Browning BAR-22 Grade I .22 LR Semi-Auto Rifle, 20.25 in Barrel, 15-Round Tube, 1977 Miroku-Japan, Scope Mounted
This Browning BAR-22 Grade I is an early, first-year 1977 example (RR code) from the model’s short 1977–1985 run. Built in Japan by Miroku and styled after Browning’s centerfire BAR, it features a 20.25-inch barrel, a 15-round tubular magazine, and classic walnut Grade I furniture. A scope is already mounted with two-piece rings and bases.
Condition
Overall Condition: Fair condition, showing extensive signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Rifling: Good Rifling - Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: There are many scratches and blemishes on the walnut furniture and blued metal surfaces. Finish wear and areas of pitting are present in multiple locations. Despite the exterior wear, the internal rifling remains well-defined.
What’s Included
- Scope (mounted)
- Two-piece scope rings and bases (installed)
Produced for a limited period from 1977 to 1985, the BAR-22 stands out for its short production run and its resemblance to Browning’s centerfire BAR. This rifle is an early, pre-1982 configuration, and the RR serial code prefix indicates 1977 manufacture. Proof marks include "BROWNING ARMS COMPANY MORGAN, UTAH & MONTREAL P.Q., MADE IN JAPAN."
Chambered in .22 LR, the rifle uses a simple blowback semi-automatic action with right-side ejection and a small round bolt handle. The under-barrel tubular magazine with a removable inner tube holds up to 15 rounds, offering classic .22 rimfire capacity in a sleek, BAR-inspired layout.
The 20.25-inch barrel is paired with iron sights, including a ramped bead front and a folding rear leaf. A scope is currently mounted using two-piece rings and bases, giving the buyer a ready-to-use sighting setup alongside the factory irons.
Grade I trim includes a checkered, high-gloss walnut pistol-grip stock that provides a traditional Browning look and feel. The lightweight anodized aluminum-alloy receiver, cross-bolt safety, and a 13.5-inch length of pull round out a configuration that reflects Miroku’s Japanese manufacture for Browning during the 1970s era.