Today, Browning has several million high-quality weapons in its arsenal. These are shotguns, rifles and carbines for hunting and sports. In addition, the brand was the first to invent a semi-automatic shotgun and weapons with vertically arranged barrels. Consider the history of the brand, its advantages, models of Browning hunting rifles, application features, what documents will be required to purchase the product.
History of Creation
American John Moses Browning, born in 1855 and after whom the brand is named, first created a single-shot rifle at the age of 14. Throughout his life, he patented more than a hundred of his inventions. The workshop where weapons were made and repaired was opened by his father a few years before the birth of his son.
For the first time, a young talent and histhe designed rifle became interested in Winchester. During the cooperation, several original weapons were created. At the beginning of the 20th century, Browning began to produce pistols in large quantities for different countries, which differed markedly in quality among the analogues on the market. He worked mainly in Belgium.
Many of Browning's designs continue to be produced to this day. But the invention of the automatic rifle in 1918 under the name BAR, which was reloaded according to the principle of a vapor mechanism, brought the greatest popularity to the creator. This model has been on the market for more than eight decades.
For a long time, the Browning gun was used in the American army. Colt 1911 was especially popular. A year after the gunsmith's death, in 1927, the Browning Arms Company was established. Now it is part of FN Herstal (Belgium's leading arms company). The company's factories are located in the United States, Europe and Japan. The brand's weapons are distinguished by high quality workmanship, flawless operation of all mechanisms and good operational mechanisms.
Technical specifications "BAR"
Browning BAR hunting rifles (Browning automatic rifle), which began to be mass-produced back in 1966, are divided into two main models Affut (suitable for hunting from cover) and Battue (for hunting with a roundup). They can be chambered in standard or magnum.
For the standard Affut type cartridge with a barrel length of 550 mm, caliber 243 Win, 30-06 Sprg, 270 Win is suitableand 308 Win. The weight of the structure is more than three kilograms, the store is designed for 4 cartridges. Distinctive design features include an adjustable rear sight, a closed teardrop-shaped front sight, and a plastic rear buttstock. The gun is suitable for hunting small rodents and larger animals (roe deer, deer). The designs are distinguished by high shooting accuracy and are in demand among shooters, regardless of age and skill level.
The Affut magnum with a 600mm barrel and a weight of almost 4kg has a magazine capacity of three bullets in 300 Win Mag, 7mm Rem Mag and 38 Win Mag. The butt pad of the device is rubber.
The Battue model is designed for roundup hunting. The standard type accepts cartridges in caliber 270 Win, 30-06 Sprg. The gun has a barrel length of 550 mm, magazine capacity is 4 rounds. The magnum cartridge type of this model is suitable for 300 Win Mag, 7mm Rem Mag and 338 Win Mag bullets. The barrel length of the gun is 550 mm, almost 4 kg, the magazine is designed for 3 bullets. The butt plate of this model is plastic.
Please note that store capacity may be limited, depending on the requirements of other countries. Also, the technical specifications are only indicative, since the company is constantly working on improving its products, and the basic equipment of the Browning gun may differ. It all depends on the needs of the country for whom the goods are produced.
Despite the fact that the BAR carbine is in demand among hunters and has many modifications, there are also disadvantages. Inconvenient and difficult to cleancarbine, especially the gas unit. You can only clean the barrel from the back, while cleaning the chamber is much more difficult. With prolonged use, problems may occur regarding the extraction of the cartridge and the accuracy of shots.
Browning shotguns
Shotguns are used to effectively shoot any game at a distance of up to 70 meters. The company produces various models of smoothbore weapons.
Browning B525 Hunter (double-barreled over/under shotgun). This is the fifth generation of the B25 (or Superposed), but, despite the serial production, the fitting of parts and assemblies is carried out manually. Such a gun can shoot both classic shot and environmentally friendly lead shot. The block has a guarantee of 10 years of trouble-free operation. The device is sought after for its excellent balance of performance and sophisticated exterior design.
On the Russian market it can be purchased in the following modifications:
- Browning shotgun caliber 12 B525 Hunter Classic 12M (3.15 kg, barrel length from 66 to 81 cm);
- B525 Hunter Classic 20M (2.9 kg, 71 cm barrel, 20 ammo);
- B525 Hunter Elite 12M (barrel - from 71 to 81 cm, there is an aiming bar 6 mm wide, ventilated);
- B525 Hunter Elite 20M (weight is almost 3 kg, bullets are 20 caliber, barrels are 71 and 76 cm).
"Browning Special GTS" (double-barreled shotgun with a vertical arrangement of trunks). It is ideal for both sports and hunting. ATComes with five interchangeable chokes and a special key. It is supplied to the Russian market in the following modifications: Browning Special GTS 12M (caliber 12/76, weight 3.5 kg, there is a left-handed version and a model with a shortened stock), Browning Special GTS Elite 12M (caliber 12/76).
