The FN Hi-Power — most often called the Browning Hi-Power — is easily the most prolific military handgun of the previous century. John Moses Browning created the design as a 9mm update to the 1911 .45 ACP, but passed before its completion. It was completed by Dieudonné Saive at FN Herstal. Browning died in 1926, several years before the design was finalized. FN Herstal named it the “High Power” in allusion to the 13-round magazine capacity.
Depending on sources, the pistol was used by 50-100 nations. The Hi-Power (Grande Puissance, P35, H35) was produced in the millions. Clones and copies have also been manufactured, most of these were of good quality, such as the Argentine FM, Girsan, Tisas… Regardless the model or manufacturer, here is a quick video to demonstrate how to field strip, clean, and lubricated the Hi-Power.
I bought a Hi-Power about 35 years ago as it was the only high capacity 9 that would fit my hand. One of the first things I did was remove the magazine safety. I was competing in local ISPSA matches and didn’t like having to re-insert a magazine to drop the hammer at the end of the stages.
My first 9 mm was a high power. Since then I bought an Argentine FM, a Belgian mk.lll and a Daly clone. I love them all!
One of my all-time favorite handguns, the Hi Power is a comfortable pistol to hold and to shoot. All of mine are full size and chambered in 9mm Para, though one is a lightweight version. If you remove the magazine disconnect feature, you will find the trigger pull much improved over the stock trigger. If you plan to use the pistol as a carry gun, I recommend the MK III with its much improved sights and extended ambi safety. Some of the newer clones are already set up this way or you can install aftermarket parts. There’s even a compact model. I can’t speak for the 40 S&W version since I have never owned one.