BOUGHT AN MC P35 OPS 3 WEEKS AGO WENT TO THE RANGE AND HAD NO MALFUNCTIONS ... I AM A VET WHO CARRIED 1911A1 AND HAD A HIPOWER ALSO ... I WAS A TANK CREW MAN ON M48A5 AND M60A1 IN THE 80'S ...
@@hrfunk Girsan and Tisas are being very clever, giving US gun buyers what they want. Quality reproductions and variants of classic favorites (1911, P35, M9 etc.) at affordable prices.
This is an excellent video. I love the HiPower design, and I just recently purchased a standard Girsan HiPower. If I ever walk up on this particular model, I’ll definitely get it.
This is without a doubt my next pistol purchase. A Hi-Power with a rail and other modern upgrades, just speaks to my soul. Thank you for doing this video!
Decades ago, I had a Hi-Power. I was in college and had to sell it. I needed money (common theme). I was in my senior year and the work load was killing me, so I had to work less and study more. This pistol looks great and I think I am going to track one down for Christmas. I agree, the FN new one is a Franken gun. Thanks HR.
When I started shooting in the early 1970s a gunsmith wouldn't even discuss any issues with you until you had 500 rounds through a gun. Some of them were the old, crusty, Navy Chief-type who didn't want to talk to anyone who wasn't a veteran and who wasn't at least 50 years old, but there was a consistency among them as a group, "Come back and see me after 500 rounds. Then we'll talk." This looks like a really nice iteration of the Hi-Power! Good test, good shooting.
@@FoulPet This was the mid-1970s. Colt & S&W, the occasional Springfield or Browning. Some imports and bring-backs. All semiautomatic pistols came with an expected break-in period, even if the gun was used because you didn't know how much it had been shot.
@Frank Hinkle kinda my point. You don't see Berretta or SIG saying you need to flush 500 rounds before this gun functions. At least not that I've seen. Imagine at today's prices having to run 10 boxes of ammo to see if your gun works. Now I'm not suggesting you don't since I'll usually run at least 200 rounds through a gun before I'll carry it, but it shouldn't be a factory requirement. IMHO, today, a gun should run out of the box till it's so gunked up that it has to be cleaned. I don't see the average gun buyer stripping down a new gun to clean and oil it, then putting 500 rounds through it.
Thanks for this video! I learned to shoot pistols on my Uncle Browning Hi Power. Ive wanted one of my own for years, but theyre difficult to procure in California, of course. That said, a version of the standard Girsan Hi Power just became available in California, so I put one on order, as they were sold out first day. The model Im getting has target style rear sights with a novak style front blade sight, and a panel thats removable under the rear sights for installation of an optic. I cant wait for it to come so I can pick it up! Been watching lots of videos on Girsans and very excited and hopeful as to the quality of my future pistol!
@@hrfunk thank you, Sir! I certainly will! Im in the midst of making a 9mm conversion kit for my 38-Super 1911 which Ive also recently nearly completed customizing as my BBQ gun; its nickel plated. Lots to do in my relaxation time. Ill update on the pistol when I finally take possession! Very excited to have one.
@@hrfunk Hi Sir! Just took possession of it on Sunday after church! Shes a beauty! Typical California nonsense, the magazine disconnect cannot be removed without removing the entire trigger assembly instead of the more usual driving the pin on the trigger out. Its ok. I ordered the BHSS replacement trigger to frame pin and as soon as it arrives, Ill be finishing the work and have a superior and much smoother trigger. Its surprisingly smooth and from what Ive seen online, I believe they may have given it their match barrel, or theyve improved their fitment in the past couple of years. I dropped in my full Pachmayr Signature grips and it feels excellent in hand, the Novak style sights are very easy and nice, and the whole thing is excellent except the graininess of the trigger which will soon be remedied. I dragged out my Uncle's old Tex Shoemaker & Sons Hi Power holsters (Ive got three), and it sets well on my Kore belt, but as they all basically cup the pistol directly against the belt, I wont damage my Galco belt by using them with it as I dont want to mar it unnecessarily. I may get a Galco Commander Speed Paddle as the Government sized one I presently have, is about 3/4" too long, as would be expected. Anyway. Taking it out for my first range day very soon, going to run some hollow points through it too and see how she runs. Ill update! Its a very handsome pistol though, and excellent fit and finish! The Pachmayrs make all the difference though. Thank you for always taking the time to reply, Sir. I respect yr insights and reviews very much. Have a blessed week!
I would liked to have seen some checkering on the front strap and maybe the top of slide cut for a red dot. Overall a very beautiful pistol and a natural evolution of the original Hi Power. Much better than the new, overpriced FN “High” Power.
Awfully happy having finally got one of the 3 new versions of an iconic firearm into HOPmunitions. Having very much enjoyed my personal regard MC, I’m very impressed with the MC p35. Thanks for the review. Mr.E.
Hopefully Springfield Armory will take note and start manufacturing an updated, modernized P-35 here in the USA! I'd love to see one with the beavertail, the light rail and in stainless.
They have been making the SA 35 for about a year now, beaver tail is the same and no rail , but everything I've seen/heard about them is very positive. Edit: the magazine disconnect has been eliminated from this version as well.
I picked up the standard Girsan MC P35, and I am very impressed with it. Other than the markings you would think its a Browning MKIII. I called BH Springs Solutions and asked them about the Springfield Arms version of the HI Power. They told me to get the Girsan. I'm glad that I did.
Great review, thank you. HR, there seems to be a QC problem with the fiber optic front sight. Another reviewer mentioned that his front sight was not attached and later found in the case.
Enjoyed that. I watched it with my two year old granddaughter who was even more fascinated than I was. I look forward to teaching her to shoot when she's old enough.
I have always loved the BHP, but alas, the prices were too rich for my blood. I have a couple of FEG PJK-9HP's that are very good copies, but when I saw this video and found one at a very good price at my local GS, I tripped and fell down and fell in love all over again. I also see Girsan is offering this model with a 3.88 inch barrel which is the same as the old HP Detective model. I have not see one except on a couple of websites with nothing in stock. So many guns, so little money.
I agree with this notion except for the fact of the metallurgy itself. If you look at BH spring solutions metallurgy tests you will see that the metal hardness of the slide and the frame are opposite directions of the original browning and not in a good way. They actually made the frame softer and the side harder which is going to heavily and severely affect longevity and service life. Furthermore, the Springfield essay 35 is a much better representation of what should have been done with the gun both with mechanics, styling, and the metallurgy as well. You get what you pay for so if the gun makes it to 10 or 20,000 rounds and I think it was worth it and it should be able to do that but that being said I would prefer guns that will still be around a couple hundred years later if possible like several that I own from the 1800s. Metallurgy is very important and the common argument is because metallurgy and the signs of metal is so much more advanced that we can make guns even stronger. This is a two-sided coin however as yes we can make gun stronger but we can also make the tolerances much much tighter and weaker in order to save manufacturing costs while still being relatively positive the gun will hold up under typical use. So in essence the metallurgy nowadays should be better but it's not especially from guns coming out of Turkey. I have a feeling in about 10 years we are going to see a lot of cracked slides and bowed out frames. Again this is just my speculation but there are experts who I am getting this from. BH spring solutions probably knows more about high powers than Browning did himself. They are not a fan of these metalrgy changes and neither am I. Epecially since I own a couple original high powers and an essay 35 and I will tell you that the original high powers frame was already too soft and making it softer is detrimental. Making the side harder is going to be even rougher on that softer slide and on itself. I am extremely interested to see how these guns are holding up in a decade from now. Again I think they got everything else right but the actual physical metals are simply not up to the standard I would want in a service weapon. 👍
Since I am not likely to be around in 100 years, I'm not too worried about how my firearms might be doing then. As I recall BHSS also tested the SA35, and found some fairly significant issues with it. I suppose the fact that all manufacturers are employing cost cutting measures to 1 degree or another is just a sign of the times.
i love the NEW grip tang extension !!! the NEW slide stop /release ,the beefier barell , the feedramp mounted on the barell ,just have to get a few more magazines,,mec- gar of course!!!!!
Good review. I found that the mushy safety detent in the Girsan MC P35 pistols can be cured by installing a Cylinder & Slide safety detent plunger spring. Unfortunately, the C&S safety detent plunger itself will not fit in the Girsan safety lever.
