From Humble Beginnings: The Rise of High Standard
The world of firearms is rich with history, craftsmanship, and the pursuit of accuracy. Among the many legendary names, High Standard stands out, particularly for its contributions to the realm of target shooting. And within the High Standard lineage, the Citation Supermatic shines as a testament to precision engineering and enduring performance. This article delves into the fascinating story of the High Standard Citation Supermatic, exploring its origins, design, capabilities, and the reasons behind its continued allure to shooters and collectors alike.
Before the rise of the Supermatic, we must first understand the environment in which it was born. High Standard Manufacturing Company, a name now synonymous with quality firearms, began as a company with strong ties to the defense industry. But the company quickly found its niche in the world of sporting arms. Their initial focus was in the design and production of a variety of handguns and rifles, laying the groundwork for their eventual mastery of the target pistol.
The growth of High Standard paralleled the growing interest in competitive target shooting. As the sport gained popularity, there emerged an increasing demand for firearms capable of exceptional accuracy, reliability, and ease of use. It was within this burgeoning competitive landscape that High Standard truly found its stride.
Forging a Champion: The Supermatic’s Genesis
The Supermatic series represents a crucial chapter in High Standard’s history. The design team meticulously crafted a series of pistols to cater to the requirements of serious target shooters. The goal was straightforward: to create a pistol that could deliver exceptional results in competitive events.
The evolution of the Supermatic was a journey of refinement. Designers worked to improve every facet of the pistol, from its ergonomics and trigger mechanism to its sights and barrel. Each iteration brought the Supermatic closer to perfection, establishing its reputation for consistent performance.
The eventual arrival of the Citation Supermatic was a culmination of this dedication. It exemplified the culmination of their efforts, and it quickly became a favorite among target shooters.
A Symphony of Design: Exploring the Features of the High Standard Citation Supermatic
The High Standard Citation Supermatic, even today, is a visually striking and intelligently designed firearm. Its elegant lines and purposeful design reflect the priorities of precision and functionality. From the moment you handle it, you appreciate the commitment to quality that went into its construction.
The pistol’s design centered around ease of use and a natural feel in the hand. The grip angle and overall balance contribute to a comfortable and stable shooting platform. The ergonomics allow for rapid target acquisition, a key ingredient in competitive shooting.
The heart of any accurate pistol is its barrel. The Citation Supermatic features a barrel length meticulously chosen for performance. The barrel design is carefully crafted from quality materials. The sights, fully adjustable for windage and elevation, are essential for precise aiming. The sights are typically easily adjustable, helping shooters customize their aiming point to their personal preferences.
The trigger mechanism is another area where the Citation Supermatic excels. The trigger pull is often remarkably crisp and clean. The trigger’s design allows for a smooth and predictable pull, helping shooters achieve the most consistent shot placement. It’s this level of detail that contributes to the pistol’s overall reputation.
The magazine holds a sensible number of rounds, which contributes to the pistol’s balance. The design of the magazine is durable and user-friendly, making for reliable and quick reloads.
The choice of materials also says a lot about the Citation Supermatic. High-grade steel and other quality metals are selected for strength and durability. The overall construction reflects a commitment to longevity, and many specimens have continued to deliver exemplary performance for many decades.
Unleashing Accuracy: The Performance of the High Standard Citation Supermatic
The High Standard Citation Supermatic’s performance is where its reputation truly shines. It’s a pistol that was built to compete, and it has a long and impressive track record of doing exactly that.
The inherent accuracy of the Citation Supermatic is a result of its design. The tight tolerances, excellent trigger, and high-quality barrel all work together to create a pistol that’s capable of impressive groups at the range. Many shooters have been thrilled with its ability to consistently put shots on target.
The shooting experience with a Citation Supermatic is often described as smooth and controlled. The pistol’s design helps manage recoil, contributing to rapid follow-up shots. The balance of the pistol contributes to a steady hold, letting shooters focus on the fundamentals of marksmanship.
The Citation Supermatic was designed with target shooting in mind, so it’s the perfect candidate for disciplines such as bullseye shooting and other precision events. In its time, the Citation Supermatic was a prominent contender in competitive events. The design’s focus on accuracy enabled many competitors to attain their personal bests and take home awards.
When you hold the High Standard Citation Supermatic in your hand and take aim, you immediately understand its promise. It is a precision instrument, and its design invites you to engage in a mindful shooting experience.
Treasures of the Past: Collecting the High Standard Citation Supermatic
For many, the High Standard Citation Supermatic is far more than just a firearm. It is a piece of history, a work of art, and an investment. The Citation Supermatic holds a special place in the world of collectible firearms.
Collectors are drawn to the Citation Supermatic for many reasons. The pistol’s historical significance, its excellent design, and its proven performance make it highly desirable. The quality of craftsmanship and the attention to detail that went into its construction add to its appeal.
Several factors influence the value of the High Standard Citation Supermatic. The condition of the pistol is paramount. Original, well-preserved examples often command a premium. Any features that would be considered original from the factory are important, as well as the pistol’s overall condition. Rarity also plays a role. Certain models, with different barrel lengths, finishes, or grip styles, may be more valuable than others.
Finding a Citation Supermatic requires persistence and research. Gun shows, online auctions, and private sales are all potential sources. If you are planning on buying a High Standard Citation Supermatic, be sure to inspect the pistol carefully. Look for signs of wear and tear, and make sure the gun functions correctly.
If you are the proud owner of a High Standard Citation Supermatic, it’s important to take proper care of it. Clean and lubricate the pistol regularly. Store it in a safe and dry environment, and handle it with care to preserve its value and condition.
A Lasting Legacy: The Enduring Appeal of the High Standard Citation Supermatic
The High Standard Citation Supermatic stands as a testament to a bygone era of American ingenuity and craftsmanship. It’s a firearm that was engineered to excel and became a symbol of accuracy and reliability. The Citation Supermatic continues to be loved by those who appreciate fine firearms. Its design, quality, and performance have earned it a special place in the hearts of collectors and shooters. The Citation Supermatic remains a reminder that precision and quality will always be valued.
