Anyone feel that the redesign doesn't go far enough? When seeing this pistol, I can't help but think of CZs redesign of the 75 into the SP-01 that came with more capacity, an accessory rail, and updated ergos. But the SP-01 came out almost 20 years ago now. And with what we got from the Hi-Power redesign, I can't help feeling this gun is already dated on arrival. It's 2022, and FN opted out from giving the new Hi-Power an accessory rail or an optics cut? I get the impression that FN restrained themselves from going too far with the redesign as they could have, so the gun could maintain its legacy look.
Polymer frame to keep it ultra slim and reduce weight and fir the love of God integrate a rail into it. I'm a die hard hi power fan though so I will be buying this new model regardless.
@@blakedavis2447 If you’re buying a FN High Power (not Hi Power) then you’re not getting a Hi Power. This gun is so far removed from the original, it’s a different gun, they might as well have added a rail and optics cut.
I would think they are going for a collector market, while also trying to debut a new design for militaries that are using old stocks. I would never carry this. I would buy this to collect. I consider myself an average gun consumer in this regard. I would rather carry a 509, which if what I am thinking to be true. Hopefully this new hi power shares mag compatability with it.
"The original didn't sell so that's why it was discontinued" Sure, but if they had made a Mk4 version with an improved trigger, safety, and beaver tail I bet it would out sell this High Power. Gun nerds like me want the original, but tweaked to be better. We don't want an FN 509 in a Hi Power skin suit.
This is perfectly said. My pipe dream was always an updated HP with better trigger, no mag safety, beavertail and especially a slightly thicker front strap to allow for REAL useful checkering. I would gladly have paid north of $1K for that because the only way to do it previously was to pay BIG bucks for a custom smith to do a bunch of custom work.
I want a 509 in a Hi Power skin, but that means I have no interest in this gun as it lacks an accessory rail and optics mount. FN tried to split the baby by modernizing it so much nothing’s compatible with the classic design, but not giving modern shooters all the features they want 👎
Calling it a "High Power" (or Hi Power V. 2) should be a crime in and by itself, and I'm not even a fan for the old Hi Power. Yes, I got one, that's the reason I'm not a fan of :)
We Australians still review the effectiveness of the Combat Boomerang every few years, with the military citing cost as a major factor for consideration. While the high skill requirement makes it prohibitive to general adoption, its very low sound signature means select special forces groups still use the Combat Boomerang to this day.
@@george2113 I doubt it. While the American familiarity with guns might help somewhat, you also see a lot of bad habits that come from casual shooting which the military has to train out of recruits. Plus, you have to regularly drill and train with your firearms to actually get good with them. Lots of casual shooters just don't shoot enough, and for the last couple years, ammo prices have certainly cut down on shooting. Even Guntubers have had to limit videos because ammo has been so scarce. The old adage I've always followed is that you don't rise to the occasion, you fall back to your training. My guess is Australia knows the pistol is not that important when it comes to small arms. They used the Steyr AUG and arguably did more to improve that rifle than the Austrians did. Now they've been switching out to the new EF88 Stery AUG with the bulk of development done in Australia. Pistols are just not that important and my gut tells me that once Australia wears out enough High Powers that they actually have to buy something new, they'll just pick one of the plethora of modern duty guns out there like the CZ-P10, Glock, Beretta APX, S&W MP 2.0, Ruger American, Sig P320, etc. Point is that the Aussies are right. It's still cheaper to just keep the High Power until enough of them break or wear out to merit the adoption of something new. It's not that its ineffective, its just that its not that important.
@@DriveCarToBar there's a old saying in the states (there's the right way, the wrong way , and the army way) . Audie Leon Murphy and Alvin York among many others were self motivated and learned shooting before the wars. Any military training is based on the lowest common denominator. It may produce a useable product, but not the best.
I'm all for what FN did, and I am a traditionalist. The changes make it much more viable for serious defensive use in my opinion. I can't wait to give it a try. I'm hoping a shorter barrel more compact version will eventually be in the offering as well. As far as cost goes, I'm more than willing to pay what is necessary for quality materials and quality workmanship. Keep 'em coming FN!
I saw one of these in our LCGS today...the cost of 3 Tisa's for one FN High Power part two I thought....came home and searched the interweb. Watched you and MAC, got clearance from lovely wife and picked up the New High Power today. I will shoot it tomorrow on steel. I appreciate your reviews; they influence real purchase decisions.
1269 is about 400 bucks too much. I think Springfield took the right approach: change the stuff people didn’t like, keep the stuff they loved, and keep the price reasonable.
I think Springfield did the right thing, but only FNH can make a true FN Hi-Power, and I think they get to charge a premium. That being said, I'd buy the SA-35
The old one didn't sell well because the MSRP was kilobuck in a market saturated with surplus. Not sure if there's a niche for a kilobuck modernized version. I'd like one, but I'm a damn poor.
There's def a market. I have an OG MarkIII and I don't really want to mod it, but I would love a new one. Mags not being compatible sucks, but I don't like the Hi Power cause of it's mags I like the gun and how it handles. I'm more accurate with my Hi Power than any other gun I've shot, including my own Gucci Glock with a nice trigger.
Despite having no personal interest in this, I do hope it sells well because I like that more & more manufacturers are bringing back metal-framed pistols. Walther, SIG, S&W, ...who's next?
I would love to see Smith and Wesson bring back the model 5906. My dad has one of those and I love it. Metal 9mm handguns are my personal favorite because they feel so good in my hands when shooting compared to something like a Glock.
Still waiting for thr glockenspiel 7 with its ceramic frame to come available.... 30 years and STILL WAITING. Lll Maybe they need to open a factory in Germany first??
It's larger in every way, that doesn't sound better. It's so large, some have speculated it was designed so a plastic framed version would be the same size, or that there may be a .45 version coming?
During my service in the British army (1968-85), I used the old version, (J Inglis), and it never let me down, ever! I now have a civilian version, (living in Norway), and as before, 100% reliable. I am tempted to get the new version when cash allows. Well done FN!
I'll second that. Served 1978 to 1996. Carried one for Op. Granby and used it. The bloody thing was reliable and saved my life. Sadly, I still live in Britain and gave up my gun licence in disgust at the restrictive laws. But if things ever change or I move to the US to be with family. I'll buy two and feel much safer. Just think, if Fusilier Drummer L/CPL Lee Rigby had been packing one of these while off duty, he would still be with us today. Guaranteed.
I really hate how my home of Washington has slowly become Cali-Lite with so many of its laws. Still upset about the "high-capacity" mag ban, as if that was ever going to solve all the problems in Pierce and King County
@@TheTyrial86 don't know where OP is but we haven't had any so far in the South. It's awful close though. We had emergency notifications cause the grid was about two minutes away from a full crash. It's bad, and we've got at least another week of this shit.
@front_toward_atf I know it does kind of ruin the aesthetics but a rail is very practical. To me a heavy handgun like the Hi-Power without a rail is just a range toy. I like having multiple possible uses for guns I buy and I like to be able to have a flashlight on my gun for home defense.
@@dancortes3062 Let's be honest. An all metal handgun is something moat if not all of the people who carry, will view this as a range toy. Adding a rail to this would make it a 2lbs gun lol.
I’m a 1911 guy, always have been. I really like the Hi Power but never grabbed one….I did just get SA-35 and I LOVE IT. I may give this a whirl as well.
I feel like this is what the Hi Power was always meant to be. But then again, the CZ 75 is basically that too. And has an amazing aftermarket. And is cheaper.
the hi power in my opinion has few if any shortcommings. it's trigger can be made much better very easily. it's accuracy isnt amazing but its good. it's ergos are second to none for me. and ive never had hammer bite. there is no gun that points as precisely as the bhp for me. and that's worth its weight in gold. the cz75 is a great gun. but overly complicated design. the hi power was elegant in it's simplicity
@@sethpenna1440 if you've never fully disassembled a cz75 and a hi power, you'd see what i'm taking about. and this may be due to the cz being da/sa but even still. i love the cz, but i certainly dont see it as an improved hi power. ive never understood that argument.
@@neverknowsbest4994.... I agree with everything you said about the original Hi-Power. I love it. I think its great. I never liked the CZ75. And I'm definitely not diggin this new FN "Hi-Power." I'd rather go with the Hi-Power from Springfield.
If you want a good one for “cheap”, look for an FEG surplus. They’re Hungarian and 100% parts compatible with the originals. I’ve had one I’ve put through hell and the only issue I’ve had was with one of the original mags. Swapped it out for Mec-Gar 15 rounders and removed the trigger disconnect, and I absolutely love it. I got it for the exact same reason you want one, and had it cerakoted black with the RPD logo in the grips.