Nice review. Amazing - or very lucky - tack driver shot!! I have the two tone MCP35. It came with an extremely gritty 7 pound trigger pull. Removing the mag disconnect made it buttery smooth but still 6 pound trigger. A bit of polishing on the sear and I now have a crisp 3 1/2 pound pull. My only criticism is the front sight that I filed down to raise the POI and painted the ramp red because the white is an awful color. A Patridge or fiber optic front sight would be a huge improvement. As soon as I can find one, I'll buy either the MCP35 Match or Ops. They are a bargain at $600.
P- 35 a quote from Garry James " Arguably the Best Pistole of WW2 " ! Dad brought one back from WW2 made at Radom in Poland. He said it would shoot the hot ammo used in the Machine Pistols where as the P38 and the Lugers would blow up. Now I want a Girsan but unfortunately we have a high capacity magazine ban in WASHINGTON state. Great video as always Best Wishes.
It's easy to see the influence the Hi-Power had on the CZ-75. I have a CZ and it needed a break in period. I think tack driving should be part of the National Match Course for centerfire pistol.
A cz needing a break in period? What cz model do you have because I've never even heard of anyone needing a break in period with a cz. Then again i have little to no experience with the p07's, p09,s or p10's although I've heard nothing but good things about those as well. Through the years i, my family, friends (many of whom have worked at gun shops for decades & or coworkers have had our share of full size & compact cz75's be them the bd, omega, or bd police models & none of them to my knowledge or others testimonies had ever needing break in periods. Same for the cz 97's. If you have an issue with any cz 75 or 97, I'd be highly suspicious of said gun & I'd contact customer support. That's beyond uncharacteristic of cz. For the record I've have plenty of other brand name pistols so I'm not speaking from a fanboy position. I could say the same thing about other models rarely ever having issues such as sig 226's or 229's, breatta 92/96's.
@@nova68cutie The CZ that I have is a 75BD and When it was new I had many fail to extract malfunctions. It was pretty strange because these malfunctions only happened with factory ammo and not my handloads. I couldn't find much written about it but someone makes a heavy duty extractor spring for the 75 leading me to believe that it may be a common problem. That pistol now has over 8000 rounds on it and hardly ever jams. What I learned was that this extractor needs to be kept clean and oiled. I shoot mostly 1911's where the extractor can be pretty much ignored and I brought that thinking to the CZ which is a mistake. CZ's are great pistols and I was surprised to have any problems with them. I'm smarter now and wouldn't hesitate to buy another one. It's funny that you mention the SIG 226. I carried one everyday for about 16years and it never ever malfunctioned. I believe the 226 may be the best hammer fired 9mm out there.
Well,, Thank You.. I bought a Girsan, but in the standard configuration, and an FN High Power. I like the Girsan, too. The profile is faithful to the original P35. The FN is only similar. The fit and finish of the FN is amazing and it should be for 3X the $$$. ($1225 shipped vs $450 shipped) This model has the magazine safety and the trigger is atrocious, but repairable.
This gun was introduced in Canada a few months before our handgun ban. It had a quality feel and very good price, especially when you consider competing models were going for much higher. Thank you for your review.
@@littleteethkeith There are several groups that are trying litigation, including the group that I am a member of, but it's unlikely to prevail. This is because there is no right to firearms in Canada. In fact, there is an absence of property rights in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms is due to a fundamental gap in the constitutional rights. This means the government still holds the balance of power in expropriation and we do not have constitutionally protected property rights.
A thorough presentation ! The "new" Browning HP is indeed an entirely different sidearm, but as outstanding as it is I would personally take a SiG P226 or CZ 75B in preference. Girsan has bundled a useful package of features and benefits, the hammer and slide stop appear identical to the Cylinder & Slide custom parts and the sights are a great upgrade. The extra 2+ oz of weight can be attributed to that extended tang and beefed up dust cover with the added light rail which undoubtedly lessens felt recoil. As far as alleviating hammer bite, instead of such an extreme long hook tang that can snag, why not instead use a short spur hammer with a wide paddle as found on some revolvers and 1911s before the A1 changes ? This would provide good thumb cocking and decocking purchase without the reach to bite the web of the operator's hand. And the tang would need only about a millimeter or two of extension.
Although not a Girsan my Springfield Armory SA 35 now has 850 rounds through it with no failure to feed incidents. I have shot a variety of manufacturers ammo and bullet weights with the pistol. I like the adjustable rear sight on this Girsan. I'm glad there are some high quality versions of the original hi-power design available.
@@hrfunk yes I've watched all of the UA-cam videos about the issues of the sa-35 and had some concern when I place the order for mine. Mine has a serial number in the 9000 range so possibly these issues may have been addressed by Springfield Armory.
I was born and live in the UK. Back when we were allowed to own and shoot what we call full bore pistols, I had a Browning Hi Power. I loved it. In the USA the Colt 1911A design still dominates single action only, single stack magazine autoloaders. Here in Europe less so. Here 9mm Parabellum (and 9mm short) autoloaders were adopted during and just after WWI except of course here in the UK, where we insisted on using revolvers all we way until 1954. I've often wonder if J M Browning had designed the 1911A for FN in Belgium, then Hi Power for Colt in the USA. Would that have changed things? Or is the American love affair with the “large” 45 ACP cartridge?
So much of America’s love affair with the 1911 comes from its development and martial heritage. considering the genesis of the 1911 was the failure of smaller caliber handgun cartridges in the Spanish American war, I can’t imagine the P 35 and it’s Parabellum cartridge being adopted at that point in American history. Not that I think the 9 mm is actually so much less effective in terms of its performance, rather I think it has more to do with the perception of those who were selecting/using the new pistol. This is all academic speculation, of course, and I am a huge fan of the P 35, but I don’t think it would have enjoyed the same popularity had it been selected by the US military in 1911 that Mr. Browning‘s earlier creation enjoyed. I can’t speculate as to how the 1911 may have fared if it had been developed and distributed by FN in 1935.
Great video and one of my top five all-time pistols. Appreciate your work and professionalism. That Marine in you is undeniable! Great shooting/ range prep demonstration. As Gysgt Highway warn us " adapt and overcome" . No sight tool , us that technique we called " Kentucky Windage" lol. I am considering this pistol as I have always loved the BHP platform. Thanks Again and keep up the good product!!!! Semper Fi
Great Video! I just got one of the Girsan P35 Ops and I was finally able to get some extra 15rd magazines for the P35 since this is my first one. I have been shooting SIG P220, 226, Glock 22,35 and 1911 for a long while and I have always wanted a P35 and like you said in your video what better time to get a P35 than now! I was actually waiting for the SA35 when I got the call from my dealer telling me that they got a shipment of the Ops pistol and since I had read that i was good solid pistol ordered it. My pistol also has a very MUSHY Safety which is something I am not too crazy about but I am planning to upgrade parts as I get more familiar with the platform. I grew up in the 80s and remember reading about the FBI HRT Customized Browning Hi Powers that had the Beavertail similar to the Ops and that is something that attracted me to this pistol. I hope t end up with a pistol that has ZERO MIM parts at the end of the journey and something that I can trust my life to.
@@hrfunk Thank You! I just saw a new video from EAA that a new Garsan P35 OPS model is coming out the Optic which is already available but also showed a P35 OPS PI with a 4.25 inch barrel and keep the same Ops frame as the original it might be an interesting secondary pistol. I remember reading a couple of article about the Detective Slide Upper with 4.24 inch barrels and Novak type sights back in the Late 90s in Shotgun News before they renamed themselves to Firearms News and I thought that would be a cool setup for a Hi Power. I think we are in the GOLDEN AGE of the Hi Power since more companies are making Clones that have the TRUE Spirit of the Weapon that JMB wanted to bring into service. I am hoping the Mecgar will come out with the 20 round magazine for the Hi Power soon since they have them for the SIG P226, Beretta 92FS/M9 and Taurus PT92 whose magazine were based from the Hi Power! I have tried both the SIG P226 and Taurus PT92 mags and they are just a hair off to work properly in the P35.
Boy she really catches my eye…always wanted a hp just never got one..just got 2 new powders and dialin in some more 7.62 for my Daniel defense…shooters world 4350 and superformance…both grouped well prone off a bipod…love seein yer channel grow brother I’ve been around for awhile…thanks matt
I've been looking at this pistol for a while now and I appreciate your review. You answered the one question I had about it. That was, did it have a firing pin block safety? Military Arms Channel did a review / comparison between the "New" FN High-Power and Springfield Armory's High-Power Clone. Springfield's clone, apparently, does not have a firing pin safety, and therefor may not be drop safe. I'm Glad to hear that the Girsan does. Now I just have to find one in stock. Thank you again for the review.
