FN Belgian Model 24/30 Naval .22LR Trainer Bolt Action Rifle, 1952 C&R
SOLD FOR: $2,128.00
LSB#: WY240910JH010
Make: Fabrique Nationale Herstal, Belgium
Model: 24/30 Naval Trainer
Serial Number: 824
Year of Manufacture: 1952
Caliber: .22LR
Action Type: Bolt action, internal 5 round magazine.
Markings: The top of the receiver is marked with a Crown B and, “ABL 1952”. The right side of the receiver is marked, “824”. The left side of the receiver is marked, “ FAB.NAT.D’ARMES DE GUERRE-HERSTAL-BELGIQUE” There are several small proofs on the receiver. The stock serial is matching.
Barrel Length: 23.5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a triangular post dovetailed to a raised knurled base. The rear sight is a flip-up v-notch ladder sight marked out to 200. There is a bolted on adjustable peep hole sight on the back of the receiver.
Stock Configuration & Condition: This rifle has a two piece wood stock set with a forend cap / cleaning rod & bayonet lug, barrel band w/ sling loop, semi-pistol grip, straight comb, sling loop, with steel buttplate. There are pressure dents and scratches throughout. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP is 13 1/4” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. Overall, the stock rates in at about Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Gray Enamel
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is semi-bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, this bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its metal finish. There is light scratching throughout. The action has light wear. The screw heads are lightly tooled and the markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Excellent condition as C&R.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The FN Belgian Model 24/30 Naval .22LR Trainer is a bolt-action rifle designed as a training firearm for the Belgian Navy and other forces during the early 20th century. Built by Fabrique Nationale (FN) in Herstal, Belgium, this rifle reflects FN’s dedication to producing high-quality military firearms, even in training configurations. Modeled after full-sized military rifles, the FN 24/30 trainer served to acclimate new recruits to the operation and handling of bolt-action rifles before moving on to larger, higher-recoil calibers. Chambered in .22 Long Rifle, the FN 24/30 Trainer was a cost-effective and low-recoil solution for marksmanship training. This caliber allowed new recruits to practice shooting fundamentals without the cost or intensity of larger military rounds. The rifle also has a gray variant of the signature Belgian enamel gun coating that protects it from harsh environments. The design of the 24/30 trainer closely mimics FN’s service rifles of the time, such as the Model 24, which was commonly issued to various military forces. The 24/30 Trainer includes an adjustable rear sight and a fixed front sight along with a rear peep, giving recruits realistic practice in aiming and sight alignment with the option of using a more accurate peep sight. The stock is made of hardwood, designed to match the feel of standard infantry rifles, and it features a steel buttplate and sling swivels for authenticity in handling.
The FN Belgian Model 24/30 .22LR Trainer is particularly valued by collectors due to its historical use as a military training rifle and its excellent craftsmanship. Its military-style design, combined with the .22LR chambering, has made it a unique item, offering both a piece of history and a functional, enjoyable shooting experience. -R.E.
