High Standard Supermatic Tournament Review

The High Standard Supermatic Tournament—now there’s a name that sparks interest in the competitive shooting world. Known for its precision and adaptability, this .22 caliber pistol has been a favorite for bullseye shooting enthusiasts for decades. But does it live up to its reputation in today’s market? Let’s take a deep dive into its features, performance, and quirks.

Bottomline

The High Standard Supermatic Tournament is a joy to shoot but needs a break-in period.

High Standard Supermatic Tournament Specs

Caliber	Capacity	BBL	OAL	Weight
.22 LR	10+1	5.5″	9.5″	44 oz.

First Impressions

Unboxing the High Standard Supermatic Tournament, the first thing you notice is its solid build and purposeful design. The 5.5-inch bull barrel screams “accuracy,” while the adjustable sights promise to make your targets feel nervous. At a glance, this pistol looks like it was made to compete—and win. However, a closer inspection reveals some areas where modern expectations might clash with this classic design.

The controls, including the slide lock and safety, are functional but not ergonomically stellar. If you’re coming from a more modern pistol with streamlined controls, this might take some getting used to. The overall fit and finish exude quality, even if it’s not quite the masterpiece of its vintage predecessors.

High Standard Supermatic Tournament Key Features

The High Standard Supermatic Tournament isn’t just another .22 pistol. It’s packed with features that cater to serious shooters:

• Barrel Options: The pistol comes with a 5.5-inch bull barrel, but swapping barrels is as simple as pressing a button. This level of customization allows you to tailor the gun to your specific shooting style or competition needs.
• Adjustable Sights: Fully adjustable rear sights and a front patridge blade make this pistol a precision tool. Whether you’re aiming for bullseyes or small targets, these sights deliver.
• Exceptional Trigger: The Supermatic’s trigger is a standout feature, with minimal take-up and zero creep. This smooth performance is perfect for precision shooting, where every fraction of a millimeter counts.
• Customizable Accessories: Want to add a red dot sight or another accessory? The Supermatic’s design makes it easy to upgrade and personalize.
• Build Quality: While the finish quality might not match the legendary models of yesteryear, the overall construction is solid and reliable for target shooting.

Performance at the Range

Once broken in, the High Standard Supermatic Tournament is a joy to shoot. Its precision is almost unmatched in the .22 caliber world. The adjustable sights make fine-tuning your aim a breeze, and the trigger’s crisp break ensures every shot feels satisfying.

However, the initial reliability issues can be frustrating. Misfeeds and jams are common during the break-in period, and poorly functioning magazines can compound these problems. It’s worth investing in quality ammunition and taking the time to tune the magazines to avoid these hiccups.

Who Is It For?

The Supermatic Tournament is best suited for:

• Competitive Shooters: If bullseye shooting is your game, this pistol is designed for you.
• Precision Enthusiasts: The accuracy and trigger performance make it ideal for those who value precision.
• Tinkerers: If you enjoy customizing and tuning your firearms, the Supermatic offers plenty of opportunities to make it your own.

Who Might Want to Pass?

If you’re looking for a pistol that’s reliable, straight out of the box and has minimal maintenance, this might not be the best choice. Casual shooters or those new to firearms might find the Supermatic’s quirks more frustrating than fun.

Further reading: Ultimate Gun Reviews

Final Verdict

The High Standard Supermatic Tournament is a pistol that rewards patience and skill. Its precision and customization options make it a top contender for serious target shooters, but its initial reliability issues and magazine tuning requirements can be a hurdle.

If you’re willing to put in the time and effort to fine-tune this classic, it can become a reliable and accurate companion on the range. Just don’t expect perfection out of the box. For those who love the challenge and satisfaction of making a good gun great, the High Standard Supermatic Tournament is worth the investment.