Browning Belgium SA-22 Grade II Engraved .22 LR Semi-Auto Rifle 1970 C&R

SOLD FOR: $1,877.00

LSB#: LSB250718LT048

Make: Browning, Belgium

Model: SA-22 (Semi-Auto .22), Grade II Engraved

Serial Number: 70T45791

Year of Manufacture: 1970 (70T Date Code)

Caliber: .22 Long Rifle

Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Tube Magazine Fed Takedown Rifle

Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “BROWNING ARMS COMPANY MORGAN UTAH & MONTREAL P.Q. / MADE IN BELGIUM”. The right side of the barrel is marked “CALIBER .22 LONG RIFLE / BROWNING PATENTS”. The bottom of the barrel is marked “70T45791”.

Barrel Length: 19.5”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a brass beaded blade dovetailed to the barrel. The rear sight is a folding “U”-notch leaf dovetailed to the rear of the barrel. The notch is fine-adjustable for elevation. The top of the barrel is drilled, tapped and filled for an optic mount (none present).

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece checkered select walnut with pistol grip, fluted straight comb and a serrated blued steel buttplate. There are no chips or cracks. The checkering is crisp. There are light handling marks. The LOP measures 13 3/4” from the front of the trigger to the back of the butt plate. The stocks rate in about Fine overall condition.

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: Factory Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its metal finish. There are a few scattered handling marks. There is light thinning on the leading edges. There are a few isolated scratches on the front of the trigger guard. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle is in about Excellent condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. 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 is one of the finest rimfire rifles ever produced, and the Grade II Engraved model elevates the platform into collector-grade territory. Manufactured in Belgium in 1970, this takedown semi-automatic rifle showcases the artistry of Browning’s early European production with fine scroll engraving on the receiver, blue finish, and select checkered walnut stocks. Designed by John M. Browning himself, the SA-22 is a marvel of compact engineering—lightweight, reliable, and beautifully balanced. Its bottom-ejecting mechanism makes it friendly for both right- and left-handed shooters, and the takedown design adds a layer of practicality and portability rarely seen in semi-auto rimfires.

This example remains in Excellent condition with about 98% of its factory finish intact, a bright bore, and only minor wear consistent with light handling. The wood shows beautiful grain and crisp checkering with only a few light compressions. It comes housed in a Browning Custom Shop leather case, a fitting accessory for such a finely crafted rifle. Whether you’re looking to enhance a Browning collection or acquire one of the most elegant .22 rifles ever made, this Belgian Grade II SA-22 is a timeless piece of engineering and artistry. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.