This NRA Gun of the Week review requires just a little bit of gun genealogy (gunealogy?). The Davidson's Exclusive Springfield SA-35 with CIVIVI Knife bundle that we're talking about is essentially the grandchild of four outdoor-industry greats. Grandpa is, of course, the Browning High Power, a classic semi-automatic pistol Browning elected to discontinue in 2018. Grandpa #2 is Springfield Armory, which is one of the firearm manufacturers that picked up the High Power pattern and created its own version, the SA-35. Grandma is Davidson's, one of the largest and most famous firearm distributors in the country, which frequently teams up with manufacturers to craft unique models and product combinations for their buyers. Grandma #2 would be CIVIVI, a new contender on the everyday carry (EDC) knife scene.
This particular SA-35 and CIVIVI knife combination is one of those exclusive packages. This classically styled pistol comes paired with a matching CIVIVI folding knife that’s engraved with the Springfield Armory company name, perfect for Springfield fans. Based on CIVIVI’s Pintail Flipper design, the unit is constructed from S35VN steel with a Damascus blade measuring just under 3” long . A set of textured Micarta scales provides a solid grip while complementing the checkered walnut stocks on the SA-35.
The SA-35 is chambered in 9mm Luger, and weighs 29 oz. unloaded. With a 4.7" barrel and overall length of 7.83 inches, the SA-35 has a single-action trigger with a 4-lb., 13-oz. pull weight. But what did our American Rifleman range testers think?
"Shooting this modern rendition of a classic High Power was a joy," notes Rifleman executive editor Evan Brune, "and we noticed a few particular benefits. Unlike the 13-rounders of the originals, the SA-35 ships with a 15-round magazine, and since there’s no disconnect, empty magazines rocket out of the magwell easily. Loading fresh mags was also a breeze, thanks to the beveled magazine well. With modern sights, modern controls and modern construction, this pistol is ready for more than just range work, and this Davidson’s Exclusive package provides a great pair of EDC tools."
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