Springfield Armory SA-35 9mm Pistol: Improved Browning Hi-Power Clone

Springfield Armory has just introduced a faithful re-creation of the P-35, a pistol better known to many American shooters as the Hi Power. The new SA-35 is a single-action, high-capacity semiautomatic 9mm with the Hi Power’s classic lines and a number of improvements over the original.

The all-steel gun features a forged-steel slide and frame with matte blue finish, and the strength of these forged components tells you this is going to be one durable pistol. The 4.7-inch barrel is cold-hammer-forged.

Improvements to the original design include a Tactical Rack U-notch rear sight, which not only provides a great sight picture but also enables you to rack the slide on a belt or hard surface in an emergency. The thumb safety has been extended for easier, surer operation, and the hammer sports a new contour that prevents the hammer bite so common to the original Hi Power. There’s also no magazine disconnect safety on the SA-35, which permits a better trigger pull.

Grips are checkered walnut, completing the gun’s classic looks. Our reviewer indicated that the new SA-35’s frame will accept aftermarket grips meant to fit the P-25/Hi Power. He also found the gun to be nicely accurate and well-balanced—a gun that could be used for concealed carry (it’s only 31.5 ounces), home defense or just one of those pistols you have to have because you appreciate firearms history.

Suggested retail price is $699, and the gun ships with one 15-round magazine. Look for our full review in the February/March issue, which hits newsstands in mid-December and shows up in subscribers’ mailboxes shortly before that.

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