It was probably inevitable that, after introducing the SA-35 – its own version of the Browning Hi-Power aka HP35 – with 4.7-inch (120mm), Springfield Armory would go on to develop a 4-inch (101mm) barrel version. After all, both the HP35 and the Colt 1911 are the brainchild of John Moses Browning, and shortly after World War II, the Colt Commander – a 4.25-inch barrel version of the 1911 – made its debut. Sooner or later, someone was bound to be tempted to develop an “HP35 Commander” too. And here it is: the new 9mm Springfield Armory SA-35 with 4” barrel.
Springfield Armory SA-35 4” model: a classic in a compact format
To be fair, for some years now the Bulgarian manufacturer Arcus has been offering an unlicensed and modernized compact clone of the Hi-Power in the form of the Arcus 94C with a 4.55” barrel. But the Springfield Armory SA-35 is a modern take that is much more respectful of Browning revered classic – a true “wood and steel” gun featuring forged carbon steel parts, matte blue finish and checkered walnut grips. That does not mean that there are no improvements, including better ergonomics and enhanced controls, a factory-tuned trigger, modern sights, an improved feed ramp design, and an increased 15-round capacity (the original Hi-Power had a 13-round magazine capacity). But the upgrades here are more subtle and discreet.
Another improvement is that the Springfield Armory's pistol comes without the original's magazine disconnect device, allowing for drop-free magazines, and a smoother trigger pull with crisper break.
The new 4” variant still offers a 15-round capacity in 9mm, but with a shorter slide for better concealability. The white-dot front and serrated Tactical Rack rear sights of the SA-35 provide an enhanced sight picture, and the beveled magwell machined into the frame of the SA-35 makes magazine changes quicker and easier. The SA-35 design also utilizes a modernized and extended thumb safety that is easier to engage. Altogether, these features make the SA-35 4” model a handgun suitable for EDC, while still preserving its classic look and feel. (Overall length is 180mm, and weight is 845g.)
In the US, the SA-35 4” model is priced at $799. A double-zipper soft case is included.
