{"id":238,"date":"2022-09-08T18:38:21","date_gmt":"2022-09-08T18:38:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/?p=238"},"modified":"2022-09-08T18:38:21","modified_gmt":"2022-09-08T18:38:21","slug":"perfectly-sublime-the-cylinder-slide-custom-sa-35","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/?p=238","title":{"rendered":"Perfectly Sublime: The Cylinder & Slide Custom SA-35"},"content":{"rendered":"


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By Roy Huntington<\/a><\/p>\n

S<\/span>ignificant historical moments, designs, ideas and iconic items demand to be noticed and remembered. Just try not to. Ford Model T? Check. Apollo 11? Check. World War II? Check. The list goes on.<\/p>\n

I\u2019d like to add John Moses Browning\u2019s P-35 pistol to that list.<\/p>\n

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Renowned for its work on P-35-pattern pistols, Cylinder & Slide recently tried their hand at customizing this Springfield Armory SA-35<\/span>. Photo: Michael\u00a0Anschuetz<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

One of the most prolifically produced handguns of all time, production of the original pistol ended in early 2018. Frankly, it struck me as odd that such an iconic pistol would simply disappear. But disappear it did.<\/p>\n

Suddenly there was a scramble to buy up any still for sale, and used values skyrocketed. We all just assumed, like so many things, that these would \u201calways\u201d be there. Alas, we were wrong, and once that door closed, shooters in the United States crossed fingers and hoped. But it seemed nobody was listening.<\/p>\n

But at least one company was.<\/p>\n

Rebirth of an Icon<\/h2>\n

You can imagine my surprise when Mike Humphries, editor of\u00a0The Armory Life<\/em>, phoned me saying, \u201cThere\u2019s a brand-new P-35-pattern pistol from Springfield Armory called the\u00a0SA-35<\/span><\/a>\u00a0available. If you want one, I\u2019d like to send it to you for review.\u201d<\/p>\n

\"customized\n<\/picture>
Enhancements on the custom SA-35<\/span> include an extended beavertail, Champion adjustable rear sight, forward cocking serrations and more. Photo: Michael\u00a0Anschuetz<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Want one? Was he serious? Besides catching me and hundreds of thousands of other shooters completely flat-footed, I\u2019m not entirely sure Springfield realized just what they had done. Like a surgical laser, they had hit the exact point where the pain was and unerringly supplying precisely what many American shooters had been wishing for \u2014 an affordable, high-quality pistol based on the classic P-35.<\/p>\n

Oh, and did I mention it\u2019s made right here in this country? The fact it\u2019s made in the U.S.A. caused collective cups to gush over. No, really, it did. I know mine gushed some.<\/p>\n

My test sample arrived and, as Clint Smith used to say, \u201cI shot the snot out of it.\u201d It proved to be solid, well-crafted, and addressed issues many of us had with the original design. Gone was the silly magazine disconnect safety, bringing it in line with all of Springfield\u2019s other pistol offerings. On the original, this disconnect wreaked havoc with the trigger pull. Good riddance.<\/p>\n

\"Springfield\n<\/picture>
The entire SA-35<\/span> was given a \u201ccarry bevel\u201d treatment, and a wide C&S Combat trigger was installed and fit. Photo: Michael\u00a0Anschuetz<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The firing pin safety that was on many old models disappeared, the trigger was better, and the magazine well was beveled and accepts a flush-fitting 15-round magazine that gives you two more rounds over the original\u2019s 13-rounders \u2014 which will also work in the gun, by the way. In addition, the hammer ergonomics were changed to lower the chance of the irritating hammer bite for which the original was known. It was like a custom gun \u2014 but wearing stock gun clothing.<\/p>\n

In short, Springfield delivered what shooters were hoping for, tidily wrapped into a well-constructed package, and made in the U.S.A. \u2014 for just $699. When Mike first called, I had assumed the price was going to be in the $1,200 range or so. When I asked if the $699 price I saw in the specifications sheet was correct, he said, \u201c\u201cYep, that\u2019s right. You\u2019re not seeing things!\u201d I honestly recall thinking, \u201cDoes Springfield Armory have any idea of what they\u2019ve just done?\u201d<\/p>\n

\"SA-35\n<\/picture>
Cylinder & Slide hand-stippled both the front- and backstrap of the pistol, giving it an appealingly unique feel compared to checkering. Photo: Michael\u00a0Anschuetz<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

They did, though. Cue the smiles, I\u2019m betting.<\/p>\n

My early test gun now has upwards of 900 rounds through it and has tracked just fine. I\u2019ve had no issues, and also confess I clean it, lube it, shoot high-quality ammo through it and always use a firm firing platform. When you do those things, good guns tend to run fine. But still, there are always things to wish for, even in a solid base gun, right?<\/p>\n

Right.<\/p>\n

Enter C&S<\/h2>\n

Cylinder & Slide, Inc. \u2014 known by many of us simply as \u201cC&S\u201d \u2014 was started by that mustachioed scoundrel Bill Laughridge after he cut his gunsmithing teeth in the late 1970s. Bill\u2019s innovative, high-quality work soon gave the C&S brand significant gravitas among shooters. C&S custom 1911 and P-35 work was soon followed by Bill making superior parts for both platforms, parts soon in demand for custom builds by pistolsmiths everywhere.<\/p>\n

