Engraved FN Browning High Power Olympian Grade .300 H&H Magnum MFD 1967 C&R
SOLD FOR: $6,525
LSB#: 231205CC001
Make: This rifle was made by Fabrique Nationale in Belgium for Browning Arms
Model: FN High-Power Olympian Grade
Serial Number: 7P 42434
Year of Manufacture: 1967 C&R
Caliber: .300 H&H Magnum
Action Type: Bolt Action with Hinged Magazine Floorplate
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “BROWNING ARMS COMPANY”. The right side of the barrel is marked “CALIBER .300 H&H MAG ONLY 7P 42434 / MADE IN BELGIUM” followed by a proof and an inspection mark. The outward and rear-facing sides of the base of the bolt handle have small proofs. The receiver has been engraved by Rene Dewil; his name is on the left side of the chamber ring. The top and sides of the receiver have scroll engraving, so do the sides of the chamber, action screws, and stock through bolt. The left of the chamber ring has a scene of a moose with foliage in the background. The right of the chamber ring has a scene of an elk with trees in the background. The trigger guard is engraved with a cougar surrounded by scroll engraving. The floorplate is engraved with a bear against a mountain background. The floor plate was engraved and signed by J Baerten. The floorplate tang has scroll engraving. The underside of the bolt, left concealed portion of the receiver, and the top of the stock are marked “42434”.
Barrel Length: 24”
Sights / Optics: There is no provision for iron sights. The top of the receiver is equipped with a one-piece rail and two rings supporting a Leupold Vari-X IIc with 3-9x magnification and a duplex reticle. The scope shows a few faint marks and the glass is clear. The scope rates in about Fine-Excellent condition.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a one-piece checkered fancy walnut with a flared pistol grip, wood capped nose & pistol grip with tan spacers, Monte Carlo comb with cheekpiece, two through bolts, and a Browning ventilated recoil pad. The pistol grip has a diamond metal inlay marked “V / T / F” and the checkered portions have fine scroll engraving with light punch dots in the negative spaces. There is a sling stud front and rear. There are scattered faint hairline scratches throughout with one more notable scratch on the left side of the toe. Light crazing lights are visible on the nose cap. There is a small scuff on the upper left edge of the forend. The checkering is strong. There are no chips or cracks. The stock tested negative for the presence of salt wood. The LOP measures approximately 13 1/2” from the front of the trigger to the back of the pad. The pad shows light wear and remains soft and pliable. The stock rates in about Very Good-Fine overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blued Barrel, Satin Chrome Receiver & Bottom Metal with “In the White” Bolt
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 10/10
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 95% of its metal finish. There is some light erosion on the crown and on the bolt and bolt knob. There is thinning on the sides of the muzzle. There are some faint marks throughout the barrel. There is light operational wear. The screw slots are sharp and the markings are clear, but some of the small proofs are lightly stuck. Overall, this rifle rates in about Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. There is a manual safety on the right rear of the receiver. As with all firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: The previously mentioned scope is included.
Our Assessment: This is a spectacular Olympian Grade Hi-Power bolt action rifle from Browning built by FN on the renowned Mauser action. This is truly a beautiful specimen rating in about Fine condition with 95% of its finish remaining. Stated on the Rifle Magazine website, “The Olympian Grade was a factory-built, custom rifle that featured a satin receiver with multiple game scenes that were hand engraved by master engravers, and usually signed. The animals chosen for a rifle were typical of what was commonly hunted with the caliber of that particular rifle. The receiver engraving coverage is classified as “full coverage,” and the trigger guard and floorplate were likewise fully engraved with game scenes while scroll engraving graced the bridge and barrel. The stock consisted of high-grade fancy walnut and was finished with hand-carved floral patterns and checkering.” This example was engraved and signed by both R. Greco and J. Baerten in 1967. This is a great find for the Browning enthusiast and this rifle certainly belongs in any respectable Browning collection. Please see our photos and good luck!
-Greenfield
