Fabrique Nationale FN Browning Model SA-22 SA22 Grade I Engraved, Blue 19 3/8” Semi-Automatic Takedown Rifle & Box, MFD 1967

SOLD
LSB#:
160503SH11

Make: Fabrique Nationale, in Belgium, for Browning

Model: SA-22 (Semi-Auto .22), Grade I

Serial Number: 7T52236

Year of Manufacture: 1967

Caliber: .22 Long Rifle

Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Tube Magazine Fed Takedown Rifle.

Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “BROWNING ARMS COMPANY ST LOUIS Mo. & MONTREAL P.Q. / MADE IN BELGIUM”, the left is marked “22 LONG RIFLE”, the right is marked “BROWNING’S PATENT”, the underside is marked with the serial number. The receiver has Grade I scroll engraving, with the Perron proof on the rear upper portion. The underside of the bolt is marked with a lion over “PV” proof, “*” over “M” and the Perron proof. The factory box is serialized to the rifle.

Barrel Length: 19 3/8”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a brass beaded blade, integral to a base that is dovetailed onto the barrel. The rear sight is a “U” notched leaf that is on a flip-up base and is micro-adjustable for elevation. The receiver is slotted for claw-mount scope rings or optics (not included).

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are a two piece semi-gloss finished walnut set. The forend has wrap-around checkering and no marks to speak of. The butt stock has a checkered semi-pistol grip and fluted comb; this stock has but a few extremely light, infrequent marks, please see our pictures. The LOP measures 13 7/8” from the front of the trigger to the back of the blued, serrated shotgun-style butt plate. The plate has a few factory casting flaws but no major marks to speak of, rating in Excellent condition. The stocks rate in about Excellent Plus overall condition.

Type of Finish: Polished Blue

Finish Originality: Factory Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows a scuff on the lower right side of the receiver, some very light operational wear on the underside of the bolt. The underside of the barrel, forward of the serial number, is one small spot of extremely shallow surface etching, the muzzle has some spots of light brown patina. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are crisp. Overall, this rifle rates in about Excellent condition, looking to have seen very light use; it was well taken care of in the interim.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. This rifle has a natural quick point of aim and has a very swift takedown procedure for storage and maintenance. 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 & Accessories: Included is the rifle’s original, serialized factory box, which shows some moderate edge roughing; the end label side of the lid has a few tear marks, looking to have been incurred a while ago from storage; the box is in Fine condition. Also included are a few sheets of factory wax paper that is quite delicate, showing a few tears and discoloration from age, in about Very Good Plus to Fine condition. The molded foam lower insert is provided, showing some discoloration from oil stains and a few compressions from the rifle, the upper lid is also included with similar cosmetic notes, both in about Fine condition. An instruction manual is also provided, in Excellent condition.

Our Assessment: Every now and again we receive a Browning SA-22 that leaves mouths agape; this is one of those for sure. The rifle looks to have seen very little use and was well taken care of in the interim. The metal retains about 98% of its blued finish with elegant scroll and zig-zag border engraving. The bore is bright with sharp rifling and no erosion, the butt stock has only a few very light marks. The rifle comes with its original factory box, foam inserts, wax paper and instruction manual, making this an exceptional find for collectors and hobbyists alike. This is a design that has been in production since 1914, with one brief interruption in the mid 70’s when production switched to Miroku in Japan; this Belgian example should entice shooters of all stripes. Please see our pictures and good luck.

Fabrique Nationale FN Browning Model SA-22 SA22 Grade I Engraved, Blue 19 3/8” Semi-Automatic Takedown Rifle & Box, MFD 1967
Fabrique Nationale FN Browning Model SA-22 SA22 Grade I Engraved, Blue 19 3/8” Semi-Automatic Takedown Rifle & Box, MFD 1967