@@food_toobs8333I've had a commercial FEG for a while now and can confirm your comment, they're great clones! I think it's my favorite pistol in my collection
I got to handle one of thes and I have to be honest. It is a very well made pistol. Its solid, feels good in the hand, and is an improvement. But its a 1400 dollar hand gun with no RMR cut or rail. Its a good gun, but its just not a High Power. I would have rather had FN just say this was inspired by the BHP rather then them say "THIS IS THE BHP"
I like this remake of the FN Hi Power, but I agree with your assessment. If they hit the $1000 price point, I think this pistol would sell much better. Unfortunately, they were too short sighted and priced it well above what most people would be willing to pay for what it brings to the table. Personally I have fallen in love with the metal CZ pistols and the CZ SP-01 tactical is a better pistol, especially with the light rail up front and having double action trigger. The one and only advantage this new FN has is the disassembly lever that brings it up to speed with modern polymer pistols. While that's good for a duty pistol, it's not necessary to be able to field strip the pistol quickly or easily for us civilians (though it is a nice touch). I'm under no constraints to field strip and clean the gun in any manner that a soldier may have to.
Just bought one this week, put about 300 rounds through right away before I took it home. Really really soft shooter, really really good looking. Good single action trigger, I’d say between a 1911 and sig single action which is pretty good being a pivoting trigger. IT IS NOT A HIGH POWER, and it wasn’t meant to be, and I’m fine with that. It ran totally reliable, which is what I expected. Only two “gripes” for lack of a better word. One, it’s heavy, really heavy, which has its merits, but maybe not so much as a carry gun. Two, the casting on the frame is a little crude, wish they would have smoothed it out before finishing it but it’s a solid piece. If you’re looking for a browning high power this is not the gun for you. If you’re looking for a high quality soft shooting reliable piece with a light nod to its origins you won’t be disappointed.
I think it’s a super awesome, beautiful, and I want to like it, but previous experiences with FNs 509 and 503 reliability and customer service keep me away from it. Awesome review, TFB is the best gun channel on TH-cam.
I really like the idea of a modern classic like this, although $1300 without a threaded barrel, rail, or optics mount makes it a little hard to justify since their thing is modernizing a tried and true duty gun.
A remake of the original would be way more appealing to me. Maybe a better trigger but everything else should be left the same as it was. There are so much options out there that there is really no need for a modernized classic. Or do both I guess, nonetheless I feel like there are many people who would like a High Power just like it was back then, at least externally.
I like the re-design. I'm glad they got rid of the stupid mag disconnect safety. JMB updated the 1911, and we got the Hi-Power. It makes sense that FN would update and basically give us the Hi-Power 2.0. If I had the money to buy one, I would. Though, it's within a couple hundos of the new SA 1911 DS Prodigy..so I would have to think about which one to buy.
JMB had very little to do with the hi power as we know it today. For that you can thank Dudonai Saive and the French pistol trials. Forgotten weapons just did a video on this about a month ago. The Hi power isn’t a browning design.
I honestly wish that FN would have gone the extra distance with the Hi-Power redesign to create a modern, optics ready, SAO 9mm handgun as their answer to the rising trend of duty 2011s like the Prodigy.
I was always a Hi Power fan. I bought a well used T series Hi Power from some military trade in back in 2015 for $550 bucks. I was working at a gun shop then. I bead blasted it, reblued it, it had some pitting but I like the character it has. Crowned the barrel, smoothed the feed ramp, put in a new C&S sear and no bite hammer, added new hogue grips, Novak sights and Mec Gar 15 td mags. It is by far my favorite handgun. Probably because it’s the one I put so much work into. That being said, I wouldn’t mind having a new updated one to beat up and carry
I agree with James on all points. I bought a new HP some years back just before Browning discontinued manufacturing. I'm pretty much a 1911 guy (Gunsite, Thunder Ranch since 1983) & knew the trigger would be crap compared to a 1911. Instead of modifying the gun in any way, I just shot it for over 2000 rounds. The gun is so smooth & the trigger broke in fine. Very dependable too. Glad I bought it. The hammer bites me if I grip it too high, so I just wear a band-aid when I go to the range. If faced with choice of an FN or Springfield HP, no contest, FN slam dunk.
The original Hi-Power wasn't discontinued because it didn't sell. The tooling and fixtures were badly worn out, and FN had to decide whether to completely re-tool or not. The Hi-Power was still selling, but not to a degree that justified the cost of replacing the tooling when future sales were uncertain.
I'm 71, and I've owned dozens of Hi Powers. Mostly wartime guns, and yes, you're partly correct regarding the purest attitude. But yes, you can teach an old dog new tricks. Young minds,fresh ideas. So I look forward to trying one for myself. With more than 30 years as an instructor, it should be fun.
This makes me proud to be Belgian. I had the GP when i did my service in '81. It was not bad for the time but an update was far overdue. I would love to try it out on the range.
I have two OG Hi-Powers, one an FN Herstal. Love them. And I was interested in this one until I heard the price. No rail? No threaded barrel? Even with the improvements, which were necessary, why not do it right? And a plastic guide rod? FFS, what were they thinking at that price point? Thanks for the review
You may want to check out the Girsan HP tactical clone model. As far as I'm aware, it is the only HP clone that has the pic rail. It's priced around $600 to boot. But personally, I would rather have the CZ SP-01 tactical. The double action trigger is one of the smoother triggers on the market and there is a very healthy aftermarket for it.
While I can see that some people really love SA with a safety, I would have considered a DA mechanism to be a "real" 2.0 version. CZ gives you guns that you can adjust from cocked & locked to decocker. Best of both worlds.
You mean a Browning BDM? Unfortunately it too was another redesign that just didn't take off. I think they were just too expensive to offer what they did. I remember them and I liked it, but it was almost double the cost of nearly everything else on the shelf. Much like this new Hi Power. I suspect this too will go the same way.
Yes! DA/SA is the best thing ever. I love the feel of a SA trigger but I hate the idea of carrying a gun locked. The first shot being DA gives me safety to carry and a longer pull gives me more room to quit a mistake before it´s to late. Also, after the first shot I have te best trigger possible. CZ 75, P01 and revolvers are my favorite.
My only problem with it is they're still calling it the High-Power. If I wanted a "High-Power", I wouldn't want this; and if I didn't want a High-Power, there are so many other choices. I don't think I'd choose this over a CZ-75, for example.
Absolutely. Like H&K redesigning the LSA80, a redesign isn't a bad thing, but calling it the same gun when it's clearly not feels... deceptive. On top of that I can't help but foresee a lot of confusion in parts and accessory compatibility between the (old) Hi Power and the (new) Hi Power.
@@Stryker425 it uses the hi power trigger group design, which is one of a kind. but I agree that there isn't any good reason to buy this. just another heavy tilt barrel hammer pistol.
@@humorss Yeah, but they'll never be as good as a single action that was designed from the start to be one. Again, outside of 1911s, your options are pretty limited. Granted, there are double stack 1911s out there, and in various other calibers, so they fulfill any feature the new High Powers do, but nevertheless, given all the bajillion Glock clones out there, having a few more 1911-esque guns is nice.
I'm 55yrs old. Been carrying since I was 18 and have always had 1911s and having many handguns throughout my lifetime, I Always wanted a Highpower but back when I was in my early 20s I was at the range with friends and had an opportunity to shoot the original design. The hammer bite is what turned me off. Having to adjust my grip almost every time was not a good thing. While being at qualifying range with the Sherriff's Dept in my late 30s, I tried again with same result so I never have entertained the idea of getting one. The new one I want. I've shot it and it's very comfortable but the problem is.. very hard to find. I respect the original but appreciate the remake.
Seems like a really cool gun. That being said a "duty" gun (at least by size) without an optics ready slide or accessory rail makes this a niche range toy.
Exactly. This new Hi-Power is a range toy. The gun is nice. I’ll admit that. The only bad gun is a gun that doesn’t work. But if you can’t put optics on it because it doesn’t have an optics cut and you can’t put a weaponlight on it because it doesn’t have a rail, the modernization efforts weren’t enough. Optics and rails are the future. The 1911 has already been updated into a 9mm doublestack 2011 and the 1911 is even older than the Hi-Power. I’ll admire it from a distance. I don’t particularly want to buy one.
@@leroyjenkins4811 FN usually comes out later with a “tactical” model that will probably have an optic cut, rail, and threaded barrel. Just like the fnx and 509
When did handguns start inherently needing red dots and flashlights to be viable/functional though 🤷 That's like saying a Colt Commando is nothing but a range toy because of the carry handle 😵
even still, it doesn't have an adjustable rear nor a superb trigger now an entirely modernized new highpower with optics mounting, accessory rail, 2-2.5 lbs trigger, adjustable sights? that would be nice
@@CommanderLongJohn It's viable sure, but you lose quite a bit of capability that more modern designs have. Red dots and weapon lights have become the new standard for duty guns.
