Browning BDM

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branrot

New member
I saw a Browning BDM at the gun show this weekend, and picked it up just out of curiosity. I knew it took a double stack mag from reading about it, but it felt narrower than it should have. I took a closer look, and saw what I thought was a metal frame around the mag, with plastic grips on top. Actually, the frame was only a partial frame with the sides cut out, and the plastic grip panels inserted on the same level as the metal. Weird.

Anyway, it seemed like a good idea. My biggest concern, however, was longevity. It doesn't seem as strong as guns with full frames around the mag. Will it last? Any experience with the gun in general?
 
It didn't sell well. IMO, the de-cocker/safety being backwards from the 1911 was the main culprit. The 'dual-mode' trigger selector was also ahead of its time. Back then, DA/SA was the standard, and Glock was just making headway with the Safe-Action design.

Kahr, and Ruger(?) use similar frame construction. Longevity of the frame would be my last concern. Otaining spare mags and other parts, would. IIRC, it doesn't accept standard Hi-Power mags.
 
Branrot:

I had a BDM once. Despite its slim grip, it did not feel good in my hands. It was 100% reliable, but did not have stellar accuracy.

As for its longevity, you shouldn't worry. It has an all-steel frame and is designed to handle tough +P+ ammunition for the long haul.

It was originally considered by the Secret Service, but was declined because it could not handle the +P+ ammo. So, Browning withdrew and re-developed it instead of making a quick patch-up type change. When the pistol was re-introduced, the Secret Service contract was long gone, but the pistol was much better and tougher.

Not my cup of tea, but a good, solid pistol, IMHO.

Skorzeny

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For to win one hundred victories in one hundred battles is not the acme of skill. To subdue the enemy without fighting is the supreme excellence. Sun Tzu
 
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