Browning FN SA-22 - Approximate Age

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Thirsty_Fox

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Eastern Ontario
I have an older FN SA-22 (Browning design) that I'm hoping to figure out an age range down to at least a decade if possible. It's an older one made in Belgium with the slim forestock, top loader, and serial number with no letters (148773). I know it's difficult but hopefully the features give it away. It has a buckhorn sight that I'm not 100% certain is original as at some point it broke off and was welded back on, but could be different. I bought it last year here in Canada where we seem to have a lot of obscure rifles of this era. The serial number is on the underside of the barrel and the face of the action/breach, but I don't see it anywhere else.


I've found somewhat conflicting information regarding when it might have been made. I know for certain it was pre-1961 due to the serial numbers being updated with letters. I've seen others a few thousand higher in number (166,000+). The top loading port makes me think it was pre-1957 but I don't know that for sure, either. I really appreciate any help figuring it out.












 
I have No. 178231, also a top-loader. I believe you are correct, pre-1957. As to the exact year, no records have survived, so somewhere in the 1950s. Great gun.

I need to check, but I think the rear sight is the original pattern.
 
Pinfire said:
I have No. 178231, also a top-loader. I believe you are correct, pre-1957. As to the exact year, no records have survived, so somewhere in the 1950s. Great gun.

I need to check, but I think the rear sight is the original pattern.
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Wish it were easier to find but I suppose it's anybody's guess.

I really like this rifle, more than I expected to. Really nice trigger, accurate, reliable, and handles nicely. I might try hunting with it next season since it can fit in the motorcycle case.
 
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