Good review Howard. I've got one of the "standard" Girsan P-35's and I like it a lot. I admit that I haven't shot it a lot (I've got too many guns I suppose, and not enough time) but it's never malfunctioned with either factory or my reloads. Keep up the good work.
Fantastic review! Thank you for taking the time to explain all the nuanced details of the -German- Girsan P35 (darn autocorrect). I think Girsan knocked it out of the park with this Hi Power clone. 🍻
I really wish you were keeping this one for maybe 500 rounds or even a thousand. You may remember the SA-35 developing a reliability issue at about 900 rds. Good review, it certainly got my attention!
@@kjatexas3679 Apparently, the extractor wears down or is not sized correctly (?), so a failure to extract problem develops. I really want to purchase the Springfield but only if they have corrected the problem.
I had a beautiful Belgium Browning HP that I sold about 10 years ago. I always felt that for its caliber, the size and weight was just too big and heavy. That said, it was a very accurate and easy gun to shoot. Once in a while I do question selling it.
Thanks for the video Howard. It looks like Girsan did a great job with this P35 though I must say that I prefer their more classic MC P35 model. I often carry my Belgium-assembled IDF surplus pistol.
Great review. This seems like a nice updated Hi Power. I do believe that with all steel guns, even with modern CNC machining, there needs to be somewhat of a break-in. Your mileage may vary. I found that with my Kimbers and Springfield Armory’s 1911’s, government sized .45 acp, they seem to settle out after about 400-600 rounds. One ran out of the box flawlessly without any failures.
Excellent video. I have a Mk II (1986) that was in need of some work, but then I saw the MC P35, and I just purchased the MC P35 Match and am waiting for delivery.
@@hrfunk Just picked up the P35 Match. All the good stuff of the FN Hi-Power, with improvements in sights, slide release, beavertail, flat trigger, slight undercut at the rear of the trigger guard and no magazine disconnect. The fit is very tight, much like my Dan Wesson Valor 45acp, which is very good. The trigger is rather heavy probably at 6+ lbs. but I think it should lighten up with use. Also, the front fiber is slightly backed out of the sight and the rear "melt" is not touching the sight, but at least I have a fiber in the sight. Have to see how this works itself out. Shooting it later this week.
@@hrfunk Back from the range. Shot 115 & 124gr fmj and 115gr jhp, about 90 fmj and 30 jhp. No failures of any kind. I have some other jhp rounds that I will try next time. The trigger, which I felt was about 6# during dry fire, felt much lighter during operation of the gun, in the 4# range that your gun tested at. I usually shoot low left and the Match did not correct that failure, but it hit point of aim repeatedly. The gun did get pretty hot by the end of shooting, but it's all metal so that's normal. I used my original Mk II magazine as well as 3 MecGar 15 round, 2 I3 rounds from CDNN Sport and 3 10 rounds from ProMag. All seated, allowed the slide to stay open and smoothly fed of the first round. Humorously, when I finished shooting I noticed the front fiber had backed its way out of the sight. I pulled it out and put it away to be fixed later. I've always wanted a new "Browning Hi-Power" and this is it. The September issue of Guns has an article on the Cylinder and Slide modification of the Springfield Armory SA35 which goes for close to $4000! The Girsan MC P35 Match or Ops is an amazing bargain.
I am going to get this pistol and have it milled for a dot. I’ll use this as a edc. Currently run a cz pcr or a Springfield hellcat but have always wanted a high power, this has everything you’d want.
In the case of “failure to feed,” in my personal experience… if the cartridge is angled partway into the mouth of the chamber, it would be important to consider the possibility that the corner of the extractor is digging into the area around the “groove” of the case head. Sometimes, this corner/edge of the extractor is quite sharp and can prevent advancement of the cartridge into the chamber because it holds the case head “down.” I hope I explained this well. I’ve also read that an Arkansas stone can be used to slightly dull and bevel the very bottom corner of the extractor hook, and this can help to prevent FTF from this cause.
That’s a possibility, but it’s also potentially a break-in issue. After a couple of hundred rounds cycle through the pistol, the extractor claw can wear a bit and the issue ceases to occur.
Nice catch with the slide swap not bad for a jarhead..we would have asked i guess they didn't fix the malfunction Fire that thing like it has a purpose 😊
As someone with XL hands I appreciate the view of how your fingers fit around the grip. If we could just get 5 seconds of this, it'd help up big guys decide what guns will likely fit us.
Very good looking High Power clone H.R.! I'm glad to see that it doesn't have the mag disconnect safety as well! I still kick myself for selling my Belgium made Browning Hi Power that I bought back in the early 1980s.
I recently bought a Girsan MC P35 OPS. The second night I had it I was dry firing it. The firing pin stop fell out. My gunsmith discovered that the firing pin was getting stuck in the channel. He polished the firing pin and the channel problem solved. Next the front sight moved to the left. My gunsmith tried several solutions but it is still moving. He is considering drilling a pin in the slide. I saw a short video by PewPew. He was shooting a Girsan MC P35 OPS. The firing pin became stuck and then fell out of the back of the slide. I am not impressed with Girsan's quality control. Hopefully Girsan will step up their quality control.
I came across an FN manufactured double action High Power several years ago at a gun show. It was manufactured in the 1980s. I probably should have bought it, but I passed.
With the no load issue try Federal FMJFP 147 grain if you can get your hands on it, shoot two boxes, if no barrel burs (new gun) AND If it is built like a Browning Hi-power. It SHOULD operate flawlessly 99% sure. Hi - power is probably one of the most trusted semi-auto's. If I bought a wonder 9 - Hi- Power would probably be it. (Maybe the Sig Sauer P210 target - If I could afford it.) Your test proves your honest. Salute to you.
I'm interested in the Springfield SA-35 which has limited availablity.. The Girsan looks good and has a rail and better sights. Would you consider a 2 way comparison video ?
I had a FM made (Brazil origin on FN machinery) in the early 90's. A coworker bought it, and the discovered that Scheels did not take various guns in on trade.....
CORRECT, Sir. The very trimness of the original configuration was superb. It's like another Browning gem, the 1897 Winchester pump shotgun which is a VERY-trim shotgun. No "clunkiness." I remember using a Browning pistol back in the late '70's. As a longtime 1911 user, it was an easy transition, obviously, but what was ridiculous was that it was as though "you couldn't MISS," and I'm not "Wyatt Earp," or anything; that's just how good the design was. Since, with the German invasion of Belgium, the FN plant would be unavailable to the Allies, PLANS were spirited to John Inglis Company in Ontario, Canada, where lots of Bren Guns, etc., were made, and the Canadian-built Browning pistol became a staple of Commonwealth Commandos. The SAS were using the Browning well into more recent times, as were MACV-SOG people operating "across the fence," during the war in Southeast Asia, in lieu of the usual 1911 being used by American forces at the time. When the MUCH-bulkier (and LESS-accurate) M9 was adopted, I just rolled my eyes. I've used the Beretta a lot, and, sorry, but that would NOT count as an "improvement" upon what one could accomplish using the Browning. I am grateful that Springfield Armory and Girsan have "revived" and somewhat updated a really great old warhorse. I'm not "against" the Sig 320 or Glocks, and so-on, but, sometimes, the old ways are worth revisiting, not just for-nostalgia's sake, but for MERIT.
My #1 Hi Power Canada Mark 1 in 9.mm don't like 9.mm but i love the gun #2 Browning Hi Power Mark 3 in 40.S&W got in 1993 or 1994 the first Browning10 in in Arizona got it for my carry gun and back pack gun that & 12 GA.
Pepsi Loved the 'New Coke! I agree that FN just made a gun that's far from the original. I am waiting for this Girsan version to hit the stores in numbers. Very nice close ups. Thanks! Your striker plate looks great. Mine has 3 dents in it on the bottom like it was pounded in. I can't remove it, so I think that's exactly what happened.
I just got Girsan MC 35 Special Edition 1 of 500 from CDNN. It was shot at the factory and not cleaned. That is OK. Trigger pull was a horrendous 11lbs. I field dissemble it and deep cleaned it and the trigger pull dropped to 9lbs or hair less. This MC P35 is Mark 3 with spring supported swear transfer bar. Add to that, the pistol has a magazine disconnector safety too. I did some testing to test the pull weight of each part in the trigger-sear linkage. 1) Weight of the trigger with just the force of the return spring only == 2 lbs 4 oz or so 2) Weight of the trigger with just the force of the return spring with the magazine inserted (weight of the magazine disconnector spring included) == 3.5lbsor so. 3) Weight to drop the hammer by pushing down on the sear lever bar == 4.5lbs to 5lbs 4) That leaves some 0.5lbs for the transfer bar spring. That is a lot of lbs to pull a SA trigger.
