Despite seeing success, the High Standard line faced some challenges as political waves hit. (Photo: Kristin Alberts/Guns.com)
The now-infamous Gun Control Act of 1968 hit High Standard – and many other firearm manufacturers – with a vengeance. That led to downsizing and relocation, with High Standard selling off the Hamden plant and opening the doors of its East Hartford facility. Though there were some good years running into the early 1980s, firearm sales were lean. In short order, the company was parted out by models and trademarks.
What seemed a lasting renaissance occurred in 1993 when what became known as the High Standard Manufacturing Company acquired all the related assets they could muster and opened the doors in Houston, Texas, to resume production. Though we’ve yet to discover the exact number of handguns produced with the Texas markings, the latest iteration of High Standard remained in business well into the 2010s.
High Standard Models Galore
The Sport King, like others, hosted a takedown button on the front of the trigger guard. (Photo: Kristin Alberts/Guns.com)
It’s nearly impossible to delve into the full details of High Standard’s production over the years in this short space, but suffice it to say the company’s reach was vast. Over time, it produced mainly handguns, including plinkers, target guns, long barrels and short, as well as serious competition pieces. If you’ve ever heard the term “space gun,” odds are good that was a reference to High Standard.
Though the .22 Long Rifle chamberings are surely the most well-known, the company also put out dedicated .22 Short pistols. But it wasn’t only repeaters. In fact, the High Standard name is found on many western and police-style revolvers as well as snub-nosed dual-barreled derringers. Savvy gun shoppers will even have noticed a line of High Standard shotguns. A vast majority of variants catered to cost-conscious buyers, while maintaining a reputation for reliability.
The blowback design is simple but reliable and effective. (Photo: Kristin Alberts/Guns.com)
In addition to the High Standard brand, the company also produced pistols for common department stores and aftermarket outlets, including names like Sears & Roebuck and JC Higgins. High Standard pistols have even claimed numerous Olympic medals – including several Golds – among countless other competition wins throughout the years.
In addition to our Sport King from the Guns.com Vault, some of the more desirable repeater models included the Supermatic, Olympic, trophy, victor, and even a seldom seen 10-X. There was also the citation other HD.
Our Test Gun
