Browning BAR-22 Grade I .22 LR Semi-Automatic Rifle, 20.25" Barrel, 1977 Japanese Steel Receiver
This 1977 Browning BAR-22 Grade I pairs the classic Browning BAR styling with a rimfire blowback action, giving collectors a rare blend of looks and performance. Built on the earlier, all-steel receiver, it offers a heftier feel and added durability compared with later alloy versions. A limited eight-year production run and its status as the only rimfire to wear the BAR name make this rifle an appealing find for Browning enthusiasts.
Condition
Overall Condition: Very good condition, showing only light, superficial signs of prior handling or use.
Bore Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling - Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
There are a few shallow handling marks on the gloss walnut stock and light surface scuffs on the high-polish bluing. The bore is bright and shiny.
What’s Included
- Browning BAR-22 Grade I .22 LR rifle
Produced in 1977, identifiable by its “RR” serial prefix and “166” Grade I code, this rifle comes from the first years of BAR-22 manufacture (1977–1985). Only about 61,000 units were built, adding scarcity to its appeal.
The pre-1982 steel receiver gives the rifle a solid feel and extra robustness, qualities that many shooters and collectors prefer over the later alloy-receiver models.
A high-polish blued finish covers the 20.25-inch barrel and receiver, complemented by a gloss walnut stock with cut checkering. The 13.5-inch length of pull suits a broad range of shooters while preserving classic proportions.
The blowback action feeds from a 15-round tubular magazine, providing ample capacity for plinking or small-game work. Ramped post front and folding leaf rear sights offer a crisp, traditional sight picture.
Marked “MADE IN JAPAN,” this BAR-22 reflects the precision manufacturing Browning sourced from its Japanese partner during the 1970s, known for tight tolerances and clean finishes.