@@hrfunk What are the spec for the trigger pull weight? Is the heavy trigger an indication out of spec parts? Or is that what Girsan considers as within spec pistol?
Mr. Funk, thanks for a great review. There are some really bad videos on youtube, most notably yankeemarshall and MAC. The MAC dude was reviewing a S&W 610 but only cocked and fired. He finally tried double action for the first time in his life. Unbelievable. Two things about your review. Not mentioning the Springfield SA-35 was one. The other is Turkey, a Russian ally. My SA-35 had a failure to eject during 3-gun competition nearly every round. I cleaned it and tested the next week, same ammo, and 3 more of the exact same failure using the same ammo. After ordering different ammo, it has never failed since. Just my experience, but seemed similar to your two failures. I now place emphasis on lubricating slide action pistols, and using Wilson Combat Oil and follow what Bill shows to lubricate 1911s in his video. You are a role model for pistol reviews. Swapping slides never crossed my mind. My SA-35 and old Browning HiPowser were not magazine compatible nor completely holster compatible. The SA-35 is a top favorite of mine for competition.
I also do not appreciate MAC. Though I do not want to involve Mr. Funk In any mud throwing he being such a classy gentleman. I have to say MAC is one of those "experts" who sees things their way and only their way and has zero room for other perspectives.
Very nice. It seems that Girsan makes good weapons for the price. I liked the M9 clone you previously reviewed as well. Funny about the fiber optic sight, I just had my fiber optic rod fall out of my TX22 sight at the range! Those things don't seem to be made super well.
The Hi-Power is a drop dead sexy pistol. As reliable as she is pretty. The only improvement required can be done by the owner (remove the magazine disconnect).
Thank you for another outstanding Period of Instruction Corporal Funk ( I was a Corporal also). I am considering purchasing that pistol after your diligent and insightful review. Semper Fi. 😃
I really want one of these. Would go nicely with my Argentine P-35. I really like my Girsan 1911 MC Match. Not a fan of the new FN Hi Power, myself. I think I would go with their Match model, over the Ops model. Thanks for the share!!
The beavertail is several mm longer than it needs to be for keeping the tangent of the ring hammer from biting... It's ok but I'll only be getting the original style when it gets fully avlbl below msrp
I like the new fn design as I like the old. The 1911 has been updated along the way and has stayed popular with shooters such as the 2011. I like the classic and the current production model especially in all stainless . Great video always enjoy them keep up the great work
Thanks, Howard, for this excellent review. It seems likely that this Girsan is a fine upgrade to FN’s traditional P35. I suspect the two failures are break-in related and I was impressed with Girsan’s accuracy, remembering that the fiber optic front sight was damaged. I’ve read several comments indicating that some individuals are underwhelmed with Springfield’s new Hi-Power (I haven’t even handled one, so this is an entirely second hand observation). Do you believe this Girsan compares favorably to the Springfield? Have a good weekend!
Thanks Roy. I have not handled or even seen a Springfield in person. So I can't speak from any sort of firsthand perspective. That said, in conversations with other knowledgeable people who have handled them, it sounds like they have some issues. Considering their MSRP, I think these Girsan pistols are a good option. This is the second one I have handled, and they have both been good handguns. They don't have the same level of finish that the FN/Browning pistols possessed. But the fit is good, and I think they are a solid rendering of the P35 design. How do I purchase the one in the video, my first order of business would've been to have run a couple of hundred rounds through it. I suspect everything would've smoothed out nicely. Have a great weekend!
Girsan has made 1911 and 92 copies for the Turkish military/police for years. I like the Regard 92 copy a lot. This looks good, but I passed due to the do not shoot +P or high velocity ammo restriction on the cover of the manual of these. Seems strange as a lot (not all) NATO spec ammo is +P by SAAMI standards.
I have owned almost every polymer pistol, 1911s, older alloy smith’s, and this P35 match ops is my favorite handgun ever.
There’s a lot to love about the P-35. The OPS just adds to it.
BOUGHT AN MC P35 OPS 3 WEEKS AGO WENT TO THE RANGE AND HAD NO MALFUNCTIONS ... I AM A VET WHO CARRIED 1911A1 AND HAD A HIPOWER ALSO ... I WAS A TANK CREW MAN ON M48A5 AND M60A1 IN THE 80'S ...
Congratulations! I think you’re going to love that new OPS pistol. Also, thanks for your service to our country!
I want to get one...I like how this company is bringing back a few classics and at a reasonable price point 👌
Me too!
@@hrfunk Girsan and Tisas are being very clever, giving US gun buyers what they want. Quality reproductions and variants of classic favorites (1911, P35, M9 etc.) at affordable prices.
This is an excellent video. I love the HiPower design, and I just recently purchased a standard Girsan HiPower. If I ever walk up on this particular model, I’ll definitely get it.
This is without a doubt my next pistol purchase. A Hi-Power with a rail and other modern upgrades, just speaks to my soul.
Thank you for doing this video!
My pleasure Josh. If you get one of these pistols, be sure to let me know what you think of it.
Decades ago, I had a Hi-Power. I was in college and had to sell it. I needed money (common theme). I was in my senior year and the work load was killing me, so I had to work less and study more. This pistol looks great and I think I am going to track one down for Christmas. I agree, the FN new one is a Franken gun. Thanks HR.
When I started shooting in the early 1970s a gunsmith wouldn't even discuss any issues with you until you had 500 rounds through a gun. Some of them were the old, crusty, Navy Chief-type who didn't want to talk to anyone who wasn't a veteran and who wasn't at least 50 years old, but there was a consistency among them as a group, "Come back and see me after 500 rounds. Then we'll talk." This looks like a really nice iteration of the Hi-Power! Good test, good shooting.
Thanks Frank (I knew a few gunsmiths like that too!).
@NAMELESS INTERNET ADDICT Brazil?
Guess reliability from guns like HK and Glock weren't a thing then.
@@FoulPet This was the mid-1970s. Colt & S&W, the occasional Springfield or Browning. Some imports and bring-backs. All semiautomatic pistols came with an expected break-in period, even if the gun was used because you didn't know how much it had been shot.
@Frank Hinkle kinda my point. You don't see Berretta or SIG saying you need to flush 500 rounds before this gun functions. At least not that I've seen. Imagine at today's prices having to run 10 boxes of ammo to see if your gun works. Now I'm not suggesting you don't since I'll usually run at least 200 rounds through a gun before I'll carry it, but it shouldn't be a factory requirement.
IMHO, today, a gun should run out of the box till it's so gunked up that it has to be cleaned. I don't see the average gun buyer stripping down a new gun to clean and oil it, then putting 500 rounds through it.
Thanks for this video! I learned to shoot pistols on my Uncle Browning Hi Power. Ive wanted one of my own for years, but theyre difficult to procure in California, of course. That said, a version of the standard Girsan Hi Power just became available in California, so I put one on order, as they were sold out first day. The model Im getting has target style rear sights with a novak style front blade sight, and a panel thats removable under the rear sights for installation of an optic. I cant wait for it to come so I can pick it up! Been watching lots of videos on Girsans and very excited and hopeful as to the quality of my future pistol!
Good for you. I hope you love that new pistol. Be sure to let me know what you think of it. Thanks for watching!
@@hrfunk thank you, Sir! I certainly will! Im in the midst of making a 9mm conversion kit for my 38-Super 1911 which Ive also recently nearly completed customizing as my BBQ gun; its nickel plated. Lots to do in my relaxation time. Ill update on the pistol when I finally take possession! Very excited to have one.
