browning safari bolt action rifle

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Rifle November/December 2017

Volume: 49 | Back to issue

This Issue - The Browning High-Power Bolt Action

Spotting Scope - Dave Scovill

Lock, Stock & Barrel - Lee J. Hoots

Mostly Long Guns - Brian Pearce

Table of Contents

• Spotting Scope
• Lock, Stock & Barrel
• Mostly Long Guns
• Light Gunsmithing
• A Rifleman's Optics
• Product Tests
• Walnut Hill
• Nosler Model 48 Long-Range
• Barrett Fieldcraft .243 Winchester

The Browning High-Power Bolt Action

• Winchester Model 1873

A Classic Victimized by Economics

feature By: Brian Pearce | November, 17

The Mauser Model 1898 is often referred to as the forebearer of modern two-lug, turn-bolt rifles, as most have incorporated select design features. At the very least, the ’98 is the rifle against which all others are compared. Originally patented by Paul Mauser in 1895 and adopted by German armed forces April 5, 1898, it has proven reliable in battle. Its nearly unbreakable design has helped it become hugely popular among sportsman, big-game hunters, guides and professional hunters. It has been manufactured in countless countries, resulting in variances in quality, materials, etc.; however, quality versions command premiums and remain in high demand, such as Browning’s FN High-Power rifle.

Commercial ’98 actions began appearing soon after the Model 1898’s introduction and were quickly utilized by prominent European gunmakers such as J.P. Sauer, Krieghoff, Merkel, the British firms Gibbs, Rigby and Holland & Holland, and the noted American firms of Griffin & Howe, Hoffman Arms and others. The ’98 action remains popular with modern craftsmen.

Some of the Model ’98’s significant design features include control-round feeding with a claw extractor and blade ejector, a clever safety lug and shooter protection from escaping gases in the unlikely event of a ruptured case or a severely overloaded cartridge with resultant catastrophic failure. Critics are quick to point out the design’s comparatively slow lock time, direct pull trigger, poorly positioned safety, cumbersome floorplate and poorly shaped bolt handle. While the lock time is slow, this is not a legitimate criticism for most big-game hunting applications unless the rifle is built specifically for long-range work. There are many top-quality, modern trigger and safety assemblies (available from Brownells: www.brownells.com ) that are easily installed, as well as hinged floorplates. Likewise, the military bolt handle has traditionally been replaced with a more palatable configuration when building a custom sporter rifle. It should also be noted that post-World War II commercial ’98 actions feature most of the above changes.

Fabrique Nationale (FN) of Belgium began importing Mauser 1898-pattern rifles and actions to the U.S. by 1947 in three variations that included the Sporter Deluxe, Presentation Grade and Supreme Magnum. These rifles featured actions with special “high tensile” steel to handle the pressures associated with modern cartridges and to increase durability. Tolerances were held to much tighter specifications than were military actions. This helped eliminate much of the “slop” between the bolt body and receiver and also assured that the lugs and breech face were true. Machining and finish work were of top quality.

The FN action was not just a commercialized military version, as it featured a checkered bolt handle knob with the handle being swept back for more natural operation and improved appearance. The trigger was changed to a single pull design without slack, and a sporter-style, hand-engraved, steel, hinged floorplate was installed and secured via a reliable quick-release latch housed in the front of the trigger guard. In addition to modern high-tensile steels being used, the thumb slot – common on military actions and some pre-World War II commercial actions – that was necessary to reach and depress the follower to close the action was eliminated. This increased the receiver’s rigidity, improved the rifle’s appearance and further distinguished it from surplus actions. The modern button-style sliding safety, located to the right of the bolt sleeve, was out of the way for installing a scope, and was a three-position design. The middle position allowed removal of a cartridge from the chamber while preventing the rifle from firing – a similar concept as found on the Winchester Model 70.

Browning Arms’ long-lasting relationship with FN began around 1897, when John Browning contracted the firm in Belgium to manufacture his Model 1899 pistol, as well as many subsequent rifles, shotguns and pistols. By 1960, Browning Arms recognized the obvious void in its product line and began importing the High-Power rifle to compete with other U.S. companies. FN discontinued importation of its rifles shortly afterward.

The new Browning rifle was built on the same Mauser ’98 action as the previosuly described FN rifles, though there were a few notable changes. For example, the bolt stop was smaller and had an external spring, but it was still robust. The classic-style stock was replaced with a Monte Carlo design and fitted with a ventilated rubber recoil pad (on most models) with a white line spacer, which was popular in the U.S. A barrel-mounted rear sight and bead front became standard, but optional sights were available, and rifles could be ordered without sights.

