Browning Japan 81 BLR Lever Action Rifle 20” 7mm-08 Rem 1993 & Scope
SOLD FOR: $1,325.00
LSB#: WY241006GW097
Make: Browning
Model: 81 BLR Short Action
Serial Number: 05232NX227
Year of Manufacture: 1993 (NX Date Code)
Caliber: 7mm-08 Remington
Action Type: Magazine-Fed Lever-Action Rifle
Markings: The right side of the receiver is marked “05232NX227”. The left side of the barrel is marked “BROWNING ARMS COMPANY MORGAN UTAH & MONTREAL P.Q. / MADE IN JAPAN” and “NP” at the rear. The right side of the barrel is marked “MODEL 81 BLR CALIBER 7MM-08 REM ONLY / PATENT NO. 3377731”. The bottom of the trigger guard has a Buckmark logo.
Barrel Length: 20”
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a brass beaded blade dovetailed into a ramped base that is screwed to the barrel. The rear sight is a square-notch screwed to the barrel. The receiver is mounted with a Swift Premier 2-7×40 Wide Angle Riflescope with Duplex Crosshair Reticle. The sight picture is clear. The glass is clean. The scope rates in Excellent condition.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The stocks are two piece checkered walnut with straight grip, straight comb, Browning rubber buttpad, banded forend, belly sling stud, and two sling studs front and rear. The LOP measures 14” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. Overall, the stocks rate in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 99% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows light handling and operational wear. There is thinning on the leading edges and muzzle. There are some faint scratches on the receiver. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in Fine 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, and Accessories: This rifle comes with its factory 4 Round Magazine in Excellent condition.
Our Assessment: This Browning Model 81 BLR (Browning Lever Rifle) in 7mm-08 Remington, manufactured in 1993 by Miroku in Japan, is a modernized lever-action rifle designed to handle high-powered cartridges while maintaining the classic appeal of a traditional lever gun. Unlike the tubular-magazine lever-actions of the past, the BLR uses a detachable box magazine, allowing it to safely chamber spitzer (pointed) bullets, which offer superior ballistic performance over traditional flat-nosed rounds.
The rifle features a 20-inch barrel, providing an excellent balance of maneuverability and accuracy, making it well-suited for hunting medium to large game such as deer, elk, and black bear. The 7mm-08 Remington cartridge is known for its flat trajectory, mild recoil, and versatility, making it a popular choice among hunters. The rack-and-pinion geared lever action of the BLR is one of its standout features, ensuring a smooth and reliable cycling of rounds while also allowing for a short bolt throw, making follow-up shots quicker than on traditional lever-action rifles.
The Model 81 BLR showcases classic styling with modern engineering, featuring a high-quality walnut stock with a checkered grip and forend, and a blued steel barrel and receiver. It is drilled and tapped for scope mounts, enhancing its versatility for long-range accuracy. The aluminum alloy receiver helps reduce weight without compromising strength. Produced by Miroku of Japan, known for its exceptional craftsmanship, the Browning BLR 81 in 7mm-08 Remington remains a highly regarded rifle among hunters and collectors, offering a unique blend of lever-action tradition and modern rifle performance. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.
