My quest for a vintage Browning Hi Power finally came to an end Saturday. By vintage I mean one with the deep blue finish and wood grips. Also one that doesn't mention Portugal on the slide....yuck!
I had been searching the internet for one, but even the grossly painted current production models are going for a $1,000+.
Out of desperation I went to the Summer gun show in Albuquerque. I saw only 2 HP's in the whole place. One new model and one beautiful vintage piece without a single flaw. It even had the original zippered carrying case.
I had taken along a S&W 6906 safe queen as a trade in and immediately started haggling with the seller. He dropped his asking price of $959.00 to an even $900.00 and offered me $450.00 for my Smith. I snapped that HP up and ran!!!!
Once I got home I carefully disassembled and cleaned my new arrival. The finish was pristine everywhere! The bore was flawless, I doubt this gun was ever carried or fired. A check of the serial number showed it was made in 1969! I'm a happy camper.:danceban:
Sorry, no pics...I'm just not computer savvy enough for them thumbnail photo's.
I had been searching the internet for one, but even the grossly painted current production models are going for a $1,000+.
Out of desperation I went to the Summer gun show in Albuquerque. I saw only 2 HP's in the whole place. One new model and one beautiful vintage piece without a single flaw. It even had the original zippered carrying case.
I had taken along a S&W 6906 safe queen as a trade in and immediately started haggling with the seller. He dropped his asking price of $959.00 to an even $900.00 and offered me $450.00 for my Smith. I snapped that HP up and ran!!!!
Once I got home I carefully disassembled and cleaned my new arrival. The finish was pristine everywhere! The bore was flawless, I doubt this gun was ever carried or fired. A check of the serial number showed it was made in 1969! I'm a happy camper.:danceban:
Sorry, no pics...I'm just not computer savvy enough for them thumbnail photo's.