As we've discussed, the new improved HP doesn't seem really retro or throwback. We're really not sure what market FN was going for here.
Also I'd argue with you on the "easier to service part." The legacy HP design is very well executed and thought out. Taking the slide apart is as simple as taking a 1911 or Glock slide apart and can be generally done without tools.
Later guns had the external extractor and transfer bar pinned in. Still easy to take apart but punches are needed.
Field stripping is easy (and requires no trigger press while doing so) . It is also easy to completely take apart the frame for parts replacement, etc. The hardest part of detailed stripping is probably getting the trigger pin out.
If by easier to service you mean replacing internal parts then the HP may not be as easy as a Glock. But the only part that legitimately needs fit is the safety to the sear. That's not terrible and could probably be fixed with some 21st Century tolerances.
The design was made to be svelte and light. Durability was often a concern but most of this was probably a result of hotter NATO 9mm ammo combined with a general lack of armorer support. I'm sure the Brits and Aussies probably took good care of the guns. Is that the case with some of the other countries or agencies using these?
Later guns were cast frames which was supposed to be more durable. These were used on the 40 S&W guns and probably most of the commercial MK3 guns sold in the US. Externally they really don't look different but there is more meat inside especially in the mag well area. Has anyone heard of a MK3 frame cracking from hard use?
Canadian guns, unless I'm mistaken, were all WWII Inglis. Maybe a very few post war guns but probably nothing newer than 1947 or so. That's a pretty impressive run.
I'd guess, as others have, that a modernized MK3 just for the US and a few other markets would sell better than the new FN gun. But I'm basing that all on guesses. I do not know how the new guns are selling. They may be selling well and meeting FN's expectations.
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