Hi folks. New to this forum, but 50 years of firearms ownership and collecting. I have owned or do own quite a few Browning Hi-Powers over the years. Every thing from pre-war, T-series, C-series, Mark series. and FEG and FM clones. I currently own a C-series and a T-series. The T-series is kinda unique in my experience. The front of the grip frame has the Browning T prefix serial number, Txxxxxx. However, on the right side of the grip frame, slide, and barrel the matching serial numbers are Txxxx with the last 3 digits being the same as the last 3 digits Browning grip frame serial number. Also it has generic plastic grips and and a satin finish which is original. I am thinking this is an FN assembled contract pistol with the contractee designated serial number. What say the Hi-Power experts here? By the way, this a 1967 T-series and looks as good as it shoots! A definite keeper! Thanks for the help! Dave
That's beautiful gun, Dave, but, as you say, those irregular serial numbers are a bit of a mystery. If you hang around, one of our excellent forum members, perhaps sub-moa, will provide you with an answer. Cheers.
I hope somebody also comments on how to treat the rust spots on the front strap, etc. That gun is terrific, but it looks like a needs just a little bit of rust clean-up.
Yes it does have some very minor surface rust spots, but I am 69 years old and have a few myself! It will clean up good and be a constant companion when carrying a 9mm. Dave
I am not an expert, but I had a 1911 with similar rust patterns. In fact, mine was a little worse. The noted gunsmith Jim Hoag examined the gun and suggested that I rub it with a clean cloth and some WD-40. As much as I respect Jim, it don't work, so I sent it to Colt. They cleaned it up pretty well, but, Colt being Colt, they refused to share with me the details of what they did. That's all I know.
For surface rust like this I generally use 0000 steel wool soaked in a good gun oil and gently rub the spots. I haven't got into it yet with this pistol, but will give it a try later. Dave
