HISTORY AND SERIAL NUMBERS FOR HIGH STANDARD GUNS MANUFACTURED FROM 1932

High Standard is a well-known American firearms manufacturer, recognized primarily for its precision .22 caliber pistols and target shooting firearms. Founded in the early 20th century, the company earned a strong reputation for accuracy, innovation, and quality, particularly in competitive shooting circles.

Please find serial numbers for High Standard guns on the bottom of this article

Origins and Founding (1926)

High Standard was founded in 1926 in New Haven, Connecticut. The company originated as a supplier of precision components and barrels for other firearms manufacturers before expanding into complete firearm production.

Its early focus on precision machining and quality manufacturing laid the foundation for its later success in producing accurate and reliable firearms.

Early Development and First Firearms

By the early 1930s, High Standard began producing its own line of .22 caliber pistols. These firearms were designed with a focus on target shooting, offering excellent accuracy and balance.

The company quickly gained recognition for producing pistols that were both affordable and highly precise, making them popular among competitive shooters and enthusiasts.

Rise to Prominence (1930s–1950s)

High Standard reached its peak during the mid-20th century, when its pistols became widely used in competitive shooting events.

The company’s firearms were known for:

• Exceptional accuracy
• Ergonomic design
• Smooth trigger pull
• High-quality machining

High Standard pistols were frequently used in bullseye competitions and became a preferred choice for serious target shooters.

Military and Government Contracts

During World War II, High Standard contributed to the war effort by producing firearms for the U.S. military.

One of its most notable contributions was the production of suppressed .22 caliber pistols for specialized military use. These firearms were used for training and certain covert operations, highlighting the company’s precision engineering capabilities.

Key Firearms and Models

1. Target Pistols (.22 LR)

High Standard is best known for its .22 caliber semi-automatic target pistols, which became widely used in competitive shooting. These pistols were designed for precision and consistency.

2. Supermatic Series

The Supermatic line represents some of the finest target pistols produced by the company. These models featured adjustable sights, excellent triggers, and interchangeable barrel options.

3. Military and Suppressed Pistols

High Standard manufactured specialized pistols for military use, including suppressed versions designed for quiet operation.

4. Revolvers and Shotguns

In addition to pistols, High Standard also produced revolvers and shotguns, though these were less central to the company’s identity.

Post-War Success and Competition Shooting

After World War II, High Standard continued to dominate in the field of competitive shooting. Its pistols were widely used in national and international competitions.

Many shooters considered High Standard firearms to be among the most accurate .22 pistols available at the time.

Decline and Ownership Changes (1960s–1980s)

Beginning in the 1960s, High Standard faced increasing competition from other manufacturers, as well as internal business challenges.

The company went through several ownership changes and relocations, which affected production consistency and overall market presence.

By the 1980s, the original High Standard company had largely ceased operations.

Revival and Modern Production

The High Standard name was later revived by new companies that sought to continue the brand’s legacy. Modern High Standard firearms are still produced, often based on classic designs.

These newer models aim to maintain the accuracy and performance that made the original pistols famous.

Characteristics of High Standard Firearms

High Standard guns are known for several defining features:

• Outstanding accuracy, especially in .22 caliber pistols
• Smooth and consistent trigger performance
• Ergonomic grip design
• Strong reputation in competitive shooting

These qualities made High Standard firearms a top choice for target shooters for decades.

Legacy and Collector Interest

Today, original High Standard pistols are highly valued by collectors and shooting enthusiasts. Models from the mid-20th century are especially sought after for their craftsmanship and performance.

Many of these firearms are still used in competition, demonstrating their lasting quality and design excellence.

Conclusion

High Standard played a major role in the development of American target shooting firearms, particularly through its highly accurate .22 pistols. Its focus on precision and performance helped define competitive shooting for much of the 20th century.

Although the original company faced challenges and eventually declined, the High Standard name remains associated with accuracy, quality, and innovation in firearm design.

The serial numbers listed represent the highest serial number shipped for the year. Regular serial numbers began with 5,000 which was shipped October 15, 1932. Although it appears the guns were generally assembled in numerical sequence, the shipments were not and some guns may have remained in inventory for weeks, months, or even years between assembly and shipment.

1975 is the last year of the regular serial number series (except for Sr. No. 2,500,811 shipped August 28, 1976) and marks the beginning of the letter prefix serialization.