A Legacy Forged in Fire
The enduring allure of firearms often stems from a perfect blend of function, history, and design. Some guns transcend their utilitarian purpose, becoming iconic representations of eras and ideals. One such firearm is the Browning Hi-Power, a pistol that has left an indelible mark on the world of firearms. Springfield Armory, known for its commitment to recreating iconic firearms with modern updates, has answered the call with the SA-35, a re-imagining of this legendary handgun. But does the SA-35 live up to the legacy of its predecessor? This review dives into the SA-35, examining its features, performance, and whether it successfully captures the essence of a classic while offering improvements for today’s shooters.
The Browning Hi-Power, born from the brilliant minds of John Browning and Dieudonné Saive, has a history as rich and complex as the firearm itself. Conceived in the 1920s, it emerged as a revolutionary design. The name “Hi-Power” was a fitting descriptor, referring to its then-unheard-of high-capacity magazine. Adopted by numerous military and police forces worldwide, the Hi-Power served with distinction in conflicts, from the Second World War to countless other engagements, becoming a symbol of reliability and effectiveness. It was a pistol that balanced power, accuracy, and a relatively slim profile, a blend that made it popular with both soldiers and civilians. The pistol’s straightforward design, utilizing a locked breech and a single-action trigger, further contributed to its widespread appeal.
The Hi-Power wasn’t just about military applications; it also found favor among competitive shooters and civilian gun enthusiasts who appreciated its smooth operation and crisp trigger. The design, however, had its quirks. The original models often had a magazine disconnect safety, which could affect the trigger pull, and the sights were typically basic. The SA-35 aims to address these shortcomings while staying true to the original’s spirit.
Unveiling the SA-35: Design and Features
The Springfield SA-35 isn’t just a copy; it’s a refined interpretation. Springfield has taken the core concepts of the Hi-Power and updated them for the modern shooter. The moment you hold the SA-35, you sense the commitment to the original design. The sleek lines, the distinctive slide, and the familiar grip angle all evoke the classic Hi-Power.
The SA-35 retains the classic steel frame and slide, which adds a reassuring weight and balance to the gun. The frame, slightly updated for improved ergonomics, feels comfortable and natural in the hand. The blued finish provides a classic aesthetic, offering a durable and visually appealing surface.
One of the most welcome changes is the absence of the magazine disconnect safety. This modification significantly improves the trigger pull, resulting in a cleaner break and a more consistent feel. The trigger is generally crisp and predictable, making it easier to shoot accurately.
The sights on the SA-35 represent another significant upgrade. Springfield has replaced the often-crude original sights with a modern, three-dot configuration. This upgrade greatly enhances target acquisition. The sights are well-suited for practical shooting and offer good visibility in various lighting conditions.
The grips of the SA-35 are constructed from checkered wood. These grips are not only aesthetically pleasing but also enhance the shooter’s grip. The checkering offers a secure hold, even with wet or gloved hands. The ergonomics of the grip feel good, allowing for a comfortable and controlled grip during rapid firing.
The SA-35 feeds from magazines with a standard capacity. The magazine release is easily accessible, and the magazines themselves are well-made and reliable.
Putting the SA-35 to the Test: Performance and Handling
To truly evaluate the SA-35, a series of range tests were conducted, utilizing various ammunition types, including full metal jacket rounds, and hollow points. The shooting was performed at various distances. The aim was to assess accuracy, reliability, and handling characteristics.
The first thing that stands out when shooting the SA-35 is its inherent balance. The weight distribution feels just right, allowing for quick target acquisition and stable shooting. The grip angle is natural, making it easy to point the gun accurately.
In terms of accuracy, the SA-35 proved to be quite capable. Grouping at the distances tested was consistently tight, with shots grouping well within a moderate size. The SA-35 demonstrated the potential for excellent accuracy.
Reliability was another standout feature. The SA-35 functioned flawlessly throughout the testing period, cycling various ammunition types without a single malfunction. The gun ejected casings positively and fed the next round smoothly, instilling confidence in its performance.
Recoil, while present, was manageable. The all-steel construction and the ergonomic grip helped to absorb some of the recoil, making the gun comfortable to shoot, even during extended range sessions. The SA-35 felt balanced, contributing to rapid follow-up shots.
The trigger, without the magazine disconnect, is crisp and predictable. This consistency in the trigger pull contributed significantly to the overall accuracy. The trigger’s feel is a definite improvement over the original Hi-Power. The reset is relatively short, allowing for quick follow-up shots.
Weighing the Advantages and Disadvantages
The Springfield SA-35 has many strengths. The combination of its classic design, high-quality construction, and modern enhancements makes it a compelling choice. The absence of the magazine disconnect is a welcome change. The improved sights and the overall ergonomics make it a pleasure to shoot. The SA-35 offers excellent value for its price.
However, no gun is perfect, and there are a few points to consider. The blued finish, while classic, may be susceptible to wear and tear. The trigger may not be to everyone’s liking, although it is a significant improvement over the original. The sight options are somewhat limited compared to some other modern handguns.
Examining the Competition: Alternative Choices
In the world of modern handguns, the SA-35 has many competitors. The original Browning Hi-Power remains an option, though finding one in good condition may be a challenge. Several modern handguns offer features that may appeal to some shooters, such as polymer frames, optics-ready slides, and higher magazine capacities. However, these guns often lack the classic aesthetic and historical significance of the SA-35.
Other classic-inspired pistols have also emerged in recent years. These often offer a similar experience, and they may also have slight differences in design or price that cater to specific shooter preferences.
The choice between the SA-35 and its competitors will depend on individual preferences. The SA-35 offers a unique combination of classic appeal and modern enhancements.
Conclusion: A Modern Take Worthy of the Name
The Springfield SA-35 successfully captures the spirit of the Browning Hi-Power while making significant improvements for the modern shooter. The improved sights, the absence of the magazine disconnect, and the overall build quality make it a joy to shoot. The gun performs well, is accurate, and is reliable. Its ergonomics are pleasing, contributing to its ease of use.
The SA-35 offers a solid balance between price and performance. For those who appreciate the classic design of the Hi-Power and want a modern take, the Springfield SA-35 is an excellent choice. It’s a well-made, reliable, and accurate pistol that will undoubtedly please both enthusiasts of the original and those seeking a high-quality handgun.
Is the Springfield SA-35 a worthy successor to the Hi-Power? Yes, it is.
For its combination of classic design, modern improvements, performance, and value, the Springfield SA-35 earns a high recommendation for anyone seeking a handgun with a rich history, and a future filled with reliable use. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of classic firearm design.
