Benjamin Franklin Model 347 First Variation .177 Multi-Pump Bolt-Action Air Rifle, 19 in Barrel, Brass Construction (1970s)
This Benjamin Franklin Model 347 First Variation stands out with its brass receiver and barrel, checkered wood stock, and St. Louis-era "T" prefix production. A single-shot .177 multi-pump pneumatic with bolt-action breech, it features a 19-inch barrel and an overall length just under 34.5 inches. U.S.-made in the 1970s, it carries period roll-marks and represents the 34x series predecessor to the later Benjamin 397/392 line.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Overall Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Bore Rifling: Excellent Rifling - Sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: There are handling marks with light areas of corrosion and rust from prior use. The front trigger guard screw is not secure and will need to be properly secured.
What’s Included
- Benjamin Franklin Model 347 First Variation .177 air rifle
Bolt action & Lever-Pump operation defines this Model 347: it is a single-shot, multi-pump pneumatic with an under-barrel lever and a separate wood pump handle. The bolt-action breech uses a round bolt knob for straightforward loading, and a manual tang safety provides on-gun control.
Construction highlights include brass receiver/tubes under the finish and a brass 19-inch barrel. Dimensions are compact and well-proportioned, with an overall length just under 34.5 inches and a 13.0-inch length of pull. The wood stock features a straight comb with pressed checkering.
Sighting equipment is practical and adjustable: an open notch rear sight on a two-screw base includes a windage slide and stepped elevator, paired with a ramped blade front sight. This setup supports precise zeroing with common .177 pellets.
Markings include "BENJAMIN FRANKLIN MADE IN U.S.A." on the left side of the tube and an end-cap roll-mark reading "BENJAMIN AIR RIFLE CO. ST LOUIS U.S.A." The "Benjamin Franklin" roll-mark is a period marketing quip. As a First Variation in the 34x series with a T-prefix serial, this U.S.-made St. Louis example reflects the design lineage that led to the later 397/392 models.