In 1955, the Browning Arms Company began importing a striker-fired, blowback-operated .380 ACP pistol built by Fabrique Nationale (FN) in Belgium. Designed by John Browning and originally designated as the Model 1910 by FN, the Browning Model 1955 (for U.S. import) pistol features a steel frame and slide with an internally fixed barrel. Diminutive and concealable, the .380 ACP-chambered pistol provides for three safety mechanisms: a grip safety, a frame-mounted lever-actuated safety and a magazine safety. Topside, a rudimentary set of fixed sights aid shot placement. The firearm functions via the renowned builder’s striker-fired mechanism within the pistol’s slide. Additionally, a six-round detachable box magazine feeds the firearm. To learn more, watch this NRA Gun of the Week video hosted by American Rifleman’s Brian Sheetz.
While sport shooting and hunting are still undertaken in many countries around the world, our staffers don’t often have the opportunity to test new guns in places as far away and mystical as Australia, but that’s exactly where Executive Editor Evan Brune went with the new rifle that is the subject of this month’s cover story.
Harnessing the power of the 10 mm Auto in a compact format with generous capacity, EAA’s Witness2311 is an affordable and shootable way to ride the current 10 mm wave.
The speed with which the M1 carbine was developed and readied for quantity production is a striking tribute to the energy and patriotism of everyone involved.