The High-Power was offered in three grades, including Safari, Medallion and Olympian. In spite of the Safari being the base rifle, it was a beauty with select walnut stock wood and hand-cut checkering. Rifles in most calibers included a steel recoil lug, and the stock was fit by hand and bedded to a specific barreled action to maximize accuracy. The trigger guard and floorplate were lightly engraved and highlighted with gold. Although the stock finish was gloss (or semigloss), which was  popular at the time, it was a high-quality finish. As previously indicated, the rust bluing was beautifully colored, deep in appearance and durable.

The Olympian Grade was a factory-built, custom rifle that featured a coined satin receiver with multiple game scenes that were hand engraved by master engravers, and usually signed. The animals chosen for a rifle were typical of what was commonly hunted with the caliber of that particular rifle. The receiver engraving coverage is classified as “full coverage,” and the trigger guard and floorplate were likewise fully engraved with game scenes while scroll engraving graced the bridge and barrel. The stock consisted of high-grade fancy walnut and was finished with hand-carved floral patterns and checkering.

The High-Power rifles were available in popular calibers from .243 Winchester to .458 Winchester Magnum; however, the majority were for .30-06-length (3.340 inches) and .375 H&H-length (3.600 inches) cartridges. Short action cartridges (.243 and .308 Winchester) were produced in limited quantities on the ’98 action. Browning chose instead to offer these cartridges, as well as the .222 Remington, .222 Remington Magnum and .22-250 Remington, for Sako Finnish-built rifles that have a reputation for top-notch accuracy. This action features a unique push-feed system with a robust rotating extractor that snaps over the rim upon closing, while the ejector is a blade style that allows control of cases (or cartridges) as they are pulled from the chamber. The Sako is well known for its precise action and barrel specifications that offered smooth, flawless function and accuracy.

Economics tragically began to take its toll on the High-Power rifle. In short, the cost to produce the commercial Mauser ’98 action was high, and competing companies were developing new manufacturing methods and began designing rifles that cost notably less to produce. During the late 1960s, Browning responded with a modified version of the Mauser ’98 known as the “FN Supreme” action that was a push-feed design with a rotating extractor, a countersunk bolt face and spring-loaded plunger ejector, all of which helped keep manufacturing costs down. This was a good design; however, purists and big-game hunters generally frowned on it. Even though sales remained strong, it was an expensive rifle to produce, and by 1974-1975 the last of the Browning High-Power rifles were imported to the U.S. (though they continued to be sold throughout Europe into the 1980s).

Over the past 40 years I have owned, shot and hunted with perhaps three dozen High-Power rifles that have ranged from .222 Remington to .458 Winchester Magnum. They have always proven accurate and reliable. During the early 1980s, I owned a Safari Grade  .300 Winchester Magnum that often placed five shots into .25 to .5 inch at 100 yards with a variety of handloads and Federal’s Premium load containing the Sierra 200-grain bullet. It proved an excellent field rifle and accounted for elk, deer, antelope and black bear. I have no idea why I sold it, but I certainly regret it! I currently own several High-Power rifles in a variety of calibers, and with similar load development most will come close to duplicating the accuracy of that .300 Winchester Magnum.

One Olympian Grade rifle I have had the pleasure of owning and shooting was purchased from the Elmer Keith collection. According to records, it was the first Olympian Grade .338 Winchester Magnum produced in 1960. It is beautifully engraved and signed by master engraver Marie Magis. It features a standing brown bear with a mountainous background on the floorplate, a snarling mountain lion on the trigger guard bow, a bull elk bugling on the right receiver ring and a bull moose in a swamp on the left receiver ring. The remainder of the receiver is engraved with relief scrolled acanthus on the sidewall and bridge, as well as two inches of the barrel.

The front sight is a sourdough, while the folding rear sight is adjustable and housed in a base. The barrel is 24 inches long and measures .675 inch at the muzzle. A low-numbered Leupold M7 4X scope is housed in George Hoening installed claw bases and rings, which can be quickly detached to access the iron sights. The reticle is a fine German post.

Upon receiving the Keith rifle, I took it to my 100-yard range with several handloads. The scope had been removed upon shipping from James Julia Auction Company, but I had not noticed that one of the mounting screws had also been loosened. My first shots from the bench were a bit erratic, so all guard screws and mounts were checked to discover and correct the problem. The next group was fired using Sierra 250-grain boat-tail bullets over 74.5 grains of Hodgdon H-4831 powder and capped with Federal No. 215 primers for 2,700 fps. I looked through the spotting scope after the second shot but could only see one hole, so a third shot was fired. Again, only one hole could be observed on the target, about one inch below center. Upon retrieving the target, all three bullets had passed through the same hole, with the group measuring a mere .216 inch, center to center, which was the same level of accuracy Keith reported many years ago.

The High-Power became a victim during an era when costs for traditional machining methods, labor and hand craftsmanship soared. Nonetheless, it holds the status of being a classic rifle that still appeals to discriminating shooters and hunters.