\"Customized\n<\/picture>
Grooves were placed along the top of the slide to diffuse sunlight and just plain look good. Note the 14-kt. gold bead front sight. Photo: Michael\u00a0Anschuetz<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

But it was the C&S focus on P-35-pattern pistol builds and parts which really helped to keep that breed alive. Today, C&S\u2019s parts, carefully designed, built and vetted by Bill and his team, are the go-to source if you want to upgrade your own gun.<\/p>\n

\"Cylinder\n<\/picture>\n<\/figure>\n

In our case, we cut Bill loose and challenged him: \u201cWhat would\u00a0you<\/em>\u00a0do to the SA-35<\/span> to make it even better?\u201d We figured Bill would dig deep into his decades of experience building custom variants of this design, and the result would be compelling, attractive and frankly, make good sense.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe SA-35<\/span> is a strong base gun,\u201d explained Bill. \u201cAnd strong bones are what you need to build on. There\u2019s nothing wrong with it to begin with, which means we don\u2019t need to \u2018fix\u2019 any issues right off the bat. We\u2019re just honing, improving and enhancing usability and performance with the addition of certain key parts and custom work.\u201d<\/p>\n

\"Gunsmith\n<\/picture>
Cylinder & Slide\u2019s Ralph Gutekunst, with the company for over 25 years, was tasked with customizing the SA-35<\/span> for this project. Photo: Cylinder\u00a0&\u00a0Slide<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Well, it also helps to have the experience to know what to do, and Bill\u2019s ace-in-the-hole at C&S is Ralph Gutekunst. Ralph has been at the company for over 25 years and what he knows about this revered design could, well, fill a good-sized book. Bill set him loose on the SA-35<\/span>.<\/p>\n

Build Points<\/h2>\n

Most custom builds combine modifications to existing parts, the addition of custom parts, and handwork to improve the looks or function of things. For this build, Ralph re-crowned the factory barrel (which is a good barrel to begin with) to 11 degrees, throated it, and polished the feed ramp at the same time. Since the gun was detail-stripped, it was also carefully deburred and polished inside. Most factory-built guns can benefit from some careful polishing treatment regardless of the make, model or brand.<\/p>\n

\"left\n<\/picture>
The Springfield Armory SA-35<\/span> provides the perfect platform for advanced customization. Photo: Michael\u00a0Anschuetz<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

A C&S extractor has been installed, tensioned and radiused, a carry bevel performed, breaking any edges to make carry even more comfy, and a wide C&S Combat trigger was installed and fit. Part of that work entails fitting a C&S Commander-style hammer, shortening the trigger re-connect bar (to shorten the re-set) and working things to a 4- to 4.5-lb. trigger pull into the mix. Over-travel is touched up, too, so the break is clean and sharp. The addition of the C&S firing pin stop assures things are tight and to spec there, too.<\/p>\n

The front and back grip straps are stippled by hand with the result being a unique feel, one different from checkering. It\u2019s aggressive and you can feel it sort of flow into your skin, but it doesn\u2019t rub you raw after shooting. It really changes the way the SA-35<\/span> feels, and I like it a good deal. The slide top now sports lengthwise serrations too, front cocking serrations are in-place, a C&S thumb safety (not ambi) is fitted, and the slide sides have been polished \u2014 glinting nicely in the right light.<\/p>\n

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The C&S beavertail is noteworthy in that it\u2019s silver-brazed on, shaped and blended. When the gun was blued, the joint line magically disappeared. It showcases Ralph\u2019s skills, allowing a high and tight grip on the SA-35<\/span>. It\u2019s a nice enhancement and well worth the fuss in my opinion.<\/p>\n

The new sights are particularly compelling, consisting of a Champion adjustable rear and a strong, dovetailed front, complete with a 14-kt. gold bead. A small touch is the Allen head grip screws on the stock grips, but touches like that assure unblemished screw heads as time passes. The SA-35<\/span> uses standard P-35-pattern grips, so customizing your grips is as easy as simply replacing them. The ones that come on the gun are a nice set of checkered walnut.<\/p>\n

\"right\n<\/picture>
Incredible detailing is a hallmark of the work produced by Cylinder & Slide. Photo: Michael\u00a0Anschuetz<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The result of this undeniably interesting work enhances the original package, encouraging accurate, reliable functioning and a high level of pride in ownership. Simply put, investing in something like this enriches the experience for any shooter. \u201cAsk the man who owns one,\u201d as the old Packard ad offered.<\/p>\n

Shooting Impressions<\/h2>\n

I put about 350 assorted rounds through the gun, shooting five loads from five makers. I had also just finished testing two other custom SA-35<\/span> pistols from C&S. What struck me was the consistency between them. Everything ran fine, smoothly and reliably on all three guns. That\u2019s often hard to do when it comes to customs.<\/p>\n

One of the joys of the original design is the sterling grip frame with just enough girth to hold onto, but not so fat as to be ungainly. The result is an easy-to-control, full-sized 9mm holster gun. With the C&S additions, the game gets ramped up.<\/p>\n

