FN Browning Model SA22 SA-22 .22 Short 22″ Semi-Automatic Rifle, 1958 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1280
LSB#: 211006EG13
Make: Browning, Fabrique Nationale
Model: SA-22
Serial Number: A5116
Year of Manufacture: 1958 C&R
Caliber: .22 Short
Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Tube Magazine Fed Takedown Rifle.
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “BROWNING ARMS COMPANY St LOUIS Mo / MADE IN BELGIUM”, the left is marked “22 SHORT SMOKELESS”. The right side of the barrel is marked “BROWNING PATENTS”. The bottom of the barrel is marked with a crowned ovalled “E / LG” proof, “22.C”, “lion / P.V”, “crown / R”, and “* / s” inspection mark. The bottom of the bolt is marked with a perron, “lion / P.V” proof, and a “* / P” inspection mark. The front face of the receiver and trigger guard metal are marked with the serial number “A 5116”. The top rear of the receiver is marked with a perron. The sides of the receiver contain Grade I floral scroll and decorative border engraving as does the trigger guard. The rear of the buttstock, under the plate, and the top of the forearm are marked “5116”.
Barrel Length: 22 3/8”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade, integral to a base that is dovetailed onto the barrel. The rear sight is a flat top U-notch with a thumb wheel marked 1-4 that is dovetailed to the barrel.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are checkered wood with a pistol grip, fluted straight comb, and a serrated steel buttplate with a hole for the magazine tube that inserts through the buttstock. There is also a loading port on the right side of the buttstock. We believe that the stocks are not original to the gun and have been force matched. The wood shows no significant wear or damage, only light handling marks. The LOP measures 13 5/8” from the front of the trigger to the back of the serrated steel butt plate. The plate shows light thinning along the edges and some light scratches at the heel and toe. The stocks rate in about Fine-Excellent overall condition as likely not original to the rifle.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright with some very light erosion nearer the muzzle. There are two interruptions in the rifling midbore, otherwise the rifling is generally well defined.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its metal finish. There are a couple of faint scratches on the top of the receiver. There is hardly notable operational wear. The screw heads are lightly marked with strong slots. The markings on the barrel are clear, the smaller proofs and inspection marks are faded. Overall, this rifle rates in about Fine-Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. However, the magazine follower extends into the chamber and stops the bolt from closing completely on an empty magazine. We have not fired this rifle. As with all previously owned firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: This is an SA-22 produced under Browning’s patent for the European market by Fabrique Nationale. It was originally 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 is an earlier example from FN manufactured in 1958 and it retains about 98% of its original finish and has sound trigger mechanics. The issue with the magazine will have to be addressed but otherwise, this rifle is in very clean condition and the stock is beautiful. Please see our photos and good luck!