The Browning Hi-Power Mark III (MK3) represents the final major evolution of the original John Browning and Dieudonné Saive design. Introduced in the late 1980s, the MK3 was updated to meet the requirements of modern police and military forces before the model's eventual discontinuation.
External Design: The most recognizable feature of the MK3 is its matte black epoxy finish and the addition of contoured, wrap-around plastic grips with thumb rests.
Sights: Unlike earlier versions with small, integrated sights, the MK3 features high-visibility, three-dot combat sights dovetailed into the slide, allowing for easier acquisition and replacement.
Safety Upgrades: It includes a firing pin block safety (drop safety) and an ambidextrous manual thumb safety, making it more accessible for left-handed shooters.
Ejection Port: The ejection port is typically squared off and enlarged compared to the original "P35" design to improve reliability during spent casing extraction.
Mechanical Operation: It retains the classic short-recoil, semi-automatic operation and the high-capacity staggered-column magazine (typically 13 rounds in 9mm).