Browning Model 53 Lever Action Rifle .32-20 Win. 22” Barrel, Miroku w/ Box
SOLD FOR: $1,727.00
LSB#: LSB250718LT133
Make: Browning
Model: Model 53
Serial Number: 00491NM3F7
Year of Manufacture: 1989 (Miroku Production, Japan)
Caliber: .32-20 Winchester
Action Type: Lever Action Rifle with Tubular Magazine
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “BROWNING MODEL 53 CAL. 32-20 WIN.” along with proof marks. The right side of the barrel bears “MADE IN JAPAN – MIROKU.” The upper tang is marked with the serial number “00491NM3F7.” The receiver has a smooth blued finish with no additional rollmarks. The box end label correctly identifies this rifle as a Browning Model 53, .32-20 Winchester with 22” barrel, and serial number “00491 NM3F7.”
Barrel Length: 22”
Sights / Optics: The rifle is equipped with a semi-buckhorn rear sight adjustable for elevation, and a dovetailed blade front sight with a hood.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The two-piece walnut stocks feature checkering on the forend and pistol grip. The buttstock has a smooth steel shotgun-style buttplate. The wood shows attractive figure with a satin finish. No handling wear is visible, and the rifle remains sealed in its factory plastic wrap.
Type of Finish: High Polish Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is factory new, bright with sharp rifling, and rates 10/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains 99%+ of its original finish. There are no visible signs of handling wear, oxidation, or marks. The rifle remains in its original box with plastic wrapping intact. The screw heads are sharp and unmarred. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in Excellent to Like New in Box condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Accessories: This rifle comes with its original factory box with end label matching the serial number, styrofoam inserts, plastic sleeve, and Browning literature including the owner’s manual.
Our Assessment:
The Browning Model 53 is a faithful modern reproduction of Winchester’s classic Model 53, originally introduced in 1924 as a streamlined version of the Model 1892. Chambered in .32-20 Winchester, it bridges the gap between small game and varmint cartridges and the more powerful deer calibers of its day, making it a favorite of trappers, ranchers, and woodsmen.
This Browning reissue was crafted by Miroku in Japan with Browning’s exacting standards, offering modern steel, superb fit and finish, and the traditional handling qualities of the original. The .32-20 Winchester cartridge itself dates to the late 19th century and became one of the most versatile light rifle rounds of its time, known for mild recoil and respectable accuracy.
This particular rifle is in outstanding condition, still sealed in its original plastic with matching box and literature, making it a true time capsule. Collectors of Browning, Winchester, or classic lever actions will appreciate its quality and rarity, while shooters will find it a smooth-handling, light-recoiling rifle perfect for nostalgic range sessions. Given its condition and presentation, it would make an excellent centerpiece in any Browning or lever-action collection. So bid high and bid firm. I encourage you to take a look at the condition of the item in our high-quality photos. Good luck with your bid. -K.F.
