FN Browning Model SA22 SA-22 .22 LR Takedown Semi-Automatic Rifle, MFD 1972

SOLD FOR: $1000

LSB#: 210616MJ08

Make: Browning, MFG. in Belgium

Model: 22 Semi-Auto Rifle, Grade 1

Serial Number: 06851T72

Year of Manufacture: 1972 (https://www.browning.com/support/date-your-firearm/22-semi-auto-rifle.html)

Caliber: .22 Long Rifle

Action Type: Takedown, Buttstock Mag Tube, Semi-Automatic Rifle

Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “BROWNING ARMS COMPANY MORGAN, UTAH & MONTREAL P.Q. / MADE IN BELGIUM”. The left side of the barrel and bottom of the bolt have a Belgian proof mark. The right side of the barrel is marked “CALIBER .22 LONG RIFLE / BROWNING PATENTS”. The right side of the receiver is marked with the serial number. The sides of the receiver and the bottom of the trigger guard are scroll and border engraved.

Barrel Length: 19 1/4”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a beaded blade dovetailed into the barrel. The rear sight is a folding “U” notched sight with a white triangle aim guide; there are screws for fine elevation adjustment. The rear sight is dovetailed into the barrel.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece checkered walnut with flat-bottom semi-pistol grip, straight comb, and serrated blued steel buttplate. The buttplate is relieved for the magazine tube. There is a loading port on the right side of the buttstock. The forearm shows a few marks through the finish. There are scattered tiny nicks and dings on the buttstock. There is a hairline crack in the bottom of the wrist. The checkering is sharp. The LOP measures 13 3/4″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The plate shows light oxidation, thinning around the edges, and some scattered little nicks and scratches. Overall, the stocks are in about Good-Plus condition and would rate higher if not for the crack.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 90% of its metal finish. There are scattered fine scratches on the receiver and the left side of the barrel. There is light thinning on the leading edges. There is some oxidation under the muzzle and on the top of the receiver. There is operational wear. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are crisp. Overall, this rifle is in about Very Good-Fine condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. There is some play between the barrel and the receiver. We did not fire this rifle. It has a cross-bolt safety at the front of the trigger guard. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.

Our Assessment: The Browning SA-22 was introduced as a top-loader in 1914 and transitioned to its present design in 1956. FN made these rifles under Browning’s patent from 1956 until 1974 with a brief hiatus before Miroku began manufacturing them in 1976 in Japan. This example is an FN manufactured model, chambered in .22 LR. It is in about Very Good-Fine condition with about 90% of its metal finish and a bright bore. Please see our photos and good luck!

FN Browning Model SA22 SA-22 .22 LR Takedown Semi-Automatic Rifle, MFD 1972
FN Browning Model SA22 SA-22 .22 LR Takedown Semi-Automatic Rifle, MFD 1972