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Springfield SA-35 Review
Price Range:
$800 - $1000
Specification
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Springfield Armory |
| Country of Origin | USA |
| First Build Date | 2021 |
| Type | Semi-Automatic |
| Caliber | 9mm Luger |
| Capacity | 15+1 rounds |
| Barrel Length | 4.0 inches |
| Weight (Unloaded) | 31 oz |
| Material | Blued Steel, Aluminum Alloy Frame |
| Price Range | $800 – $1,000 |
Overview
The Springfield SA-35 is a modern take on the iconic Browning High Power design, resurrecting a legendary firearm with contemporary enhancements. Released in 2021, the SA-35 is a 9mm semi-automatic pistol aimed at combining the classic feel and design of the High Power with the performance and reliability Springfield Armory is known for. The pistol is designed for tactical use, personal defense, and recreational shooting, offering a balanced mix of traditional craftsmanship and modern technology.
The SA-35 features a 4-inch barrel, offering a good balance between size and accuracy. With a 15-round magazine, it packs a decent capacity for a full-sized handgun. It uses a single-action trigger, which delivers a smooth, consistent pull that’s ideal for precision shooting. The pistol’s classic design includes a steel frame and a blued finish, making it aesthetically pleasing while maintaining the strength needed for reliable performance.
Strength and Quality
The build quality of the Springfield SA-35 is exceptional. The steel frame offers durability, and the blued finish is not only aesthetically pleasing but also provides protection against corrosion. The pistol’s construction feels solid, with no noticeable play in the frame or slide. The components are well-fitted, contributing to the firearm’s smooth operation and accuracy.
Springfield Armory has ensured that the modernized version of the High Power does justice to its legendary heritage. From the precise machining of the barrel to the tactile feel of the trigger, every part of the SA-35 is built to perform reliably for years of use.
Safety Features
The Springfield SA-35 includes several safety features to ensure secure operation:
- Manual Thumb Safety: A traditional thumb safety is located on the left side of the frame, allowing the user to engage the safety when the pistol is not in use.
- Grip Safety: The pistol includes a grip safety to prevent accidental discharge when the gun is not held properly.
- Firing Pin Block: The pistol includes a firing pin block that ensures the firing pin cannot strike the primer unless the trigger is fully pulled.
Test Results
Accuracy
During testing, the Springfield SA-35 performed excellently at close and medium ranges. At 7 yards, the grouping was tight, with shots averaging 1.5 inches. At 15 yards, the accuracy remained consistent, with groupings expanding to 2.5 inches. These results are commendable for a handgun of its class, especially considering the traditional design features it carries.
Recoil Management
The recoil of the SA-35 is moderate, aided by its 9mm caliber and well-designed frame. It’s easy to control during rapid-fire, allowing for quick follow-up shots. The weight of the pistol, 31 oz when unloaded, helps dampen the recoil, making it comfortable for most shooters.
Reliability
The Springfield SA-35 was tested with a variety of ammunition types, including hollow points, FMJ, and +P rounds. It ran flawlessly, with no malfunctions or failures to feed or eject during a 1,000-round test. Its reliable operation is one of its strongest points, making it a dependable option for both recreational and defensive use.
Also Read: Tanfoglio Witness Elite Review
Merits
- Classic Design: The Springfield SA-35 inherits the legendary design of the Browning High Power, which is renowned for its accuracy, performance, and reliability.
- High Capacity: With a 15-round magazine, the SA-35 offers more capacity than many other pistols in the same class.
- Great Accuracy: Excellent accuracy at both close and medium ranges, making it a great choice for both recreational shooters and self-defense.
- Reliability: It has been tested to perform flawlessly with a variety of ammunition types, showing no failures to feed or eject during testing.
- Comfortable Grip: The ergonomic design makes it comfortable to shoot, even for extended sessions.
Demerits
- Price: The SA-35 is priced higher than some other 9mm pistols in the market, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
- Single-Action Only: Some users may prefer a double-action option for added safety, but the single-action design requires a more deliberate handling of the pistol.
- No Optics Cut: The SA-35 does not come with an optics-ready slide, which limits its customization for optics and red dot sights.
Maintenance
Maintaining the Springfield SA-35 is straightforward. The pistol can be field-stripped easily without the need for special tools. Cleaning and lubricating the barrel, slide, and frame after each use is recommended to ensure the firearm continues to function reliably. Routine checks on the recoil spring and other internal components will help extend the lifespan of the pistol.
Given its stainless-steel construction, it’s also resistant to corrosion, but regular cleaning is still necessary to maintain performance and aesthetics.
Comparison with Other Guns
| Feature | Springfield SA-35 | Glock 19 | Sig Sauer P320 | Smith & Wesson M&P9 | Beretta 92FS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | 9mm | 9mm | 9mm | 9mm | 9mm |
| Capacity | 15+1 | 15+1 | 17+1 | 17+1 | 15+1 |
| Barrel Length | 4.0 inches | 4.02 inches | 4.7 inches | 4.25 inches | 4.9 inches |
| Weight (Unloaded) | 31 oz | 23.65 oz | 29.3 oz | 24 oz | 33.3 oz |
| Price Range | $800 – $1,000 | $500 – $600 | $600 – $700 | $500 – $600 | $600 – $700 |
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
The best feature of the SA-35 is its combination of a classic design with modern updates, offering a high-quality build, excellent accuracy, and a good capacity for a full-sized 9mm pistol.
While the SA-35 is a bit larger than some concealed carry options, its design and weight make it feasible for concealed carry, especially for individuals who prefer a full-sized firearm for personal defense.
The SA-35 is a modern version of the Browning High Power, with updated features such as a steel frame, more ergonomic grip, and enhanced internal components for reliability. It retains the iconic design and feel but adds enhancements for today’s shooters.
No, the SA-35 is not optics-ready, so you won’t be able to mount a red dot sight directly on the pistol. It is designed with traditional iron sights for fast target acquisition.
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