| Hi-Point Model JCP .40S&W | |
|---|---|
| Type | Semi-automatic pistol |
| Place of origin | United States |
| Production history | |
| Manufacturer | Hi-Point Firearms |
| Specifications | |
| Weight | 32 oz (910 g) |
| Length | 7.72 in (196 mm) |
| Barrel length | 4.5 in (110 mm) |
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| Cartridge | .40 S&W |
| Action | Blowback |
| Muzzle velocity | ~ 984 ft/s (300 m/s) |
| Feed system | 10-round detachable box magazine |
| Sights | blade front, notch rear (adjustable),
optional ghost ring |
The Hi-Point Firearms model JCP is a blowback operated semi-automatic pistol chambered for the popular .40 S&W round. It has a polymer frame like all Hi-Point pistols, a 4.5 inch barrel, and a slide composed of ZAMAK-3 with steel reinforcements.
It features an integral accessory rail for mounting lasers and flashlights on Hi-Point rings. The safety is a combination lever for locking the slide and putting it on safe. The immediate drawback of this system is that the weapon cannot be cocked while the safety is on; the safety locks the trigger, but the common misconception is that it only locks the slide.
Hi-point's handguns use a simple yet reliable "Blowback Design" similar to that used in the Walther PPK and Russian Makarov PM. In blowback weapons the return spring and mass of the slide absorbs the rearward force generated by the propulsion of the bullet. As the slide moves back, an extractor hooks the empty casing and pulls it out of the chamber after which the case is ejected from the weapon. When the slide has completed its rearward travel, the spring moves the slide forward, chambering another round. Many modern handguns use other mechanics to help absorb some of the energy created, and therefore do not require the amount of mass that the blowback design requires in order to remain comfortable to shoot, and easy to control during the firing process.
One frequent point of criticism is the substantial size and weight of the weapon. However, at 32 ounces with a 4.5" barrel, the firearm, with its 10+1 capacity, is 7 oz. less than the 1911a1 .45ACP with its 39 oz. weight and 7+1 capacity, which many consider to be very concealable, while the 40SW is 0.5 inches shorter in length and only 0.1 inches wider.
Some have criticized the physical appearance of the gun as unattractive and non-traditional. The design philosophy is similar to that of Glock, favoring a no-frills utilitarian design.