Browning BLR Grade I Pre-’81 Steel Receiver .243 Win Lever-Action Rifle – 1976 Production
Produced in 1976, this Grade I Browning BLR features the desirable pre-’81 forged steel receiver and polished blued finish that set early BLRs apart. Chambered in .243 Win., it combines classic lever-action handling with a detachable box magazine, letting shooters use modern pointed bullets. Built by Miroku in Japan, it reflects the high-polish bluing and tight fit that collectors associate with first-generation steel-receiver BLRs.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good – shows some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good – clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling – intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: The receiver and barrel display scattered finish wear and small areas of pitting, but the rifle retains solid mechanics and an attractive overall appearance.
What’s Included
- 1× factory steel 4-round detachable box magazine
- Weaver-style steel scope bases (installed)
The forged steel receiver is notable for its weight and strength, adding roughly 10 ounces over later alloy models and giving this early BLR added collector appeal. The rack-and-pinion lever drives an 8-lug rotating bolt, allowing the action to handle high-pressure cartridges safely and smoothly.
A 20-inch round barrel keeps the rifle maneuverable while providing solid ballistic performance in .243 Win. The polished blued finish, Browning proof marks, and gloss walnut furniture reflect Miroku’s attention to detail during the 1970s production run.
The detachable magazine sets the BLR apart from most lever rifles, enabling the safe use of pointed bullets without risking tubular magazine detonation. This feature broadens ammunition choices and maximizes the .243 Win.’s ballistic efficiency.
Factory iron sights consist of a ramped blade front and a folding leaf rear, and the rifle arrives with Weaver-style steel bases already mounted, streamlining scope installation. The 13.75-inch length of pull and ventilated recoil pad on the pistol-grip walnut stock make for comfortable shooting.