In the market for a Browning Hi power. Considerations for selecting a used one.

[USBP379]

Ohio Ordnance has another small batch of aluminum and steel framed pistols if anyone is looking.

 

[HexHead]

It's easy to tell a cast frame from a forged one. The cast ones have ribs on the bottom of the grip behind the mag well. The forged ones are smooth in that area.

 

[Gary A]

I believe a very few of the earliest cast frames were smooth behind the mag well but that is true in the vast majority of cases and the ridges certainly always indicate a cast frame.

 

[Speedo66]

Aim Surplus has a few in different grades right now. http://www.aimsurplus.com/catalog.aspx?groupid=3209&name=FN+Belgium+Hi+Power+9mm+Pistols

 

[SC Shooter]

About three years ago, I found a HP in much the same condition you are describing. It was at a dealer who specializes in milsurp. The finish was really beat up, but the fit was good, and the barrel looked great. I rolled the dice and purchased it for around $450. After my gunsmith declared it sound, I had it professionally stripped down and refinished. I then replaced the original grips with walnut grips, and voila! I have one of the best looking shooters at the range. It still shoots well, and draws lots of complements when I unease it.

 

[Deltaboy1984]

The Late Steve Camp has a wealth of information on the Hi-Power.