@@hrfunk Hi Sir! Just took possession of it on Sunday after church! Shes a beauty! Typical California nonsense, the magazine disconnect cannot be removed without removing the entire trigger assembly instead of the more usual driving the pin on the trigger out. Its ok. I ordered the BHSS replacement trigger to frame pin and as soon as it arrives, Ill be finishing the work and have a superior and much smoother trigger. Its surprisingly smooth and from what Ive seen online, I believe they may have given it their match barrel, or theyve improved their fitment in the past couple of years. I dropped in my full Pachmayr Signature grips and it feels excellent in hand, the Novak style sights are very easy and nice, and the whole thing is excellent except the graininess of the trigger which will soon be remedied. I dragged out my Uncle's old Tex Shoemaker & Sons Hi Power holsters (Ive got three), and it sets well on my Kore belt, but as they all basically cup the pistol directly against the belt, I wont damage my Galco belt by using them with it as I dont want to mar it unnecessarily. I may get a Galco Commander Speed Paddle as the Government sized one I presently have, is about 3/4" too long, as would be expected. Anyway. Taking it out for my first range day very soon, going to run some hollow points through it too and see how she runs. Ill update! Its a very handsome pistol though, and excellent fit and finish! The Pachmayrs make all the difference though. Thank you for always taking the time to reply, Sir. I respect yr insights and reviews very much. Have a blessed week!
It's niiiiice to see this platform to FINALLY get some variety and sales like that of the 1911. .
G10, flat trigger, extended beavertail with skeletonized hammer. An accessory rail, and now superior sights?
Beautiful... it's absolutely beautiful...
I would liked to have seen some checkering on the front strap and maybe the top of slide cut for a red dot. Overall a very beautiful pistol and a natural evolution of the original Hi Power. Much better than the new, overpriced FN “High” Power.
I seen the foam was cut for one so there may be one comin
@@charlesmullins3238, optics cut version should be coming yet this year according to EAA.
100% agree. Front strap checkering, an optics ready slide and maybe also a low profile mag well are the only ways this pistol could be improved.
I couldn’t agree more on the checkering on the front strap as well as back strap.
Awfully happy having finally got one of the 3 new versions of an iconic firearm into HOPmunitions. Having very much enjoyed my personal regard MC, I’m very impressed with the MC p35.
Thanks for the review.
Mr.E.
My pleasure. Thanks for loaning me that pistol!
Good work HR. Thank you for sharing. Semper Fi
Thanks Troy. Semper Fi!
I have the old FN , the springfield, and the Girsan . If old John was alive today the Girsan MC P35 OPS would be the gun he would have built
Hopefully Springfield Armory will take note and start manufacturing an updated, modernized P-35 here in the USA! I'd love to see one with the beavertail, the light rail and in stainless.
They have been making the SA 35 for about a year now, beaver tail is the same and no rail , but everything I've seen/heard about them is very positive.
Edit: the magazine disconnect has been eliminated from this version as well.
@@Astro_touches_children Right. I want all the newer, more modern features with stainless as an option.
I picked up the standard Girsan MC P35, and I am very impressed with it. Other than the markings you would think its a Browning MKIII. I called BH Springs Solutions and asked them about the Springfield Arms version of the HI Power. They told me to get the Girsan. I'm glad that I did.
I think you’re going to be very happy with it Keith. Thanks for watching!
The SA-35 uses TISAS-made components as well. It's just a cashgrab.
I hadn’t heard that. May I ask where you found that info?
that's a sharp looking handgun ! love the grips, Girsan is a top notch manufacturer !
I like it too. The last I knew it is still for sale.
Great review, thank you. HR, there seems to be a QC problem with the fiber optic front sight. Another reviewer mentioned that his front sight was not attached and later found in the case.
I agree. There is one other review on UA-cam for this specific handgun. That reviewer had the exact same issue.
Nice gun, I’m a hi power fan, I brought the MC P35 really impressed with the quality. Nice video. Keep ‘‘em coming
Thanks John. Will do!
Now that updated design makes sense. The addition of a rail is excellent.
As usual, you are reading my mind. At last a manufacturer is building a stock P35 that is properly set up right out of the box for defensive use.
Yep! I was really excited to have a chance to try this one out.
Enjoyed that. I watched it with my two year old granddaughter who was even more fascinated than I was. I look forward to teaching her to shoot when she's old enough.
I hope she loves shooting with Grandpa!
I have always loved the BHP, but alas, the prices were too rich for my blood. I have a couple of FEG PJK-9HP's that are very good copies, but when I saw this video and found one at a very good price at my local GS, I tripped and fell down and fell in love all over again. I also see Girsan is offering this model with a 3.88 inch barrel which is the same as the old HP Detective model. I have not see one except on a couple of websites with nothing in stock. So many guns, so little money.
I agree with this notion except for the fact of the metallurgy itself. If you look at BH spring solutions metallurgy tests you will see that the metal hardness of the slide and the frame are opposite directions of the original browning and not in a good way. They actually made the frame softer and the side harder which is going to heavily and severely affect longevity and service life.
Furthermore, the Springfield essay 35 is a much better representation of what should have been done with the gun both with mechanics, styling, and the metallurgy as well. You get what you pay for so if the gun makes it to 10 or 20,000 rounds and I think it was worth it and it should be able to do that but that being said I would prefer guns that will still be around a couple hundred years later if possible like several that I own from the 1800s.
Metallurgy is very important and the common argument is because metallurgy and the signs of metal is so much more advanced that we can make guns even stronger. This is a two-sided coin however as yes we can make gun stronger but we can also make the tolerances much much tighter and weaker in order to save manufacturing costs while still being relatively positive the gun will hold up under typical use.
So in essence the metallurgy nowadays should be better but it's not especially from guns coming out of Turkey. I have a feeling in about 10 years we are going to see a lot of cracked slides and bowed out frames. Again this is just my speculation but there are experts who I am getting this from. BH spring solutions probably knows more about high powers than Browning did himself. They are not a fan of these metalrgy changes and neither am I. Epecially since I own a couple original high powers and an essay 35 and I will tell you that the original high powers frame was already too soft and making it softer is detrimental.
Making the side harder is going to be even rougher on that softer slide and on itself. I am extremely interested to see how these guns are holding up in a decade from now. Again I think they got everything else right but the actual physical metals are simply not up to the standard I would want in a service weapon. 👍
Since I am not likely to be around in 100 years, I'm not too worried about how my firearms might be doing then. As I recall BHSS also tested the SA35, and found some fairly significant issues with it. I suppose the fact that all manufacturers are employing cost cutting measures to 1 degree or another is just a sign of the times.
i love the NEW grip tang extension !!! the NEW slide stop /release ,the beefier barell , the feedramp mounted on the barell ,just have to get a few more magazines,,mec- gar of course!!!!!
I have a bunch of those Mec Gar mags and they are flawless!
Good review. I found that the mushy safety detent in the Girsan MC P35 pistols can be cured by installing a Cylinder & Slide safety detent plunger spring. Unfortunately, the C&S safety detent plunger itself will not fit in the Girsan safety lever.
I wish some one would remake in 40S&W I had pre-ordered back when browning started making and loved it after putting in wide trigger
Nice review. Amazing - or very lucky - tack driver shot!! I have the two tone MCP35. It came with an extremely gritty 7 pound trigger pull. Removing the mag disconnect made it buttery smooth but still 6 pound trigger. A bit of polishing on the sear and I now have a crisp 3 1/2 pound pull. My only criticism is the front sight that I filed down to raise the POI and painted the ramp red because the white is an awful color. A Patridge or fiber optic front sight would be a huge improvement. As soon as I can find one, I'll buy either the MCP35 Match or Ops. They are a bargain at $600.
P- 35 a quote from Garry James " Arguably the Best Pistole of WW2 " ! Dad brought one back from WW2 made at Radom in Poland. He said it would shoot the hot ammo used in the Machine Pistols where as the P38 and the Lugers would blow up. Now I want a Girsan but unfortunately we have a high capacity magazine ban in WASHINGTON state. Great video as always Best Wishes.
Thanks Brian. Maybe they will produce a reduced capacity version for states like yours.
Nice HP, Girsan does a great job replicating some of the classics 👍
I bought one of these in white with black grips. Looks very nice. I already have a Browning High Power.
Seems like a great pistol. I cracked up when you hit the pin on the first shot with sights off to the left!🤣
probably the screw was loose and the first shot was off a factory setting then moved.
It's easy to see the influence the Hi-Power had on the CZ-75. I have a CZ and it needed a break in period. I think tack driving should be part of the National Match Course for centerfire pistol.
A cz needing a break in period? What cz model do you have because I've never even heard of anyone needing a break in period with a cz. Then again i have little to no experience with the p07's, p09,s or p10's although I've heard nothing but good things about those as well. Through the years i, my family, friends (many of whom have worked at gun shops for decades & or coworkers have had our share of full size & compact cz75's be them the bd, omega, or bd police models & none of them to my knowledge or others testimonies had ever needing break in periods. Same for the cz 97's. If you have an issue with any cz 75 or 97, I'd be highly suspicious of said gun & I'd contact customer support. That's beyond uncharacteristic of cz. For the record I've have plenty of other brand name pistols so I'm not speaking from a fanboy position. I could say the same thing about other models rarely ever having issues such as sig 226's or 229's, breatta 92/96's.
