has a light patina. There are scratches and nicks throughout. The screw heads are lightly tooled, the pins are undamaged. The markings are clear. Overall, this Hi-Power pistol is in Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The slide action is smooth. The trigger is crisp. We did not fire this pistol. As with all previously owned firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards. Has magazine disconnect. Has ambidextrous thumb safeties.
Box Paperwork and Accessories: This pistol comes with a total of one Magazine.
Our Assessment: The Canadian Inglis No.1 Mk.1* Browning Hi-Power is a significant variant of the classic Browning Hi-Power pistol, produced under contract during World War II for the Chinese Nationalist government. Manufactured by the John Inglis Company in Canada, this version of the Hi-Power reflects the global impact of the war and the widespread use of the Hi-Power design. The design of the No.1 Mk.1* is based on John Moses Browning’s original Hi-Power blueprint, a revolutionary pistol known for its double-stack magazine and excellent ergonomics. Chambered in 9x19mm Parabellum, the Inglis No.1 Mk.1* featured a 13-round magazine, offering substantial firepower compared to many contemporary sidearms. It retained the classic single-action trigger and short-recoil operation, making it reliable and effective in the field. The Chinese contract Hi-Powers were notable for their distinct features tailored to Chinese military needs. These pistols typically came equipped with a tangent rear sight calibrated out to 500 meters and a slot in the rear of the grip for attaching a wooden stock that doubled as a holster. This configuration allowed the pistol to serve as a carbine-like firearm when necessary, improving accuracy at longer ranges. Production for the Chinese contract began in 1944, but due to wartime disruptions and logistical challenges, many of these pistols were diverted to Commonwealth forces, including the British military, before reaching their intended destination. The No.1 Mk.1* variant differed from the No.1 Mk.1 in having a simplified design, particularly in the machining and finishing processes, to expedite production during wartime. These pistols were well-regarded for their reliability and durability, even under the harsh conditions of military service.
Overall, the Inglis No.1 Mk.1* Browning Hi-Power pistols contracted for China are highly sought after by collectors due to their unique markings, historical significance, and connection to the global conflicts of the mid-20th century. They stand as a testament to the widespread adoption and adaptation of the Browning Hi-Power design during one of the most tumultuous periods in modern history. -R.E.
