Canada Scraps Historic Browning Hi-Powers — A Reminder Why Firearm History Matters
- Austin Reville
- Feb 19
- 3 min read
In a move that has collectors and historians shaking their heads, the Canadian government has reportedly scrapped 2,000 surplus Browning-Inglis No. 2 Mk1* pistols—World War II–era 9mm handguns produced in Toronto—and may destroy thousands more.
During WWII, Canada manufactured its own version of the legendary Browning Hi-Power through John Inglis and Company, with assistance from exiled staff of FN Herstal. Most notably, Belgian firearms engineer Dieudonne Saive, co-designer of the Hi-Power, helped ensure the technical specifications remained faithful to the original design.
These pistols were not just surplus sidearms, they were wartime artifacts, carried by Allied forces and part of the broader story of the free world standing against tyranny.
After decades of service, the Canadian military replaced the Inglis Hi-Power in 2023 with the C22 (a variant of the SIG P320). With roughly 11,000 surplus pistols on hand, Canada initially planned to scrap most of them, keeping only 500 for museums.
An alternative idea briefly surfaced: send them to Ukraine as military aid. But with Ukraine already receiving billions in modern equipment, the aging Hi-Powers were reportedly deemed unnecessary. Now, thousands may face destruction.
When History Gets Melted Down
To some governments, surplus firearms are simply line items on a spreadsheet. To historians, collectors, and freedom-minded Americans, they are tangible links to the past.
These Inglis pistols represent:
Allied wartime production ingenuity
International cooperation against totalitarianism
The evolution of one of the most iconic handgun designs ever created
Once destroyed, they’re gone forever. No museum exhibit can replace the authenticity of an original piece of history preserved in private hands. This is something that has brought many into the firearms community. The history of firearms fascinates many all over the world. Whether it is the Royal Armories in Leeds, UK or the Cody Firearm Museum in Wyoming, people travel from all over the world to get a peek at weaponry from all points in history.
Why Firearm History Matters
Firearms are more than tools. They are artifacts of culture, engineering, conflict, and liberty. From Lexington and Concord to the beaches of Normandy, arms have played a defining role in shaping free societies. Preserving these pieces ensures that future generations understand not just how they function—but what they represent. At 2 If By Sea Tactical, we take firearm history seriously. We take it upon our selves to educate Southern Minnesota on what these firearms represent. We believe education is just as important as ownership.
That’s why we actively work to preserve and share firearm history through:
Our ongoing “From the Vault” series
The 2nd Amendment Museum by Veteran Shredding
Through these platforms, we highlight historic firearms, explain their context, and connect today’s gun owners with the stories that shaped our nation and the broader world. Because when governments scrap history, it becomes even more important for private citizens to preserve it. It is why we write about historical firearms so their stories can be preserved through time.
The “It Belongs in a Museum” meme may be tongue-in-cheek, but the sentiment is real. Firearm history deserves respect—not the torch. Whether it’s a WWII Inglis Hi-Power or an American service rifle, these pieces tell stories of sacrifice, innovation, and the defense of liberty. We here at 2 If By Sea Tactical are committed not only to defending the Second Amendment—but to preserving the heritage that made it necessary in the first place. History matters and we’re here to keep it alive.
Here at 2 If By Sea Tactical we strive to bring you the best experience in the firearms world. As we continue to grow the media arm of 2 If By Sea, make sure you keep tuning in to our Youtube and Rumble channels and right here at “The Patriot’s Almanac” to stay informed on the latest happenings in the firearm world! But we are not lawyers, so this isn't legal guidance. We are proud to be Southern Minnesota source for all things 2A.
Stay sharp, stay informed, and stay ready.
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