The Feral Kid, hurls his boomerang 🪃 at you James. Since James got it so hot they needed water cooling perhaps, once an accessory rail and optics cut version happens, he could have a miniature 671 mounted on the slide and exhaust pipes off the accessory rail. Purely for cooling. It could be the Pursuit Special. Then if they make a really long slide version, The Humungus!
How did they decide to omit an accessory rail when they are allegedley updating such a design? Seems like the bare minimum these days for a "modern handgun".
And red dot cut for those of us that use them. I know it seems like heresy but if the whole point was "modernizing it" then it should've been on there from the start.
I like it. Everyone complained when we transitioned from the 1911 to Beretta. Turned out to be a good replacement. People are resistant to change. Nothing wrong with more options and it appears they did it right.👍
I'm a die hard fan of the originals and bought several over the years. I still own all of them all. However this new version is on my list to get one. Hats off to FN for bringing the design up to date.
I don't mind the redesign to modernize and improve the gun, but it does feel like they didn't go all the way with the lack of an optics system and rail. I personally don't really use my rails so that doesn't bother me but it doesn't feel fully modernized still. If they had announced a tactical model or something like that along with it to be released later I would probably not have anything to say at all. I don't mind the lack of compatibility, it's like when people want everything to be glock part compatible at some point that becomes overly restrictive and prevents you from making different or better designs. At some point you have to tear the bandaid off and make something that's completely new for you to make meaningful improvements. Like with AK's where you have to change so much it's not really an AK anymore to make it have all the modern features.
I'm a very traditional gun guy to the point I shoot revolvers in IPSC; these changes are long overdue. The Browning HiPo has always been a flawed masterpiece (I blame the fact that mechanics were drafted by JMB, but the design and layout were finished by Dieudonné Saive). The hammer and slide bite was a known item from the beginning, but while the 1911 got lovely Jeff Cooper-inspired upgrades in better beavertails, the HiPo suffered along with bad ergonomics because of starry-eyed traditionalism that made them unshootable for a lot of us.
A government 1911 as JMB intended has hammer bite issues too for some shooters. Maybe people back then just dealt with that and didn't give it much thought or the shooting style was preventing it. The grip shape appears to be very comfortable for most people.
I used one of these in the New Zealand Army back in the early 90’s. shortly after they were replaced with Sig 226 and now they are onto Glock. I quite like the Hi Power and admire how long the design has been around. I read somewhere (not sure if its true) that the British SAS operating in Northern Ireland liked it due to its relatively slim profile design making it easy to conceal.
As someone with an original HP, who loves it, the redesign is good. The only oversight in my opinion is not making it optics-ready. They better not be saving optics-readiness for a “tactical” model. The price could be better, and hopefully it comes down a bit, but modern FN pistols have a hefty price tag and this one is no different.
I don’t understand why FN went through all the trouble of redesigning the high power but not make it RDO compatible. It’s 2022, damn near every pistol is RDO compatible.
I really like my Hi Power, but to "modernize" the new model, I think they didn't go far enough. RDO cut and light rail should be a given for new "combat" pistols, which this is obviously trying to be. This is some weird middle ground where it's not close enough to the original to be nostalgic, but not updated enough to be "modern."
I bought a High Power brand new, and I carried it for a few years; it was a full-sized gun that carried like a compact, at least for me. I had to make a sacrifice of it - needs must - and will buy another when I can. I *might* pick up one of these in addition.
I agree with you. If it's better it's better, although, what could be better than the Browning High Power. I wouldn't say it's better, but rather equipped with the more modern features advertised through the pistol market today. Many licenced factories around the globe still produce clones of the iconic pistol.
I like that they updated the Hi-Power. I wish they would have name it Hi-Power 2 or Hi-Power II, or Hi-Power (year), just something to help differentiate the name of this remodel from the original. Otherwise I think it's great they brought it back updated for the modern era and didn't screw it up.
I think it's great how they updated the design to keep it relevant. Although I think they should name it Hi-Power 2, to disambiguate from the original.
FN is calling it the High Power, not Hi Power, so they are doing some slight work to differentiate it while also probably trying to confuse folks into thinking it's still the original design, which it isn't. TFB TV should fix the title accordingly.
@@ethinos2719 - Thanks for the heads-up. I checked the FN website, and they do in fact call it the High Power. So now TFB needs to disambiguate the video title, LOL. 😛
As a former British soldier, I love this new version of the classic weapon! Incidentally, the old one saved my life in the toxic sandbox of 1991. If our UK laws ever change and we are once again trusted to own automatic 9mm pistols on civi street. I'm buying two.
Just a point of correction. Canada adopted the Browning in 1944 and began manufacturing them for the Canadian Army and the Chinese Nationalist Army. The pistols were manufactured at the John Inglis plant in Long Branch, Ontario, which was located just outside of Toronto. The British also adopted the Hi-Power around the same time and ceased using them in 2013, when they adopted the Glock as their new service pistol. Some of the British-issue pistols were made in Canada, but many more were also made in a plant that was located in the UK. Canada recently replaced its Browning Hi-Powers with the SIG-Sauer P320 after determining, more than a decade ago, that the Canadian Forces needed a new service pistol.
This reminds me of the Ford Mustang Mach E, it’s not a Mustang just because they call it one. Now Girsan has done a great job updating the Hi Power. This “High Power” I’m sure is a quality firearm. But, it’s an outdated design compared to modern polymer striker fired 9mm pistols. It’s neither nostalgic or modern and it’s overpriced. I’ll stick with my original Browning standard model and consider purchasing a Girsan, which is a third of the price.
Mustang: 2 door coupe, front engine-rwd, gas powered V8 (and some poor people options) Mustang Mach-E: ..............it has a horse on it. Shoulda just called it the Mach-E and been done. Fords making the mistake a bunch of people are making.
I love the updates. My question is whether the quality of the FN is so much more to be worth going with this over getting a Girsan clone, which seems to be a good bang for buck option.
From the review of the Girsan I saw from Honest Outlaw I'd say yes; Girsan seems like another Turkish clone that isn't up to par with the original. That's only if you really want it for serious use, I think as a plinker or talking piece that the Girsan, or the Springfield SA-35, should satisfy that itch. I think I'd rather just get the SA-35 just to have something closer to the original and have that holster and mag compatibility with the older Hi-Power.
@@andreivaldez2929 thanks. It’d definitely be a plinker and a “just to have one” for me. That’s not a knock on the platform, just with my collection that is what it would end up being.
@@lbwlawyer I say buy this one or better yet grab a collectible nazi marked hi power. You won’t regret having a real FN Hi Power. Trust me. And the WW2 ones still shoot great and are only going up in value.
Ehh, I wouldnt use any of these for a Duty/SD gun, Glock works just fine for that. This would be more a range gun/plinker and talking piece. $1200+ for a talking piece is not happening. I'd take the SA-35 for the near clone intent, the Girsan for a cheap, modern version.
a shorter slide, optic cut and railed frame would make this thing sing in the current market, but 1200 bones for a mildly modernized hi-power is more than a bit off base.
I am a huge Hi Power fan, have 4 of them. And will be getting on of these new FN pieces, it appears to be a truly new unique to the market side arm, I love the looks, can’t wait to try it!
I haven't fired or seen one of these, so I can't add anything. Just glad it's come back. I'm fortunate to have inherited a Belgium made (German occupied FN) High-Power my dad brought back from Germany after WWII. It's a solid design, accurate as any I own - if not more accurate. Nice review James, keep it up!
Making a hi-power that is made to meet modern gun scene is an excellent idea. I personally would have gone the route of only tweaking what needs to be tweaking(for example the trigger), but if the gun performs well then the only complaint I have is that it'll make hi-power parts shopping a bit more tricky.
I applaud FN for this superb update. I will buy one, no question. It’s a superb rendition of a classic design.. and I own a mint T series Hi Power. It’s my favorite 9MM (and I also own DA/SA CZ 75B, so that’s saying something). I agree with you completely. This will be in my safe! Good review.
Not classic enough for the classic people, not modern enough for the modern people, not cheap enough for the budget people. This gun will have a hard time finding a large audience
I agree for the ones who love the old one there are plenty of good ones to buy second hand. Although expensive they are a lot cheaper than the new one. I recently picked one up from the 1960s (T series serial number). In good condition and shoots like a dream.
I've always wanted a high power but the price and new mags is a deal breaker. Will probably wait on springfield to get the bugs worked out of their model.
If I were you I would reconsider. He bought some cheap shity shotguns Girsan makes actually good guns. Look at some reviews not everything that comes out of Turkey sucks.
@@darkcircle899 looks like they are running around $500. If I run across a used one I would probably consider it. I have horrible luck so I'm not risking 500 for a new one.
I used to have a Browning that was done by Jim Hoag. That was by far the best EDC I ever owned. It was a dream to shoot- Hoag did the trigger- thin to carry and insanely accurate.
