SA-35 Review: Dissecting Springfield’s New 9mm Pistol

Measured Trigger-Pull Weight

To quantify the SA-35’s single-action trigger, we used a calibrated digital trigger gauge and recorded ten consecutive pulls from the center of the shoe with the pistol cleared and pointed in a safe direction. The pistol was inspected, lightly lubricated, and measured with an empty magazine inserted to replicate typical range conditions. We discarded obvious outliers and averaged the remaining pulls to get a realistic number for readers.

Across our ten-pull series, the Springfield Armory SA-35 produced an average trigger-pull of 5 lb 10 oz, with a low of 5 lb 7 oz and a high of 5 lb 14 oz. Take-up is short and smooth before a defined wall; the break is clean with minimal overtravel. Reset is positive and short, making rapid follow-up shots easy to time. Importantly, the pull weight remained consistent as the session progressed, suggesting solid sear-to-hammer engagement and stable spring tension.

On the range, this trigger weight strikes a good balance between duty-ready safety margins and practical accuracy. Shooters accustomed to Hi-Power-pattern pistols will appreciate the familiar ergonomics, while the SA-35’s geometry and surfaces deliver a crisp break that rewards clean press mechanics. After approximately 50 rounds, the trigger subjectively felt slightly smoother, which is consistent with normal wear-in of mating surfaces.

Key notes for readers comparing models: this SA-35 sample demonstrated predictable take-up, a distinct wall, a clean break, and a tactile reset — attributes that support controlled pairs and precise slow-fire work. If you prefer a lighter or heavier pull for competition or carry, consult a qualified armorer; any modification should preserve safe sear engagement and reliable primer ignition.

SA-35 Parts & Holster Interchangeability

One advantage of the SA-35 is its broad compatibility with the Hi-Power ecosystem. In our checks, most quality Hi-Power holsters and several small parts worked as expected, while a few items required model-specific attention.

Hi-Power Holsters

The SA-35 matched well with molded leather and Kydex rigs marked for the Browning/FN Hi-Power. The slide and frame profiles follow the classic pattern, so most IWB/OWB holsters that are not optic-cut seated and retained normally. As with any tightly molded Kydex, verify clearance at the trigger guard and dustcover before daily carry and adjust retention screws to prevent drag on the extended thumb safety.

Magazines

Standard Hi-Power 13-round magazines locked, fed and dropped free in our sample. Modern 15-round Hi-Power-pattern magazines also functioned normally. Always confirm reliable lock-back and drop-free behavior with your specific mags before carry, as baseplate dimensions and spring tension can vary by maker and batch.

Grips

Grip panels marketed for the Hi-Power generally aligned with the SA-35’s screw spacing and frame contour. Check panel thickness if you prefer a slimmer profile — some legacy wood grips are noticeably thinner or thicker, which changes reach to the trigger and safety.

Sights

The SA-35 uses dovetailed sights. Many legacy Hi-Power front sights were staked, while later variants used differing dovetails. If you’re upgrading, select sights listed specifically for the SA-35 or confirm dovetail specs with the manufacturer. Install with proper support and a sight pusher to avoid marring the finish.

Controls & Small Parts

Extended or “classic” Hi-Power slide stops and safeties may appear similar, but not all are true drop-ins due to dimensional and heat-treat differences between eras and makers. Test fit with a qualified armorer to ensure proper sear engagement, positive detents, and full safety function. The SA-35 deletes the magazine disconnect, so legacy trigger parts designed around that system may not translate one-to-one.

Left-Handed Use

Most Hi-Power holsters remain right-hand focused. Southpaws should verify that their chosen holster allows a clean draw stroke and that the safety is protected from inadvertent movement. If you require an ambidextrous safety, source a unit specifically listed for the SA-35 and confirm safe function before live fire.

Bottom Line

For everyday use, holsters and magazines labeled for the Hi-Power have been the most seamless fit with the SA-35, while sights and certain controls benefit from SA-35-specific part numbers. As always, confirm compatibility at the bench and on the range before trusting any component for defensive carry. SA-35 holster compatibility, Springfield Armory SA-35 parts, Hi-Power magazines, Hi-Power grips, Hi-Power sights, ambidextrous safety, Browning Hi-Power holster fit.

Competing Hi-Power Options: Why the Springfield Armory SA-35 Is the Top Choice

The SA-35 sits at the center of today’s Hi-Power field and, for most shooters, is the superior option. It blends classic ergonomics with smart updates, strong out-of-box reliability, broad holster and magazine compatibility, and an attainable price point backed by modern factory support. If you want the Hi-Power experience without compromises, this is the benchmark to beat.

FN High Power: Modernized But a Different Direction

FN’s current High Power is a thorough re-work with larger dimensions, a different internal architecture, and a higher-capacity magazine system. It offers ambidextrous controls and contemporary ergonomics, but it diverges from the traditional Hi-Power feel and parts ecosystem. For buyers who want a fully reimagined pistol, FN is compelling; for those seeking true Hi-Power handling with refined execution, the SA-35 delivers the more authentic experience with fewer fitment surprises and wider holster/mag support.

Girsan MC P35 Series: Value Priced with Variable Refinement

Girsan’s MC P35 lineup spans classic slides to optic-ready and rail variants at attractive prices. Features can be generous, but fit, finish, and small-parts consistency vary by trim and production batch. Compared head-to-head, the SA-35 provides crisper triggers, cleaner machining, and more consistent reliability out of the box — advantages that reduce the need for immediate upgrades.

Tisas and Other Imports: Traditional Feel with Caveats

Tisas and Legacy Imports preserve the steel-frame tradition and often use modern sight cuts and feed-ramp geometry. Availability and small-parts specs, however, can differ across runs, which makes long-term support and drop-in compatibility less predictable. The SA-35 counters with stable specifications, ready access to holsters and magazines, and factory backing that simplifies ownership.

Why the SA-35 Wins for Most Shooters

1. Authentic Hi-Power ergonomics with smart updates: improved sights, refined trigger characteristics, and the removal of the magazine disconnect for a cleaner break.

2. Broad ecosystem fit: excellent holster compatibility with Hi-Power-marked rigs and reliable performance with common Hi-Power-pattern magazines.

3. Consistent quality control: machining, finish, and small-parts fit that typically require less post-purchase tuning.

4. Practical value: premium feel and performance without the price or dimensional departures of more radical redesigns.

Bottom line: across authenticity, shootability, ecosystem compatibility, and day-one reliability, the Springfield Armory SA-35 is the superior Hi-Power–pattern choice for most users.

Article Updated: October 16, 2025