Browning BLR

Shooting and discussing the Browning Lever Rifle in .308 chambering.
------------------------ Hickok45 videos are filmed on my own private shooting range and property by trained professionals for educational and entertainment purposes only, with emphasis on firearms safety and responsible gun ownership. We are NOT in the business of selling firearms or performing modifications on them. Do not attempt to copy at home anything you see in our videos. Firearms can be extremely dangerous if not used safely.
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The short FAQ Videos playlist will answer most questions you have:
• FAQ Videos
Find us on Hickok45 Twitter and Facebook, as well as “therealHickok45” on Instagram.

[@hickok45]

As mentioned in a weekly "Sunday Shoot-a-Round" video, don't rely on KZbin to keep you informed when somebody uploads a new video. For those folks you like to keep up with, go to their channel page regularly, and click on "videos." You'll see all their recent videos: kzbin.info Also, everybody stay calm and keep your hands washed. Enjoy some good books and good movies, OR maybe even catch up on your Hickok45 homework and watch all those brilliant videos you've not seen yet. :-)

[@gunlove7772]

Hickock45 please do a review of the ruger lcrx 38 spl the snub , thats the one thats da/sa ,you only have the review on the dao lcr , please review the lcrx snub 38

[@JohnDoe-nk2ig]

Hickock45 please do a review of the ruger lcrx 38 spl the snub , thats the one thats da/sa ,you only have the review on the dao lcr , please review the lcrx snub 38

[@lunchboxlansing317]

I agree. If they cant be made in America the next best place would be Japan. They take great pride in making quality rifles.

[@humanoidwolf]

I agree hickok45

[@nicholas73018]

hickok45 I’m a little upset about with KZbin at the moment for that reason. I have notifications set for your videos and I missed this week and last weeks Sunday shoot around as well as the Glock 44 (which I have waited for months). I am all caught up now and will go look at your channel a little more often.

[@Phil-S8]

I'll learn to shoot before I get old Such a humble guy.

[@kennethfink1832]

I have used a 308 not for deer hunting for over 30 years , to me it gives thee perfect blend of 1800 ' s style with a modern hunting round.

[@heyitshunter8010]

He’s a legend

[@georgegrieve6198]

I have a Belgian made BLR from the 70’s in .308. Bought at a gun show in 1980 for $400.00. Been my deer rifle going on 40 years now. Love it!

[@BilgePump]

Gee u know how to make a guy jealous!!

[@dominickbuzzanco]

My model is from Belgium also. I've owed it since 82 or 83. My father bought it used for me as a gift. Perfect rifle for where I used to hunt. Haven't touched it in decades

[@Alexander-qd7nj]

Same

[@Kingkiel13]

The older BLR magazines (ones with a rounded bottom) are worth quite a bit of money now adays

[@Alexander-qd7nj]

@@Kingkiel13 I just paid 300 for a brand new one

[@martindrengenxbox360]

The Japanese machinists have proven to be excellent at making browning products, they are cheap but still excellent in regards to Accuracy and reliability. That's a proof a professional craftsmanship.

[@sasquatchycowboy5585]

I once saw a browning A bolt, in some magnum caliber, shoot quarter size groups at 300yd with hand loads.

[@BigT27295]

You are right Sir.

[@buckshot4428]

They are not cheap, but they are worth the money if you can afford them. Personally, I would rather have the earlier all steel one.

[@martindrengenxbox360]

@@buckshot4428 Well. Where I'm from, Browning products are cheap compared to the alternatives.

[@pallmall5495]

@@martindrengenxbox360 I remember Browning being one of the most expensive guns ,have they really gotten cheaper?

[@scottc.real_2legit_4u55]

Even if you hate that rifle, You've got to love the wood! That is beautiful!!!!

[@thesayxx]

I dont like the look of gloss coat on the stock. Mine was sanded down, re-checkered and finished with a matte finish. looks so so much better

[@jbarbeau92]

BloodRaven yeah, unfortunately, I think it’s the existence of cheap, glossy plastic faux wood that has ruined the appearance of actual glossy wood for me, just by association.

[@scottc.real_2legit_4u55]

@@thesayxx Sounds great I'd love to see it to compare. I mostly love the wood on the firearms not so much the shine. Wood can be so very beautiful. Synthetic stocks are okay and can be nice, But I prefer wood in most cases.

[@thesayxx]

@@scottc.real_2legit_4u55 i tried taking some pictures but the lighting is terrible, since its night out where i'm from. Yea i dont mind synthetic stocks myself. they are good for utility guns, but for aesthetic factor you cannot beat good old wood. But yea as the guy who redid the stock for me said, gloss belongs on a car not a rifle. It really is much better with the matte finish.