I'm definitely interested in this model, especially the FDE version. However, I'm worried that the grip on this new version will be to big to be comfortable for me. With my smaller hands, I already tend to prefer 1911's or sig's p365. Hopefully one of my local shops will have one someday, so I can get a feel for it before dropping six paychecks on the thing.
Extremely happy and excited with the makeover. It’s like going from a 1911 to a 2011. Or any of the new enhancements that have gone along with the traditional 1911 this is progress.
Love mine. Glad I bought it. Was originally looking for a SA-35. But none to be found in my area. Was NOT going to pay the outrageous prices on Gunbroker for the 35. Found the FN in a local shop and even though it has a higher MSRP, it was actually cheaper than the SA-35.
I have lusted after a High Power for decades, just couldn’t justify it. I agree that FN took the right route and thoroughly updated the design in all the right areas. I’m afraid I’ll have to keep waiting to own a High Power, I just cannot justify the price.
looks like another great FN pistol. Updates look very promising. Traded a S&W 39 for a new Hi-Power in 1976, best trade I ever made. Truly liked the gun.
Being left handed, I like the looks of the updates as well. $1200 or thereabouts is a bit steep though. My rule is to never buy something right away. Let someone else buy them and find the flaws, then when those get fixed buy one. I do this with guns, and vehicles especially. A couple of the Springfield guns looked promising, the SA-35 and the Prodigy, but there have been some "not so nice" reviews on them that I've seen. I'll let Springfield work out the kinks, and then consider buying one or both.
Historic guns getting modernized is my favorite often-overlooked segment of the firearms world. The SMG semi FG42, Ohio Ordnance's semi BAR, now the OG JMB wondernine. The 1911 has a ton of development, modernizations like Para, the 2011, why not rework the BHP?
I don't think they understand why most Hi-Power owners bought Hi-Powers. They made a pistol that doesn't appeal to collectors, and doesn't compete in it's price bracket. I'd wager sales are quite poor.
Awesome review. I love the new High Power and was also considering an SA-35. Just as I appreciate the old Broncos, and if I came across a nice restored one I’d maybe buy one, I’d personally rather get a new Bronco. I feel the same way about an original Hi Power vs the new High Power. Plus, the old Hi Powers are extremely over-priced on the used market.
I like the updated design. It’s an FN so it’s going to be pricey. If I had any input, I would have suggested calling it the Hi-Power 2 so there is no confusion with the old version in regards to holsters and accessories. Will the new 17 rd mags work in the original version? Obviously the other way will not work as stated in the video.
14:37 They weren’t selling because they were priced high in the market at the time for a pistol with frankly a mediocre trigger compared to say a 1911, and the 1911 has more history here in the US. It also, at the time, had to compete with a lot of surplus Hi Powers coming in from Israel. Now that surplus has in many cases dried up and the traditional-esque clones are selling, but at prices that are hundreds less than what the older FNs had for prices.
Completely agree with the TFB review! Great new redesign! If you like the old BHP, get the Springfield! Price kills it for me! For a few hundred more, you're in Dan Wesson or Wilson Combat territory!
I fell in love with the gun while watching the movie Serpico. As he is buying his Browning Hi Power the salesman asks if he “ is expecting an army” ? No Serpico replies “ just a division”. Great line. Great movie. Great gun.
Just picked up one last week because the HP was a bucket list gun. Very happy with the purchase. Soft, flat shooter. I am perplexed by the cheap plastic grips and nylon guide rod, but I'll upgrade those. All that being said, it's just fun to shoot.
@@rickswetman2063 I haven't yet. Waiting on the aftermarket to start producing some additions for the platform. I'm at about 1k rounds now and the action is picking up speed with every box I put through it. I did replace the grips with the FN G10 grips. Highly recommended.
The thought process for this pistol was probably similar for the drawing board of the chevy ssr. An updated look to a classic design with no clear target market with less capabilities in its class but with good performance.
I like this rework. Lots of improvements. Not a real SA only fan and the price is just plain too much. But I really like this remake. The FDE model looks really good. I'm thinking this gun vs the new M&P Metal, which is about $400 less. Hmmmm. Wait! I forgot to mention the "little-dick-low-power-energy." Now we're getting down to the brass tax.
I have a 1965 Browning 9mm HI Power.. I love this pistol.. But, with that being said.. I am thrilled that they are bringing this back.. I look forward to seeing this at a gun show and and I will probably be purchasing myself one. 👍👍
Very cool re-release. "Modernizing" falls a bit short without red-dot and weapon-light options though. If this were a true 2011 competitor, I'd be all in at 15 bills.
My first carry pistol was a hi-power. Other than challenging concealing a pretty large single action pistol, absolutely zero issues. It hit what I wanted to, and if you kept it clean it went bang. Every f***ing time. The only change I made was Novak sights, a little work on the trigger (under 100 USD) and testing what ammo it liked. That's it.
I am a huge fan of the original, but I have to admit that the original still has shortcomings. I am very happy to see the new version. Great video James.
Anyone feel that the redesign doesn't go far enough? When seeing this pistol, I can't help but think of CZs redesign of the 75 into the SP-01 that came with more capacity, an accessory rail, and updated ergos. But the SP-01 came out almost 20 years ago now. And with what we got from the Hi-Power redesign, I can't help feeling this gun is already dated on arrival. It's 2022, and FN opted out from giving the new Hi-Power an accessory rail or an optics cut? I get the impression that FN restrained themselves from going too far with the redesign as they could have, so the gun could maintain its legacy look.
Yup, I had similar rant lol
May as well not get a hi power of you want all that other stuff
Polymer frame to keep it ultra slim and reduce weight and fir the love of God integrate a rail into it. I'm a die hard hi power fan though so I will be buying this new model regardless.
@@blakedavis2447 If you’re buying a FN High Power (not Hi Power) then you’re not getting a Hi Power. This gun is so far removed from the original, it’s a different gun, they might as well have added a rail and optics cut.
I would think they are going for a collector market, while also trying to debut a new design for militaries that are using old stocks.
I would never carry this. I would buy this to collect. I consider myself an average gun consumer in this regard. I would rather carry a 509, which if what I am thinking to be true. Hopefully this new hi power shares mag compatability with it.
"The original didn't sell so that's why it was discontinued" Sure, but if they had made a Mk4 version with an improved trigger, safety, and beaver tail I bet it would out sell this High Power.
Gun nerds like me want the original, but tweaked to be better. We don't want an FN 509 in a Hi Power skin suit.
Exactly. It’s a totally new completely different pistol, not an “upgraded” high power, it’s actually a “Hi-Power Tribute” pistol.
This is perfectly said. My pipe dream was always an updated HP with better trigger, no mag safety, beavertail and especially a slightly thicker front strap to allow for REAL useful checkering. I would gladly have paid north of $1K for that because the only way to do it previously was to pay BIG bucks for a custom smith to do a bunch of custom work.
What we wanted was the Springfield Hi-power minus the QC issues. Of course, FN knows better than us.
I want a 509 in a Hi Power skin, but that means I have no interest in this gun as it lacks an accessory rail and optics mount. FN tried to split the baby by modernizing it so much nothing’s compatible with the classic design, but not giving modern shooters all the features they want 👎
Calling it a "High Power" (or Hi Power V. 2) should be a crime in and by itself, and I'm not even a fan for the old Hi Power. Yes, I got one, that's the reason I'm not a fan of :)
We Australians still review the effectiveness of the Combat Boomerang every few years, with the military citing cost as a major factor for consideration. While the high skill requirement makes it prohibitive to general adoption, its very low sound signature means select special forces groups still use the Combat Boomerang to this day.
One wonders if the lack of early gun training is reduceing Australian army effectiveness. The best drivers, shooters, musicians , etc started young.
Make a grenade version and i'm sure it will be a hit. Oh wait...!! ;)
@@BigSwede7403 that’s the polish version!
@@george2113 I doubt it. While the American familiarity with guns might help somewhat, you also see a lot of bad habits that come from casual shooting which the military has to train out of recruits. Plus, you have to regularly drill and train with your firearms to actually get good with them. Lots of casual shooters just don't shoot enough, and for the last couple years, ammo prices have certainly cut down on shooting. Even Guntubers have had to limit videos because ammo has been so scarce.
The old adage I've always followed is that you don't rise to the occasion, you fall back to your training.
My guess is Australia knows the pistol is not that important when it comes to small arms. They used the Steyr AUG and arguably did more to improve that rifle than the Austrians did. Now they've been switching out to the new EF88 Stery AUG with the bulk of development done in Australia. Pistols are just not that important and my gut tells me that once Australia wears out enough High Powers that they actually have to buy something new, they'll just pick one of the plethora of modern duty guns out there like the CZ-P10, Glock, Beretta APX, S&W MP 2.0, Ruger American, Sig P320, etc.
