1985 Browning Hi-Power "Sport" 9mm Pistol

The Belgian Purist configuration: Pre-Mark II "Sport" Architecture 

The Browning Hi-Power, bearing serial 245PV57023, represents a highly specific and transitionally significant configuration from Fabrique Nationale’s legendary facility in Herstal, Belgium. The "PV" code establishes its production date precisely to 1985. While 1985 was the dawn of the heavily modernized Mark II era (which universally introduced matte finishes and massive ambidextrous safety paddles), this particular unit is a factory-correct "Sport" model. The Sport model proudly preserved the classic, low-profile lines of the quintessential "Vigilante" and early commercial iterations. Rather than utilizing bulky military levers, it retains the classic small, single-sided (non-ambidextrous) thumb safety favored by purists who prefer an absolute snag-free draw and classic, historically faithful handling.

Condition and Action Highlights

Action: Single-Action Only (SAO) short-recoil operating system. Features the timeless, ultra-clean single-action trigger break that cemented the platform as an elite target and combat layout.

Safety Configuration: Factory built with the classic, traditional small non-ambidextrous thumb safety on the left side of the frame. This low-profile switch is preferred by collectors who favor the clean, original lines of the mid-20th-century blueprint over modern tactical bulk.

Finish: Classic High-Gloss Blued finish. The rich, deep factory bluing remains deeply reflective and uniform across the slide and frame flats. Some small blemishes are present as photographed.

Condition: Very Good condition. This piece exhibits honest, minor cosmetic handling blemishes completely consistent with careful ownership and light range use: superficial surface thinnings are present on the front strap, along the forward dust cover, and on the slide right above the ejection port.

Bore: 4.7-inch barrel; the bore is in exceptional shape, mirror-bright with razor-sharp factory rifling lines.

Ergonomics: Outfitted with traditional checkered wood grips. These classic hardwood panels provide a warm aesthetic contrast against the polished blue steel while delivering excellent palm texturing.

Accessories: Includes one (1) 13-round magazine.

Technical Specifications

Manufacturer: Fabrique Nationale (Herstal, Belgium)

Importer: Browning Arms Company (Morgan, Utah)

Model: Hi-Power (Commercial "Sport" Configuration)

Year of Manufacture: 1985

Serial Number: 245PV57023

Caliber: 9mm Luger

Capacity: 13+1 Rounds