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Have shot nothing but bolt guns for years. Have a desire to buy either a Browning Model 1886, 71, 92 or 53 just for something to mess around with. Kind of like the thought of the little 32-20 for just a plinking and messing around with cartridge.

So for those who have owned any of these rifles, any thoughts or issues a prospective buyer should know of? They look like real fine rigs and based on my limited knowledge they all seem to have gone up a bit in price the last 5 years.

Browning guns are very well made. I haven't owned a 71, but the others are better made guns than Winchester. Finding a 92 or 53 may be a chore. There are plenty 1886 Browning carbines and rifles...

Oldest son had a 71 carbine, Wifey had a 92 and I've had several 95's. Still have one of the 95's. Exceptional shooter! Well made rifles!

The 32 WCF would be a fun little rifle!!! Good luck with your endeavor!

Thanks guys, figured that would be the consensus. Going to start watching for a good used version in any of those 4 layouts. And might add that 1895 to the list too.

The spoils of the Browning 1895 last October! It's a 30/06.

The little Browning 65 .218 Bee I had was a screamer. Super accurate, precision mechanism. The 92 in .357 was the same. miss the 92. Marlins can't compare, other than for scope mounting.

Browning 1886 High Grade carbine...

Need to add the 65 to the list too.

Hey Shrap, is that a round barreled 26" or octagon? Might have overpenetrated on that target:)

It is a SRC...

I own or have owned Browning models 86, 92 and 71. Apart from heavy trigger pulls, all have been mechanically perfect. The 71 is very accurate and so was the 86. The only one that has been a little troublesome has been the 92 in 44 mag. The barrel dimensions of this model were a little too generous but eventually I worked out how to get it work properly with cast bullets. I haven't owned one but the same model rifle in 357 apparently does not have the same problem and might be the one to consider if you are after a fun gun. A 357 would be a lot more economical and easier to load than a 32-20.

All these rifles were made by Miroku, the same as the Winchester models, however the Winchester models come with additional safeties and rebounding hammers which a lot of people don't like.

I have both a Browning M71 Carbine and a M53. Both are put together as well as any piece I have held/owned. Fit and finish are top notch, they function spot on and are as accurate as I can hold. The wood on the 53 is stunning as well.

I have one of each of the Brownings and all are top-notch! You cannot go wrong choosing a Browning IMHO.

I have a Browning 1886 carbine in 45-70 that I have been shooting for almost 20 years. I like it a lot and have had no issues with it except for the sights. I put a receiver sight on it. It has a strong action and will handle heavy loads. It handles both jacket and cast bullets very well.
I never had any experience with the Winchesters but they are made by the same company as the Brownings.
Good luck. I hope you find a nice one.

Im not too wild about that rebounding hammer and tang safety but I've learned to live with them on the 100th anniv. edition 30/06 Winchester/miroku. The thing is well put together!!! And shoots just grand!!



I do have an original SRC in .30 Army I can tote when feeling nostalgic. But there are no flies on this 06.

That's a sharp looking 95.

Thanks 4350!

The are pretty true to form! The original in this photo is not mine. Belongs to a compadre.

I have a browning a 71 and it is a superb rifle but I don't know if I would call it fun to shoot. I do love to hunt with it though.

One thing nice with the Browning's is that they are true to design with no hammer block safey.

Bingo!

I have a beautiful B92 in 44mag. One thing I will mention it is more fun if wearing even a light jacket than a cotton t-shirt.

I don't load for this rifle and the 225 LeverEvolution shot best out of it- but I do not like its on game performance. If going 44mag - forget lighter bullets. I bought some 185 grain bullets to lessen the recoil (recoil itself is certainly not punishing it just transmits too much through that butt plate). Before firing them I read accounts saying the lighter bullets shot way high. In mine they shot way left- and I mean WAAAYYY left. So I bought some 240 grain - which seem the standard- and they shoot fine. Pretty sure these hollow points will perform better on game.

I absolutely love the buttery slick action of the '92 and its smallish size lends to easy carryability. Fun gun. Looking forward to some pics from you on your choice.