@@nova68cutie The CZ that I have is a 75BD and When it was new I had many fail to extract malfunctions. It was pretty strange because these malfunctions only happened with factory ammo and not my handloads. I couldn't find much written about it but someone makes a heavy duty extractor spring for the 75 leading me to believe that it may be a common problem. That pistol now has over 8000 rounds on it and hardly ever jams. What I learned was that this extractor needs to be kept clean and oiled. I shoot mostly 1911's where the extractor can be pretty much ignored and I brought that thinking to the CZ which is a mistake. CZ's are great pistols and I was surprised to have any problems with them. I'm smarter now and wouldn't hesitate to buy another one. It's funny that you mention the SIG 226. I carried one everyday for about 16years and it never ever malfunctioned. I believe the 226 may be the best hammer fired 9mm out there.
The tack driver shot, I couldn't keep from laughing myself, I had a feeling you were going to nail it. Like somebody says, "good shooting".
Thank you!
Well,, Thank You.. I bought a Girsan, but in the standard configuration, and an FN High Power. I like the Girsan, too. The profile is faithful to the original P35. The FN is only similar. The fit and finish of the FN is amazing and it should be for 3X the $$$. ($1225 shipped vs $450 shipped) This model has the magazine safety and the trigger is atrocious, but repairable.
This gun was introduced in Canada a few months before our handgun ban. It had a quality feel and very good price, especially when you consider competing models were going for much higher. Thank you for your review.
My pleasure. Thanks for watching!
They banned your handguns? Please tell you all taking that to court.
@@littleteethkeith There are several groups that are trying litigation, including the group that I am a member of, but it's unlikely to prevail. This is because there is no right to firearms in Canada. In fact, there is an absence of property rights in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms is due to a fundamental gap in the constitutional rights. This means the government still holds the balance of power in expropriation and we do not have constitutionally protected property rights.
Threw a Holo sun green dot in my Girsan hi power .
Shot 100 rounds the other day . Absolutely loved it .
Cool!
...I like that shirt...used to have one as well as prolly 2 dozen more when they were being sold by 'Iron Shirt' in the 80s & 90s...
A thorough presentation ! The "new" Browning HP is indeed an entirely different sidearm, but as outstanding as it is I would personally take a SiG P226 or CZ 75B in preference. Girsan has bundled a useful package of features and benefits, the hammer and slide stop appear identical to the Cylinder & Slide custom parts and the sights are a great upgrade. The extra 2+ oz of weight can be attributed to that extended tang and beefed up dust cover with the added light rail which undoubtedly lessens felt recoil. As far as alleviating hammer bite, instead of such an extreme long hook tang that can snag, why not instead use a short spur hammer with a wide paddle as found on some revolvers and 1911s before the A1 changes ? This would provide good thumb cocking and decocking purchase without the reach to bite the web of the operator's hand. And the tang would need only about a millimeter or two of extension.
Although not a Girsan my Springfield Armory SA 35 now has 850 rounds through it with no failure to feed incidents. I have shot a variety of manufacturers ammo and bullet weights with the pistol. I like the adjustable rear sight on this Girsan. I'm glad there are some high quality versions of the original hi-power design available.
I’m glad it’s working well for you. There have been mixed reports regarding the performance of the handful of pistols Springfield armory has shipped.
@@hrfunk yes I've watched all of the UA-cam videos about the issues of the sa-35 and had some concern when I place the order for mine. Mine has a serial number in the 9000 range so possibly these issues may have been addressed by Springfield Armory.
does springfield have the extended "beaver tail" tang?
Excellent! I have a Girsan P35, and a Sfld SA35 and like them both a lot! -Gunny T sends
I was born and live in the UK. Back when we were allowed to own and shoot what we call full bore pistols, I had a Browning Hi Power. I loved it.
In the USA the Colt 1911A design still dominates single action only, single stack magazine autoloaders. Here in Europe less so. Here 9mm Parabellum (and 9mm short) autoloaders were adopted during and just after WWI except of course here in the UK, where we insisted on using revolvers all we way until 1954.
I've often wonder if J M Browning had designed the 1911A for FN in Belgium, then Hi Power for Colt in the USA. Would that have changed things? Or is the American love affair with the “large” 45 ACP cartridge?
So much of America’s love affair with the 1911 comes from its development and martial heritage. considering the genesis of the 1911 was the failure of smaller caliber handgun cartridges in the Spanish American war, I can’t imagine the P 35 and it’s Parabellum cartridge being adopted at that point in American history. Not that I think the 9 mm is actually so much less effective in terms of its performance, rather I think it has more to do with the perception of those who were selecting/using the new pistol. This is all academic speculation, of course, and I am a huge fan of the P 35, but I don’t think it would have enjoyed the same popularity had it been selected by the US military in 1911 that Mr. Browning‘s earlier creation enjoyed.
I can’t speculate as to how the 1911 may have fared if it had been developed and distributed by FN in 1935.
Excellent presentation thank you for your time posting this information.
My pleasure Mark. Thanks for watching.
Great video and one of my top five all-time pistols. Appreciate your work and professionalism. That Marine in you is undeniable!
Great shooting/ range prep demonstration. As Gysgt Highway warn us " adapt and overcome" . No sight tool , us that technique we called " Kentucky Windage" lol.
I am considering this pistol as I have always loved the BHP platform.
Thanks Again and keep up the good product!!!!
Semper Fi
Thank you, and Semper Fi!
Great review, I’m running the Match version and waiting for them to release the shorter detective model.
You seemed as surprised with your tac shot as I was. I've strongly been looking at this pistol.
Thanks!
That's a very nice pistol. I ended up buying a CZ 75B Omega with 2 mags for $549.
Great Video! I just got one of the Girsan P35 Ops and I was finally able to get some extra 15rd magazines for the P35 since this is my first one. I have been shooting SIG P220, 226, Glock 22,35 and 1911 for a long while and I have always wanted a P35 and like you said in your video what better time to get a P35 than now! I was actually waiting for the SA35 when I got the call from my dealer telling me that they got a shipment of the Ops pistol and since I had read that i was good solid pistol ordered it. My pistol also has a very MUSHY Safety which is something I am not too crazy about but I am planning to upgrade parts as I get more familiar with the platform.
I grew up in the 80s and remember reading about the FBI HRT Customized Browning Hi Powers that had the Beavertail similar to the Ops and that is something that attracted me to this pistol. I hope t end up with a pistol that has ZERO MIM parts at the end of the journey and something that I can trust my life to.
Good for you! Enjoy that new handgun.
@@hrfunk Thank You! I just saw a new video from EAA that a new Garsan P35 OPS model is coming out the Optic which is already available but also showed a P35 OPS PI with a 4.25 inch barrel and keep the same Ops frame as the original it might be an interesting secondary pistol. I remember reading a couple of article about the Detective Slide Upper with 4.24 inch barrels and Novak type sights back in the Late 90s in Shotgun News before they renamed themselves to Firearms News and I thought that would be a cool setup for a Hi Power.
I think we are in the GOLDEN AGE of the Hi Power since more companies are making Clones that have the TRUE Spirit of the Weapon that JMB wanted to bring into service. I am hoping the Mecgar will come out with the 20 round magazine for the Hi Power soon since they have them for the SIG P226, Beretta 92FS/M9 and Taurus PT92 whose magazine were based from the Hi Power! I have tried both the SIG P226 and Taurus PT92 mags and they are just a hair off to work properly in the P35.
Check the the BH Springsolutions website. They have 17-round Hi-power magazines there.
@@hrfunk Thank you for the heads up!
I HAVE BEEN LOOKING FOR ONE OF THESE! I NEED THIS IN MY LIFE……N O W !!!!!!!!!!
Bud's Gunshop just got ONE in stock and I pulled the trigger on it! Been waiting for about a year to find one in-stock online.
Good for you !
I love 1911s but I hate grip safety, the P35 was my perfect solution for a favorable and affordable hammer fired pistol
I'm a fan of the pistol as well as my various 1911s. Nice demo.
Semper Fi,
USMC Retired
1966-1989
RVN 01/69-10/70
Thanks and Semper Fi!