[@mortifier6694]

I just wish the underbarrel wood was longer because I'm a sucker for 1880s - 1890s style rifles... That being said they don't always work as well when they get about 140 years old

[@web3036]

Great because of you my wife just left me and is all I have left is 71 guns, THANKS!!!!

[@eqlzr2]

I have a Belgian-made BLR in .308. I happened to see it on the used gun rack at a local gun store many years ago. It's a beautiful gun and very very accurate. When I bought the gun, there was a sort of phobia about having extra magazines. I fell under this phobia and asked the store if they had any extra mags. The clerk checked and there were 5, not including the one in the gun, all of which I bought. When I went back to pick up the gun after the waiting period, the store didn't want to sell me the magazines. I told them "No magazines, no sale." I walked out the store with all the magazines and the gun. ;-)

[@evilnineteen]

I just inherited a belgian made BLR. The craftsmanship is amazing on it. The way the trigger moves with th elever is wild, I like it a lot.

[@nilsholgerson4958]

The Japanese are excellent craftsmen, their attention to detail are second to none.

[@daffyduck9901]

U.S. is better

[@oldad6207]

​@@daffyduck9901Really? 😅

[@daffyduck9901]

@@oldad6207 absolutely

[@JPE432]

​@@daffyduck9901suffering sarcastic succotash daffy

[@claywilliams6480]

Thing 😐 Japanese Thing 😃

[@beradycavs]

My BLR .308 is my favorite hunting rifle. My dad bought it for me as my first rifle off of a fella who won it sitting next to us at a raffle. Beautiful gun very very accurate and Iv provided plenty of meals for my family over the years with it

[@CowboyTutt]

The modern and current BLR locking lugs lock into the steel barrel itself, so it was no longer necessary to have a steel receiver although it is difficult to machine the lugs precisely into the barrel if you want changes later. They also use a "through bolt" to connect the buttstock which is much more rigid than an "old school 2 part stock" on a traditional levergun. For these two reasons, the BLR is very accurate. Triggers may vary, but can be modified to be quite good. Mine is a SHOT Show special edition in 358 Win that I had the action smoothed up and NP3 plated by Mic McPherson and the front stock silicon bedded and the front barrel band stress relieved so point of aim doesn't change when barrel and band is heated. Its a total light weight tack driver with the best trigger in my collection of gunsmithed guns. This is probably the strongest lever action rifle on the market, equal to or surpassing the Win '88 model. The smoothness of the BLR cocking mechanism might be over-rated, in that it is not linear. It takes a lot of pressure to crack it loose, then the gear set takes over and its extremely smooth and very light through the stroke, but needs a firm closure. Its not nearly so linear as a Model 92 or 86 slicked up. You have to be careful, we learned, with messing with the spring set, you can end up with a light hammer strike. All in all a phenomenal rifle, tremendously strong, light weight and accurate. Probably the best, most accurate and lightest field carry lever gun ever made.

[@troybradshaw8781]

Wow very informative, and right on the mark, one would think something is wrong with the action when levering it, and no it just takes knowing the BLR and the tight action. thank you

[@KolyaNickD]

Have one - was dreading what the trigger would be like but was pleasantly surprised. Drags a fraction too long for a target gun but has a good predictable feel for hunting.

[@dylansdj019]

I got my dads old BLR when he passed away, it's my favorite gun that i own and i wouldn't sell it for anything. It's an absolutely beautiful gun to look at and shoot.

[@williambyington4864]

I have had and used the Browning BLR in 7mm-08 for 30 years and I don't remember how many deer it has taken. A few coyotes as well. They are great rifles.

[@codemcloud6073]

Does it take deer without destroying too much meat? Also is it enough for bear protection in Alaska? Thank you

[@jasonlock884]

Thank you SO much Hickok for finally posting this. Love the video. Keep up the awesome work

[@KRUGERMANN]

POV : YOUR A CETUS SOLDIER

[@cetus1912]

Me sniping 7 antareans in mons planus

[@unusualis_cool]

Life is roblox

[@slipknotfan8753]

I remember watching this guy when I was younger! This man never gets boring.

[@GregHool]

I have three, passed down from my father before he passed a couple years ago... A .270, .243 (I took my first deer from it), and a .22 that has a tube mag with beautiful etching on the side. All are over 20 years old and I've done my best to keep them in the best condition. They've been in the family most of my life and are some of the best rifles I've ever known.

