You have a winner with this structure and format. You have all the information, logically laid out, clearly explained and timed extremely well. Please keep this system for your reviews. They are the best I have seen.
This was the best gun overview Ive seen. I have one of those hogs in .358 and its the ultimate canadian bush gun. Knocks down moose, elk, and deer no issues, easy to carry and pack around up and down mountains all day.
That slo-mo footage is enjoyable to watch. Pretty cool lever action rifle that doesn't have a tubular feed and can handle today's elongated pointed bullets. Lever actions are quickly becoming my choice hunting rifle; especially, for deer. Lightweight, maneuverable, well suited for ethical game ranges, great way to cycle the rounds, slides in and out of rifle scabbards easily, etc...
Browning BLR-81 in 308 was my first rifle I purchased in 1981, still have it and enjoy shooting it. Great selling point with this rifle was one of the few lever action rifles using high power rounds like 243 and 308 and that the trigger travels with the lever thus no finger pinch, also the bolt in the rifle is very similar to an ar15 bolt that turns as you operate the lever to disengage from the barrel.
That would be my choice of calibers in this platform … that’s a heavy hitter ! Elk , moose , bear no problem ! Every hunting video I’ve watched out here , that .358 Winchester drops Em dead in their tracks ! . The .358 Winchester with a 225 grain Nosler Partition just gives you that much more confidence when encountering an angry animal that needs to be put down quickly ! And it still has good trajectory with 200 grain projectiles out to 300 yards .
Love my BLR Stainless in 358 Winchester! Not many gunsmiths will even touch the trigger job on the BLR. However, my local guy did so, and got my trigger pull down to just over 3 pounds. Shoots great now.
... there's a DIY video on how to tune the BLR trigger on youtube ... not really that hard ... no need to get into the gears in the receiver that so many gunsmiths are scared to touch ... just take the butt stock off ... everything you need to adjust is accessible from there
I have the new 18.5 inch barrel PG Tracker version in 308. Was worried about the trigger but they have been improved in the new versions - the triggers are good!
As a fan of lever action rifles in general, the BLR’s action is very smooth and quick compared to most others. It uses a rack and pinion system to operate the bolt instead of levers/bars like most others (Sako Finnwolf was the first lever action to use that system). The rotating bolt has 6 locking lugs that engage with a barrel extension instead of the receiver - very much like an AR. I have the takedown version which makes for a very small package. It also makes cleaning the barrel from the breach end much easier.
Great review Ozzie. I have the very same BLR Lightweight Stainless with pistol grip in 308 with a VX-6 1-6x24mm Firedot 4 in Warne QD mounts. It too shoots OSA Buffalo River 135gr Sierra HPs into .75" at 100m. It also loves handloaded 130gr Woodleigh PPs with 47.0grs of AR2206H. Very handy and capable rifle on Wild Boars and Chital Deer.
This really is a very beautiful rifle when seen in person: photos don't do it justice. A fellow had one at the range last week, also in .308 and stainless, topped with a Leupold scope. A friend has an older BLR in .243, and it's a sweet shooter. I'm planning to buy the new BLR, probably in .243. I might incline towards blue in the pistol grip version, but something in me really is calling for the takedown version, which is available only in stainless.
Love this rifle ! I’m looking to get one chambered in .358 Winchester… I’d get it in .348 Winchester if I could ! The only thing I don’t like ( just my personal preference) is the glossy stock , and the sights , I would put a set of XS Ghost rings or Williams type peeps / tactical set up . I’ve never been an advocate of glass optics on a lever gun , but again, that’s just me , I want it for the handiness and ruggedness and quick to shoulder / quick sight acquisition in dense cover while hunting deer/ bear in the cedar swamps , and for elk in the timber’s . The high gloss looks amazing, until you take it out in the bush and it gets scratched up. Satin / matte wood stocks are a lot easier to remedy scratches than glossy stocks. And those glossy stocks are real slippery when you get them wet too . It will draw more attention from reflection than anything else on that rifle . Other than that , it’s a beautiful work of art and very fine functioning rifle . Pure class and elegance ! Cheers buddy, enjoy your Browning . And believe me , there’s nothing wrong with rifles manufactured in Japan, their quality control and attention to detail is above the industry standards .
