FN Fabrique Nationale Browning SA22 Solid Frame Semi Automatic Rifle & Box, MFD Pre 1956 C&R

SOLD FOR:$1,405
LSB#: 150417TA02
Make: Fabrique Nationale, Browning Patent
Model: .22 Caliber Semi-Auto
Serial Number: F49481
Year of Manufacture: Pre-1956
Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
Action Type: Semi-Automatic with Tubular Magazine
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “FABRIQUE NATIONALE D’ARMES DE GUERRE-HERSTAL-BELGIQUE / BROWNING’S PATENT DESPOSE”. The left side of the barrel is marked “.22 LONG RIFLE SMOKELESS” and a Belgian Star over “M” inspection mark, a Lion over “PV” smokeless powder proof, a Crown over “R” rifled barrel proof and the Belgian Crown over Oval E / LG” proof. The underside of the barrel is marked “F49481”. The underside of the action is marked the Lion over “PV” proof, the Star over “M” inspection mark and the Belgian ‘Breech’ proof. The top of the receiver is marked with the “Breech” proof.
Barrel Length: 19 1/4”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a brass beaded blade dovetail set to the barrel and the rear sight is a “U” notch blade dovetailed into the barrel adjustable for elevation. The top of the receiver is grooved to accept claw mount scope bases.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The two piece checkered lacquered walnut pistol grip stocks feature a fluted buttstock. The finish is glossy and thick. Only light marks are apparent on the forend and buttstock. The LOP measures 13 ¾” from the front of the trigger to the back of the grooved shotgun style buttplate through which the magazine follower is inserted. The buttplate exhibits marks under the finish at the toe, which look like a factory flaw. Virtually no marks are present in the finish and the grooves are very sharp. The stocks rate in about Excellent overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: All 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 85% of its metal finish. Scattered dots of freckling appear on the barrel and receiver along with light handling marks. The metal under the forend has developed deep patches of surface erosion and a patch of corrosion is visible on the front sight. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. This is an unusual solid frame version if the SA-22. We have not fired this rifle.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle is housed by its original FN box which is in Poor condition. A German language owner’s manual is included, in Very Good condition.
Our Assessment: There is nothing better than a .22 semi-automatic rifle for casual target shooting. This Fabrique Nationale manufactured Browning .22 Caliber Semi-Auto solid frame rifle is light weight and features an eleven round internal magazine which is loaded through a port on the right side of the buttstock.This is the first solid frame SA22 we have seen and it is a rare bird. On top of its rarity, it is a nice looking gun, and easy to shoot. The semi-automatic action ejects which the empty brass straight down, out of the shooter’s line of sight, perfect for both right and left handed shooters. This rifle is in Very Good condition, retaining about 85% of its metal finish. The visible metal finish would rate this rifle in Fine condition, but heavy corrosion beneath the forend affects the condition. This is a small, easy rifle to take camping, hiking or to the range.