Cylinder & Slide Hi Power Combat Trigger Review

Is the Cylinder & Slide Hi Power Wide Combat Trigger All Talk?

The Browning Hi-Power is a legendary pistol, revered for its ergonomics and reliability. However, its trigger is often cited as a weak point, plagued by a heavy pull and magazine disconnect. Enter the Cylinder & Slide Hi Power Wide Combat Trigger, promising to rectify these issues.

For years, I’ve tinkered with various Hi-Powers, striving for that perfect balance of classic design and modern performance. The factory trigger, while functional, always felt like a compromise. I needed a solution that would lighten the pull, improve feel, and enhance overall shootability.

Upon unboxing the Cylinder & Slide Hi Power Wide Combat Trigger, I immediately noticed the clean blued finish and the wider, more comfortable trigger shoe. The steel construction felt robust, suggesting a long service life. This was a significant departure from the sometimes mushy and inconsistent triggers I’d experienced before.

Compared to triggers from Nighthawk Custom or Wilson Combat (though those are often complete fire control kits), the Cylinder & Slide option seemed like a more budget-friendly approach to a similar goal. While a complete kit is great, sometimes you just need that one critical piece upgraded. My hope was that this trigger would bridge the gap between a stock Hi-Power trigger and a fully custom job.

My first impression was definitely excitement. The Cylinder & Slide Hi Power Wide Combat Trigger felt like a tangible upgrade, promising improved performance without breaking the bank. It was time to see if it could deliver on that promise.

Real-World Testing: Putting Cylinder & Slide Hi Power Wide Combat Trigger to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at my local shooting range, a familiar environment where I could focus solely on the trigger’s performance. I installed the Cylinder & Slide Hi Power Wide Combat Trigger on my primary Hi-Power, a 9mm model that has seen thousands of rounds. Installation, thankfully, was straightforward, though a basic understanding of Hi-Power disassembly is essential.

The difference was immediately noticeable. The trigger pull felt significantly lighter, and the wider trigger shoe distributed the pressure more evenly across my finger. This resulted in a more comfortable and controlled shooting experience. I was also impressed that it addressed the magazine disconnect, creating a smoother trigger pull.

There were no initial hiccups, malfunctions, or surprises after the first range session. The Cylinder & Slide Hi Power Wide Combat Trigger performed exactly as advertised. It was a simple, effective upgrade.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months and hundreds of rounds downrange, the Cylinder & Slide Hi Power Wide Combat Trigger continues to perform admirably. There are no signs of wear or tear, and the blued finish has held up well. It has seen use in varying conditions from hot, sunny days to cooler, slightly damp afternoons, and has remained consistent.

Cleaning is straightforward; I simply clean the trigger during my regular Hi-Power maintenance routine. A quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth is all that’s needed. Compared to the factory trigger, which always felt gritty even after cleaning, the Cylinder & Slide version remains smooth and consistent.

This upgrade has definitely exceeded my expectations. It transforms the Hi-Power’s trigger from a functional necessity into a genuine asset. It improves accuracy and comfort, making shooting sessions far more enjoyable.

Breaking Down the Features of Cylinder & Slide Hi Power Wide Combat Trigger

Specifications

The Cylinder & Slide Hi Power Wide Combat Trigger is a drop-in replacement trigger designed specifically for Browning Hi-Power pistols chambered in 9mm and .40 S&W. It features a blued steel construction for durability and a curved trigger shape for improved ergonomics. Its most notable feature is its wider trigger shoe, designed to distribute pressure more evenly across the shooter’s finger, resulting in a lighter perceived trigger pull.

The steel material ensures longevity and resistance to wear, while the blued finish provides a classic look and added corrosion resistance. The curved trigger shape is a matter of personal preference, but many shooters find it more comfortable than the original, narrower trigger. Perhaps the most important spec is its ability to eliminate the magazine disconnect, which greatly improves the trigger pull.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the Hi-Power’s performance and the shooter’s experience. A lighter, more comfortable trigger translates to improved accuracy and faster follow-up shots. The elimination of the magazine disconnect allows for a cleaner, crisper trigger break.

Performance & Functionality

The Cylinder & Slide Hi Power Wide Combat Trigger significantly improves the Hi-Power’s trigger pull, making it lighter, smoother, and more consistent. It enhances accuracy and makes the pistol more enjoyable to shoot. The difference is palpable.

Its greatest strength is its ability to address the Hi-Power’s inherent trigger limitations. The wider trigger shoe and removal of the magazine disconnect contribute to a dramatically improved feel. The only potential weakness might be its compatibility, but Cylinder & Slide states it fits all 9mm/.40 Hi-Powers.

It absolutely meets and even exceeds expectations. I was hoping for a modest improvement, but the Cylinder & Slide Hi Power Wide Combat Trigger delivered a transformation.

Design & Ergonomics

The Cylinder & Slide Hi Power Wide Combat Trigger features a simple, yet effective design. The steel construction feels solid and durable, and the wider trigger shoe is noticeably more comfortable than the original. The installation process is straightforward, requiring only basic gunsmithing skills.

The design prioritizes functionality and ergonomics. There is no unnecessary flash or embellishment; it’s a purely practical upgrade. The wider trigger shoe fills the finger comfortably.

Durability & Maintenance

The steel construction and blued finish suggest that the Cylinder & Slide Hi Power Wide Combat Trigger will last for many years with proper care. It is a robust component designed to withstand the rigors of regular use. Maintenance is minimal; a simple wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth during routine gun cleaning is sufficient.

The trigger should last as long as the pistol itself, assuming normal usage and maintenance. It’s a simple part, so there are no real repair issues.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Cylinder & Slide Hi Power Wide Combat Trigger is primarily a standalone upgrade, but its improved trigger pull can enhance the performance of other Hi-Power accessories. For example, a lighter trigger pull can make it easier to take advantage of an upgraded barrel or improved sights. This trigger does not directly interface with any external accessories.

It’s designed to improve the gun’s internal mechanics rather than connect to external attachments. The most significant customization is choosing between a blued or stainless finish if available (blued is the only option in the current listing).

Pros and Cons of Cylinder & Slide Hi Power Wide Combat Trigger

Who Should Buy Cylinder & Slide Hi Power Wide Combat Trigger?

The Cylinder & Slide Hi Power Wide Combat Trigger is perfect for Hi-Power owners looking to improve their pistol’s trigger pull and overall shootability. It is ideal for both experienced shooters and those new to the Hi-Power platform. It is a particularly worthwhile upgrade for those who find the factory trigger uncomfortable or difficult to manage.

This trigger is probably not for those who are completely satisfied with the factory trigger or those who are unwilling to perform basic gunsmithing tasks. The only must-have accessory is a set of punches and a basic understanding of Hi-Power disassembly. A trigger pull gauge might be useful for measuring the improvement, but it’s not essential.

Conclusion on Cylinder & Slide Hi Power Wide Combat Trigger

The Cylinder & Slide Hi Power Wide Combat Trigger is a worthwhile upgrade for any Browning Hi-Power owner seeking to improve their pistol’s trigger performance. It delivers a noticeable reduction in trigger pull weight, enhances comfort, and eliminates the magazine disconnect, resulting in a smoother, more consistent shooting experience. At $52.50, the price is definitely justified.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Cylinder & Slide Hi Power Wide Combat Trigger. It is a simple, effective, and affordable way to transform your Hi-Power. If you’re looking to elevate your Hi-Power’s performance, this trigger is an excellent place to start.