Browning Trombone .22 LR 22” Pump Action Tube Fed Rifle MFD 1954 C&R
SOLD FOR: $4,213.99
LSB#: LSB251016KS102
Make: Browning
Model: Trombone 22 Pump
Serial Number: 77320
Year of Manufacture: 1954
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 receiver. The left side of the barrel is marked “22L” The bottom of the barrel is marked “TAI Minot ND” The receiver has been engraved outside the factory.
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 checkered walnut with a rounded knob semi pistol grip, straight forend, straight comb, with plastic buttplate. There are very 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 light fouling in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 95% of its original finish. There is light scratching on the barrel. There is corrosion staining on the upper rear of the receiver. There is JB Weld holding the takedown screw in place. Overall this rifle rates in Good 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 1954 and represents an early Belgian-made example of one of the finest pump-action rimfire rifles ever produced. Manufactured by Fabrique Nationale for Browning Arms Company, the Trombone carried forward John M. Browning’s original slide-action concept with exceptional postwar machining and fit. Mid-1950s production reflects FN’s peak craftsmanship, with smooth operation, elegant proportions, and a level of finish that set the Trombone apart from contemporary rimfire pumps.
Chambered in .22 Long Rifle and fitted with a 22-inch barrel, this rifle offers excellent balance and a generous sight radius. The bore remains bright with sharp rifling and only light fouling, rating a strong 9 out of 10 in this writer’s opinion. The original open sights are intact, consisting of a beaded front blade and a V-notch rear sight with elevator, and the receiver is factory dovetailed for scope mounts, preserving versatility without compromising the rifle’s classic handling.
Overall condition is good, retaining approximately 95 percent of the original blued finish. There is light scratching on the barrel and some corrosion staining at the upper rear of the receiver, along with non-factory engraving to the receiver. The walnut stocks present very well, showing only minor handling marks and compression dents and rating in fine condition. Mechanically, the slide action functions very smoothly and the cross-bolt safety operates correctly. A note is made that JB Weld has been used to secure the takedown screw, an important consideration for future attention. This rifle remains a desirable Belgian-made Browning Trombone, offering strong mechanical quality, excellent bore condition, and classic mid-century Browning appeal. Please see our high resolution photos and good luck on your bid! MF