In response to the infamous 1968 Gun Control Act, Browning modified their existing M1955 to earn the necessary "points" required for importation. A direct descendent of John Moses Browning's revolutionary M1910, the 10/71 was an odd marriage of target features and a slim little pocket pistol. The adjustable sights are identical to those found on early 1970's Hi-Power Sport models. The barrel was lengthened to 4.5" with thumb rest grips and a finger rest magazine rounding out the transformation. Until yesterday, I had never examined one of these pistols. Though somewhat odd in appearance, quality is everything one would expect from Browning in the early 1970's. Even so, with the obtrusive sights it is practically useless as a a pocket pistol. As a target pistol, I doubt it is going to win any medals. As a result, sales in the US were sluggish resulting in the pistol's discontinuation in 1974. Still, this one followed me home from my LGS yesterday. Given the condition of the pistol, I'll likely fire a few magazines then retire it to the oddball corner of my safe. Thanks for looking!
Mint 1971 Browning Model 10/71 .380 ACP
Posts: 3649 | Location: Western PA | Registered: July 20, 2010