Make: Browning, Belgium Custom Shop

Model: SA-22 (Semi-Auto .22), Grade III Engraved

Serial Number: 146CS01808

Year of Manufacture: 1986 (Belgian Y Date Code)

Caliber: .22 Short

Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Tube Magazine Fed Takedown Rifle.

Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “BROWNING ARMS COMPANY MORGAN, UTAH & MONTREAL P.Q. / MADE IN BELGIUM”. The receiver is masterfully engraved by FN master engraver "G.LIEBEN": marked on the bottom left of the receiver. The right side of the barrel is marked “CALIBER .22 SHORT” with a "BBL" in a shield Belgian / Liege proof, crowned PV nitro proof, underlined Y date code, and * over Z controller proof. The bottom of the trigger guard is marked with the Browning Buckmark Logo. The bottom of the barrel is marked “146CS01808”. The left side of the trigger guard has a Buckmark logo. There is an "A" over "H" stamp next to the engraver's name. There is a Belgium proof on the bottom of the bolt.

Barrel Length: 22"

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a gold beaded blade dovetailed onto the barrel. The rear sight is a folding “U”-notch leaf with white aiming reference dovetailed to the rear of the barrel. The notch is fine-adjustable for elevation. The rear sight leaf does not have any tension flips without any resistance. The top of the barrel is drilled, tapped and filled for an optic mount (none included).

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece checkered select walnut with a semi-pistol grip, fluted straight comb and a serrated blued steel buttplate. There is little to no handling wear. The checkering is sharp. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 13 3/4” from the front of the trigger to the back of the butt plate. The stocks rate in about Excellent overall condition.

Type of Finish: Blue, Coin

Finish Originality: Factory Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 10/10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 99% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish is strong and complete throughout. There is a tiny spot of corrosion on the barrel near the muzzle. There is little to no operational or handling wear. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle is in about Excellent condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this rifle. As with all previously owned firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle comes with its Browning Custom Shop leather case, owner's manual, paperwork, key for the case, and trigger lock.

Our Assessment: This Browning SA-22 Grade III is an exceptional semi-automatic rifle chambered in .22 short, crafted by Browning’s Belgium Custom Shop. Featuring an expertly engraved receiver by FN master engraver G.Lieben, the rifle blends functionality with aesthetic excellence. The longer 22-inch barrel carries Browning’s classic markings, with precise sights comprising a brass-beaded blade front and a finely adjustable folding “U”-notch rear. The rifle’s select walnut stock with detailed checkering enhances both appearance and handling.

Retaining approximately 99% of its original blued and coin finishes, this SA-22 is presented in Excellent condition, showing little to no handling. Its mechanics function flawlessly, and the bore is pristine, rated at 10/10, promising exceptional accuracy and reliability. Included is the original Custom Shop case, adding collectible appeal to this finely crafted firearm—ideal for enthusiasts and collectors seeking a high-quality rimfire rifle with both historical lineage and exquisite detailing.