[@jodygiannone7158]

Thanks for the review. Save the misfires, I thoroughly enjoyed it. :) I first saw this rifle way back in 1975. I was 19 and it was my first year at hunting camp. One of my buddies had one and I fell in love with it. Naturally being a young guy, the money he paid was out of reach for me. It wasn't until 2 years ago I finally bought one and I absolutely love it. The rifle is rock solid and the fit and finish are impeccable. If I had one complaint (and I do) I wish it came drilled and tapped with sling swivel studs installed. It kind of freaked me out having to drill into my brand new rifle to put the swivel studs in. It came out alright but it's not like the factory did it. If you're on the fence about buying one of these, get off the fence and do it. You won't regret it at all..

[@robertanderson2285]

BLR is one of the smoothest lever action rifles made. I shot one several years ago.

[@Hankusorealius]

Robert Anderson: Used to have one. Went away in divorce.

[@rhodesianwojak2095]

@@Hankusorealius F

[@benparks885]

Reason 1,000,001 not to get married lol

[@sierramist9521]

@@benparks885 *not to get divorced

[@Surago]

IRS[inop] no no, he was right

[@frank4532]

Love the finish on the Brownings

[@stevehampton6026]

Got my BLR in last week. Came from an online auction. $625. Been sitting in a safe since 1988. Never fired. Never loaded. Thanks again Hickok45 for doing this video. Great gun. Always great videos from you guys.

[@John-by6jw]

I love a traditional lever action too. The BLR was the first rifle I bought on my own. 358 Winchester caliber. I loved it .

[@svtirefire]

I inherited a Miroku-made Browning 1895 in .30-40 from my dad. They make beautiful rifles!

[@cs-rj8ru]

I have one myself and prefer it to the BLR. BLR is easy to scope though. Depends what you like.

[@AndyTheCornbread]

Largest buck I have taken to date was with a BLR in .358 Winchester. Love the gun and the round.

[@stephens.575]

Another vote for 358 Win. It’s my favorite rifle in the safe.

[@johnroos5807]

My guy who runs the Hunting Lodge in my Deer Camp has the Browning BLR in .308, and he loves it!:) My Dad passed away in 2015, and he willed me a 1969 Browning BAR in .270. Thank you, Hickok45, for sharing with us, your firearms experiences! Semper Fidelis

[@ryansetter9014]

Sitting in my deer stand with my BLR model 81 in 7mm-08 watching this video. Great video, very informative.

[@codyschaver1200]

Honestly I would rather have a firearm made in Japan than china

[@jamespruitt6718]

bus full of arabs I’m not sure about the newer Browning’s, but as far as the older Belgium versus Japan makes, all of the parts were from Belgium. Japan only assembled them, so there is no difference other than origin of employees who put them together basically.

[@nunnaurbzznzzz1734]

@@jamespruitt6718 When Browning went to Japan around 1973 for manufacturing the Auto 5 and the Citori O/U, The guns had to be made to Brownings specs. The steel in the barrel of Auto 5 was slightly different in the alloy. The belgium barrels ring like a bell when tapped with a coin. The ring on the Japanese made barrels had a slightly muted ring. Keep in mind that Japan will make an item to the company specs. It is up to the company to provide the specs and Quality Control to assure a product. Browning did just that!! Made sure the guns were up their specs.

[@tuckerschwab5331]

@@jamespruitt6718 i got a new browning maxus and the hi-viz sight cylinder thing was bent but i put another one in and the sights dont stay in very well without super glue but other than that it's a great gun

[@jamespruitt6718]

Chimkin Pot Pii I’m not sure where the newer Browning’s are made, I haven’t looked much into them. But I think most of the major manufacturers have been getting cheaper made these days.

[@doctorlove3536]

bus full of arabs i’d rather have a firearm made anywhere but china

[@luischavez3141]

Bought the 243 version back in 1985 great rifle unmatched quality for a out of the box lever action.

[@tb7946]

Thanks for the review on the blr. It was great as always. Always my go to for a review.

[@opwave79]

Recently I’ve become intrigued by lever action rifles and I’ve been binge watching all the videos on them

[@donb.1426]

I love mine in .308. I sighted it in and have only fired 3 rounds while hunting. Two bucks and a wild boar! Great rifle!

[@crankenstein20]

My dad has that exact same rifle chambered in .30-06 Springfield. He bought it as a present for himself, first rifle he bought in over 25 years and his first real hunting rifle.

