BROWNING BL-22 Lever-Action Rifle Review: Specs, Variants, Accuracy, Price, Hunting Use & Accessories

BROWNING BL-22 Lever-Action Rifle Review: Specs, Variants, Accuracy, Price, Hunting Use & Accessories The Browning BL-22 is one of the most refined and reliable lever-action rimfire rifles ever produced. With its short-throw action, premium build quality, and versatile .22 chambering, it remains a top choice for small game hunters, plinkers, and competitive shooters. --- 📌 Table of Contents Browning BL22 1. Introduction to the Browning BL-22 2. Technical Specifications 3. Variants and Grades 4. Performance and Accuracy 5. Hunting Applications Browning BL-22 6. Accessories and Optics 7. Pros and Cons Browning BL-22 8. Pricing and Availability 9. Interesting Facts 10. Final Verdict --- 1. Introduction to the Browning BL-22 Introduced in 1969, the Browning BL-22 is a lever-action rimfire rifle chambered in .22 Short, .22 Long, and .22 Long Rifle. Manufactured in Japan by Miroku, it’s renowned for its 33° short lever throw, which allows rapid cycling without removing your fingers from the loop. The BL-22 is often praised for its tight tolerances, smooth action, and classic walnut stock, making it a favorite among seasoned hunters and collectors alike. The BL-22’s lever mechanism is not just fast—it’s engineered for finesse. Unlike traditional lever-action rifles that require a full 90° throw, the BL-22’s 33-degree lever arc allows shooters to maintain grip and sight alignment during cycling, which is especially beneficial for rapid follow-up shots in squirrel hunting or competitive rimfire stages. --- 2. Technical Specifications • Action: Lever-action • Caliber: .22 Short / .22 Long / .22 LR • Magazine: Tubular, 15 rounds (.22 Short), 11 rounds (.22 LR) • Barrel Length: 20 inches • Overall Length: 36.75 inches • Weight: Approx. 5 lbs • Stock: Walnut, straight grip with Schnabel forend • Sights: Adjustable iron sights; receiver grooved for scope mounts • Trigger: Integrated with lever (moves with lever to prevent finger pinch) • Finish: Blued barrel and receiver --- 3. Variants and Grades The BL-22 is available in several grades and configurations: • Grade I: Standard model with satin finish and basic checkering • Grade II: Enhanced wood grain, gloss finish, and laser engraving • FLD Maple: High-gloss maple stock with nickel receiver • Micro Midas: Compact version for youth and smaller shooters • Octagon Barrel: Vintage-style barrel for collectors • BL-22 Stainless: Rare variant with stainless steel finish (limited production) Each variant maintains the same mechanical excellence but differs in aesthetics and ergonomics. --- 4. Performance and Accuracy The BL-22 is known for exceptional accuracy within its class. With quality ammunition, it consistently delivers sub-MOA groups at 50 yards, making it ideal for target shooting and small game hunting. The short lever throw and crisp trigger allow for fast follow-up shots, while the lightweight build ensures easy handling in the field. The BL-22’s ability to chamber and cycle .22 Short, .22 Long, and .22 Long Rifle makes it exceptionally versatile for both hunting and training. This flexibility allows shooters to choose low-noise, low-recoil rounds for backyard plinking or high-velocity .22 LR for small game hunting. The tubular magazine accommodates up to 15 rounds of .22 Short, giving it one of the highest capacities among lever-action rimfire rifles — a major advantage for pest control and fast-paced shooting drills. In terms of build quality, the BL-22 stands out with its precision-machined steel receiver and deeply blued finish, paired with high-grade walnut stocks that rival centerfire rifles in craftsmanship. The Schnabel forend and straight grip not only enhance handling but also give the rifle a classic, elegant profile. Unlike many rimfire rifles, the BL-22 is built to last generations, with tight tolerances and smooth cycling that remain consistent even after thousands of rounds — a key reason why it’s favored by collectors and serious hunters alike. --- 5. Hunting Applications The BL-22 is perfect for: • Squirrel and rabbit hunting • Ruffed grouse and other small birds • Farm pest control (rats, crows, etc.) • Training youth hunters Its quiet report, low recoil, and high magazine capacity make it ideal for woods stalking and brush shooting. --- 6. Accessories and Optics Browning BL-22 • Scope Mounts: Receiver grooved for 3/8” rimfire rings • Recommended Optics: 2–7x rimfire scopes or red dot sights • Slings: Standard swivel studs for sling attachment • Cleaning Kits: .22 caliber bore snakes and brushes • Cases: Soft or hard rifle cases with 37” internal length --- 7. Pros and Cons Browning BL-22 Pros • Ultra-smooth short-throw lever • Excellent build quality • Lightweight and compact • Handles all .22 rimfire types • Ideal for beginners and experts alike Cons • Premium price compared to budget .22s • Limited aftermarket customization • No threaded barrel for suppressors (on most models) --- 8. Pricing and Availability Browning BL-22 • New BL-22 Grade I: ~$699 USD • Grade II / FLD Maple: $850–$1,100 USD • Used Models: $600–$950 USD depending on condition and grade --- 9. Interesting Facts • The BL-22’s trigger moves with the lever, eliminating finger pinch — a rare feature in lever guns. • It’s one of the few rimfire rifles that can reliably cycle .22 Short, Long, and LR without modification. • The 33° lever throw is among the shortest in the industry, allowing rapid fire with minimal movement. • Despite its premium build, it remains one of the lightest lever-action rifles on the market. --- 10. Final Verdict The Browning BL-22 is a top-tier lever-action rimfire rifle that combines classic aesthetics, modern engineering, and field-ready performance. Whether you’re a hunter, a competitive shooter, or a collector, the BL-22 offers unmatched reliability and style. Its smooth action, versatile chambering, and premium materials make it a standout in the crowded rimfire market.