Browning (FN) SA22 SA-22 .22 Short Belgium Grade I Takedown Semi Automatic Wheel Sight Rifle 1956 C&R

SOLD FOR: $1,568.00
LSB#: 180524GS04

Make: Fabrique Nationale, in Belgium, for Browning

Model: SA-22 (Semi-Auto .22), Grade I

Serial Number: A 2061

Year of Manufacture: 1956 Proofhouse, though the Blue Book indicates that the 22 3/8″ barrel length was not offered until 1957.

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. / MADE IN BELGIUM”, the left is marked “22 SHORT SMOKELESS”, the right is marked “BROWNING PATENTS”. The buttplate, front face of the receiver and front face of the trigger guard assembly are marked “A 2061”. The bottom of the bolt has three Belgian proof marks. The frame has Grade I engraving.

Barrel Length: 22 3/8”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade, integral to a base that is dovetailed onto the barrel. The rear sight is the early square-notch wheel sight. There is no provision for mounting a scope or peep sight.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are gloss-finished walnut with checkering on the forend and grip. The forend has a light drag-line on the bottom in front of the takedown tab. The buttstock has thinning finish at the bottom-front of the grip and a few scattered light marks. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 133/4” from the front of the trigger to the back of the serrated steel butt plate. The plate has a few light marks around the edges with strong finish and sharp serrations, in about Fine-Excellent condition. The stocks rate in about Fine-plus overall condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

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

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its metal finish. The knurling on the barrel ring has a few light marks and there are light handling marks. The screw heads are sharp. The trigger pin is lightly tool marked but not peened. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Fine-Excellent condition.

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: None.

Our Assessment: The Browning SA-22 was introduced as a top-loader in 1914 and transitioned to its present design in 1956. FN made these rifles under Browning’s patent from 1956 until 1974 with a brief hiatus before Miroku began manufacturing them in 1976 in Japan. This example is an early and rare model, chambered in .22 Short with the early wheel rear sight and from the earliest years of production in this configuration. It is in about Fine-Excellent condition with about 98% of its metal finish, a mirror-bright bore and a few light marks in the stocks. As much fun as this rifle would be as a plinker, given its rarity and high condition, this is likely to make some Browning collector very happy. Please see our photos and good luck!

CA Legal or CA Private Party Transferable: This C&R rifle can be transferred/sold in California.