FN Browning 1935 Hi-Power Finnish Army 9mm SA Semi-Automatic, 1939-1940 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1825
LSB#: 210720DW25
Make: Fabrique Nationale FN Browning
Model: 1935 GP (High Power), Finnish Army Contract
Serial Number: 14004
Year of Manufacture: 1939-1940
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”, and with a proof and inspector’s mark. The left side of the frame is marked “SA” in a square twice, denoting the Finnish army or ‘Suomen Armeja’ and with a Belgian proof and inspector’s mark. The left side of the grip frame under the panel is marked with small factory markings that are difficult to make out due to erosion. The bottom of the trigger guard is marked “CAI ST. A. VT.”. The chamber is marked with two Belgian proofs, an inspector’s mark, and “CAL 9m/mP”. The right side of the slide, the frame, and the ;left side of the chamber are marked with the serial number “14004”. The right side of the trigger guard bow is marked “N6” and “U” in a triangle.
Barrel Length: 4 5/8”
Sights / Optics: The pistol is equipped with Type 1 tangent sights. The front sight is a serrated, tapered blade dovetailed to a boss at the front of the slide. The rear sight is a “V”-notch 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 show moderate-heavy wear with scattered nicks, scratches, compressed checkers, and discoloration from age and handling. The checkering is defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Good condition. The backstrap is slotted for a shoulder stock (none included).
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is semi-bright with scattered light erosion and sharp rifling.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 40% of its metal finish. There is finish loss throughout the frame and slide. There are scattered nicks, dings, scratches, and impacts throughout the metal. The most notable of these marks is a marr in the metal on the top left of the slide. The most blue remaining is on the top strap. There is mottled patina on the grip straps. There is moderate operational wear. The slide serrations are sharp. The markings are mostly clear aside from the previously mentioned under the grip panel. The screw heads are lightly tool marked. Overall, this pistol is in about Fair-Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. It has a frame mounted safety and the round hammer has a half cock safety position. This pistol still has a functioning magazine disconnect and the trigger pull is crisp. 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. Please note, no magazine will be included where prohibited by law.
Our Assessment: This is a Finnish Army contract Model 1935 High Power. A total of 2,400 of a 5,000 production range were sent to Finland. The first shipment was December 15, 1939, with a total of 900. The second shipment of 1,500 was sent in March of 1940. These pistols were in the serial range of 11,000-15,000. This is number 14,004, making it slightly later in production. This pistol has smooth mechanics with a decent bore. This would be a very desirable piece for collectors. Please see our photos and good luck!