FN Browning Model SA-22 Grade I .22LR Takedown Semi Automatic Rifle & Box, 1972
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 FN MANUFACTURED model, chambered in .22LR. It is in about Fine-Plus condition with about 97% of its metal finish and a bright bore. Please see our photos and good luck!
Make: Browning, MFG. by Fabrique Nationale in Belgium
Model: SA-22 Grade I
Serial Number: 72T65361
Year of Manufacture: 1972
Caliber: .22LR
Action Type: Takedown, Buttstock Mag Tube, Semi-Automatic Rifle
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked "BROWNING ARMS COMPANY, MORGAN, UTAH & MONTREAL P.Q. / MADE IN BELGIUM" and a proof mark at the rear. The right side of the barrel is marked "CALIBER .22 LONG RIFLE/ BROWNING PATENTS". The sides of the receiver have Grade I scroll engraving and the right side is marked with the serial number. There is a Belgian proof on the bolt.
Barrel Length: 19.25"
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a brass beaded blade dovetailed into the barrel. The rear sight is a folding "U" notched sight with screws for fine elevation adjustment. The rear sight is dovetailed into the barrel. There is a drilled, tapped, and filled hole on either side of the rear sight.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece checkered walnut with flat-bottom semi-pistol grip, straight comb, and serrated blued steel buttplate. The buttplate is relieved for the magazine tube. There is a loading port on the right side of the buttstock. There are light crazing lines throughout. There is a notable scratch on the right side of the barrel just behind the grip checkering. There are some other scattered minor dings throughout. The checkering is well defined. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 13 5/8" from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The plate is clean within hardly any wear. Overall, the stocks are in about Very Good-Plus condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer's opinion and for the age, the bore rates a 10 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 97% of its metal finish. There are some sparse marks along the barrel and on the top of the receiver. There is some faint erosion on the bolt. There is faint operational wear. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Fine-Plus condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a more thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Included is a two-piece factory box with foam tray insert. The end label is not present. The sides of the bottom piece are taped.
CA LEGALITY: C&R: YES, CA PPT: YES.
RIFLE