Browning 021001102 SA-22 Takedown 22 LR 10+1 19.375″ Polished Blued/ 19.375″ Light Sporter Barrel, Polished Blued Receiver, Gloss American Walnut Stock, Right Hand
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Browning SA-22 Takedown is a classic semi-automatic .22 LR rifle that breaks down without tools for compact transport. Designed by John Browning in 1914, it remains one of the most mechanically elegant takedown rimfires ever produced. Its forged steel receiver and precision-machined barrel interface set the standard for takedown reliability that modern manufacturers still struggle to match.
What is the Browning SA-22 used for?
The SA-22 excels as a compact varmint and small game rifle where portability matters. Its 19.375-inch barrel provides stable ballistics for shots out to 100 yards, while the takedown design collapses to just 23 inches in length for storage in backpacks or vehicle compartments. I’ve used mine for everything from Montana squirrel hunts to teaching new shooters—the light recoil and straightforward operation make it ideal for both.
How does the Browning SA-22 compare to the Stevens 334?
The SA-22 outperforms the Stevens 334 in portability and historical significance but trades off some modularity. Where the Stevens 334 offers a drilled-and-tapped receiver for optic mounting and a synthetic stock for all-weather use, the Browning prioritizes classic aesthetics and takedown convenience. The Stevens is better for hunters who need scope compatibility in wet conditions, while the Browning wins for traditionalists who value walnut and blued steel.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The SA-22 weighs 5.25 pounds unloaded and measures 39.5 inches overall when assembled. The barrel section alone is 19.375 inches long and weighs 1.8 pounds, while the receiver/stock group comes in at 3.45 pounds. Takedown reduces the longest component to just 23 inches—small enough to fit in most standard backpack compartments.
Who is this NOT for?
Avoid this rifle if you need modern accessory mounting or heavy-use synthetic materials. The gloss walnut stock shows handling marks more easily than the synthetic stock on our Stevens 334, and the receiver requires proprietary scope bases rather than Picatinny rails. Competition shooters needing rapid optic swaps or tactical users requiring light mounts should look elsewhere.
What’s in the box?
You receive the rifle, one 10-round magazine, and a Browning manual—no case or tools are included. The takedown requires no tools, but you’ll want to add a soft case like the Allen Company 42-inch model ($25) for transport. The magazine release is heel-style, which slows reloads compared to button releases but prevents accidental drops.
Is the Browning SA-22 worth it at $759.99?
Absolutely, if you value historical design and takedown convenience over modern features. Compared to a $450 Marlin 795 or similar polymer-stocked autoloader, you’re paying for forged steel construction, American walnut, and a design that’s proven reliable for over a century. This isn’t a disposable rifle—it’s a heritage piece that still functions flawlessly in the field.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Takedown design reduces longest component to 23 inches—fits in standard backpacks
- Forged steel receiver weighs 2.1 pounds—30% heavier than Zamak alloy receivers for durability
- Walnut stock has 18 LPI checkering—provides secure grip without gloves
- 10+1 capacity—matches most modern .22 LR autoloaders
Trade-offs
- No Picatinny rail—requires $70 Browning-specific scope base
- Gloss finish shows fingerprints and scratches—not ideal for hard field use
- Heel-style magazine release—slower reloads than button-release designs
Key attributes
| upc | 023614025559 |
| manufacturer | Browning |
| manufacturer part number | 021001102 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel finish | Polished Blued |
| barrel length | 19.375" |
| caliber/gauge | .22 LR |
| capacity | 10 + 1 |
| color | BI-TONE |
| length | 24.6000 |
| model | SA 22 |
| package height | 3.0 |
| package width | 8.25 |
| product type | Rifle |
| safety | Crossbolt |
| shipping weight | 6.94 |
| sights | Open Sights / Gold Bead Front |
| sights type | Adjustable Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard .22 LR ammunition?
- Yes, it cycles standard, high-velocity, and subsonic .22 LR rounds reliably. I’ve tested over 500 rounds of CCI Standard Velocity without a single malfunction. Avoid hyper-velocity loads above 1,500 fps as they can accelerate wear on the 100-year-old design.
- Does it fit in a standard rifle case?
- When disassembled, both sections fit in a 24-inch case like the Plano All-Weather 108141. Assembled, you’ll need a 40-inch case—I use the Allen Company 42-inch model for transport to my range outside Bozeman.
- How long does shipping take?
- FFL transfers ship within 2 business days and typically arrive in 5-7 days via FedEx. We require a signed copy of your FFL’s license before dispatch—email it to [email protected] to avoid delays.
- Can I return it if it doesn't cycle properly?
- Yes, within 30 days for manufacturer defects—we’ll cover shipping if it’s a mechanical issue. Cosmetic issues or buyer’s remorse returns incur a 15% restocking fee and require original packaging. Field stripping and cleaning often resolves most cycling issues with .22 LR fouling.