Browning SA22 rifle

[Jorden]

Does anyone have any idea when Browning SA22 semi-auto rifles changed from type one (load through top of stock) to type two (load through side of stock.

[gashtyke]

Both types were available in the UK ............... Model A and model B up until the mid '60s

[ovenpaa]

I would be interested if you do find a definitive date of change.

[Jorden]

Yes, I have spent months trawling the internet but there does not seem to be a definitive answer, Browning/FN lost all of their prewar records due to the war.

[ovenpaa]

I think mid 1950s is about as far back as things go. I can have a vague stab at dates based on forend shape, safety, magazine feed etc. The problem is there are always oddities, I am aware of one that has been totally restored, dare I say over restored and I have no idea of the age other than early1930s, maybe...

The SA22 was used as a prototype for a very interesting weapon so I am always interested in its history.