[@jbombs7511]

How does he like it? I’m going to buy one in 300 win mag

[@crankenstein20]

@@jbombs7511 He likes it but he had some cycling issues with some reloads. We determined it was the reloads and not any factory rounds. It also needs sighting in and he has a trusty .308 that hits true so he usually just grabs it on his way out.

[@woodknocker64]

For better than 15 years, I've been running a Browning BLR in .270 WSM....love it!

[@PlainJane48]

I've been hunting and shooting for almost 60 years ,owned many hunting rifles. The blr 243 Belgium made is the smoothest most accurate rifle lve ever used . My favorite gun. I have the 308 Japanese, nice but not quite as good.

[@davidweiser3504]

I have the 308 and love it. Is yours a pre-1981 model? If so don't lose a magazine because those are selling for around $200 now. Ouch

[@zacharythompson8504]

I killed my first deer with a .243 Belgian browning blr!

[@johnwallace1729]

The Belgian Built Rifles Are Nice , I Bought A .300 Win Mag BAR , Finish And Stock Shows Use , I Love It.

[@dustinminor7493]

I have the BLR 243 pistol grip and love it!

[@biggbobish]

@@davidweiser3504 $200 you cant even find them

[@MakoVette]

Very happy to see this one, thank you! I got mine new in .308 in 1987, it was $340 out the door, a tidy sum back in the day. Trigger on mine is outstanding. Light, no creep and smooth let off. It's as good or better than many of the bolt guns I've shot. The hammer on mine does Not fold down and I've not had the feeding issues you experienced, so I am wondering whats up with that. The action on mine is also glass smooth as well, no he-man vigor required. Even with a steel receiver it's a mighty light and handy package for hunting in dense woods and bush country, especially with a proper sling setup. I also agree with you on not putting a scope on a lever gun, especially for a woods rifle. Iron sights are the way to go. Even though this is one of my personal favorite rifles and I had high hopes for a good showing in your hands, I greatly appreciate you and John showing things straight through, issues and all. Cheers!

[@BilgePump]

Steel receiver to boot. Nice. .308 I presume???

[@BilgePump]

oops u mentioned that (.308) already.

[@MakoVette]

@DR Dan True enough, but compromising the lightness and over all handiness of the BLR with glass is something I'd prefer not to do. Grabbing a scoped bolt gun for those situations you mentioned above makes perfect sense. Cheers!

[@robertmintz63]

Mako Vette / l agree with Dr Dan on the scope , but it must be low power in the range of 1&1/2-5 ! I have a savage 99c /308 with a 1& 1/2 - 4&1/2 on tip off mount . The reason for the tip off is if you are hunting in heavy snow storm or a fog you cant see past the end of the barrel , so you tip the scope over and use the iron sights, done it many times & my “O” has never changed . The savage does not have the bolt coming out the back like that , also the lever is a short throw & l have never short cycled it. Very accurate sweet rifle !

[@MakoVette]

@@robertmintz63 Savage makes an excellent line of rifles, no doubts about it. Your tip-off mount is a fine idea too. I believe the 99C is no longer made which is a shame, though I can understand why, as fewer folks seem to buy lever actions now a days and there's not much money to be made. Cheers!

[@EliasGraves]

Had one in 7mm-08. Absolutely wonderful rifles.

[@edward9600]

Mr. 45, EVERY TIME I hear about a rare firearm I come to your channel and search. 85% of the time you have made a video about it 100% of the time. Thank you sir!

[@joekrim6557]

I keep on watching this vid...love the sound of the gun..the mechanism and when loading ammo into mag...beauty!!!!

[@markvilleneuve8609]

Love this gun. I have one custom chambered in 338 win and a 18" barrel. I use it for protection when baiting for spring bear. Nice and compact when checking 70 baits a day. Have used it and worked great stopped bear in its tracks

[@johnoswald68]

Gotta love Browning quality. Would love to see a video on the Browning SA-22. Lots of history.

[@chuckmeade3673]

I've owned one of these since mid 90s With proper handloading these will shoot as good as s bolt gun I've been fortunate enough to harvest quite a few of Maine's game with a BLR chamber in 308

[@waynefeigenbutz4309]

I’ve got that exact rifle in 308 too. I’ve gotten elk, deer Etc over the years! Love this rifle!!

[@arceustube6972]

Finally! I was waiting for you to review this beauty.

