TFB Review: Springfield Armory SA-35 Tactical Gray and Coyote Brown

Welcome back to another TFB review. In the past, I’ve reviewed the standard Springfield SA-35 and had a good experience with no hammer bite despite the classic Hi Power design. Over the last few months, Springfield has come out with two other color variants (Tactical Gray and Coyote Brown) to bring the SA-35 into the 21st century with a more modern look. Over the past few months, I have tested both models and there's plenty to talk about, so it's time to get into it. Let’s take a closer look at the Springfield Armory SA 35 Tactical Gray and Coyote Brown models.          

Specs

The Springfield SA-35 is an almost identical reproduction of the classic Browning Hi-Power that was famous for being a reliable and effective sidearm in conflicts around the mid to late 20th century. Just like the original, the SA-35 is a single-action semi-automatic full-size pistol with a full metal frame. Both model variants come with upgraded G10 grips as well as the classic curved trigger that comes on the original SA-35. The barrel is a 4.7” forged barrel that’s polished at the action and chamber.

Range Time

Over the last few months, I have put roughly 675 rounds through the Tactical Gray model and almost 800 rounds through the Coyote Brown model. For testing purposes, I used primarily Federal American Eagle 115-grain as well as American Eagle 124-grain range ammunition, along with 20 rounds of HST self-defense ammunition. Initial impressions are the fact both shoot almost identically to the original, but the G10 grips do add extra traction in the hand. The grips help lock the handgun into your hand while offering a comfortable purchase without being too aggressive.

Out of about 1500 rounds fired through both, I had about 5 hammer bites occur, which is acceptable in my mind. It's important to remember that if you have thicker, bigger hands, you may get a slight pinch rarely, but it's not something to dissuade someone from buying. One of the worries I had when it came to the new variants was the durability of the new finishes. I drew out of the holster with both variants, using it just like anyone else would with everyday use. I cleaned the models initially, but did not clean them again to see not only how the finish wears, but also how the internals hold up to extended use. After 6-7 range sessions, the Coyote Brown Cerakote had almost no wear or holster marks. For the Tactical Gray model, I used a leather holster, so it wasn't used as roughly, but still held up well over time. Overall, both models held up very well with no worries about surface wear.

Accuracy and Reliability

When it comes to accuracy, I tested both handguns firing five shots into a target at 20 yards with the handguns being bench rested to take out as many variables as possible. The average group using range ammo was 1.68” and the self-defense ammo groups were an average of 1.33”, which isn’t shocking since JHP rounds typically do have tighter accuracy than ball range ammo.

In terms of reliability, both handguns have been 100% reliable using the American Eagle ammunition, which is expected from a modern machine.

To take this a step further is to see how the gun performs despite having no lubrication or cleaning of any kind while continuously putting rounds through the gun. Most firearms will do fantastic when lubricated and cleaned regularly, but the true test is to see how the handgun fires under stress with no help from cleaning. Throughout my time with both handguns, they performed exceptionally well with no stoppages or malfunctions, even when fired dirty with no cleaning. I believe more reviewers should push the handguns to less-than-ideal conditions to see how they really perform.

Overall Thoughts

Just like the original SA-35 model, the new variants perform well in terms of reliability while offering a few upgrades in terms of finish and grips. Both still have the reliability that I witnessed during my testing of the original SA-35. I think both are great options, but my personal favorite is the Tactical Gray variant. What do you guys think of the Springfield Armory SA-35 and the new variants available? Let me know your thoughts down in the comments below. If you have questions about the Springfield SA-35 or firearms in general, feel free to shoot me a message on Instagram @fridgeoperator. Stay safe out there and we will see you in the next one for another TFB review.