which Hi-Power
I've owned a bunch of Hi Powers, from WWII trophys to the new FM Detective Model.
I love my T ser # model from Belguim, it's blue is as deep as the ocean. Almost a shame to risk scratching it. On the other hand, my Detective Model FM really seems to balance and carry better, though it is only an inch shorter. The fact that I don't care what happens to the black hard coating helps too. On mine, the original safety had to go. I shoot lefty and need an ambi safety. While at the shop I'd have the trigger worked on a bit by someone who knows what he's doing. The three dot sights could be a little brighter...better painted.
It's one of my two favorite carry guns now, the other a S&W 640-3. Still not sure which one is easier to hide.
Some people are a little leary of the dual recoil springs on the shorter barreled Detective model. If it was only $100 difference, and you didn't want the extra concealment, I guess I'd take the original.
Can't speak for the .40, never bought one. heard they shoot ok but the balance and handling qualities are "different". I also don't like the Stainless ones, the blue and stainless ones, or the ones with Tangent sights (other than to collect) they seem an insult to the Hi-Power beauty.