Browning BAR Grade II Type 1 Belgian .300 Win. Mag. Semi-Auto Rifle, 24 Inch Barrel, Factory Engraved Bear Cameo, 1968, Bushnell Sportview 3-9x32
This Belgian-made first-generation BAR (Type 1) is a Grade II sporting autoloader from 1968, verified by the M8 serial suffix. It features factory scroll engraving with a bear cameo on a polished blued steel receiver and is chambered in .300 Win. Mag. with a 24-inch barrel. A Bushnell Sportview 3-9x32 riflescope is installed, adding practical utility to a collectible, well-appointed Browning.
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: Excellent Rifling - Sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: There is minor rust on the bolt. The metal and wood show minor, superficial scratches and blemishes from handling and use. The bore is clean and shiny.
What’s Included
- Bushnell Sportview 3-9x32 riflescope mounted in rings and bases
- 1 magazine
This Type 1 BAR represents the original Belgian-made sporting autoloader configuration, built with a one-piece machined steel receiver finished in polished blue. Grade II treatment adds factory scroll engraving with an animal (bear) cameo on the sideplate, enhancing both visual appeal and collector interest. Belgian markings include the Liège crown-over-PV proof and a "Made in Belgium" barrel legend.
Chambered in .300 Win. Mag., the barrel is marked "PATENT PENDING" and "CALIBER .300 Win. Mag. ONLY." The 24-inch barrel and 3+1 capacity suit the magnum chambering. The M8 serial suffix corresponds to 1968 production, placing this rifle firmly in the 1960s Belgian era.
The gas-operated system uses a seven-lug rotating bolt, delivering reliable cycling with magnum loads. A right-side ejection port and charging handle slot reflect the classic early BAR layout. The steel receiver construction underscores the robust first-generation design.
The furniture is gloss-finished walnut with cut checkering, including a checkered walnut pistol grip and matching fore-end. A black basketweave recoil pad with white-line spacer and installed sling swivel studs round out the field-ready stock package. Length of pull measures 13.75 inches.
Sighting equipment includes a ramped front sight base and an adjustable rear barrel sight. A Bushnell Sportview 3-9x32 riflescope is installed in rings and bases, providing variable magnification that complements the rifle’s .300 Win. Mag. capability while preserving its classic lines.