[@Sir.suspicious]

Hickok is like, I like them classics but a good gun is a good gun

[@alleneggemeyer8478]

My dad bought me one in the mid-1980s in .243. Love it esp being a lefty. It is smooth, accurate, balanced, and beautiful. Mine doesn't have the firing pin block and is steel. Perfect whitetail rifle... That led to the Winchester 94/22 Grade 3

[@charlesperry1051]

The fit and finish look great. The wood is amazing. Another lever action that could shoot pointed bullets was the Savage 99. It first had an internal rotary magazine and later a detachable box magazine. I have a take down model from the 1920s in 300 Savage. Sweet rifle.

[@sonyawinchester5746]

I have a 243 browning BLR that I use for deer. And yes, as long as you work the action completely as in full open and full close, (mine has a short throw)and with purpose , it loads exactly as it should. I only use pointed soft point. Brand doesn’t seem to matter. Like you mentioned, it feels very solid. I love mine.

[@5erase]

I love this channel, been watching for years now! :)

[@gregster5391]

Can't go wrong with a Browning, too many end up being safe queens.I have always been impressed with the quality of the furniture on their guns. You can always tell a Browning by just seeing the wood. Great video.

[@thomasgreen1557]

Pretty cool we were able to watch hickoks learning curve with this rifle. Considering this guy has been shooting longer than most of us has been alive and knows his shit. I like they don't edit anything out. Love them leverguns.

[@TheGamingPrivate]

Jeez this man can shoot with pure accuracy every time that I see his vids he always makes a bullseye at his targets

[@MrSoHeavySPL]

John Wickok 45 lol

[@noahreigel4602]

He's probably been shooting his whole life practice makes perfect

[@warrenosborne1748]

Been watching you for ten years now. All the sudden one day I just wanted to start collecting and shooting firearms. Great investments and something you can hand down to your kids for them to remember you by when your gone

[@dc1397]

My issue is with 22plinkster...I started out with a single Ruger 10/22...now I have way more than one. If you can name one maker and a variety, it is quite possible that I have it. Still looking for a weatherby Mark XXII though.

[@warrenosborne1748]

@@dc1397 Check out GunBroker for the Weatherby, it's a legit place. Bought my son a 10/22 last year when he turned 10, He Loves It! Put a nice small short scope on it to keep it light. Love Ruger they never let me down, yet.

[@jackwatkins7382]

I've always liked Browning since I've I had a little Browning 22 made in Belgium about 40 some odd years ago. And of course it's stamped FN. Their furniture on them or is just so exquisite I guess it's the words you would call it. You can correct me if I'm wrong but I am not an educated old man. I would love to have the BPR in a 308 chamber but you can't find nothing around where I live. But small town life I guess is good and most of the ways there's just some times you wished you had the access to things that you do in large towns. We have no lights down Main Street but we do have traffic lights down a state and US Highway I think there's about 8 but of course about 9 at night they shut them down. Anybody out there got a line on a 308 pump y'all can share that knowledge with me. and thanks to you mr. Hickok for another wonderful video.

[@robthebank9453]

I saw one of these in 2007 in a hunting magazine. Had to have one. Bought my 1st in 2013 in 243. Absolute tack driver!. Then in 2020, I found a 358!!! Both great, accurate rifles!!!

[@michaellanglie5502]

Absolutely gorgeous. And nearly the perfect clambering. If that was in .358 that would be more fun to watch at your expense....my personal lightweight BLR is in 22-250

[@stevemiller7433]

I had this rifle... it was picky about ammo.. but with the right ammo... 3/4 inch group at 100yds.. Winchester silvertip 180 grain.

[@boydgrandy5769]

I have owned one of these rifles in .308 for nearly 40 years. 4 round box magazine. Short action (.308), but, because of the rotating bolt/lug locking design, it has a long throw. Not a fast action that you would use in cowboy action shooting, but it takes rounds with spitzer bullets that you can't use in a tubular magazine Winchester. Mine has the original sights that came out on the rifle when it was introduced in 1981. It is a tack driver out to 200 yards, which is my limitation, not the rifle's. To ensure that you get proper extraction and feed, you have to make sure that you firmly cycle the action open and closed. Trigger is not light, but also not heavy and very crisp. Recoil in .308 is not abusive, but is substantial because the light weight of the piece. It is a beautiful firearm. Still pristine looking; the wood and bluing are perfect.

[@brettchristoffel6391]

Got one of these in 243 when I was 16 back in 83. They are a great rifle.