Point is that the Aussies are right. It's still cheaper to just keep the High Power until enough of them break or wear out to merit the adoption of something new. It's not that its ineffective, its just that its not that important.
@@DriveCarToBar there's a old saying in the states (there's the right way, the wrong way , and the army way) . Audie Leon Murphy and Alvin York among many others were self motivated and learned shooting before the wars. Any military training is based on the lowest common denominator. It may produce a useable product, but not the best.
I'm all for what FN did, and I am a traditionalist. The changes make it much more viable for serious defensive use in my opinion. I can't wait to give it a try. I'm hoping a shorter barrel more compact version will eventually be in the offering as well. As far as cost goes, I'm more than willing to pay what is necessary for quality materials and quality workmanship. Keep 'em coming FN!
I saw one of these in our LCGS today...the cost of 3 Tisa's for one FN High Power part two I thought....came home and searched the interweb. Watched you and MAC, got clearance from lovely wife and picked up the New High Power today. I will shoot it tomorrow on steel.
I appreciate your reviews; they influence real purchase decisions.
1269 is about 400 bucks too much. I think Springfield took the right approach: change the stuff people didn’t like, keep the stuff they loved, and keep the price reasonable.
Particularly when it comes with a plastic guide rod and a cast frame.
400 bucks is way too much for a steak, potatoes and one martini for two at Ruths Criss but doesn't stop anyone who wants it
FNH is expensive whatever the gun's qualities
Plus, you get a better gun with more options for $700 from Sig. This thing even looks like a Sig with a Hi-Power snout.
I think Springfield did the right thing, but only FNH can make a true FN Hi-Power, and I think they get to charge a premium. That being said, I'd buy the SA-35
The old one didn't sell well because the MSRP was kilobuck in a market saturated with surplus.
Not sure if there's a niche for a kilobuck modernized version.
I'd like one, but I'm a damn poor.
There's the Springfield one if you don't mind the hiccups people have been having with those.
There's def a market. I have an OG MarkIII and I don't really want to mod it, but I would love a new one. Mags not being compatible sucks, but I don't like the Hi Power cause of it's mags I like the gun and how it handles. I'm more accurate with my Hi Power than any other gun I've shot, including my own Gucci Glock with a nice trigger.
Save the pennies and you can have one also.
CZ 75....................................................
@@deltatango7759 Also want a CZ75 with the Omega trigger....
Despite having no personal interest in this, I do hope it sells well because I like that more & more manufacturers are bringing back metal-framed pistols. Walther, SIG, S&W, ...who's next?
GLOCK
Yeah, I hate polymer crap for their asthetic anyway.
I would love to see Smith and Wesson bring back the model 5906.
My dad has one of those and I love it. Metal 9mm handguns are my personal favorite because they feel so good in my hands when shooting compared to something like a Glock.
Still waiting for thr glockenspiel 7 with its ceramic frame to come available.... 30 years and STILL WAITING. Lll
Maybe they need to open a factory in Germany first??
Same. A 5906 or BDA comeback seems like it will be coming soon
I can't believe people aren't stoked about this pistol....Sounds better in every way.
It's larger in every way, that doesn't sound better. It's so large, some have speculated it was designed so a plastic framed version would be the same size, or that there may be a .45 version coming?
During my service in the British army (1968-85), I used the old version, (J Inglis), and it never let me down, ever! I now have a civilian version, (living in Norway), and as before, 100% reliable. I am tempted to get the new version when cash allows. Well done FN!
I'll second that. Served 1978 to 1996. Carried one for Op. Granby and used it. The bloody thing was reliable and saved my life. Sadly, I still live in Britain and gave up my gun licence in disgust at the restrictive laws. But if things ever change or I move to the US to be with family. I'll buy two and feel much safer.
Just think, if Fusilier Drummer L/CPL Lee Rigby had been packing one of these while off duty, he would still be with us today. Guaranteed.
Norwegians can have guns?
Yes, but getting an FAC takes time, and lots of checks!
Preserve the originals. Enjoy the new ones to the fullest.
I think it's absolutely how the industry should be and if I lived in America I'd buy it but I live in CA and it's not on the crowns list.
I really hate how my home of Washington has slowly become Cali-Lite with so many of its laws. Still upset about the "high-capacity" mag ban, as if that was ever going to solve all the problems in Pierce and King County
@@Pattamatt1998 Commiserations from Cali. Perhaps they should try outlawing crime and actually prosecuting those who commit crimes?
That's sad. Well.... How are those black outs treating you?
@@TheTyrial86 don't know where OP is but we haven't had any so far in the South. It's awful close though. We had emergency notifications cause the grid was about two minutes away from a full crash. It's bad, and we've got at least another week of this shit.
Is that CA for California or Canada? They both have a crowns list of firearms...
With a rail, optic cut and threaded barrel, I think it might be neat. It's already pretty flat shooting without a compensator.
I agree, if they are modernizing it go all the way.
I agree. I wouldn't even think about buying one without at least a rail.
@@dancortes3062 exactly, if you’re gonna ‘update it’ then update it all the way.
@front_toward_atf I know it does kind of ruin the aesthetics but a rail is very practical. To me a heavy handgun like the Hi-Power without a rail is just a range toy. I like having multiple possible uses for guns I buy and I like to be able to have a flashlight on my gun for home defense.
@@dancortes3062
Let's be honest. An all metal handgun is something moat if not all of the people who carry, will view this as a range toy. Adding a rail to this would make it a 2lbs gun lol.
I like that they modernized it but why not make an option with a light rail and an optic cut?
Yes. They only did half the job by not having a rail and optic cut. I wouldn't mind paying the price but not without those additions.
Exactly dude I actually like the redesign and the price wouldn't bother me if I could drop a dot and a light on it
Check out the FNX series. It's exactly that
cuz it would be ugly
@@dinkledord7026 if I want pretty I'll shoot my 6" nickel Colt Python.
I’m a 1911 guy, always have been. I really like the Hi Power but never grabbed one….I did just get SA-35 and I LOVE IT. I may give this a whirl as well.
As a Belgian, this gun holds a big place in my heart, and i cant wait to try one
Will they be available in Belgium ?
@@pdstm i asked to a local gunshop ( pretty big one ) and he said he is not sure, and that would be in a year minimum
Browning passed on his secrets to Dieudonné Saive of Fabrique national for a reason.
I feel like this is what the Hi Power was always meant to be.
But then again, the CZ 75 is basically that too. And has an amazing aftermarket. And is cheaper.
the hi power in my opinion has few if any shortcommings.
it's trigger can be made much better very easily.
it's accuracy isnt amazing but its good.
it's ergos are second to none for me. and ive never had hammer bite.
there is no gun that points as precisely as the bhp for me. and that's worth its weight in gold.
the cz75 is a great gun. but overly complicated design. the hi power was elegant in it's simplicity
@@neverknowsbest4994 overcomplicated design?
@@sethpenna1440 if you've never fully disassembled a cz75 and a hi power, you'd see what i'm taking about.
and this may be due to the cz being da/sa
but even still. i love the cz, but i certainly dont see it as an improved hi power. ive never understood that argument.
@@neverknowsbest4994.... I agree with everything you said about the original Hi-Power. I love it. I think its great. I never liked the CZ75. And I'm definitely not diggin this new FN "Hi-Power." I'd rather go with the Hi-Power from Springfield.
SAR USA is one knockoff, and produce great guns.
“Browning HP. Manufactured by FN, Belgium. It uses 9mm parabellum rounds.”
Every since Resident Evil 2 I wanted one…
If you want a good one for “cheap”, look for an FEG surplus. They’re Hungarian and 100% parts compatible with the originals. I’ve had one I’ve put through hell and the only issue I’ve had was with one of the original mags. Swapped it out for Mec-Gar 15 rounders and removed the trigger disconnect, and I absolutely love it. I got it for the exact same reason you want one, and had it cerakoted black with the RPD logo in the grips.
@@food_toobs8333I've had a commercial FEG for a while now and can confirm your comment, they're great clones! I think it's my favorite pistol in my collection
I got to handle one of thes and I have to be honest. It is a very well made pistol. Its solid, feels good in the hand, and is an improvement. But its a 1400 dollar hand gun with no RMR cut or rail. Its a good gun, but its just not a High Power. I would have rather had FN just say this was inspired by the BHP rather then them say "THIS IS THE BHP"
I like this remake of the FN Hi Power, but I agree with your assessment. If they hit the $1000 price point, I think this pistol would sell much better. Unfortunately, they were too short sighted and priced it well above what most people would be willing to pay for what it brings to the table.
Personally I have fallen in love with the metal CZ pistols and the CZ SP-01 tactical is a better pistol, especially with the light rail up front and having double action trigger. The one and only advantage this new FN has is the disassembly lever that brings it up to speed with modern polymer pistols. While that's good for a duty pistol, it's not necessary to be able to field strip the pistol quickly or easily for us civilians (though it is a nice touch). I'm under no constraints to field strip and clean the gun in any manner that a soldier may have to.
