Browning Hi Power - Axel Foley's gun in Beverly Hills Cop

"Welcome back to HollywoodGuns! I’m Wilson, and in this episode, we’re diving into the iconic Browning Hi-Power—the 9mm that wisecracking Axel Foley (Eddie Murphy) carried throughout Beverly Hills Cop. Known for its smooth performance and high-capacity magazine, this piece became a perfect match for a street-smart Detroit cop, turning it into one of cinema’s most memorable firearms.

History & Legacy of the Browning Hi-Power
Discover the origins of this legendary 9mm and its journey from John Browning’s innovative mind to Dieudonné Saive’s finishing touches. Why did the Hi-Power become one of the world’s first reliable double-stack pistols? Find out how it earned its name and place in over 50 national militaries as one of the most widely used handguns in history.

Axel Foley’s Sidearm in Beverly Hills Cop
Why did Axel Foley—a maverick cop in the mid-1980s—opt for a semi-auto 9mm over the typical revolver? In a world of revolver-carrying cops, Foley’s Browning Hi-Power stood out, offering high capacity and reliability that a streetwise detective could depend on. I’ll share insights on what made this gun so unique for a Hollywood role, and how its subtle look added to Foley’s rogue persona.

Key Browning Hi-Power Variants
Did you know that not all Browning Hi-Powers are the same? We’ll go over four key FN models that defined the series, from the early GP35 and Mark I to the Mark III assembled in Portugal. If you’re a collector, you’ll appreciate the differences in design, quality, and collector value—like my 1972 C-series model.

On-Screen Accuracy
How well did Hollywood portray the Hi-Power in Beverly Hills Cop? I’ll break down the action scenes, Foley’s real-world accuracy, and the gun’s impact power. From close-quarters shootouts to some surprising reloading moves, Foley’s use of the Hi-Power gets top marks. But did Hollywood make any creative changes to its portrayal? I’ll reveal where they got it right—and where they stretched reality!

The Browning Hi-Power in Other Movies
With over 150 movie credits, this pistol didn’t stop at Beverly Hills Cop! From classics like Serpico to modern action films like The Matrix, the Browning Hi-Power kept a high profile on screen. Want to know where else you can spot this legendary firearm? I’ll cover some standout roles and scenes you don’t want to miss.

Whether you’re a fan of action movies, military history, or classic cinema firearms, this episode has something for you. Make sure to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more deep dives into Hollywood’s most iconic guns. Tell me which movie firearm I should feature next, and hit the bell icon so you don’t miss a single episode.
“Trust me, you’re going to love it!” Axel Foley.