The FN Browning Hi-Power P-35
The FN Browning Hi-Power P-35 is one of the most influential service pistols ever produced. During World War II, production continued at Fabrique Nationale in Herstal, Belgium after the factory fell under German control in 1940. Pistols produced during this period were accepted into German service under the designation Pistole 640(b).
Quick facts
- Manufacturer: Fabrique Nationale (FN)
- Country of manufacture: Belgium (German occupation)
- Production period: Approximately 1940–1944
- Caliber: 9×19mm
- Action: Single-action
- Military designation: Pistole 640(b)
- C&R eligible: Yes
Historical background
Following the German occupation of Belgium in May 1940, FN was compelled to continue production for the Wehrmacht. Hi-Power pistols manufactured during this period were inspected and accepted by German ordnance officials and marked accordingly.
These pistols were issued to German military and security forces throughout the war. Despite wartime conditions, FN production quality remained high, making these occupation-era pistols both historically significant and mechanically durable.
During World War II, firearms accepted for German military service were inspected by the Waffenamt (German Army Ordnance Office). Approved pistols received an acceptance stamp consisting of an eagle above a numeric code, commonly referred to as a WaA mark.
On FN Browning Hi-Power pistols produced under German occupation, these marks indicate formal inspection and acceptance into Wehrmacht service under the designation Pistole 640(b). Different WaA numbers correspond to specific inspectors or inspection offices and can help narrow production periods within the 1940–1944 occupation era.
Original Waffenamt marks are applied during manufacture and inspection and are an important component of historical authentication for WWII service pistols.
This example
This FN Browning Hi-Power is a genuine German-accepted WWII production pistol, identifiable by original Waffenamt acceptance stamps featuring eagle and swastika markings applied during inspection.
The pistol is described as a veteran bring-back and retains matching serial numbers on the frame, slide, and barrel, along with a correct period marked magazine. These attributes place it firmly within the class of historically important occupation-era service pistols.
Collectability and significance
German-occupation FN Hi-Powers are among the most historically important variants of the P-35. Their association with wartime production, combined with German acceptance markings, makes them a core area of interest for Curio & Relic collectors.
Examples that retain matching components, correct inspection marks, and strong original condition are increasingly scarce. When a pistol is preserved as a veteran bring-back, it carries additional historical weight as a tangible artifact of the period.
Storage and preservation
Firearms from this era are both mechanical artifacts and historical documents. Proper preservation includes minimizing unnecessary handling while allowing for regular inspection, documentation, and condition monitoring over time.
Armory Racks provide organized support and visibility, helping protect finishes and keeping collections accountable and well-managed. This is especially important for historic pieces where originality and condition matter.
Place in history
The FN Browning Hi-Power produced under German occupation represents a unique convergence of engineering excellence and global conflict. These pistols are tangible reminders of how industrial capability and military necessity intersected during World War II.
As a service sidearm issued during one of the most consequential periods in modern history, the wartime Hi-Power occupies a permanent place in both firearms development and historical study.
Notes and discussion
The goal of this series is to document historically significant firearms accurately and responsibly. We welcome informed feedback, corrections, and additional historical context from collectors and historians.
Firearms history is deep and nuanced, and details are often refined as new research surfaces. This blog is part of an ongoing learning process, and thoughtful discussion is encouraged.
Disclaimer
RJK Ventures LLC is not a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL) and does not buy, sell, broker, or facilitate the transfer of firearms or ammunition.
The firearms shown and discussed in this article are presented solely for historical, educational, and informational purposes. Any firearms depicted are privately owned and are not offered for sale.
This content is intended to document historically significant firearms and promote responsible ownership, preservation, and safe storage practices. Readers are responsible for complying with all applicable federal, state, and local laws regarding firearm ownership, storage, and transfer.