S.O.H.P. "Son of Hi-Power"
Just bought one this week, put about 300 rounds through right away before I took it home. Really really soft shooter, really really good looking. Good single action trigger, I’d say between a 1911 and sig single action which is pretty good being a pivoting trigger. IT IS NOT A HIGH POWER, and it wasn’t meant to be, and I’m fine with that. It ran totally reliable, which is what I expected. Only two “gripes” for lack of a better word. One, it’s heavy, really heavy, which has its merits, but maybe not so much as a carry gun. Two, the casting on the frame is a little crude, wish they would have smoothed it out before finishing it but it’s a solid piece. If you’re looking for a browning high power this is not the gun for you. If you’re looking for a high quality soft shooting reliable piece with a light nod to its origins you won’t be disappointed.
My Dad just bought this in FDE. We put the FN wood grips on it. Beautiful gun. Even better feel than a 1911.
I think it’s a super awesome, beautiful, and I want to like it, but previous experiences with FNs 509 and 503 reliability and customer service keep me away from it. Awesome review, TFB is the best gun channel on TH-cam.
What happened with your 509?
I really like the idea of a modern classic like this, although $1300 without a threaded barrel, rail, or optics mount makes it a little hard to justify since their thing is modernizing a tried and true duty gun.
A remake of the original would be way more appealing to me. Maybe a better trigger but everything else should be left the same as it was. There are so much options out there that there is really no need for a modernized classic. Or do both I guess, nonetheless I feel like there are many people who would like a High Power just like it was back then, at least externally.
I like the re-design. I'm glad they got rid of the stupid mag disconnect safety.
JMB updated the 1911, and we got the Hi-Power. It makes sense that FN would update and basically give us the Hi-Power 2.0.
If I had the money to buy one, I would.
Though, it's within a couple hundos of the new SA 1911 DS Prodigy..so I would have to think about which one to buy.
JMB had very little to do with the hi power as we know it today. For that you can thank Dudonai Saive and the French pistol trials. Forgotten weapons just did a video on this about a month ago. The Hi power isn’t a browning design.
I would get the prodigy or the SA35.
How did you comment 5 days ago 💀
I honestly wish that FN would have gone the extra distance with the Hi-Power redesign to create a modern, optics ready, SAO 9mm handgun as their answer to the rising trend of duty 2011s like the Prodigy.
@@EdwardOrnelas Patreon?
I bought 2 of them,,,FN makes world class products .I have always been a huge collector and fan of the hi power ...
I was always a Hi Power fan. I bought a well used T series Hi Power from some military trade in back in 2015 for $550 bucks. I was working at a gun shop then. I bead blasted it, reblued it, it had some pitting but I like the character it has. Crowned the barrel, smoothed the feed ramp, put in a new C&S sear and no bite hammer, added new hogue grips, Novak sights and Mec Gar 15 td mags. It is by far my favorite handgun. Probably because it’s the one I put so much work into. That being said, I wouldn’t mind having a new updated one to beat up and carry
I don't know what I appreciate more. Your humor or your honesty. I look forward to your review on the 1911 Prodigy.
I agree with James on all points.
I bought a new HP some years back just before Browning discontinued manufacturing. I'm pretty much a 1911 guy (Gunsite, Thunder Ranch since 1983) & knew the trigger would be crap compared to a 1911. Instead of modifying the gun in any way, I just shot it for over 2000 rounds. The gun is so smooth & the trigger broke in fine. Very dependable too. Glad I bought it.
The hammer bites me if I grip it too high, so I just wear a band-aid when I go to the range.
If faced with choice of an FN or Springfield HP, no contest, FN slam dunk.
The original Hi-Power wasn't discontinued because it didn't sell. The tooling and fixtures were badly worn out, and FN had to decide whether to completely re-tool or not. The Hi-Power was still selling, but not to a degree that justified the cost of replacing the tooling when future sales were uncertain.
I hope suzuki retools to keep making the dr650 when that time comes because damn that things so good
I'm 71, and I've owned dozens of Hi Powers. Mostly wartime guns, and yes, you're partly correct regarding the purest attitude. But yes, you can teach an old dog new tricks. Young minds,fresh ideas. So I look forward to trying one for myself. With more than 30 years as an instructor, it should be fun.
This makes me proud to be Belgian. I had the GP when i did my service in '81. It was not bad for the time but an update was far overdue. I would love to try it out on the range.
I've owned a Belgian-made P-35 for over thirty years. Smoothest, slickest pistol I've ever shot. No issues. Service ready today.
I have two OG Hi-Powers, one an FN Herstal. Love them. And I was interested in this one until I heard the price. No rail? No threaded barrel? Even with the improvements, which were necessary, why not do it right? And a plastic guide rod? FFS, what were they thinking at that price point? Thanks for the review
I have an old nazi hi power from my grandfather and its awesome this feel like a glock with a hammer.
You may want to check out the Girsan HP tactical clone model. As far as I'm aware, it is the only HP clone that has the pic rail. It's priced around $600 to boot.
But personally, I would rather have the CZ SP-01 tactical. The double action trigger is one of the smoother triggers on the market and there is a very healthy aftermarket for it.
No red dot cut in the slide...
At least the manufacturers are listening to the people who want a little of the old
While I can see that some people really love SA with a safety, I would have considered a DA mechanism to be a "real" 2.0 version. CZ gives you guns that you can adjust from cocked & locked to decocker. Best of both worlds.
You mean a Browning BDM? Unfortunately it too was another redesign that just didn't take off. I think they were just too expensive to offer what they did. I remember them and I liked it, but it was almost double the cost of nearly everything else on the shelf. Much like this new Hi Power. I suspect this too will go the same way.
Yes! DA/SA is the best thing ever. I love the feel of a SA trigger but I hate the idea of carrying a gun locked. The first shot being DA gives me safety to carry and a longer pull gives me more room to quit a mistake before it´s to late. Also, after the first shot I have te best trigger possible.
CZ 75, P01 and revolvers are my favorite.
The fnx series exists
Eww no. If you want that get a CZ-75
CZ guns also break their firing pin retaining roll pin if you dry fire them. 🤷🏻
My only problem with it is they're still calling it the High-Power. If I wanted a "High-Power", I wouldn't want this; and if I didn't want a High-Power, there are so many other choices. I don't think I'd choose this over a CZ-75, for example.
Absolutely. Like H&K redesigning the LSA80, a redesign isn't a bad thing, but calling it the same gun when it's clearly not feels... deceptive. On top of that I can't help but foresee a lot of confusion in parts and accessory compatibility between the (old) Hi Power and the (new) Hi Power.
@@Stryker425 it uses the hi power trigger group design, which is one of a kind. but I agree that there isn't any good reason to buy this. just another heavy tilt barrel hammer pistol.
@@humorss Steel framed single action guns that aren’t 1911s are pretty rare, so this adds to that market.
@@gameragodzilla kind of but all those SA only conversion of existing platform are pretty amazing too,
@@humorss Yeah, but they'll never be as good as a single action that was designed from the start to be one.
Again, outside of 1911s, your options are pretty limited. Granted, there are double stack 1911s out there, and in various other calibers, so they fulfill any feature the new High Powers do, but nevertheless, given all the bajillion Glock clones out there, having a few more 1911-esque guns is nice.
I'm 55yrs old. Been carrying since I was 18 and have always had 1911s and having many handguns throughout my lifetime, I Always wanted a Highpower but back when I was in my early 20s I was at the range with friends and had an opportunity to shoot the original design. The hammer bite is what turned me off. Having to adjust my grip almost every time was not a good thing. While being at qualifying range with the Sherriff's Dept in my late 30s, I tried again with same result so I never have entertained the idea of getting one. The new one I want. I've shot it and it's very comfortable but the problem is.. very hard to find. I respect the original but appreciate the remake.
Seems like a really cool gun. That being said a "duty" gun (at least by size) without an optics ready slide or accessory rail makes this a niche range toy.
Exactly. This new Hi-Power is a range toy. The gun is nice. I’ll admit that. The only bad gun is a gun that doesn’t work. But if you can’t put optics on it because it doesn’t have an optics cut and you can’t put a weaponlight on it because it doesn’t have a rail, the modernization efforts weren’t enough. Optics and rails are the future. The 1911 has already been updated into a 9mm doublestack 2011 and the 1911 is even older than the Hi-Power. I’ll admire it from a distance. I don’t particularly want to buy one.
@@leroyjenkins4811 FN usually comes out later with a “tactical” model that will probably have an optic cut, rail, and threaded barrel. Just like the fnx and 509
When did handguns start inherently needing red dots and flashlights to be viable/functional though 🤷 That's like saying a Colt Commando is nothing but a range toy because of the carry handle 😵
even still, it doesn't have an adjustable rear nor a superb trigger
now an entirely modernized new highpower with optics mounting, accessory rail, 2-2.5 lbs trigger, adjustable sights? that would be nice
@@CommanderLongJohn It's viable sure, but you lose quite a bit of capability that more modern designs have. Red dots and weapon lights have become the new standard for duty guns.