\"Cylinder\n<\/picture>
The customized SA-35<\/span> proved to be a real shooter, with results like this 1.25\u201d group with Black Hills ammo at 25 yards the\u00a0norm.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

I found the safety to \u201csnick\u201d when levered off, unlike on original pistols that just sort of mush \u201coff\u201d and \u201con.\u201d The adjustable sights offer a bold, easy-to-find sight picture and as different loads impacted different points on the target, I was reminded how nice it is to simply re-zero sights as you change loads.<\/p>\n

During shooting, the grip texture showed its value and helped to keep the gun solidly in place. I did a couple of plate rack runs just for fun and it took me back to my early IPSC days in the late 1970s and early \u201980s when I shot an original. Such fun, and I\u2019d have walked on hot coals for a gun like this back then.<\/p>\n

\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Ammunition<\/strong><\/td>\nGroup Size<\/strong><\/td>\nVelocity<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Black Hills 125-gr. Honey Badger<\/td>\n1.25\u2033<\/td>\n1,026 fps<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Blazer Brass 124-gr. FMJ<\/td>\n1.6\u2033<\/td>\n1,094 fps<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Doubletap 77-gr. SCHP<\/td>\n1.45\u2033<\/td>\n1,558 fps<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Nosler 124-gr. JHP \u201cMatch\u201d<\/td>\n1.55\u2033<\/td>\n1,170 fps<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Winchester 147-gr. JHP Sub-Sonic<\/td>\n1.0\u2033<\/td>\n1,039 fps<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>
Group\u00a0size is\u00a0measured in inches and\u00a0is the\u00a0best of two,\u00a05-shot groups\u00a0measured center to center at\u00a025\u00a0yards.\u00a0Velocity\u00a0in feet per second (fps) and\u00a0is the average of\u00a0five\u00a0rounds at 5 ft.\u00a0fired across a\u00a0Pro-Chrono DLX\u00a0chronograph. Abbreviations: gr. (grains), FMJ (full metal jacket), SCHP (solid copper hollow point), JHP (jacketed hollow point).<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

I pushed the targets out to 25 yards rather than my usual 20 and found groups on high-definition targets with easy-to-find aiming points to average in the 1.25\u2033 to 1.6\u2033 range. The C&S SA-35<\/span> really liked an old 147-gr. sub-sonic load I had from Winchester, putting five rounds into a nicely rounded 1\u2033 group.<\/p>\n

I have an 80-yard steel torso gong here in my backyard, and even off-hand it was very easy to keep it clanging. This gun is a shooter, no doubt about it. The C&S shop\u2019s 40+ years of experience shows in every shot.<\/p>\n

Final Thoughts?<\/h2>\n

This is easy. While the stock SA-35<\/span> is a solidly performing friend, and at an MSRP of only $699 an astonishing bargain, virtually anything can be improved upon. A factory production line doesn\u2019t have the luxury of taking the time to devote the sort of attention to detail, fit and finish a true custom shop can.<\/p>\n

I have a 1991 Bentley EIGHT and the build sheet I got for it runs to 160 mostly hand-written pages covering\u00a0five months of build<\/em>. Of course, the build quality of the car shows why it takes time. Most autos today have a one page, computer generated \u201cbuild sheet\u201d and takes about an hour on the production line. Sure, each car can go 100,000 miles, but one does it with flair, style and performance.<\/p>\n

But that exclusivity costs. MSRP on this C&S Custom SA-35<\/span> is $3,860.31 with the base gun included. It\u2019s a true custom, so on your own base gun and depending on the options you want, your results may vary. A far cry from $699? Sure. But honestly, what price do you put on happiness?<\/p>\n

Besides, I enjoy my old Bentley \u2014 but I also have a pick-up truck. I think there\u2019s room for both in life.<\/p>\n

Editor\u2019s Note: Be sure to check out\u00a0<\/em>The Armory Life\u00a0Forum, where you can comment about our daily articles, as well as just talk guns and gear. Click the \u201cGo To Forum Thread\u201d link below to jump in!<\/em><\/p>\n

Join the Discussion<\/span><\/h5>\n

Go to forum thread<\/a><\/p>\n

Featured in this article<\/span><\/h5>\n

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\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/span> \n\t\t\t\t\t\"Cylinder\n<\/picture>\n <\/p>\n

Cylinder & Slide <\/h3>\n


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\n\t\t\t\t\t9mm<\/sup><\/span><\/span> \n\t\t\t\t\t\"SA-35\u2122\n<\/picture>\n <\/p>\n

SA-35\u2122 Series<\/span><\/h3>\n


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Source link <\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

By Roy Huntington Significant historical moments, designs, ideas and iconic items demand to be noticed and remembered. Just try not to. Ford Model T? Check. Apollo 11? Check. World War II? Check. The list goes on. I\u2019d like to add John Moses Browning\u2019s P-35 pistol to that list. Renowned for its work on P-35-pattern pistols, […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":239,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-238","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uncategorized"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/238","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=238"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/238\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/239"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=238"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=238"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=238"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}