My gunsmith used a automobile cleaning paste wax to take the glosss shine down off the rifle. That also help protect the finish and makes the rifle less slippery.
One of the problems I have had with the 7mm rem mag BLR is the barel heats up after 3 rounds. I would he interested to see this same 3 shot grouping comparison with time for the barrel to cool down between groups (unless you actually did this)
Greetings from Sweden, Also got this rifle at home. Blr lightweight tracker .308, with kite optics hdp 1,6-10x42. Shoots great, no problem with accuracy, been shooting 300meters on range. Yes, heavy trigger but ok feel. Lever action is smooth and never faults. It's a hunting rifle, not a long range tool...
Schmidt & Bender also manufactures other 1" scopes, such as the classic models or the classic Hungaria, available with fixed and variable magnification! Greetings from Germany! =)
I had a BLR, .308 with Meopta Meopro 3-9 x 42 and a bushnel red dot mounted on top of the scope. it loved Barnes TTSX 168 or 165 grain , tack driver. Took a Sambar at 380 m from the kneeling unsupported position, scope at 3 x My fav deer bush gun
I have the same rifle and also find the trigger quite heavy. Although mines closer to 7 pounds. It's a very well built rifle and certainly a keeper. The action is miles ahead of any other lever on the market.
I had a gun run out of elevation adjustment.....Then i found Burris XTR signature rings....smartest thing ever....thet worked....And has plenty of windage adjustment!
I have the same rifle in stainless take down 308. I live the iron sights on it. Killed 82 ground hogs w Win 22 mag. High confidence level w levers here. Getting 1.5” groups w BXR Browning 308. The rifle will shoot better but my 57 y/o eyes can’t focus any better at 50. Don’t want to use a scope. I hunt in thickets. Max shot is 125 yards. Average shot in upstate NY is 45 yards.
I have seen the movie Razorback.. You are gonna need a bigger rifle. Haha! These BLR's are well made. I love the BLR's although the steel receiver is what I mainly keep a look out for. And a super early made in Belgium would be a true find. My BLR in 7mm-08 is a very very good performer. Once people have one in their hands no matter what they felt before do fall in love with these. I would love to find out more info on Brownings/Dupont finish on their wood . It is one of the nicest finishes around. Although nowadays satin finishes are in. I miss Ausland. I lived in NSW for around 9 years . My wife is an Aussie . Why did I leave you ask? Well the heat is absolutely brutal. And the man eating spiders also can make a grown man shiver. Oh and all them pesky flies. Everyone knows the good ole Aussie wave. I also absolutely could not live with the firearm laws in Australia. Shame because there is just so much open country to go shooting. Great review. Thank you. Oh and you need to send me that "cough" crappy S&B scope. Haha.
Mate have one. And is my favourite pig hitting gun!! Packs a punch. The new 9 round mag coming mid July will be a great addition! Outback has Always shot the best through mine.
Love your reviews. I had 2 BLRs in 358 Win and 7mm WSM in pistol grip, wood stock and blued. Beautiful fit and finish, light and beautiful wood. However neither gun would shoot in factory or handloads. I too found the trigger to heavy. I’m not sure if a 308 would have produced better results due to the sheer amount of different ammo to try. Thinking I should have gone with it instead of the two oddball calibers I did buy. But love the 358 cartridge though.
Tremendous rifle. LOVE mine so essy to carry and pointable Wish they made a heavier longer barreled on for driven hunts Because the short and light barrel doesnt lend itself well to shooting strings of rounds
Hello, I have this exact rifle in 7mm-08, and I love it. I went without a scope the first time I took it out hunting and killed a big Mule deer buck with it. I liked it so much with the iron sights I left it that way. I have taken 3 big bucks with it since I've owned it and have never taken the scope out of the box that I bought for it. I would like one in a long action 30-06 or 7mm mag., mabey a take down version for back country work. Thanks from a fellow hunter out of Montana.
