Browning BAR MK4 Hunter .270 Win 22in Synthetic, 4rd
About this product
The Browning BAR MK4 Hunter .270 Win is a gas-operated, semi-automatic hunting rifle built on an alloy receiver with a 22-inch fluted barrel and a 4-round detachable box magazine. It represents Browning's modern iteration of the classic autoloading sporting rifle platform, specifically configured for calibers like .270 Winchester that are well-suited for medium to large game at extended ranges. The rifle's synthetic stock and matte metal finishes are designed for durability and reduced maintenance in demanding field conditions.
What is the Browning BAR MK4 Hunter .270 Win used for?
This rifle is engineered for hunting medium to large game like deer, elk, or moose at distances from 100 to over 300 yards. Its .270 Winchester chambering delivers a flat trajectory with ample energy for ethical takedowns, while the semi-automatic action provides faster follow-up shot capability compared to a manual action. The 7.12 lb weight and adjustable stock make it manageable for carrying over varied terrain and shooting from various positions.
How does the Browning BAR MK4 Hunter compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The BAR MK4 is a semi-automatic rifle, while the Stevens 334 is a bolt-action. The BAR MK4 is better for scenarios demanding rapid, controlled follow-up shots, such as hunting driven game or in areas with higher predator densities. The Stevens 334, being a simpler mechanical system, will generally offer slightly better inherent accuracy potential and is often easier to clean thoroughly in the field.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded, this rifle weighs 7.12 lbs (115.5 oz). Its overall length is approximately 42.5 inches, with a barrel length of precisely 22 inches and a length of pull adjustable between 13.5 and 14.5 inches using the included shim kit. The barrel's fluting reduces weight by roughly 4-6 ounces and aids in heat dissipation during sustained firing strings, though this is less critical for typical hunting use.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not ideal for a first-time buyer on a strict budget seeking the absolute simplest manual of arms, nor is it suitable for jurisdictions with magazine capacity restrictions below 4 rounds. Hunters who prioritize extreme long-range precision beyond 500 yards would be better served by a purpose-built bolt-action rifle. It is also not the optimal choice for someone wanting a multi-role home defense firearm, where a shorter barreled AR-platform rifle or the Stevens 555 Sporting shotgun would be more appropriate.
What's in the box?
You receive the barreled action assembled in the adjustable synthetic stock, one 4-round steel detachable box magazine, a set of three stock adjustment shims for altering the pull and cast, and the owner's manual. The manual includes the mandatory ATF Form 4473 instructions but does not include a hard case, scope mounts, sling, or optic. You will need to budget for a quality scope base and rings, which typically add $60-$150 to the total setup cost.
Is the Browning BAR MK4 Hunter worth it at $1,434.99?
At this price point, the BAR MK4 Hunter is worth it for the hunter who specifically values the reliability and handling of a modern gas-operated semi-auto in a proven hunting caliber. You are paying a premium of approximately $400-$600 over a comparable entry-level bolt-action like the Stevens 334 for the engineering and complexity of the autoloading system. If your primary need is reliable, fast-cycling performance from a hunting rifle in tough conditions, this premium is justified by the mechanical advantage it provides.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Gas-piston system reduces perceived recoil by approximately 30% compared to a direct-impingement design.
- Weight of 7.12 lbs (115.5 oz) balances well for off-hand shooting without being overly burdensome on long stalks.
- Shim-adjustable stock provides a customizable length of pull ranging from 13.5 to 14.5 inches for proper fit.
- Fluted 22-inch barrel sheds weight and heat faster than a standard contour barrel of the same length.
Trade-offs
- Fixed 4-round magazine capacity is non-negotiable for hunting; cannot be legally or practically upgraded without altering the firearm's classification.
- The alloy receiver, while lightweight, is more susceptible to cosmetic wear and scuffing from scope rings and hard use than a steel receiver.
- Gas system requires more meticulous cleaning than a simple bolt-action like the Stevens 334, adding 10-15 minutes to routine maintenance.
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 023614861881 |
| manufacturer | Browning |
| manufacturer part number | 039007224 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | SPORTING RIFLE |
| barrel length | 22" |
| caliber/gauge | .270 Winchester |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| color | BLUED |
| number of magazines | 1 4 rd. |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 0.0 |
| sights | No |
Frequently asked questions
- Does this work with a standard Browning BAR scope mount?
- Yes, the receiver is drilled and tapped with a standard 8-40 thread pattern for scope bases. Weaver-style or Picatinny bases designed for recent-production Browning BAR models will fit. Specific base part numbers like the Browning #095000229 or Leupold #50021 (front) and #50022 (rear) are known to be compatible.
- Will this rifle cycle lighter .270 Winchester target loads reliably?
- It will cycle standard 130-grain and 150-grain factory hunting ammunition reliably. Very light sub-100-grain varmint loads or reduced-recoil loads may not generate sufficient gas pressure to cycle the action consistently. For reliable function, stick to factory loads within the SAAMI-specified pressure range for .270 Winchester.
- How do I disassemble the gas system for cleaning?
- Field stripping for basic cleaning requires no tools: push the takedown pin to separate the barreled action from the stock. Full disassembly of the gas piston and regulator should only be performed by a qualified gunsmith or an experienced armorer, as improper reassembly can affect reliability and safety. Complete cleaning of the gas system is recommended every 200-300 rounds.
- Can I order additional or higher-capacity magazines?
- Yes, additional 4-round steel magazines (Browning part #095000277) are available from Browning or authorized distributors like MidwayUSA. Federal and most state regulations limit magazine capacity for semi-automatic rifles used in hunting; no factory 10-round magazines are offered for this hunting configuration.