"Browning Cynergy" - a double-barreled shotgun with a vertical arrangement of trunks. The model was introduced in 2004. It features a low-profile block, due to which the time for re-targeting is significantly reduced. Thus, you can aim better and shoot more accurately again. The durability of the design is ensured by the connection of the barrels of the weapon with the receiver. For this, the integrated MonoLock ring hinge system is built in.
Supplied to the market in the following options:
- The Synergy Hunter Grade 3 12M is a classic in 12/76.
- "Synergy Hunter Grade 3 20M" - similar to the previous model, but bullets caliber 20 (weight 2.9 kg).
- "Synergy Hunter Light Grade 3 12M" - weight 3, 1 kg, caliber 12/76.
- Synergy Sporter Inflex 12M - Browning 12 gauge (3.5 kg) sporting shotgun.
- "Synergy Composite Black Ice 12M".
- "Synergy Pro Sport Adjustable 12M".
The Browning Heritage Hunter belongs to the category of elite models. The block here comes with artistic engraving, fitting parts by hand, 12 gauge, weight - just over 3 kg.
Semi-automatic shotguns
In the assortment of the companyThere are several varieties of smoothbore semi-automatic rifles that are popular with both experienced hunters and beginners. They note that it is convenient to use such rifles, regardless of the size of the game, in addition, the designs have good performance characteristics.
The following types of semi-automatic rifles are supplied to the Russian market:
- Browning Maxus. Shotgun "Browning Maxus" has increased technical characteristics. There is a Speed Loading system that greatly simplifies the process of reloading and changing magazines. The design uses Back Bore drilling, which minimizes the possibility of abrasion of shots against the walls of the barrel. The following models of this series are available to the Russian consumer: Maxus Standard 12M (classic with caliber 12/76), Maxus Composite 12M, Maxus Camo Duck Blind 12M in khaki color (for cautious hunters who lie in wait for game and do not want to disturb it ahead of time), Maxus Hunter Grade 2 12M (with hunting engraving) and Maxus Premium Grade 3 (for aristocratic hunters with gold inlay on the cover).
- "Browning Fusion Evolve". Features an elegant design and ease of use. The gun is made of modern light alloys. On the Russian market, you can find a Browning semi-automatic shotgun in one modification - Fusion Evolve II Gold 12M. This is a design with engraving, gold inlays from selected walnut. Her weight is 3 kg.
- "Browning Phoenix". A simplified version of the previous model, which affects the price. The following are available on the Russian marketmodifications: Phoenix Hunter 20M (classic in 20/76 caliber), Phoenix TopCote 12M and Phoenix Composite 12M (all-weather construction).
Rifled Rifles
The rifled gun is a more serious type of weapon. Permission for it is issued only after five years of use of a smoothbore gun. Browning presents a large number of these models that will satisfy the tastes of both experienced hunters and beginners in this business. It is worth remembering that rifled rifles differ in flight range and cannot be used near settlements.
Varieties of rifled rifles:
- "Browning X-Bolt". The design for hunting is classic with manual reloading. Differs in accuracy, safety and usability. In 2009, the National Rifle Association of the United States, this modification was recognized as the "best". Available on the Russian market: X-Bolt Composite (calibers - 308 Winchester, 30-06 Springfield), X-Bolt Stainless Stalker (for hunting in extreme conditions) and X-Bolt Hunter.
- "Browning T-Bolt Sporter". This is a repeating rifle for small-caliber cartridges, which is used by hunters, masters and professional athletes. Magazine capacity - 10 rounds.
- "Browning BAR Acier". The leader of sales of the gun "Browning" - a semiautomatic device. Models that are available to the Russian consumer: BAR Acier Affut (weight 3.5 kg), BAR Acier Battue and BAR Acier Affut BOSS (there is a Browning BOSS muzzle brake, which reduces recoil).
- Among the varieties of "BAR" there is also the Browning BAR ShortTrac/LongTrac model, which differsfrom predecessors with elegance and beautiful appearance. The Browning BAR Match (FNAR) is a sniper rifle that is known for its accuracy and reliability. The kit comes with 5 rounds, but there are models that are more capacious for 10-20 rounds.
- The Browning Semi-Auto 22 rifle was developed back in 1924 and since then its design has not changed much. The weapon can be used on both the right and left shoulder.
- Browning BuckMark Sporter Rifle is designed for sport shooting. It weighs only 2 kg, has a magazine capacity of 10 rounds, and has a total length of 850 mm.
Pump models
In Russia, hunters rarely choose this type of gun. All due to the fact that such a design needs a little "adjustment". Such weapons appeared on the territory of the Russian Federation about 30 years ago, although they have been used by European and American hunters for a long time. Despite this, Russian hunters became seriously interested in this design, especially those who noted its advantages. The gun can be used for both bird hunting and larger game.
