FNH Browning’s Patent SA-22 “Grade III Like” .22 LR 19″ Semi-Auto Rifle C&R

SOLD FOR: $2,075.00

LSB#: LSB251016KS108

Make: Fabrique Nationale

Model: Browning 22 Semi-Auto Grade III Like

Serial Number: 27061

Year of Manufacture: 1914 – 1952 C&R

Caliber: .22 Long Rifle

Action Type: This is a semi-automatic rifle with a tubular magazine in the butt. It is a takedown model with a removable barrel.

Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “FABRIQUE NATIONALE HERSTAL BELGIQUE / BROWNING’S PATENT DEPOSE” in front of the rear sight, the left side of the barrel is marked “22 LONG RIFLE SMOKELESS” with Belgian proofs, the bottom is marked with the serial number in front of the forend. The bottom of the bolt and top-rear of the receiver also have Belgian proofs.

Barrel Length: 19”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a beaded blade dovetailed to the barrel. The rear sight is a flip up U notch sight adjustable for elevation dovetaled to the barrel. 

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece checkered walnut with semi-beavertail forend, a pistol grip, straight comb and serrated steel buttplate. There is handling and storage wear. There are scratches and compression marks throughout. There are deep compression marks on the right side of the forend. There are scratches on the buttplate. The LOP measures 13.75″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the stocks are in about Good – Very Good condition.

Type of Finish: Blued, Bare receiver.

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. There are light scratches throughout the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates at a 7 out of 10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 96% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows handling and storage wear. There are scratches and oxidation throughout. The barrel has spots of light oxidization and scratches. There is a light build up of oxidization on the action. There is light operational wear. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle is in about Very Good condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. It has a cross-bolt safety at the front of the trigger guard. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.

Our Assessment: We suspect the receiver has been an upgrade later on in its life due to the lack of Belgium proof marks on the receiver. The barrel engravings are not original. 

Browning’s SA-22 is one of the most iconic rimfire autoloaders ever produced, and FN’s early examples—built from the pre-WWI period through the early 1950s—represent the highest level of craftsmanship the design would ever see. This rifle displays the classic Belgian barrel markings, correct proofs, early takedown construction, and the overall fit and handling character associated with FN manufacture. At the same time, its receiver presentation differs from standard factory configuration. The lack of Lie`ge proof marks on the receiver and the presence of upgraded engraving strongly suggest that the receiver was embellished later in the rifle’s life rather than at original manufacture. The barrel engraving also appears non-factory, executed in a style meant to evoke the higher-grade SA-22s, particularly the Grade III patterns, but not consistent with FN’s original shop work.

Even so, the rifle remains mechanically sound and visually attractive. The bore retains sharp rifling with no erosion, and the takedown action is still fully functional—hallmarks of a well-cared-for SA-22. The finish shows honest wear appropriate to its age, with oxidation and scattered marks that tell the story of a rifle handled and enjoyed rather than stored away. For collectors, it offers an appealing blend of FN heritage and later custom embellishment; for shooters, it remains one of the most enjoyable and elegant rimfire semi-autos ever made. Please see our high resolution photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck on your bids! -N.P