FN Herstal Browning Hi-Power Single Action 7.65mm/.30 Luger 4.75” Pistol
SOLD FOR: $1,125
WOA#: WY240210TM032
Make: Browning, Made in Belgium, Fabrique Nationale Herstal
Model: Hi Power
Serial#: 245PM59264
Year of Manufacture: 1980
Caliber: 9mm
Action Type: Semi-Automatic Pistol, Exposed Hammer Single Action with Detachable Magazine.
Markings: The left side of the slide is marked “BROWNING ARMS COMPANY MORGAN, UTAH & MONTREAL P.Q.”. The right side of the slide is marked “MADE IN BELGIUM / BY FABRIQUE NATIONALE HERSTAL”. The chamber is marked “CAL.7.65m/mP / 245PM59264”. The strap is marked “245PM59264”. The right side of the trigger guard is marked with two proofs. The left side of the trigger guard is marked “C”. The backs of the grips are marked “BROWNING / HI-POWER”. The bottom of the grip is marked “C.A.T. 1086”.
Barrel Length: 4.75”
Sights/ Optics: The front sight is a blade fixed to a rectangular raised base integral to the slide. The rear sight is a rectangular notch sight dovetailed to the slide.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: One 7.65mm magazine in Excellent condition.
Stock Configuration & Condition/ Grip: The grips are two piece Browning Hi-Power faux ivory grips. There are no chips or cracks, just light handling wear. Overall the grips are in Excellent Condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright. The rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore. The feed ramp is smooth and shiny. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9.5/10.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 99% of its metal finish. The screw heads are sharp, the markings are clear. Overall the pistol is in Excellent Condition. There are no notable imperfections with this pistol.
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.
Box Paperwork and Accessories: This pistol comes with one 13rd magazines and a Browning Leather Velvet lined soft zipper case.
Our Assessment: The Browning Hi-Power made in 1980 by Fabrique Nationale (FN) Herstal in 7.65mm/.30 Luger caliber represents a unique iteration of one of the most iconic handguns in the world. The Hi-Power, originally designed by John Browning and later refined by Dieudonné Saive at FN, has a storied history, serving military, law enforcement, and civilian shooters across the globe for much of the 20th century. This particular model, chambered in 7.65mm/.30 Luger, is less common than its 9mm counterpart, making it a distinctive choice for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
The choice of 7.65mm/.30 Luger for this 1980 production Hi-Power is particularly interesting, as this caliber offers a unique shooting experience with its own ballistic characteristics, distinct from the more widespread 9mm models. The .30 Luger (7.65mm) caliber was popular in some European countries and offers a flat trajectory and high velocity, making it appreciated for its accuracy and penetration. The year 1980 marks a period when FN Herstal was producing high-quality firearms, and the craftsmanship of this era is evident in the Hi-Power’s design, durability, and performance. Known for its comfortable ergonomics, high-capacity magazine for the era, and effective firing mechanism, the Browning Hi-Power has earned its place in firearms history as a revolutionary design that influenced many subsequent handgun designs. This particular model, with its unique caliber and production history, embodies the enduring legacy of Browning’s innovative work and FN Herstal’s commitment to manufacturing excellence. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.
