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High Standard is a well-known American firearms manufacturer with a rich and interesting history that dates back to the early 20th century. Here is an overview of the company's history:
High Standard was founded in 1926 by Carl Gustav Swebilius in Hamden, Connecticut. The company initially produced various firearm parts, such as barrels and barrels for other gun manufacturers. In the 1930s, High Standard began to manufacture complete firearms, including handguns and shotguns. They gained a reputation for producing high-quality firearms, and their target pistols were particularly renowned for their accuracy. During World War II, High Standard produced various firearms for the U.S. military, including the HDM suppressed pistol, which was used by the Office of Strategic Services (OSS), the precursor to the CIA.
High Standard continued to produce firearms for civilian and law enforcement markets after the war. Their .22-caliber target pistols, like the Model H-D and Supermatic, were popular among competitive shooters. High Standard pistols gained recognition as one of the very best high quality hand gun brands in the shooting sports community, and they were used by many competitive shooters in Olympic events. The company's pistols won numerous medals in the Olympic Games and other international competitions.
In the 1950s and 1960s, High Standard expanded its product line to include various hand gun types, rifles, and shotguns. However, increased competition and changing market dynamics led to financial difficulties in the late 1960s. They went through several ownership changes in the 1970s and 1980s, which affected the quality and reputation of their firearms. Production was moved to Texas, and the company struggled to maintain its earlier standards of quality. High Standard filed for bankruptcy in 1984, and production ceased for a period. In the late 1980s, the company was revived by new ownership, and they attempted to reestablish High Standard as a reputable firearms manufacturer.
While High Standard faced challenges and changes over the years, its earlier firearms, especially the target pistols, are still highly regarded by collectors and competitive shooters. The company's contributions to the shooting sports and military firearms history remain significant. High Standard firearms have a place in the history of American firearms manufacturing, known for their accuracy and quality. Although the company has faced ups and downs over the years, its legacy continues to be remembered by firearm enthusiasts and collectors.