Curious like the high power owned many but none today plan to change that omission
You definitely need to correct that. It’s too good to not own!
Boy she really catches my eye…always wanted a hp just never got one..just got 2 new powders and dialin in some more 7.62 for my Daniel defense…shooters world 4350 and superformance…both grouped well prone off a bipod…love seein yer channel grow brother I’ve been around for awhile…thanks matt
Thank you! Best of luck with that Daniel Defense!
@@hrfunk I was the arborist guy before if you remember lol. Had to start a new UA-cam..thanks chief
I've been looking at this pistol for a while now and I appreciate your review. You answered the one question I had about it. That was, did it have a firing pin block safety? Military Arms Channel did a review / comparison between the "New" FN High-Power and Springfield Armory's High-Power Clone. Springfield's clone, apparently, does not have a firing pin safety, and therefor may not be drop safe. I'm Glad to hear that the Girsan does. Now I just have to find one in stock. Thank you again for the review.
My pleasure Joe. Thanks for watching.
Good review Howard. I've got one of the "standard" Girsan P-35's and I like it a lot. I admit that I haven't shot it a lot (I've got too many guns I suppose, and not enough time) but it's never malfunctioned with either factory or my reloads. Keep up the good work.
Thanks Richard . Will do!
Finally, a trigger pull test where the gun is secured properly.. subb'd
Thank you Hans!
Fantastic review! Thank you for taking the time to explain all the nuanced details of the -German- Girsan P35 (darn autocorrect). I think Girsan knocked it out of the park with this Hi Power clone. 🍻
Thank you! I also think they did a great job.
I really wish you were keeping this one for maybe 500 rounds or even a thousand. You may remember the SA-35 developing a reliability issue at about 900 rds. Good review, it certainly got my attention!
I was fortunate to get this one for the short time I had it! Someone else will have to do the extended shooting review.
@@hrfunk I guess I will take a shot at it.
What was the reliability issue with the Springfield?
@@kjatexas3679 Apparently, the extractor wears down or is not sized correctly (?), so a failure to extract problem develops. I really want to purchase the Springfield but only if they have corrected the problem.
@@granddad-mv5ef Apparently the same problem as the Tisas HiPower. I had a Cylinder & Slide replacement extractor fitted.
I had a beautiful Belgium Browning HP that I sold about 10 years ago. I always felt that for its caliber, the size and weight was just too big and heavy. That said, it was a very accurate and easy gun to shoot. Once in a while I do question selling it.
Thanks for the video Howard. It looks like Girsan did a great job with this P35 though I must say that I prefer their more classic MC P35 model. I often carry my Belgium-assembled IDF surplus pistol.
Nice review! Although I'm more of a traditionalist, I really like the looks of this modern rendition.
So do I. I don’t really look at it as a clone of the original. Rather, I think of it as an evolution of the design.
Great review. This seems like a nice updated Hi Power. I do believe that with all steel guns, even with modern CNC machining, there needs to be somewhat of a break-in. Your mileage may vary. I found that with my Kimbers and Springfield Armory’s 1911’s, government sized .45 acp, they seem to settle out after about 400-600 rounds. One ran out of the box flawlessly without any failures.
Excellent video. I have a Mk II (1986) that was in need of some work, but then I saw the MC P35, and I just purchased the MC P35 Match and am waiting for delivery.
Good for you John! Be sure to let me know what you think of it when you get it.
@@hrfunk Just picked up the P35 Match. All the good stuff of the FN Hi-Power, with improvements in sights, slide release, beavertail, flat trigger, slight undercut at the rear of the trigger guard and no magazine disconnect. The fit is very tight, much like my Dan Wesson Valor 45acp, which is very good. The trigger is rather heavy probably at 6+ lbs. but I think it should lighten up with use. Also, the front fiber is slightly backed out of the sight and the rear "melt" is not touching the sight, but at least I have a fiber in the sight. Have to see how this works itself out. Shooting it later this week.
I hope it shoots great for you!
@@hrfunk Back from the range. Shot 115 & 124gr fmj and 115gr jhp, about 90 fmj and 30 jhp. No failures of any kind. I have some other jhp rounds that I will try next time. The trigger, which I felt was about 6# during dry fire, felt much lighter during operation of the gun, in the 4# range that your gun tested at. I usually shoot low left and the Match did not correct that failure, but it hit point of aim repeatedly. The gun did get pretty hot by the end of shooting, but it's all metal so that's normal. I used my original Mk II magazine as well as 3 MecGar 15 round, 2 I3 rounds from CDNN Sport and 3 10 rounds from ProMag. All seated, allowed the slide to stay open and smoothly fed of the first round. Humorously, when I finished shooting I noticed the front fiber had backed its way out of the sight. I pulled it out and put it away to be fixed later. I've always wanted a new "Browning Hi-Power" and this is it. The September issue of Guns has an article on the Cylinder and Slide modification of the Springfield Armory SA35 which goes for close to $4000! The Girsan MC P35 Match or Ops is an amazing bargain.
Great report. I’m glad it worked so well for you. I was very impressed by the one I tested.
Love the tack driving.
Kentucky Windage employed, and STILL a tack driver...Bravo, Chief! 👍🏻👏🏼 Great review as always.
Thank you!
I am going to get this pistol and have it milled for a dot. I’ll use this as a edc. Currently run a cz pcr or a Springfield hellcat but have always wanted a high power, this has everything you’d want.
In the case of “failure to feed,” in my personal experience… if the cartridge is angled partway into the mouth of the chamber, it would be important to consider the possibility that the corner of the extractor is digging into the area around the “groove” of the case head. Sometimes, this corner/edge of the extractor is quite sharp and can prevent advancement of the cartridge into the chamber because it holds the case head “down.” I hope I explained this well. I’ve also read that an Arkansas stone can be used to slightly dull and bevel the very bottom corner of the extractor hook, and this can help to prevent FTF from this cause.
That’s a possibility, but it’s also potentially a break-in issue. After a couple of hundred rounds cycle through the pistol, the extractor claw can wear a bit and the issue ceases to occur.
Nice catch with the slide swap not bad for a jarhead..we would have asked i guess they didn't fix the malfunction
Fire that thing like it has a purpose 😊
I'm interested in checking out the LW Match model. I've seen other videos of it and I hope you will be doing one, too, HR.
Me too. I hope I can get hold of one.
As someone with XL hands I appreciate the view of how your fingers fit around the grip. If we could just get 5 seconds of this, it'd help up big guys decide what guns will likely fit us.
I’ll try to keep that in mind for future videos
Very good looking High Power clone H.R.!
I'm glad to see that it doesn't have the mag disconnect safety as well!
I still kick myself for selling my Belgium made Browning Hi Power that I bought back in the early 1980s.
Too bad that one got away. Thanks for watching!
I recently bought a Girsan MC P35 OPS. The second night I had it I was dry firing it. The firing pin stop fell out. My gunsmith discovered that the firing pin was getting stuck in the channel. He polished the firing pin and the channel problem solved. Next the front sight moved to the left. My gunsmith tried several solutions but it is still moving. He is considering drilling a pin in the slide. I saw a short video by PewPew. He was shooting a Girsan MC P35 OPS. The firing pin became stuck and then fell out of the back of the slide. I am not impressed with Girsan's quality control. Hopefully Girsan will step up their quality control.
That's too bad. Have you tried contacting them directly?
Outstanding review Howard.I would like to have a Double action 9mm Hi Power.Springfield Armory is producing a 9mm Hi-Power.
I came across an FN manufactured double action High Power several years ago at a gun show. It was manufactured in the 1980s. I probably should have bought it, but I passed.
I agree. I think this firearm is screaming to be made in double action/single action
With the no load issue try Federal FMJFP 147 grain if you can get your hands on it, shoot two boxes, if no barrel burs (new gun) AND If it is built like a Browning Hi-power. It SHOULD operate flawlessly 99% sure. Hi - power is probably one of the most trusted semi-auto's. If I bought a wonder 9 - Hi- Power would probably be it. (Maybe the Sig Sauer P210 target - If I could afford it.) Your test proves your honest. Salute to you.
Thank you!
Great video. And this Girsan is more of a Hi-Power than the new FN version....which I call a FNX MkII.....
I suppose the under rail could’ve been longer, but I have a light/laser that fits it
I'm interested in the Springfield SA-35 which has limited availablity.. The Girsan looks good and has a rail and better sights. Would you consider a 2 way comparison video ?
How do you mean?
