Browning Hi Power delimma help me choose...

W

WVsig

New member
So I am about to send a BHP to Don Williams at Action Works for a bit of custom work. I am looking to get the following done.

• Trigger Job
• Reliability Package
• Stipple Front & Rear Gripstraps
• Bevel Mag Well
• Smooth out Package
• Refinish and Sight in
• Harrison Wide Notch Sights W/ tritium inserts. Single front and back
• Your custom modification on thumb safety to make it extended.
• C&S Duty/Carry Type III Commander Style Hammer & Sear kit
• Jim Garthwaite wide trigger
• Refinish in Robar NP3 2 tone.

So the question is which base gun to use? I have a Israeli MKII.5, a LNIB Practical and a alloy framed Austrian Police gun. I am leaning towards the alloy frame because it would make an awesome carry gun and would be a true one of a kind once in a lifetime gun because there are so few alloys BHPs out there and my pistol is less than collector condition currently. Thoughts?

Izzy...

jew-power.gif


Practical

Practical-11.gif


Alloy

Alloy-BHP_zps03ea93b1.gif
 
R

rock185

New member
WVsig, were I spending serious money on custom work, I would definitely use one of the steel framed guns with external extractor. I have alloy framed guns, sometimes carry them, but don't shoot them a lot. They are carry a lot, but shoot a little type guns for me. Perhaps because I have had one alloy framed gun crack (a Colt) seen two others (SIGS) and read of, and seen photos of others. Also, within my humble experience, the alloy frame slide/frame fit loosens with use as the frame anodizing wears away, wheras the steel framed guns just seem to get smoother. I have read the stuff about "I have alloy framed "X" pistol with 2.7 Zillion rounds fired that hasn't cracked, the alloy frame will outlast you, etc, etc. OK, maybe, but I still think the steel framed guns are more durable. That's where I'd spend my money.....ymmv
 
P

Pilot

New member
Use the Izzy. The Practical, with the mag disconnect removed, and a 28lb mainspring will be fine as is.
 
W

WVsig

New member
Yeah it is down to the Izzy and the Alloy. The Practical is almost too nice to use as a base gun at this point.

Longevity of the gun post customization is a consideration. The BHP is not the most stout gun in a steel configuration and there are not a ton of alloy guns out there so it is hard to know what the real life expectancy of the frame will be. I am going to ask Mr Williams his thoughts on expected round count.
 
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WVsig

New member
I am going to use the Alloy. I spoke to Mr. Williams and I think if I stick to standard pressure ammo swap out the recoil spring at a higher rate it will last long enough.... :eek:

I might go with Birdsong Black T because according to Mr. Williams they can leave the anodizing intact and help with longevity.
 
W

WVsig

New member
My plan is to use NP3 on the frame and then Rogard on the slide to get this look. I have been told that NP3 will be harder than the original anodizing.

 
S

Slotback

New member
WVSig: When you get it back, post the "after" pic. I would like to see it. I am impressed with Mr. Williams work.
 
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