The Browning "salt wood" issue

ninepointer

ninepointer

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Until recently I had never heard of this issue with late 1960's - early 1970's Brownings rusting due to their salt-cured stocks. But apparently it was and remains a huge deal, particularly if one is looking at getting a Superposed. In hindsight its almost laughable if it wasn't so sad. The story is summed up here:

http://www.artsgunshop.com/Salt/Salt_Article-Page-1.htm
 
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Thank You for finding that web site.
I had it until late last summer when it would not load for me.
Thanks for posting this link as it works again on my computer.
Some very nice attention to detail to save some fine firearms.
Rob
 
As stated in the link there's not just Browning that had issues with "salt wood" but quite a few other companies as well, especially on firearms with fancy grade walnut that were produced from 1978 to the mid 80's. I have multiple Winchester Super-X Model 1 Trap grade shotguns that have "salt wood" as well as a Pigeon Grade 101. In the late 70's and early 80's, high grade walnut was hard to find and the remains of the salt cured lots were bought up by many companies at relatively low prices.
 
My Dad had a Belgian Browning Superposed Pigeon grade trap gun. We discovered the salt wood the hard way on the beautiful shotgun. I'd avoid them.
 
I have a sweet little Browning T-bolt 22 that I bought 36/37 years ago as a kid and have been struggling with the rust issue for years. Wish I know this before. What if anything did Browning Canada ever do to fix the situation? I remember asking when I was a kid and they put the blame on me.

Oh well I guess I am pretty much screwed now. Too bad I really liked that old rifle and would have loved to pass it onto my Son :(. I have had several Brownings since and have never had another issue with any of them :).

Thanks for passing this on.
 
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