Was in a shop recently and they had some new BLRs and an older well used 2nd hand one. Trigger on the old one was as good as any bolt action but the two new ones were pretty spongy. Couldn't feel a break point. Would have bought one if its trigger was as good. Rest of the new rifles were beautifully finished. Fully floated forearms.
I'm thinking that'd be a nice rifle in .223 ( my favorite centerfire cartridge) This one seems to like the heavier load, doesn't it. Enjoyable review Ozzie, Thank you!
@A Christian Jew Oh my yes, I know it's a great part of the hobby to do re-loading, but, unfortunately I don't have any place in which to do this. I did forget to mention that I live in eastern Canada and while I am not a hunter, I do some plinking and target shooting for my own R& R, also I have a bad habit of collecting too many rifles as well? LOL!
@A Christian Jew Oh boy ! I wish I could do some re-loading. I have watched many a video here on this and wish I could join in. Ammunition costs are high here too ( of course) as compared to our southern neighbours in the U.S. Silencers/ moderators are prohibited here too, as our Governments look on them as "evil and nasty" things and are "forbidden fruit".!!!! LOL
I got one of the light weight monte carlo versions in 308, last left in the shop. Got it for $1500. It's a slick rifle and with both the Aussie Outback 165's and Federal 150's will do 1 MOA at 100 if I do my part. Outstanding accuracy from a lever gun, no doubt because it locks up as strong as a bolt action. The trigger is heavy but it's consistent with little to no creep so it doesn't bother me. The low shooting issue is weird, sure you didn't have a 10 or 20 MOA rail mounted backwards?
That good ole Aussie dollar. Sometimes I have to go and convert to USD to understand what you folks are actually paying $735.00 is what I paid for my last one which is just a bit over $1000.00 AUD. But prices here vary on what is hot and what is not . The best calibers to own with the barrel profile are . 308 , 7mm-08, 270, 22-250 and if they offer a 6.5 Creedmoor then it is a very viable cartridge. These rifles are not very fun to shoot in magnum calibers I can assure you. Their 7 Rem mag and .300 win mag absolutely suck to shoot. You will find with the lower profile barrels that once they heat up then your groups start to open up. But it is a hunting rifle and once it is sighted in you more than likely shouldn't need more than one round.
my first rifle was a winchester lever action .22 magnum, i wish I never gave it up, and now with the Marlins taking over this market WOW , not sure about the Magazine though compared to 9 down the tube, should also be noted you can de cock the hammer safely without firing , i would love one in the cupboard. I also think it would be great with ghost sights fitted over a scope. another great review Ozzie just brilliant thanks
Nother good review Auzzie. Yeh, It did throw that other ammo round a bit. I know levers can have shits of triggers. I've got a Winchester trapper which had a terrible mushy shit heavy trigger. Did some sear squaring, filing & polishing &, although it's mechanically no lighter, it feels much lighter & breaks like glass now. Sometimes you've just gotta get shit going yourself. You may well find that, a bit of honing & squaring up the sear will make the world of difference.
Ive got a BLR 81 in .222 and i can hold the rifle.... with a scope and mounts ...cocked ...by the trigger !!!..its that heavy !! nice rifle ...but worst trigger of any gun I've owned....Lesson: try the trigger on any BLR you buy... before you buy !!!!
Lighter trigger would be awesome, i found barrel heats up very quick with repetitive shoots, but perfect for those hunts where you only let off one or two rounds go ie deer hunting! Ill be buggered though, howd does the included browning gun lock work?
I couldn't for the life of me get the gun lock to work. You're meant to drop out the magazine and feed it through the ejection port then out the magazine well. Will not fit through mine.
