However, none of Browning's licensed models met these desired specifications, nor the design goal regarding helping operators smoothly transition from using revolvers to semi-automatic pistols.

The Hi-Power model is a full-size, semi-automatic service pistol chambered in the 9mm Parabellum cartridge, and has a standard magazine capacity of 13 rounds.

During the 1990s, double-action/single action (DA/SA) and double-action-only (DAO) pistols were the types that the majority in law enforcement administration and procurement were looking to purchase and issue to their rank-and-file officers.

Browning Arms Company decided to design, develop, and manufacture their own new pistol model, and any variants, solely in-house in the United States to meet law enforcement criteria of that time.

Each subsequent cartridge can then be fired by a lighter, shorter single-action trigger pull, until the hammer is reset to the down and "safe" position by depressing the safety/decocker lever.

The BDM and its variants utilize within the pistol's grip a removable box magazine, of the double-stack variety with a capacity of 10 or 15 rounds of 9×19mm Parabellum ammunition cartridges.

(Province de Quebec), because in these cities were located the headquarters offices of Browning Arms Company for each respective country during the production run of the BDM model and its variants.