They couldn't even put a rail on it!??
And James, you had me at combat boomerang. 🤣
The Feral Kid, hurls his boomerang 🪃 at you James. Since James got it so hot they needed water cooling perhaps, once an accessory rail and optics cut version happens, he could have a miniature 671 mounted on the slide and exhaust pipes off the accessory rail. Purely for cooling. It could be the Pursuit Special. Then if they make a really long slide version, The Humungus!
How did they decide to omit an accessory rail when they are allegedley updating such a design? Seems like the bare minimum these days for a "modern handgun".
And red dot cut for those of us that use them. I know it seems like heresy but if the whole point was "modernizing it" then it should've been on there from the start.
Maybe Europeans don’t use optics or lasers
I like it. Everyone complained when we transitioned from the 1911 to Beretta. Turned out to be a good replacement. People are resistant to change. Nothing wrong with more options and it appears they did it right.👍
I'm a die hard fan of the originals and bought several over the years. I still own all of them all. However this new version is on my list to get one. Hats off to FN for bringing the design up to date.
I don't mind the redesign to modernize and improve the gun, but it does feel like they didn't go all the way with the lack of an optics system and rail. I personally don't really use my rails so that doesn't bother me but it doesn't feel fully modernized still. If they had announced a tactical model or something like that along with it to be released later I would probably not have anything to say at all. I don't mind the lack of compatibility, it's like when people want everything to be glock part compatible at some point that becomes overly restrictive and prevents you from making different or better designs. At some point you have to tear the bandaid off and make something that's completely new for you to make meaningful improvements. Like with AK's where you have to change so much it's not really an AK anymore to make it have all the modern features.
The French toasted, the Belgians didn’t waffle, the Australians’ combat boomerang…you’re in hi-powered form, James.
I'm a very traditional gun guy to the point I shoot revolvers in IPSC; these changes are long overdue.
The Browning HiPo has always been a flawed masterpiece (I blame the fact that mechanics were drafted by JMB, but the design and layout were finished by Dieudonné Saive). The hammer and slide bite was a known item from the beginning, but while the 1911 got lovely Jeff Cooper-inspired upgrades in better beavertails, the HiPo suffered along with bad ergonomics because of starry-eyed traditionalism that made them unshootable for a lot of us.
A government 1911 as JMB intended has hammer bite issues too for some shooters. Maybe people back then just dealt with that and didn't give it much thought or the shooting style was preventing it. The grip shape appears to be very comfortable for most people.
I used one of these in the New Zealand Army back in the early 90’s. shortly after they were replaced with Sig 226 and now they are onto Glock. I quite like the Hi Power and admire how long the design has been around. I read somewhere (not sure if its true) that the British SAS operating in Northern Ireland liked it due to its relatively slim profile design making it easy to conceal.
Your dad jokes are about as on point and fine as your marksmanship. Probably almost as lethal. Great job, James!
As someone with an original HP, who loves it, the redesign is good. The only oversight in my opinion is not making it optics-ready. They better not be saving optics-readiness for a “tactical” model.
The price could be better, and hopefully it comes down a bit, but modern FN pistols have a hefty price tag and this one is no different.
I don’t understand why FN went through all the trouble of redesigning the high power but not make it RDO compatible. It’s 2022, damn near every pistol is RDO compatible.
Rail would be nice too.
I really like my Hi Power, but to "modernize" the new model, I think they didn't go far enough. RDO cut and light rail should be a given for new "combat" pistols, which this is obviously trying to be. This is some weird middle ground where it's not close enough to the original to be nostalgic, but not updated enough to be "modern."
I bought a High Power brand new, and I carried it for a few years; it was a full-sized gun that carried like a compact, at least for me. I had to make a sacrifice of it - needs must - and will buy another when I can. I *might* pick up one of these in addition.
I agree with you. If it's better it's better, although, what could be better than the Browning High Power. I wouldn't say it's better, but rather equipped with the more modern features advertised through the pistol market today. Many licenced factories around the globe still produce clones of the iconic pistol.
I like that they updated the Hi-Power. I wish they would have name it Hi-Power 2 or Hi-Power II, or Hi-Power (year), just something to help differentiate the name of this remodel from the original. Otherwise I think it's great they brought it back updated for the modern era and didn't screw it up.
@@JimYeats That's also what the original was called outside the US.
@Darude With enough effort, it can be made into it's unofficial name.
High-power II electric Boogaloo.
If it was made after 2018, it's the new version. If it's made before 2018, it's the old version.
Agreed
My skin’s going to itch for the rest of the day after watching y’all shoot through clumps of cut grass.
I think it's great how they updated the design to keep it relevant. Although I think they should name it Hi-Power 2, to disambiguate from the original.
Yes!
Higher-Power
FN is calling it the High Power, not Hi Power, so they are doing some slight work to differentiate it while also probably trying to confuse folks into thinking it's still the original design, which it isn't. TFB TV should fix the title accordingly.
@@ethinos2719 - Thanks for the heads-up. I checked the FN website, and they do in fact call it the High Power. So now TFB needs to disambiguate the video title, LOL. 😛
As a former British soldier, I love this new version of the classic weapon! Incidentally, the old one saved my life in the toxic sandbox of 1991.
If our UK laws ever change and we are once again trusted to own automatic 9mm pistols on civi street. I'm buying two.
Just a point of correction. Canada adopted the Browning in 1944 and began manufacturing them for the Canadian Army and the Chinese Nationalist Army. The pistols were manufactured at the John Inglis plant in Long Branch, Ontario, which was located just outside of Toronto. The British also adopted the Hi-Power around the same time and ceased using them in 2013, when they adopted the Glock as their new service pistol. Some of the British-issue pistols were made in Canada, but many more were also made in a plant that was located in the UK.
Canada recently replaced its Browning Hi-Powers with the SIG-Sauer P320 after determining, more than a decade ago, that the Canadian Forces needed a new service pistol.
This reminds me of the Ford Mustang Mach E, it’s not a Mustang just because they call it one. Now Girsan has done a great job updating the Hi Power. This “High Power” I’m sure is a quality firearm. But, it’s an outdated design compared to modern polymer striker fired 9mm pistols. It’s neither nostalgic or modern and it’s overpriced. I’ll stick with my original Browning standard model and consider purchasing a Girsan, which is a third of the price.
Mustang: 2 door coupe, front engine-rwd, gas powered V8 (and some poor people options)
Mustang Mach-E: ..............it has a horse on it.
Shoulda just called it the Mach-E and been done. Fords making the mistake a bunch of people are making.
I love the updates. My question is whether the quality of the FN is so much more to be worth going with this over getting a Girsan clone, which seems to be a good bang for buck option.
From the review of the Girsan I saw from Honest Outlaw I'd say yes; Girsan seems like another Turkish clone that isn't up to par with the original. That's only if you really want it for serious use, I think as a plinker or talking piece that the Girsan, or the Springfield SA-35, should satisfy that itch. I think I'd rather just get the SA-35 just to have something closer to the original and have that holster and mag compatibility with the older Hi-Power.
@@andreivaldez2929 thanks. It’d definitely be a plinker and a “just to have one” for me. That’s not a knock on the platform, just with my collection that is what it would end up being.
@@lbwlawyer I say buy this one or better yet grab a collectible nazi marked hi power. You won’t regret having a real FN Hi Power. Trust me. And the WW2 ones still shoot great and are only going up in value.
Ehh, I wouldnt use any of these for a Duty/SD gun, Glock works just fine for that. This would be more a range gun/plinker and talking piece. $1200+ for a talking piece is not happening. I'd take the SA-35 for the near clone intent, the Girsan for a cheap, modern version.
a shorter slide, optic cut and railed frame would make this thing sing in the current market, but 1200 bones for a mildly modernized hi-power is more than a bit off base.
I am a huge Hi Power fan, have 4 of them. And will be getting on of these new FN pieces, it appears to be a truly new unique to the market side arm, I love the looks, can’t wait to try it!
Agreed. I hope they don’t become a total unicorn and they can actually be found on the retail market
Where do you find them all? aren't they like $2000 a piece?
@@justinedse3314 great question. I don’t know either bossman
I haven't fired or seen one of these, so I can't add anything. Just glad it's come back. I'm fortunate to have inherited a Belgium made (German occupied FN) High-Power my dad brought back from Germany after WWII. It's a solid design, accurate as any I own - if not more accurate. Nice review James, keep it up!
Now Springfield Armory just have to make P38 clones so Walther decides to make them again.