[@tobinlakeguideservices]

I have two of the BLR’s. One is .308 and one is in .22. As a young guy and being a southpaw lever guns were my thing until I got older and able to purchase left handed rifles. The BLR are a great hunting rifle in my opinion. Fell many whitetail with mine

[@gwp1ohio]

Exact same here! Lefties unite! Lol

[@OldLugnutz]

Tobin Lake Guide Services Not a lefty, but have both .308 and .22 also. Wife likes the .22.

[@tobinlakeguideservices]

OldLugnutz great .22 the BLR.

[@goodspeed757]

Appreciate y’all from Texas ^^

[@ethanspaziani5269]

Howdy partner

[@alschmidt753]

I have owned a BLR i 308 Win since in the late 70s. The rotating bolt with more lugs than any other lever gun locks up as tight as many bolt rifles. Very accurate rifle.

[@jtmachete]

I have one in hard-hitting 450 Marlin. Probably my favorite one to shoot out of all my rifles.

[@AxLWake]

Very nice rifle. We have a Browning BL .22 at home. Beautiful thing. Smooth and short action you can cycle just by opening and closing your fingers without taking your hand of the stock. Now, on the "made in Japan" issue, to me it just usually means that it nicely made. Of course, as a Belgian I like my FN/Browning guns to be "made in Belgium" but I know for a fact that Miroku in Japan do make high quality stuff.

[@NefariousKoel]

Got an old one from late '70s or early '80s in .243. Briefly thought about selling it, but still emotionally attached from childhood hunting.

[@claytonparker7322]

Keep it. Might not ever get it back if it leaves.

[@extreme.4576]

I have one in .243 I love that gun!! So accurate and easy to shoulder and shoot!!

[@stevehampton6026]

Glad to see this review. I have one coming. Been a bucket list rifle for a while. This is one place you can come to and get a honest review.

[@sammaxgoof8507]

Hey Hickok45 i think the japanese are fantastic firearms makers, i feel like at least they respect the history of the designs and it shows in the craftsmanship put into that rifle. If it was a norinco this might be more critical but even then a gun is a gun as long it shoots and can keep shooting

[@godzilla7148]

I have a 308 Belgium that I inhered from my father. I love it for two reasons!

[@godzilla7148]

@Gary Harvey The BLR is a wonderful rifle. Anyone that ever owned one or fired one knows this. But having one that you inhered from a loved one. Just makes it all that more special! Congratulations!

[@ayit7974]

I got one pre 81 steel receiver in 308 bought it used as a birthday present for myself the rifle was made 1977 that’s one year before I was born I love it I reload ammo for it using match bullets and it shoots 1 Moa from a bench at 100 yards It’s my only lever action I got and I love it the only problem I cannt find a spare mag for it they stopped making pre 81 mags long time ago and if I find one it’s over 200 $ thanks for the review God bless you

[@garypollard9770]

Have a .243 made in Belgium! Very, very accurate. Never had my gun do that. Always goes bang!

[@initialfunk]

I was lucky and my buddy loaned me one for a deer hunt. new favorite hunting rifle. fantastic bush gun. great for hunkering down, or hiking the trail. real tac driver. definitely going to pick up one for myself.

[@adksherm]

Lol before I hit "read more" I thought this comment would finish with "I still have my buddys rifle"

[@ashtonwilliams3330]

Browning model 81 blr in 308.thats what I've used for years an I absolutely love it.Brought down many of white tail with mine.

[@lorddarthy]

i found your channel 2 years ago while i was medical leave recovering from a back injury, watching you shoot and talk about lever guns for the last 2 years finally convinced me to buy my first rifle, a marlin 336W, now if i could just find some ammunition at the gun store LOL

[@reb1050]

The first deer my wife killed was taken with a Savage 99 in a 303 Savage caliber. Since ammo was not overly available, I bought her a Remington Model 7 in .243. She used that for about 5 yrs. but she always liked a lever action. I did a little research and settled on a BLR in the 7mm-08. She's been using it for 30+ yrs. now. With the rotating bolt, it's extremely accurate rifle and and the 7mm-08 is a great round with lower recoil than the .308. She's killed a deer every year and never hit anything but heart with every shot. But then again, she's a damn good shot with rifle and pistol.

[@69yenko65]

I'm considering 7mm-08 as a deer caliber. What made you pick that caliber and would you change your decision if you could?