@@hrfunk Compare the SA-35 to the Girsan P35 to the FN P35 at the range. You do your best work there!
If I could ever find a Springfield or an FN, I’d be happy to review/compare them.
@@hrfunk I feel the pain. I'm number 35 on the list at my sport center. Keep up the good work.
I had a FM made (Brazil origin on FN machinery) in the early 90's. A coworker bought it, and the discovered that Scheels did not take various guns in on trade.....
FMs were made in Argentina.
CORRECT, Sir. The very trimness of the original configuration was superb. It's like another Browning gem, the 1897 Winchester pump shotgun which is a VERY-trim shotgun. No "clunkiness." I remember using a Browning pistol back in the late '70's. As a longtime 1911 user, it was an easy transition, obviously, but what was ridiculous was that it was as though "you couldn't MISS," and I'm not "Wyatt Earp," or anything; that's just how good the design was.
Since, with the German invasion of Belgium, the FN plant would be unavailable to the Allies, PLANS were spirited to John Inglis Company in Ontario, Canada, where lots of Bren Guns, etc., were made, and the Canadian-built Browning pistol became a staple of Commonwealth Commandos. The SAS were using the Browning well into more recent times, as were MACV-SOG people operating "across the fence," during the war in Southeast Asia, in lieu of the usual 1911 being used by American forces at the time. When the MUCH-bulkier (and LESS-accurate) M9 was adopted, I just rolled my eyes. I've used the Beretta a lot, and, sorry, but that would NOT count as an "improvement" upon what one could accomplish using the Browning. I am grateful that Springfield Armory and Girsan have "revived" and somewhat updated a really great old warhorse. I'm not "against" the Sig 320 or Glocks, and so-on, but, sometimes, the old ways are worth revisiting, not just for-nostalgia's sake, but for MERIT.
Well stated. Thanks for the comment and thanks for watching!
My #1 Hi Power Canada Mark 1 in 9.mm don't like 9.mm but i love the gun #2 Browning Hi Power Mark 3 in 40.S&W got in 1993 or 1994 the first Browning10 in in Arizona got it for my carry gun and back pack gun that & 12 GA.
Pepsi Loved the 'New Coke! I agree that FN just made a gun that's far from the original. I am waiting for this Girsan version to hit the stores in numbers. Very nice close ups. Thanks! Your striker plate looks great. Mine has 3 dents in it on the bottom like it was pounded in. I can't remove it, so I think that's exactly what happened.
Great honest review. Thank you HR. I really enjoy your videos. Keep up the good work Devil Dog.
Thank you Tom!
I just got Girsan MC 35 Special Edition 1 of 500 from CDNN. It was shot at the factory and not cleaned. That is OK. Trigger pull was a horrendous 11lbs. I field dissemble it and deep cleaned it and the trigger pull dropped to 9lbs or hair less. This MC P35 is Mark 3 with spring supported swear transfer bar. Add to that, the pistol has a magazine disconnector safety too.
I did some testing to test the pull weight of each part in the trigger-sear linkage.
1) Weight of the trigger with just the force of the return spring only == 2 lbs 4 oz or so
2) Weight of the trigger with just the force of the return spring with the magazine inserted (weight of the magazine disconnector spring included) == 3.5lbsor so.
3) Weight to drop the hammer by pushing down on the sear lever bar == 4.5lbs to 5lbs
4) That leaves some 0.5lbs for the transfer bar spring.
That is a lot of lbs to pull a SA trigger.
Agreed. Have you considered sending it back for a repair?
@@hrfunk What are the spec for the trigger pull weight? Is the heavy trigger an indication out of spec parts? Or is that what Girsan considers as within spec pistol?
@@hrfunk I just sent them a short email via contact-us form.
@@YERAFirearms I’m not sure what their factory trigger spec is, but I’m glad you contacted them. Please let me know their answer.
I’d love for the BHP to gain the level of following the 1911 has such that every major other firearms manufacturer is making one
Mr. Funk, thanks for a great review. There are some really bad videos on youtube, most notably yankeemarshall and MAC. The MAC dude was reviewing a S&W 610 but only cocked and fired. He finally tried double action for the first time in his life. Unbelievable. Two things about your review. Not mentioning the Springfield SA-35 was one. The other is Turkey, a Russian ally. My SA-35 had a failure to eject during 3-gun competition nearly every round. I cleaned it and tested the next week, same ammo, and 3 more of the exact same failure using the same ammo. After ordering different ammo, it has never failed since. Just my experience, but seemed similar to your two failures. I now place emphasis on lubricating slide action pistols, and using Wilson Combat Oil and follow what Bill shows to lubricate 1911s in his video. You are a role model for pistol reviews. Swapping slides never crossed my mind. My SA-35 and old Browning HiPowser were not magazine compatible nor completely holster compatible. The SA-35 is a top favorite of mine for competition.
Thank you, and thanks for the comment.
I also do not appreciate MAC. Though I do not want to involve Mr. Funk In any mud throwing he being such a classy gentleman. I have to say MAC is one of those "experts" who sees things their way and only their way and has zero room for other perspectives.
Very nice. It seems that Girsan makes good weapons for the price. I liked the M9 clone you previously reviewed as well. Funny about the fiber optic sight, I just had my fiber optic rod fall out of my TX22 sight at the range! Those things don't seem to be made super well.
If that happened to one of my own firearms I would replace the 'glow
plastic' with a segment of brass wire to make a gold dot effect.
Great review. An original FN P35 is on my list of wants. This gives me something to think about.
Please give update on your feed back with Girsan CS for the front sight.
Had to go and I’m watching it now in replay
Hope you enjoy your time!
I have to admit that Turkey does hit the point with many many firearms they make
The Hi-Power is a drop dead sexy pistol. As reliable as she is pretty. The only improvement required can be done by the owner (remove the magazine disconnect).
Thank you for another outstanding Period of Instruction Corporal Funk ( I was a Corporal also). I am considering purchasing that pistol after your diligent and insightful review. Semper Fi. 😃
My pleasure Barry. If you get one, please let me know what you think of it. Semper Fi!
@@hrfunk Will do 😃
I really want one of these. Would go nicely with my Argentine P-35. I really like my Girsan 1911 MC Match. Not a fan of the new FN Hi Power, myself. I think I would go with their Match model, over the Ops model. Thanks for the share!!
You’re welcome. Thanks for watching!
The beavertail is several mm longer than it needs to be for keeping the tangent of the ring hammer from biting... It's ok but I'll only be getting the original style when it gets fully avlbl below msrp
That might be a while.
Fantastic video, HR! Looks like a nice variant of the High Power!
Thank you!
I like the new fn design as I like the old. The 1911 has been updated along the way and has stayed popular with shooters such as the 2011. I like the classic and the current production model especially in all stainless . Great video always enjoy them keep up the great work
The updated 1911s still use the older magazines. Dumbest mi e was making new High power use different mags not compatible with older High Power
@@Desperado3248 correct but things always change some for good the 2011 use different mags with higher capacity as does the new high power.
Thanks, Howard, for this excellent review.
It seems likely that this Girsan is a fine upgrade to FN’s traditional P35. I suspect the two failures are break-in related and I was impressed with Girsan’s accuracy, remembering that the fiber optic front sight was damaged.
I’ve read several comments indicating that some individuals are underwhelmed with Springfield’s new Hi-Power (I haven’t even handled one, so this is an entirely second hand observation). Do you believe this Girsan compares favorably to the Springfield?
Have a good weekend!
Thanks Roy. I have not handled or even seen a Springfield in person. So I can't speak from any sort of firsthand perspective. That said, in conversations with other knowledgeable people who have handled them, it sounds like they have some issues. Considering their MSRP, I think these Girsan pistols are a good option. This is the second one I have handled, and they have both been good handguns. They don't have the same level of finish that the FN/Browning pistols possessed. But the fit is good, and I think they are a solid rendering of the P35 design. How do I purchase the one in the video, my first order of business would've been to have run a couple of hundred rounds through it. I suspect everything would've smoothed out nicely. Have a great weekend!
@@hrfunk
THANKS, perfect reply, and I entirely agree with you.
Girsan has made 1911 and 92 copies for the Turkish military/police for years. I like the Regard 92 copy a lot. This looks good, but I passed due to the do not shoot +P or high velocity ammo restriction on the cover of the manual of these. Seems strange as a lot (not all) NATO spec ammo is +P by SAAMI standards.
U need a 226 SAO legion… it’s so nice you’d love it.