Browning's range of pump-action designs called BPS includes dozens of different options. They have different barrel lengths, calibers, types of muzzle devices, magazine capacity, finishes and other performance characteristics. At the moment, pump-action designs are produced and available to the Russian consumer in three calibers: 10, 12 and 20. The barrel length can be from 508 to 813 mm, weight is about 4kg.
The Hunting modification has the most models, there are even highly specialized barrels. Users in the reviews note that the guns have high durability and high-quality assembly. In hunting versions of the Browning, it is not uncommon to shoot up to 30 thousand without the need for repairs.
Creator John Browning himself participated in sports competitions, which helped him test his weapons in action and bring them to the required performance characteristics in the future. It is noted that he could break up to 98 out of 100 cymbals, not only due to his skill, but also with the help of properly designed weapons.
Today, there are two options for drilling the barrel of the Browning pump-action weapon. In the first version, the diameter of the cylindrical part of the barrel is 18.5 mm, in the second - 18.9 mm. The latter option is considered suitable for magnum ammunition, as it optimizes the trajectory of the bullet and improves shooting performance. All guns are still made according to the designs and models of their creator. They can only differ in color and appearance.
Browning Gold hunting rifles
"Golden Browning" - these are designs made in the 70-80s of the 20th century. This is a modern semi-automatic device that meets all the requirements of a hunter. A feature of the device is a self-regulating gas outlet system. This allows you to use not only standard cartridges, but also magnum models in any order.
Gold shotgun is considereduniversal, as it is suitable for different types of hunting, it can be used in all weather conditions. Experts advise to pay attention to the care of weapons. The process of disassembling and assembling the Browning Gold Fusion shotgun does not take much time. It is better to use quality oils for lubrication after the cleansing process. But be aware that excessive amounts of lubricant can lead to the accumulation of unburned powder particles, and thereby provoke contamination of the weapon.
Before going hunting, the masters advise to "shoot". Fire at least 50 rounds into the stand to get a feel for the craft.
New models of guns for sport and hunting from Browning
Browning is constantly working to create new designs or modifications to its existing range of weapons. The Silver line of semi-automatic shotguns has been updated with four new models.
New Browning guns: Silver Black Lightning, Silver Matte Hunter, Silver Matte Hunter Micro Midas are made for professional athletes who are engaged in clay shooting. The Silver Rifled Deer Matte is made for hunting. It is suitable for both experienced hunters and beginners.
All rifles are made of natural wood (walnut), polishing can be matte or glossy. They can be used in calibers 12 or 20. Their cost varies from 76 to 88 thousand rubles.
What documents do I need to submit to obtain a purchase permit?
In order for a hunter to obtain a license for smoothbore weapons or extend its validity, for example, for a Browning A5 gun, a lot of paperwork will have to be prepared.
Documents required to obtain a smoothbore permit:
- medical certificate (form 046-1);
- photos like a passport - 2 pcs.;
- application for the purchase of a gun (in paper and electronic form);
- an extract from the police officer stating that a safe for storing weapons was installed at home;
- receipt of payment for a license in the amount of 1 minimum wage;
- passport copy;
- hunting ticket;
- identification code.
To obtain a rifle permit, you will need to submit:
- certificate from the permit system of the region that the hunting rifle has already been registered (more than five years of experience);
- petition from the hunting cooperative that the hunter is registered with;
- medical certificate, photos, hunting license, photocopies of passport and code;
- application for the purchase of weapons on paper and electronic media;
- act on checking the premises where the gun will be stored (signed by the owner of the weapon, district police officer, instructor or permit);
- receipt of payment in the amount of 2 minimum wages;
- characteristics from the place of work.
To buy a weapon, for example, a Browning 425 shotgun (smoothbore), in a specialized store, you must present the original license, a copy of your passport and a power of attorney from a notary. When buying ammunition, you must submit a copypassports and permits to carry/keep weapons.
Features of use
According to reviews, the Browning gun is distinguished not only by its build quality, but also by its convenience during operation. Before you start using it, you should study the precautions.
Safety rules:
- Before using a weapon, make sure that it is not loaded.
- The gun must always be on the safety, even if not loaded. It must be removed immediately before the shot.
- The finger should only be on the trigger when the person is about to shoot.
- Treat an unloaded gun as if it were loaded and never point it at people.
- Taboo on shooting at water and hard surfaces. Beware of ricochet.
- Ammunition must only be used in accordance with the caliber of the gun.
- The gun and its ammunition should be stored in separate places and away from children.
Gun care
Whether you choose a type of Browning shotgun - pump action, smoothbore or rifled, every hunting device needs care.
Features of care:
- only need to clean an unloaded gun;
- the cleaning process should be carried out with a special rifle cleaner and brush (the main thing is not to scratch the muzzle of the barrel, as this may affect the accuracy of shooting);
- after cleaning everything is wiped dry with a soft cloth, alsocleaning of old oil;
- when hunting in bad weather, you should pre-lubricate the gun before use;
- periodically check the weapon for traces of powder deposits or accumulated dirt (this applies to gas guns).