... the walnut/blue version of the BLR '81 takedown was discontinued ... they are as scarce as chickens teeth ... I have both the stainless & blue versions in 308 Win and they "like" different ammo
Do you sling it tip-upwards or tip-down by choice? Thanks for the gid...I wouldn’t choose the transition music, me. It’s an interesting gun, but I’m starting to wonder about the sense of 308 for a first, non-hunting, levergun. Boys always want the biggest, hardest hitting , but you pay the price for plinking and target in a number of ways - size, weight, cost, impact at the shoulder and the target. And this one won’t ever be a distance king, even 500 yards may be beyond its ken, though the cartridge is good to 800 yards typically, or further with excellent setup and studied ammunition. But it does look like fun!
I'm a Canadian considering this rifle in 30-06, the 'takedown' model. I do intend to mount a scope, but will be getting a high power PCP air rifle as my primary & intend to get a scope that'll work on both. I'd be mounting the scope on top of the action like in this video. Anyone who's owned this rifle (takedown version or not) for a while have any regrets with theirs?
You'd need a bigger trigger guard too if your gloves are that big. The loop matches the trigger guard. Not sure how that problem could be solved. I use mine with my snowmobile gloves no problem but I'm in central canada not north.
Quite appreciated your effort at a fair review. I like your style more than many American gunners on TH-cam. No idiotic nonsense, such as shooting ballistic gel gummy bears or seeing how many frozen turkeys you can waste with an elephant gun. My only issue is with the scope shooting so high. A Schmidt and Bender not having enough internal adjustment to zero at 100yards or meters just doesn't make sense to me. Something wasn't right. Either your mounts weren't appropriate or your scope was defective. S and B have an excellent reputation and are top dollar optics as far as I have heard. Out of my price range. But the scopes that I have had experience with, like Leupold, Nikon, Weaver, Vortex, have never had this issue. I also have never used a rail to mount optics, so I certainly don't have the experience to say what's right or wrong in the system. Maybe you or another viewer, with better insight, might illuminate this, for me or us. First time viewer, have subscribed and liked.
@Juan Batista Yes i know thats what the package says..but 1....the scope has no down travel. 2... it looks divergent from what i can see... 3...what do you trust more a $2000 Jap made product or a $35 American product????? 4...for the record I own a BLR!
Nice review. The down side of judging a round based on one factory load is you're not checking various loads for nodes. Its quite possible those inaccurate bullets would be very accurate with 0.5 gr more or less powder.
The Browning lever gun always looked a bit strange to me, as if the trigger and lever assembly should be at least an inch further forward than it is, relative to the receiver.
Lifted_Above don’t worry about the looks. It shoulders and shoots awesome. Had one for years and never once thought the trigger should be forward. Put a 1-6 power scope and it’s the perfect hunting rifle
@@mikemellon80 I'm not worried. Just observing aesthetics. Compared to the other levers on the market (Big Horn Armory, Chiappa, Rossi, Winchester, Marlin, Davide Pedersoli & Co, Taylor's & Co, Uberti, Henry and more), the trigger assembly is noticeably rearward in relation to the receiver.
I shoot lever action comp and all the star and national competitors shoot BLRs in 222 or 223 ! They are ergonomically spot on . Some including myself have custom stocks and aftermarket barrels fitted . We shoot open or peep sights to great accuracy . Great guns
Beautiful rifle and good to see a great scope put on it to test it's inherent accuracy. Like all BLR's it's only downfall is the trigger which you've highlighted. Something a good smith familiar with the BLR would be able to remedy. As to the ammo I own a Browning A Bolt 11 Stainless Stalker in .308 and I gave up reloading for it once I tried the factory OutBack 165gr Sierra Gameking's. Five shots inside an inch and for the cost of buying in bulk are well worth it. Great review Ozzie and thanks for sharing!
Have been shooting one close to 40 years, has the smoothest bolt of any bolt action rifle and I am including my Tikka in this. The only downside with the rifle is a little heavy trigger and getting to the internals for cleaning. I have never taken the bolt out but it continues to work flawlessly.
Check out our review of the Browning X-Bolt in 28 Nosler: th-cam.com/video/tgEr6UiEAxU/w-d-xo.html
pro tip: you can watch series on InstaFlixxer. Been using it for watching all kinds of movies these days.
