Browning Trombone .22 LR 22” Pump Action Tube Fed Rifle MFD 1972 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,602.00
LSB#: LSB251108WM066
Make: Browning
Model: Trombone 22 Pump
Serial Number: 143889
Year of Manufacture: 1972
Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
Action Type: Pump Action rimfire with Tubular Magazine
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “Fabrique Nationale D’Armes De Guerre-Herstal-Belgique/ Browning Patent Depose” There are Belgian proofs on the barrel, receiver and bolt. The serial number is on the bottom of the barrel. The last 3 digits of the serial number are on both halves of the receiver. The left side of the barrel is marked “22L”
Barrel Length: 22”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a beaded blade dovetailed into the barrel. The rear sight is a spring leaf V notch with an elevator that is dovetailed into the barrel. The top of the receiver is dovetailed for scope mounts.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are a two piece walnut with a rounded knob semi pistol grip, ribbed forend, straight comb, with steel buttplate. There are light handling marks, scratches and compression dents throughout. Overall these stocks are in Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. There is no visible lead fouling in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9.5/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 95% of its original finish. There is light corrosion staining throughout. There are light scratches and handling marks throughout. Overall this rifle rates in Fine condition.
Mechanics: The slide action functions correctly and very smoothly. There is a cross bolt safety behind the trigger. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: This Browning Trombone .22 dates to 1972 and represents one of the most refined pump-action rimfire rifles ever produced. Manufactured in Belgium by Fabrique Nationale for Browning Arms Company, the Trombone carried forward John M. Browning’s original pump-action rimfire concept with exceptional fit, finish, and mechanical smoothness. By the 1970s, Belgian-made Brownings were widely regarded as premium sporting arms, and the Trombone stood out for its elegant lines, flawless machining, and effortless slide operation.
Chambered in .22 Long Rifle, this rifle is configured with a 22-inch barrel and tubular magazine, offering excellent balance and a generous sight radius. The bore remains bright with sharp rifling, showing no erosion or visible lead fouling, and in this writer’s opinion rates an outstanding 9.5 out of 10. The original open sights remain intact, with a beaded front blade and V-notch rear sight with elevator, and the receiver is factory dovetailed for scope mounts, reflecting Browning’s forward-thinking approach to versatility without compromising traditional handling.
Overall condition is fine, with approximately 95 percent of the original blued finish remaining. The metal shows only light corrosion staining and minor handling marks, while the walnut stocks exhibit light scratches and compression dents consistent with careful use rather than neglect. The slide action functions very smoothly, and the cross-bolt safety behind the trigger operates correctly. This rifle stands as a highly desirable example of the Belgian-made Browning Trombone, combining mechanical excellence, outstanding bore condition, and classic Browning craftsmanship in a rimfire pump rifle that remains a benchmark for quality. Please see our high resolution photos and good luck with your bid! MF