Making a hi-power that is made to meet modern gun scene is an excellent idea. I personally would have gone the route of only tweaking what needs to be tweaking(for example the trigger), but if the gun performs well then the only complaint I have is that it'll make hi-power parts shopping a bit more tricky.
I think that this is a good move business wise for FN, mostly because it puts the Hi Power back in contending for government and military contracts.
I applaud FN for this superb update. I will buy one, no question. It’s a superb rendition of a classic design.. and I own a mint T series Hi Power. It’s my favorite 9MM (and I also own DA/SA CZ 75B, so that’s saying something). I agree with you completely. This will be in my safe! Good review.
I had a Browning Hi Power back in 1981 and loved it. This one looks nice to me.
Loved the P35, but it needed too much work to make it a primo shooter. Would love to see you do a new FN Hi-Power vs SA-35 comparison.
Not classic enough for the classic people, not modern enough for the modern people, not cheap enough for the budget people. This gun will have a hard time finding a large audience
I agree for the ones who love the old one there are plenty of good ones to buy second hand. Although expensive they are a lot cheaper than the new one.
I recently picked one up from the 1960s (T series serial number). In good condition and shoots like a dream.
I've always wanted a high power but the price and new mags is a deal breaker. Will probably wait on springfield to get the bugs worked out of their model.
Check out Girsan. I’ve heard good things about their hi power
@@BiggCliph thanks for the recommendation but after watching James kill multiple Turkish shotguns I'm never buying a firearm made in that country.
If I were you I would reconsider. He bought some cheap shity shotguns Girsan makes actually good guns. Look at some reviews not everything that comes out of Turkey sucks.
@@darkcircle899 looks like they are running around $500. If I run across a used one I would probably consider it. I have horrible luck so I'm not risking 500 for a new one.
Really happy with the makeover. I think it’s long overdue and I’m ecstatic that it’s been done.
I used to have a Browning that was done by Jim Hoag. That was by far the best EDC I ever owned. It was a dream to shoot- Hoag did the trigger- thin to carry and insanely accurate.
I'm definitely interested in this model, especially the FDE version. However, I'm worried that the grip on this new version will be to big to be comfortable for me. With my smaller hands, I already tend to prefer 1911's or sig's p365. Hopefully one of my local shops will have one someday, so I can get a feel for it before dropping six paychecks on the thing.
If you just want FN, the 503 is a single stack. Springfield XDS is not the same, but similar feel to 1911.
Extremely happy and excited with the makeover. It’s like going from a 1911 to a 2011. Or any of the new enhancements that have gone along with the traditional 1911 this is progress.
Love mine. Glad I bought it. Was originally looking for a SA-35. But none to be found in my area. Was NOT going to pay the outrageous prices on Gunbroker for the 35. Found the FN in a local shop and even though it has a higher MSRP, it was actually cheaper than the SA-35.
That's insane considering the SAs MSRP is almost half what the FNs is.
@@hemicuda699 yea. Guys were paying double msrp for the SA-35. It was stupid.
There is a reason why it's cheaper than the Springfield.
canada is still rockin' the original HI Power as well, literally still using 1950s manufactured pieces.
I have lusted after a High Power for decades, just couldn’t justify it. I agree that FN took the right route and thoroughly updated the design in all the right areas. I’m afraid I’ll have to keep waiting to own a High Power, I just cannot justify the price.
looks like another great FN pistol. Updates look very promising. Traded a S&W 39 for a new Hi-Power in 1976, best trade I ever made. Truly liked the gun.
Being left handed, I like the looks of the updates as well. $1200 or thereabouts is a bit steep though. My rule is to never buy something right away. Let someone else buy them and find the flaws, then when those get fixed buy one. I do this with guns, and vehicles especially. A couple of the Springfield guns looked promising, the SA-35 and the Prodigy, but there have been some "not so nice" reviews on them that I've seen. I'll let Springfield work out the kinks, and then consider buying one or both.
Can't believe James didn't take the obvious line of calling the new model the..."Higher Power". Otherwise, well done script.
🤣🤣🤣
Historic guns getting modernized is my favorite often-overlooked segment of the firearms world. The SMG semi FG42, Ohio Ordnance's semi BAR, now the OG JMB wondernine. The 1911 has a ton of development, modernizations like Para, the 2011, why not rework the BHP?
Great video, James! Love hearing your feedback. I also love the new redesign so much that I acquired one.
I don't think they understand why most Hi-Power owners bought Hi-Powers.
They made a pistol that doesn't appeal to collectors, and doesn't compete in it's price bracket. I'd wager sales are quite poor.
The original Browning Hi Power was unnecessarily expensive and so is this model.
How much is it
@@GrosvnerMcaffrey $1269
@@mic187x2 that's way too steep what's the excuse for it? because it's still cheaper than an original
I actually thought the price was going to be higher. I was pleasantly surprised. Whole lotta poors gonna be bitching though.
Awesome review. I love the new High Power and was also considering an SA-35. Just as I appreciate the old Broncos, and if I came across a nice restored one I’d maybe buy one, I’d personally rather get a new Bronco. I feel the same way about an original Hi Power vs the new High Power. Plus, the old Hi Powers are extremely over-priced on the used market.
I own 14 Hi Powers. Placed my order for this new FN yesterday. Can't wait!
Great review but no mention of the mag release safety which is another plus. Thanks as always for your honesty.
I like the updated design. It’s an FN so it’s going to be pricey. If I had any input, I would have suggested calling it the Hi-Power 2 so there is no confusion with the old version in regards to holsters and accessories.
Will the new 17 rd mags work in the original version? Obviously the other way will not work as stated in the video.
No. The whole angle and such of the mag is different.
“Hi-Power Tribute Pistol” more accurately describes the completely new FN design.
That's why the new name is 'high power' unlike the title of the video states. It's a fn USA design, not fn herstal
14:37
They weren’t selling because they were priced high in the market at the time for a pistol with frankly a mediocre trigger compared to say a 1911, and the 1911 has more history here in the US. It also, at the time, had to compete with a lot of surplus Hi Powers coming in from Israel. Now that surplus has in many cases dried up and the traditional-esque clones are selling, but at prices that are hundreds less than what the older FNs had for prices.
Completely agree with the TFB review! Great new redesign! If you like the old BHP, get the Springfield! Price kills it for me! For a few hundred more, you're in Dan Wesson or Wilson Combat territory!
I fell in love with the gun while watching the movie Serpico. As he is buying his Browning Hi Power the salesman asks if he “ is expecting an army” ? No Serpico replies “ just a division”. Great line. Great movie. Great gun.
Just picked up one last week because the HP was a bucket list gun. Very happy with the purchase. Soft, flat shooter. I am perplexed by the cheap plastic grips and nylon guide rod, but I'll upgrade those. All that being said, it's just fun to shoot.
Did you find a stainless steel guide rod. I have been looking for one for almost a year. I cannot find anyone producing one. Help…
@@rickswetman2063 I haven't yet. Waiting on the aftermarket to start producing some additions for the platform. I'm at about 1k rounds now and the action is picking up speed with every box I put through it. I did replace the grips with the FN G10 grips. Highly recommended.
Thanks. The market will eventually catch up. Have fun. I have about 2500 through mine. I enjoy the feel of the gun. It is a good shooter.
The thought process for this pistol was probably similar for the drawing board of the chevy ssr. An updated look to a classic design with no clear target market with less capabilities in its class but with good performance.
lol, the ssr
I like this rework. Lots of improvements. Not a real SA only fan and the price is just plain too much. But I really like this remake. The FDE model looks really good. I'm thinking this gun vs the new M&P Metal, which is about $400 less. Hmmmm. Wait! I forgot to mention the "little-dick-low-power-energy." Now we're getting down to the brass tax.
I don’t get the pp remark
Why no rail or dot compatibility?
I have a 1965 Browning 9mm HI Power.. I love this pistol.. But, with that being said.. I am thrilled that they are bringing this back.. I look forward to seeing this at a gun show and and I will probably be purchasing myself one. 👍👍
So maybe getting a SIG P226 directly is a better choice?
Very cool re-release. "Modernizing" falls a bit short without red-dot and weapon-light options though. If this were a true 2011 competitor, I'd be all in at 15 bills.
At least a 1 or 2 slot rail for a gun that big. After carrying with a laser for awhile, I didn't understand why everyone wasn't using them.
They should have updated it with an optic cut and pic rail.
James, “…the Belgians didn’t (perfect comedic pause) WAFFLE”-you are Epic.
My first carry pistol was a hi-power. Other than challenging concealing a pretty large single action pistol, absolutely zero issues. It hit what I wanted to, and if you kept it clean it went bang. Every f***ing time. The only change I made was Novak sights, a little work on the trigger (under 100 USD) and testing what ammo it liked. That's it.
I am a huge fan of the original, but I have to admit that the original still has shortcomings. I am very happy to see the new version. Great video James.