When you want a compact, reliable rimfire lever gun that bridges the gap between a youth rifle and a full-sized field piece, the right choice is one that balances smooth handling, proven construction, and ammunition flexibility. In workshops, range days, and field skirmishes with varmints, a rifle that cycles quickly and fits shooters of different sizes earns its keep.
BROWNING BL-22 GRADE I
The BROWNING BL-22 GRADE I is a 22-caliber lever-action rifle built with the sort of fit and finish shooters expect from premium lever platforms. With a polished blued steel receiver and barrel paired with a high-gloss walnut stock and forend, it’s a rifle that looks as purposeful as it handles. If you want to see purchase options, Shop this product on our store page.
Design and Materials
From the machined steel receiver to the carefully fitted walnut, the BL-22 Grade I emphasizes traditional materials executed with modern precision. The polished blued steel provides a durable finish and classic aesthetic that’s easy to maintain. The gloss black walnut stock and forend give the rifle an ergonomic cheek weld and balance that makes sight acquisition intuitive whether you’re using the steel blade front sight and folding rear sight or mounting optics on an aftermarket base.
Dimensions and Handling
This model has a 20″ barrel, an overall length of 36.75″, and a weight of about 5 lb—numbers that translate to a nimble carry rifle that’s easy to shoulder for younger shooters and adults alike. The 13.5″ length of pull and relatively light weight contribute to quick presentation, while the short 33-degree lever throw offers faster cycling and reduced motion between shots. That leverage makes follow-up shots smoother during plinking or a rapid varmint pass.
Action and Magazine
The lever action is the BL-22’s standout mechanical trait. The short 33-degree throw is especially notable: it keeps your hand movement small and predictable and speeds up cycling compared with longer-throw lever guns. Feeding is handled by a tubular magazine with a 15-round capacity, and the magazine tube lock is designed to be fast and secure. One practical advantage is that the BL-22 accepts any 22-caliber ammunition—22 short, 22 long, and 22 long rifle—offering adaptability depending on what you have on hand for plinking or small-game work.
Ammunition Flexibility
Caliber versatility is a major plus for new shooters and experienced hands who appreciate low-cost practice. The ability to use multiple 22 variants allows you to dial down recoil with shorts for basic marksmanship or use long rifle rounds for longer-range accuracy and terminal performance on small varmints. That flexibility also makes the BL-22 an excellent first rifle for youth interested in learning fundamentals without committing to centerfire loads.
Accuracy and Sights
The BL-22 Grade I ships with a steel blade front sight and a folding rear sight, giving a straightforward sight picture right from the box. The twist rate listed at 1:16 combined with a 20″ barrel produces consistent stabilization for standard 22 LR projectiles and contributes to the rifle’s reputation for accuracy. For shooters who prefer optics, the solid receiver and available mounting options allow for compact scopes or red dots, further enhancing field performance.
Build Quality and Utility
What separates the BL-22 Grade I from lesser rimfire lever guns is attention to fit and finish. The well-machined receiver and the snug mating of wood to metal reflect manufacturing standards that make the rifle feel premium. At roughly 5 lb, it’s light enough for all-day carry during pest control or youth mentorship hunts while remaining robust enough for regular use at the range.
Price point is competitive for the features offered: the BROWNING BL-22 GRADE I is listed at $611.99, which places it among higher-quality rimfire lever options with real build and finish advantages. If you want to examine current stock and pricing, View product details and pricing on the product page.
Use Cases: Who Benefits Most
Plinking: The BL-22 is a joy on the range. Its smooth lever and light recoil make it ideal for enjoyable sessions knocking over tin cans or sharpening follow-up mechanics.
Varmint Hunting: For field use, the combination of a 20″ barrel, stable handling, and variety of acceptable ammunition types makes it a practical choice for varmints at moderate distances.
First Rifle: As a starter rifle for families, the short lever throw, manageable weight, and simple sights create an accessible platform for teaching firearm safety and marksmanship fundamentals.
Practical Maintenance Tips
Keep the polished blued metal free of persistent moisture, clean the bore regularly, and check the magazine tube and lever action for debris after a field day. The wood finish will handle oil and light maintenance; a periodic wipe with a soft cloth keeps the walnut looking its best without removing the high-gloss character.
The BROWNING BL-22 GRADE I sits in a class of its own among rimfire lever guns, combining classic materials, modern tolerances, and a lever throw designed for speed and ease. Whether you’re teaching a new shooter, running pest control on a property, or just enjoying a relaxed afternoon at the range, it’s a thoughtfully executed rifle that delivers on both function and form. Visit the product page to view the full specifications and secure one for your next outing.
People Also Ask
What makes this product stand out from competitors?
This product offers superior quality and innovative features that set it apart in the market. Its design focuses on both performance and reliability, making it a top choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Is this product suitable for beginners?
Yes, this product is designed with user-friendly features that make it accessible to beginners while still offering advanced capabilities for experienced users.
What warranty or support is available?
The product comes with comprehensive warranty coverage and excellent customer support to ensure your satisfaction and peace of mind.
How does this compare to similar products in its price range?
This product offers exceptional value for its price point, providing features and quality that typically cost significantly more in comparable alternatives.
What maintenance is required?
Minimal maintenance is required thanks to the product’s durable construction and quality materials. Regular cleaning and occasional inspections will keep it performing optimally.
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