[@reb1050]

@@69yenko65 Numerous things. As I said, my wife always liked a lever action rifle (she killed her first deer with an older model Savage Model 99 in a .303 Savage caliber). Since .303 Savage ammo was not a common caliber that sporting goods shops kept in stock, I bought her a Remington Model 7 bolt action in a .243. Since she was 5'1" and 105 lbs., the short rifle and low recoil was perfect for her. As it turned out, most of her shots were within 50 yds. and the .243, while a very effective deer round, just did not have the knockdown I preferred. None of the deer she shot ran very far (50 yds at most), but none dropped in their tracks either. Since she always liked a lever action anyway, I looked into them and ran across the 7mm-08 in the Browning Lever Action. When I compared the 7mm-08 to the .243, I found that the trajectory was 0.2" difference and the velocity was 40 ft. per second faster in the 7mm-08. That was comparing the 100 gr. 243 to the 120 gr. 7mm-08, and to top it off, the difference in recoil was minimal. The final test was the number of deer she killed that never took over 5 steps. And no, I would not change that decision. We both love that rifle.

[@Perry2186]

I got a question for you hickock do you consider the savage 99 A traditional lever gun It was made originally in 1895 and updated in 1899

[@Hal-ef1je]

My dad bought me this rifle in 7mm08 when I was 13 and I haven’t bought a new deer rifle since, fantastic rifle.

[@texas759]

All though I enjoy all your videos I particularly enjoyed this one as I have a BLR chambered in .30-06 . It became my primary hunting rifle the day I bought it replacing my Winchester bolt action. You mentioned the recoil was pretty strong and it is but I have found that to me the recoil is much less than other 06 rifles i have fired in the past. It is just a much more enjoyable rifle to shoot. The iron sights were perfect for hunting the north woods of Wisconsin and it remained with the iron sights until I took it to Canada moose hunting. It is just a very enjoyable rifle to shoot.

[@quityercryinglibitards7203]

Mornin,Sir. Fine looking levergun you got there.

[@ethanowen4417]

The browning BLR is great its one of my dads favorites to go hunting with, but my BBR is just as good

[@darreldwalton8763]

My parents gave me my first BLR for Christmas, 1969. It was a .308. I took what little cash I'd saved, and put a 4X Weaver in Weaver rings and bases on the thing, and proceeded to literally shoot everything from field mice to moose. I have no idea how many thousands of rounds I put through that Belgian produced rifle, but it was still shooting sub-minute with the reloads I put together for it. (that rifle was an absolute terror in a prairie dog town with handloaded 130 gr. Speer HP's at 'about' 2800 fps, and was my only centerfire rifle for about seven or eight years while in the service with a small family) Biggest difference between the 'old' and 'new' rifles, other than the material used for the receiver, is where the bolt locks up. In the 'old' rifles, the bolt rotates into lugs machined into the receiver. In the new design, the bolt rotates into lugs machined into the back of the barrel shroud, so the receiver itself sees no stress. Think of it as a lever operated AR15. My first rifle went to my oldest son. In turn, he gave me another Belgian BLR, though the one in the rack now is a .243. It shoots just about as well as that original .308. Maybe it's just my 'prejudice' that won't let me say that it's the full equal of my first rifle... If I thought I had another Alaska trip in me, or managed to draw another Shirras moose tag, I'd look for one chambered to .358 Winchester. Glad to see You finally got past your preferences, and got 'round to poking a few rounds through one. Odd to see 'light' primer strikes. Only thing that comes to mind is that the Federal 7.62 NATO rounds have a thicker 'military' primer. The BLR of all vintages use a spring loaded, 'floating' firing pin, using inertia and the weight of the pin to set off the primers. Might be what was causing the misfires, as I noticed that the hunting ammunition with 'softer' primers had no failures. The shorter versions of these rifles are just about the same size and configuration as a Model 94 or 336. Easy to bring out of a vehicle, easy to put into or remove from a scabbard, as well. Even when a scope and sling are mounted. With the right load and sights, my .308 could dependably hit and cleanly harvest any game animal I aimed it at, and did it as well as any .308 chambered bolt gun that I've had out. Have fun, don't git caught!!!!!

[@rangerdanger766]

put a peep sight on mine, was super accurate. problem was could never see the sights during best hunting times. Finally broke down and put on a old leupold 2x7 compact with low rings. Still very handy. See so many guys with 14x and high rings.

[@brocharlieb]

I've got one in 30/06, it's about thirty years old, and I like it a bunch. Every deer I've ever shot fell to that gun.

[@chrisgabbert658]

I had one about 30 years ago life sender to a new home sweet rifle.

[@dennisheadley4408]

Could you sometime review the Remington 7600 in 308? Thanks for the great videos.

[@subterfusion4005]

The old steel frame BLR 81's were made in a bunch of cool calibers. I owned a .358 for a while but i wish id purchased a .257 Roberts when i had the chance. They even made them in .223 and .22-250.

