Browning SA-22 Grade I Belgian-Made .22 LR Semi-Auto, 1957, Takedown, Bottom Ejection, 19.375 inch Barrel, Factory Scroll Engraved
This Belgian-made Browning SA-22 Grade I was manufactured in 1957 by FN Herstal and features factory scroll engraving on the receiver sides and trigger guard. It combines a proven bottom-ejecting, takedown design with a blued steel barrel and receiver, classic walnut furniture, and period-correct markings including the St. Louis address and Made in Belgium roll marks.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Overall Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling - Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: There are mild scuffs, areas of wear, and spots of finish loss.
What’s Included
- Browning SA-22 Grade I Belgian-made .22 LR semi-automatic rifle
Belgian manufacture by FN Herstal and a 1957 production date make this SA-22 Grade I a desirable early example with authentic period markings. The receiver sides and trigger guard carry factory scroll engraving, and both receiver and barrel wear a traditional blued finish. Roll marks include the Browning Arms Company St. Louis, Mo. address and Made in Belgium.
The rifle uses a semi-automatic blowback action with bottom ejection, keeping empties away from the shooter. Its takedown mechanism uses a knurled adjusting ring to quickly separate the barrel from the receiver for compact transport and easy maintenance.
A 19.375-inch steel barrel pairs with a buttstock tubular magazine that loads through the buttplate, providing a 10+1 capacity in .22 LR. Sighting is straightforward with open iron sights: a blade front and folding leaf rear.
The walnut stock and forend feature a high-luster varnish finish, cut checkering, a straight comb, and a pistol grip, capped with a steel buttplate. Length of pull is 13.75 inches, offering a classic fit and feel consistent with period production.
Additional details include a steel receiver, blued metalwork throughout, and the serial number stamped on the steel buttplate. The takedown system and bottom ejection highlight the SA-22’s distinctive Browning design heritage.