High Standard Hi-Standard Model B .22LR 4.5” 1936-1942 C&R WWII Era
SOLD FOR: $806.66
WOA#: WY231010CFM001
Make: High Standard
Model: Model B, Early Model Takedown Lever
Serial Number: 40778
Year of Manufacture: 1936-1942
Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
Action Type: Single Action, Removable Magazine, Rimfire
Markings: The front strap is marked “40778”. Both grips have medallions that are marked “FRANZITE”. There are no other markings on the slide and frame.
Barrel Length: 4.5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramp sight with red insert fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a rectangular notch sight with elevation and windage adjustment. The base around the rear sight is checkered for glare reduction.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered Franzite Faux Ivory panels. The checkering is crisp and only very lightly dulled on the peaks in some places. There are no chips or cracks. The grips rate in about Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Nickel Plated
Finish Originality: Refurbished
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 97% of its metal finish. There are micro scuffs throughout as well as a few light scratches. There is some faint corrosion on the rear of the slide as well as on the strap. The is faint freckled oxidation throughout. The right side of the backstrap has some verdigris. The screw heads are lightly marked and the markings are clear although there are no other markings on the pistol other than the serial number and on the grip medallions. Overall, this pistol rates in about Fine condition as refurbished and for a WWII Era pistol.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this pistol. As with all previously owned firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This pistol comes with one magazine.
Our Assessment: The High Standard Model B is a classic in the world of firearms, renowned for its reliability and precision. Introduced in the 1930s by the High Standard Manufacturing Company, the Model B was an early forerunner in a line of .22 caliber pistols that would eventually earn widespread acclaim for both target shooting and general use.
This semi-automatic pistol was designed primarily as a target handgun, capitalizing on the growing popularity of shooting sports at the time. Its .22 LR caliber made it an ideal choice for training and recreational shooting due to the low cost of ammunition and manageable recoil. The Model B featured a 6.75-inch barrel though military designated Model B’s were cut to 4.5 inches, providing a good balance between accuracy and handling. Its design was simple yet effective.
The Model B also holds historical significance. During its production era, it was one of the few semi-automatic .22 pistols available, and it helped set the standard for future designs in this category. Its popularity among consumers and its use in training scenarios during World War II for introductory firearms training further cemented its reputation.
Today, the High Standard Model B is a sought-after piece among collectors and shooting enthusiasts. Its place in the history of American firearms, coupled with its solid construction and performance, makes it not just a piece of history, but a testament to the era’s ingenuity in firearms design. For those who appreciate the evolution of handguns and the role of .22 caliber pistols in shooting sports, the High Standard Model B is a remarkable and noteworthy firearm. This pistol has seen some significant refurbishments with new sights, possible new barrel, and a beautiful set of Franzite grips, a near aftermarket trademark of vintage pistols. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.
