FN Browning SA-22 Grade I LR Wheel Sight Takedown Semi-Auto Rifle, C&R
Sold for $1350.00
LSB#: 220906JM004
Make: Fabrique Nationale, in Belgium, for Browning
Model: SA-22 (Semi-Auto .22), Grade I Engraved
Serial Number: 73339
Year of Manufacture: 1960
Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Tube Magazine Fed Takedown Rifle.
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “FABRIQUE NATIONALE D’ARMES DE GUERRE·HERSTAL-BELGIQUE / BROWNING ARMS COMPANY ST LOUIS Mo. & MONTREAL P.Q. / MADE IN BELGIUM”, the left at the rear sight is marked “22 LONG RIFLE” and the right is marked “BROWNING PATENTS”. The bottom of the barrel is marked “73339”. The bottom of the bolt is marked with a star over “P”, lion over “PV”, and Perron tower proof. The rear plate for the magazine tube is marked “T73 / 339”. The receiver has Grade I pattern engraving.
Barrel Length: 19 3/8”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade, integral to a base that is dovetailed onto the barrel. The rear is a square notched leaf dovetailed to the rear of the barrel adjustable for elevation with a ratchet wheel, known as a “wheel sight”. The top of the receiver is grooved for mounting an optic (not included).
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece walnut with checkering on the forend and pistol grip, straight comb and a serrated blued steel buttplate. There is a loading port on the right side of the buttstock. There is a small repaired chip on the bottom edge of the pistol grip. The stocks have scattered light compressions and minor drag lines throughout, though more so on the forearm. On the belly, near the toe, there are some nicks and light finish loss. There is a more notable scratch on the right side of the buttstock and one on the bottom of the forearm at the rear. There are no chips or cracks. The checkering is sharp throughout. The LOP measures 13 3/4” from the front of the trigger to the back of the butt plate. The plate has thinning around the edges with light marks and faint spots of oxidation on the face. The stocks rate in about Very Good-Plus overall condition as repaired.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is slightly rounded yet well-defined. There is no erosion.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its metal finish. The barrel and receiver have some infrequent faint marks. The trigger pin head is unmarred. The screw heads are lightly tool marked. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle is in about Fine-Plus condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. This rifle has a natural quick point of aim and has a very swift takedown procedure for storage and maintenance. There is no perceptible play between the barrel and receiver. 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: 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 from 1960 and has Grade I engraving and the desirable, older-style wheel rear sight. This is a great example of one of the coolest .22s ever made and is a must-have for the collection. Please see our photos and good luck!