Browning Hi-Power

The New Browning Hi-Power (2022): What Changed From the Original?

Browning reintroduced the Hi-Power in 2022 after FN discontinued the original production run in 2018. The new Hi-Power retains the classic external lines but updates internally: the new model eliminates the magazine disconnect safety (which degraded the trigger pull on original Hi-Powers), has a new firing pin block safety for improved drop safety, uses an improved hammer and sear geometry for a better trigger, and features ambidextrous thumb safeties. The new Hi-Power also adds a standard Picatinny accessory rail and accepts higher-capacity magazines. For a buyer who wants the Hi-Power experience with modern safety and trigger improvements, the new production is the better choice. For collectors, original FN-production Hi-Powers remain highly desirable.

Hi-Power vs. 1911: Single-Action Pistols Compared

The Hi-Power and 1911 are both single-action semi-automatic pistols with manual thumb safeties, and the comparison comes up naturally. The 1911 holds 7+1 in .45 ACP or 8+1/9+1 in 9mm; the Hi-Power holds 13+1 in 9mm. The Hi-Power’s higher capacity in a slimmer grip was its original design advantage. The 1911’s trigger, in a well-fitted example, is generally considered the finest production single-action trigger available. The Hi-Power’s action geometry is closer to the 1911 than any other pistol and many 1911 shooters transition to the Hi-Power comfortably. For a shooter who wants 1911-style controls with higher 9mm capacity, the Hi-Power is the natural answer.

Original Hi-Power Military Variants: What to Look For Used

Original FN-production Hi-Powers vary in quality and configuration based on production era and country of origin. Pre-1958 Hi-Powers (pre-tangent sight) are the most collectible. Argentine FMAP production Hi-Powers are common on the US market and are quality guns. Israeli police surplus Hi-Powers (often with refinished finish) are among the best-shooting used examples. Canadian Inglis production from WWII are historically significant. For a buyer purchasing a used Hi-Power, inspecting the feed ramp geometry, checking the trigger pull for the magazine disconnect’s effect, and verifying the frame is not cracked at the rear are the primary inspection points. The magazine disconnect safety (a lever that prevents firing when the magazine is removed) degrades the trigger on original Hi-Powers; many owners have it removed by a gunsmith, though this modification affects collector value.

Hi-Power Trigger Improvement: The Magazine Disconnect

The original Hi-Power’s most commonly criticized feature is the magazine disconnect safety, which adds a rough, creepy quality to the trigger by pressing on the sear when a magazine is inserted. Removal of this safety by a qualified gunsmith typically transforms the Hi-Power’s trigger from mediocre to outstanding. The new 2022 production Hi-Power eliminates this component entirely. For a buyer of an original Hi-Power who plans to use it as a shooter rather than a collector piece, magazine disconnect removal is the single most impactful modification. Combined with the Hi-Power’s naturally good ergonomics and the slim double-stack grip, the result is one of the most pleasant 9mm pistols to shoot.

Hi-Power for Carry and Duty: 2026 Perspective

The new production Browning Hi-Power is a fully capable carry and duty pistol in 2026. Its 13+1 9mm capacity is competitive, the manual safety suits those who prefer a traditional cocked-and-locked carry method, and the slim grip makes it comfortable for a wide range of hand sizes. The single-action trigger is an advantage for accurate shooting once the manual safety is disengaged. The new Hi-Power’s lack of an optics cut is a limitation compared to modern striker-fired pistols that offer factory MOS/optics-ready configurations. For a shooter who values the Hi-Power’s heritage, single-action operation, and proven design, it remains a meaningful carry choice.

Related Pages

Browse all Browning firearms, compare with the FN High Power for FN’s current production version, or explore our 1911 pistol selection for another single-action platform.