[@tonymontgomery5827]

Love the browning 308 lever action. My first rifle actually.

[@Googleaccount_2]

What a beautiful rifle

[@Sommertest]

I own the Henry Long Ranger, also a magazine Fed lever action and I have never had a feed issue. It’s a great gun MADE IN AMERICA

[@mnrodriguez]

I own the Henry Long ranger also in 223/5.56..excellent! I really like it!

[@H.C.Q.]

sommertest1 Got me a Henry Big Boy. Love it!

[@hikenmikes8262]

BLR’s don’t have feed issues...it’s human issues, as shown in video

[@Bartonovich52]

Yeah. This is a human issue. Always fully cycle the action. Any gun.

[@dennisloeffelholz6608]

I was given this rifle when is was 18 I am now 58 dad gave it to me for Christmas. Still use it for hunting, still works as well as when it was new. and it will be past on.

[@ImThinking3]

I've waited for this day to come. Didn't disappoint. 🔥💯👍

[@user3141592635]

"I want to shoot before I get old" : A good statement.

[@johnwallace1729]

I prefer " I Want to own 1 of those ,before i get old "

[@savagebuilder4264]

"I'll learn to shoot before I get old"

[@lifeofmike556]

I've always liked guns with a mag. 2 seconds to reload vs 2 seconds of feeding per bullet.

[@Stevarooni]

Yeah, vertical, detachable magazines were a great innovation. A tube magazine is more compact and useful for stalking game in low grasses, so there are trade-offs.

[@JDMatthias]

Think about this though. If you had no availability to preload magazines, and you only had an ammo belt, it would be more prudent during a fight to reload with a tubular magazine

[@ihitwrongbutton194]

@@JDMatthias Concurred. I have demonstrated this multiple times at my gun club. With my bandolier and partial reload technique l can keep shooting in constant succession. You can't partial reload magazine fed weapons, limiting to tac reloads only. And when the mags are empty, there goes a hole process of loading mags before you can load you weapon. A revolver shotgun lever action and some top fed bolt guns negate that process. Example. Take two completely empty guns one shotgun one semi rifle. All you have to do is put the ammo in and your ready with a shotgun, with the rifle you have to take out mag, load it then reinsert the mag now your ready. Mag/clip fed weapons are slower to ready than non mag feed weapons.

[@ladyeclectic]

My husband’s BLR takedown hates having 4 rounds in the mag, that usually causes there to be some jams or misfires. Usually as long as you only use 3 in the mag it works fine. It’s a touchy sumbish but I freaking love that gun

[@Tripp426]

From the bluing to the wood, such a gorgeous rifle.

[@user-dt9qe8wo6u]

Always love the brownings

[@svtirefire]

"Great gun for da-fence" Lol

[@daveforsythe9021]

Please. Everyone. Research Mr. John M. Browning . There are MANY firearms, both military and civilian that are from his original designs. Many are still in use or copied. This man designed these arms in a small shop. Many years ago. A true genius. Much respect from Canada.

[@Bartonovich52]

He didn’t design this one. He died 40 years before the BLR was made.

[@sunnymichelle]

I have one inherited from my Mom and she is beautiful! Boy is she a joy to shoot and not as heavy as other rifles I have used. My only problem is with the safety was hard to get used to. But practicing with my snap caps to feel comfortable. Love it for hunting or just shooting at the range.

[@cartermccauley7352]

This was the first gun I shot. 22 my grandpa has. Now he’s got covid and I hope he pulls through. This video makes me cried. Killed first squirrel with this gun and grandpa

[@ZGADOW]

Do a video on the Remington 7600!

[@cartertardiff303]

This was my first hunting rifle that my dad got me and i love it, its the perfect rifle for me not to much recoil mixed with a fairly accurate gun is perfect for me

[@PheonixFall]

I have inherited one from my dad, absolutely beautiful gun and worksmandship. Solid trigger, accurate and and just so crisp. I will mention that I did find that it got dirty fairly quickly and prone to having oil dry and gunk up in the wrong spots like the grooves you described. If you are diligent with maintenance, this wont be an issue, of course.

[@porkchopspapi5757]

Allow me to strongly recommend spraying out the action with break cleaner (acetone), then use wet to dry lube. No more gunk. Actions stay clean. Extremely slick & lasts a very long time.

[@PheonixFall]

@@porkchopspapi5757 interesting ! Ive never used brake cleaner or acetone out of fear of damaging the finish. It has a huge emotional value so Id be wary to try...