High Standard Supermatic Citation MS Review

When it comes to .22 LR pistols, the High Standard Supermatic Citation MS is one of those names that sparks a sense of nostalgia. Known for its precision and craftsmanship, this pistol has a rich history dating back to the mid-20th century. It’s been a favorite among competitive shooters and target enthusiasts alike, and I finally had the chance to take this classic for a spin. Spoiler alert: it’s not without its quirks, but it’s got a charm that’s hard to ignore. Let’s dive into my experience with the Supermatic Citation MS.

Bottomline

The accuracy and craftsmanship of the High Standard Supermatic Citation MS is outstanding, even by today’s standards.

High Standard Supermatic Citation MS Specs

Caliber	Capacity	BBL	OAL	Weight
.22 LR	10+1	10″	14″	54 oz.

A Brief History

High Standard began making waves in the firearms industry in the 1930s, producing well-crafted pistols that quickly gained a reputation for their reliability and accuracy. The Supermatic line, introduced in the 1950s, took things to another level, catering specifically to competitive shooters. The Citation MS (Military Style) variant became a standout, offering a mix of precision, balance, and a military-style grip that appealed to those who wanted a familiar feel. It’s been out of production for years, but the legacy it left behind is undeniable.

First Impressions

Right out of the box, the Supermatic Citation MS exudes a vintage elegance. Its clean lines, deeply blued finish, and walnut grips are a throwback to an era when craftsmanship took precedence over mass production. Picking it up, the pistol feels substantial but not overly heavy. The balance is impeccable, and the grip sits comfortably in hand. You can immediately tell this was designed with precision shooting in mind.

That said, it’s not a flawless first impression. The controls, while functional, feel a bit dated compared to modern pistols. The slide release and safety lever aren’t as ergonomic as I’d like, and the magazine release, located at the bottom of the grip, feels archaic. But hey, this is a vintage pistol, so some old-school charm is to be expected.

Key Features

The Supermatic Citation MS is packed with features that made it a top choice for competitive shooters back in the day:

• Match-Grade Barrel: The 10-inch barrel is designed for accuracy, and it delivers. The pistol is capable of hitting dime-sized groups at 25 yards if you do your part.
• Adjustable Trigger: The trigger is crisp and adjustable for overtravel, a feature that’s still appreciated by competitive shooters.
• Military-Style Grip: The grip angle is similar to the 1911, which makes transitioning for those familiar with that platform much easier.
• Adjustable Sights: The fully adjustable rear sight and fixed front sight allow for precise aiming.
• Barrel Weight Options: The pistol can be equipped with additional barrel weights to fine-tune balance and reduce muzzle flip.

On the Range

The accuracy of the Supermatic Citation MS is remarkable. Once you’ve dialed in the sights, the pistol performs like a dream. The trigger pull is light and crisp, breaking cleanly with minimal effort. It’s easy to see why this pistol was a favorite among serious competitors.

Recoil is practically nonexistent, as you’d expect from a .22 LR, but the superb balance of the pistol makes follow-up shots a breeze. I spent an afternoon plinking at steel targets and paper bullseyes, and I was genuinely impressed by how easy it was to consistently hit my mark. It’s one of those pistols that makes you feel like a better shooter than you actually are.

But it’s not all sunshine and roses. The Supermatic Citation MS can be a bit finicky with ammunition. It’s not uncommon to experience feeding issues with lower-quality rounds, so you’ll want to stick with high-velocity, premium .22 LR ammo. Cleaning and maintenance can also be a bit of a chore. Disassembling the pistol isn’t as straightforward as modern designs, and reassembly requires patience and a steady hand.

Further reading: Ultimate Gun Reviews

Final Thoughts

The High Standard Supermatic Citation MS is a pistol that’s steeped in history and oozing with vintage appeal. It’s not perfect, and it’s certainly not for everyone, but if you’re a fan of classic firearms or competitive target shooting, it’s worth considering. The accuracy and craftsmanship are outstanding, even by today’s standards. Just be prepared for some quirks and a bit of extra TLC.

For me, the Supermatic Citation MS is more than just a firearm. It’s a piece of history that reminds me why I fell in love with shooting in the first place. Sure, it’s not as convenient or modern as some of today’s offerings, but that’s part of its charm. If you get the chance to try one out, don’t pass it up. It’s an experience you won’t forget. However, being out of production, finding parts or a well-maintained example can be challenging.