Lot 3664 : Belgian Browning High-Power Safari Grade Bolt Action Rifle

Belgian browning high-power safari grade bolt action rifle with box, auction location: rock island , il, auction date: august 28, 2022.

Manufactured in 1972. Standard Safari Grade markings and features. Includes a Safari Grade box numbered "64220".

Excellent, retaining 99% plus original blue, some discoloration on the bolt handle, stock varnish beginning to craze, and sharp stock checkering. The box is very good with light edge wear. Mechanically excellent.

Customer Product Questions

There are currently no customer product questions on this lot

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Browning FN High Power Safari Grade Date of Manufacture, 3 digit

Discussion in ' Discontinued Browning Models ' started by Blair McAnally , Jan 8, 2018 .

Blair McAnally Copper BB

I took in trade a Browning FN High Power Safari Grade 30-06, Ser # L53x, and was hoping to get some help in dating it, from what I can tell it seems to be a 1st year production, 1969? Safari Grade? The metal is all good no rust, the ser # is in the barrel channel of the stock and matches the gun ser #.

SHOOTER13 Guest

Here are proven sites that can be used to help Members date their firearms by serial number: http://www.nramuseum.org/gun-info-research/serialization-date-of-manufacture-from-the-blue-book.aspx - - and... - - http://www.proofhouse.com/

Browning Specific: { Model / Type } http://www.browning.com/support/date-your-firearm.html

Belgian Barrel Proof Marks: http://damascus-barrels.com/Belgian_All_Proofmarks.html

farrell Copper BB

I have s#705 that I bought in 1960 so your rifle must be 59

trapshoooter43 Copper BB

pretty sure its a 1965

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BAR Safari Tribute Mid Grade

$2,399.99 - $2,399.99 MSRP

The Browning BAR is the ultimate sporting autoloader. Released in 1967, the BAR sporting version is certainly a distinct and separate rifle from the military BAR M1918, but its design results from the understanding and expertise that started with John M. Browning. His grandson, Bruce Browning, was the driving force behind today's BAR. His vision, plus an experienced team of experts at the FN factory in Belgium, brought this innovative rifle to market. Both the history and the efficiency of this amazing rifle are unequaled among autoloading rifles.

To honor 57 years of the BAR, the Tribute Mid Grade will feature Grade III walnut, laser engraving of retro styles on the receiver, proven gas piston operation and a hammer forged barrel.

Classic in looks and contemporary in performance, the BAR Safari set the standard for every other autoloader with accuracy, speed, and a caliber selection unmatched by any other hunting semi-auto. This magnificent rifle will make autoloading enthusiasts out of the most skeptical riflemen.

NOTE: Unless specifically listed as included with a firearm, accessories shown such as scopes, optical sights, rings, ring mounts, optic rails, bipod rails, ammunition, etc. are NOT included. Accessories are available at authorized Browning dealers and  here on Browning.com.

• Grade III Turkish walnut stock 
• 308 – Whitetail engraving
• 25-06 – Antelope engraving
• 270 – Mule deer engraving
• 30-06 – Elk engraving

BAR Features

• Gas piston operation
• Detachable Box Magazine
• High strength, the seven-lug rotating bolt that locks securely into the barrel for a precise breech-to-chamber relationship.
• Strong action bar/inertia block link-up reduces barrel vibration to improve accuracy
• Integral buffering system reduces wear and stress on the rifle’s operating system
• 308 Win • 22"
• 25-06 Rem • 22"
• 270 Win • 22"
• 30-06 Spfld • 22"

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20 Of The Greatest Hunting Rifles Of Ever Made

Posted: May 6, 2024 | Last updated: May 6, 2024

Selecting the right rifle is crucial for hunting success and enhancing the overall hunting experience. This guide delves into various popular hunting rifles, highlighting their distinctive features and benefits tailored to meet the diverse preferences of hunters.

The selection ranges from traditional bolt-actions to advanced semi-automatics, each exemplifying fine craftsmanship, precision, and innovative design. These qualities are highly valued by hunters who venture across varied landscapes and face different hunting challenges.

Weatherby Vanguard

The Weatherby Vanguard is a bolt-action rifle that combines high accuracy with affordability. It is built with a focus on quality and provides a reliable option for both hunting and target shooting, offering excellent performance at a competitive price.

Winchester Model 70 Classic

The Winchester Model 70 Classic is a celebrated bolt-action rifle with a legacy of reliability and precision. Known for its controlled-round feeding and three-position safety, it continues to be a preferred choice among hunters, demonstrating enduring quality through the years.

Known for its quick and efficient straight-pull bolt action, the Blaser R93 allows for rapid follow-up shots. It features a modular design that facilitates easy caliber changes to adapt to different hunting situations. Its precise construction guarantees shooter accuracy in diverse field conditions.

