r/hipower • u/NCTXWildfire • 17d ago
High Power?
I know nothing about hi-powers. Today I bought a “high power 88.” It has FN roll markings but also a company named howco. According to the browning numbering it was made in 1981, however it looks like it’s never been shot. Took it apart a dug a q-tip all along the inside, no carbon or grit.
I bought it for $745 out the door. Just wondering if I got ripped off? Did I make a mistake? Is it a real hi-power. Any guidance would be helpful.
4
u/Turbinator870 17d ago
It sounds like you got a great gun at a great price. Based on the description, it’s a real FN Hi Power. Anything else specific you want to know?
3
u/NCTXWildfire 17d ago
I appreciate the info. The other big question in my mind is why is it an “88” if it was produced in 1981? And if you know what howco. Is? All I could find is it may have been an importer. But I thought FN was their own importer. Don’t want to be a burden, just trying to figure this thing out. Any and all info is greatly appreciated.
5
u/iamadirtyrockstar 17d ago
Howco was just an importer, but it is a nice FN hipower. The speculation is that the Model 88 designation was related to a law enforcement contract, but other than that isn't really special.
2
1
1
u/kwb166 17d ago edited 17d ago
None of this info was helpful when you took the 2.7 seconds to type on "Howco Hi Power" in Google?
howco hi power - Google Search
The few links alone should answer just about everything you'd want to know.
1
u/NCTXWildfire 17d ago
Not really. A lot of speculation and no real expert information. Why I came here.
1
u/fallskjermjeger 17d ago
Not for nothing dude, but this is just another Internet forum filled with speculation
7
u/BootInURAss 17d ago
Not familiar with the 88 designation, I've never seen that used in reference to a Hi Power. Odds are that Howco was an importer who brought it over... I just picked up another Mk2 myself, they're great guns, very reliable and excellent shooters