The Tikka T3x, a reliable bolt-action rifle from Finland, is known for its silky-smooth bolt operation and superb trigger mechanism. It boasts impressive accuracy straight from the box and offers various models to cater to the specific needs of hunters and shooters alike.

Traditions NitroFire

The Traditions NitroFire modernizes the muzzleloader experience with an inline ignition system for enhanced accuracy and user-friendly operation. It features a nitride-treated barrel and reliable ignition, appealing to those who enjoy the traditional aspects of black powder hunting with a contemporary twist.

Browning X-Bolt

The Browning X-Bolt stands out with its dependable bolt action and sharp, adjustable trigger. It is designed for comfort, featuring a sleek profile and an Inflex Technology recoil pad. This rifle is both accurate and robust, making it ideal for hunting various types of game.

The Sako 75 is a Finnish bolt-action rifle renowned for its smooth cycling and high-quality build. It offers a variety of configurations to suit different preferences, making it a popular choice among hunters and sports enthusiasts who demand a refined and reliable firearm.

Springfield Waypoint

The Springfield Waypoint is engineered for precise shooting and hunting, featuring a carbon-fiber stock, match-grade barrel, and adjustable trigger. Its lightweight design enhances its portability without compromising on accuracy, positioning it as a top choice for performance-focused hunters.

The Kimber 84L is designed for hunters who value portability and accuracy in their rifle. This lightweight bolt-action model guarantees sub-MOA accuracy and features an adjustable trigger for enhanced shooting precision, offering a dependable option for hunters on the move.

Remington Model Seven

The compact Remington Model Seven is a versatile bolt-action rifle that excels in rapid handling and is suited for various hunting settings. Its reliability and the choice between synthetic or wooden stocks cater to hunters needing a swift and efficient firearm.

CVA Paramount Pro

The CVA Paramount Pro excels in long-range precision with its muzzleloader design, featuring a nitride-treated stainless steel barrel for durability. It is equipped with an adjustable stock for customization and a powerful ignition system suited for magnum loads, making it a modern choice for black powder hunting.

Mossberg 464

The Mossberg 464 is an affordable and simple lever-action rifle that is ideal for brush hunting and close-quarter scenarios. Its robust design ensures durability and reliability, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a budget-friendly yet effective hunting rifle.

New Ultra-Light Arms

Renowned gunsmith Melvin Forbes meticulously crafts each New Ultra-Light Arms rifle, combining lightweight design with precise bolt-action functionality. These rifles are perfect for backcountry hunters and those who appreciate a lighter load during extended treks in the wilderness.

CZ 550 Safari Magnum

The CZ 550 Safari Magnum is crafted for big-game pursuits, with a robust bolt action and a Mauser-style control-round feed for reliability under tough conditions. Its traditional walnut stock and significant chambering options make it a top choice for hunting large and potentially dangerous game.

CZ Model 527

Ideal for varmint and small-game hunting, the CZ Model 527 is a compact, lightweight bolt-action rifle that delivers exceptional accuracy. It features a single-set trigger for precise shooting and an elegant, reliable design, making it a favored choice for hunters seeking a versatile firearm.

Dakota Model 76

The Dakota Model 76, renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship, is a high-end bolt-action rifle that can be customized to fit individual preferences. It combines aesthetic appeal with functional precision, making it highly sought after by both hunters and collectors.

DPMS Panther Arms AR

The DPMS Panther Arms AR is a versatile semi-automatic rifle, well-suited for both sporting and hunting purposes. It features a modular build, allowing for extensive customization, and is chambered in .308 Winchester, offering a perfect balance of power and adaptability for various shooting activities.

Ruger American Rifle

The Ruger American Rifle is an affordable option that maintains high performance, characterized by its power bedding system and customizable trigger. This bolt-action rifle offers dependable accuracy, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious hunters.

Ruger Mini-14

The Ruger Mini-14, a semi-automatic rifle, is well-regarded for its sturdy construction and reliability. Its compact size and various available configurations make it particularly favored by ranchers and outdoor enthusiasts for its adaptability to numerous shooting conditions.

Ruger Precision Rifle

Designed for long-range precision, the Ruger Precision Rifle features a modular structure, adjustable stock, and free-floated barrel that together offer exceptional accuracy. This bolt-action rifle is popular among both precision shooters and hunters aiming at distant targets.

The diverse world of popular hunting rifles merges traditional craftsmanship with modern technology, catering to the varied demands of hunting enthusiasts. From classic models like the Winchester Model 70 to advanced designs like the Ruger Precision Rifle, each firearm exemplifies a commitment to quality, accuracy, and durability.

As the evolution of these rifles continues, hunters are provided with the tools necessary to achieve a delicate balance between aesthetics and functionality. This ongoing development not only challenges hunters but also upholds the high standards of excellence these rifles are known for.

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