@Roy Bradley Yup, I've been using instaflixxer for years myself :)
Nice! It’s quiet different seeing other gun owners outside of the United States. Greeting from the US!
You have a winner with this structure and format. You have all the information, logically laid out, clearly explained and timed extremely well. Please keep this system for your reviews. They are the best I have seen.
This was the best gun overview Ive seen. I have one of those hogs in .358 and its the ultimate canadian bush gun. Knocks down moose, elk, and deer no issues, easy to carry and pack around up and down mountains all day.
Wish they made them in 338 Federal.
Great brush round with the ability to tag animals at reasonable distances if needed.
There is something about hearing a person from another country that's not America talk about an AR that just puts a smile on your face
That slo-mo footage is enjoyable to watch. Pretty cool lever action rifle that doesn't have a tubular feed and can handle today's elongated pointed bullets. Lever actions are quickly becoming my choice hunting rifle; especially, for deer. Lightweight, maneuverable, well suited for ethical game ranges, great way to cycle the rounds, slides in and out of rifle scabbards easily, etc...
I have the BLR in .308 as well. Absolutely love it. It really puts them down with one shot.
Browning BLR-81 in 308 was my first rifle I purchased in 1981, still have it and enjoy shooting it. Great selling point with this rifle was one of the few lever action rifles using high power rounds like 243 and 308 and that the trigger travels with the lever thus no finger pinch, also the bolt in the rifle is very similar to an ar15 bolt that turns as you operate the lever to disengage from the barrel.
Very nice job on the review. I have always been in love with this rifle. Thank you.
I have the non takedown in 358 Winchester, it was a favorite of my kids growing up. An all around rifle for the Pacific Northwest
Now that's a brilliant calibre in this rifle!
Does yours have the Schnabel fore end furniture?
That would be my choice of calibers in this platform … that’s a heavy hitter ! Elk , moose , bear no problem ! Every hunting video I’ve watched out here , that .358 Winchester drops Em dead in their tracks ! . The .358 Winchester with a 225 grain Nosler Partition just gives you that much more confidence when encountering an angry animal that needs to be put down quickly ! And it still has good trajectory with 200 grain projectiles out to 300 yards .
Love my BLR Stainless in 358 Winchester! Not many gunsmiths will even touch the trigger job on the BLR. However, my local guy did so, and got my trigger pull down to just over 3 pounds. Shoots great now.
I know a guy who's starting misfiring after a trigger job..
... there's a DIY video on how to tune the BLR trigger on youtube ... not really that hard ... no need to get into the gears in the receiver that so many gunsmiths are scared to touch ... just take the butt stock off ... everything you need to adjust is accessible from there
Keep up the great content mate, keeping me sane during this scamdemic, perfect reviews mate... hats off 👍👌🤠
This rifle is gorgeous, I've always wanted one in .22-250
I have the new 18.5 inch barrel PG Tracker version in 308. Was worried about the trigger but they have been improved in the new versions - the triggers are good!
As a fan of lever action rifles in general, the BLR’s action is very smooth and quick compared to most others. It uses a rack and pinion system to operate the bolt instead of levers/bars like most others (Sako Finnwolf was the first lever action to use that system). The rotating bolt has 6 locking lugs that engage with a barrel extension instead of the receiver - very much like an AR. I have the takedown version which makes for a very small package. It also makes cleaning the barrel from the breach end much easier.
What a beauty!!!!!! I have been contemplating this particular BLR model in .358 for quite a while. Probably will have a lengthy wait to get one.
Great review Ozzie.
I have the very same BLR Lightweight Stainless with pistol grip in 308 with a VX-6 1-6x24mm Firedot 4 in Warne QD mounts. It too shoots OSA Buffalo River 135gr Sierra HPs into .75" at 100m. It also loves handloaded 130gr Woodleigh PPs with 47.0grs of AR2206H. Very handy and capable rifle on Wild Boars and Chital Deer.
This really is a very beautiful rifle when seen in person: photos don't do it justice. A fellow had one at the range last week, also in .308 and stainless, topped with a Leupold scope.
A friend has an older BLR in .243, and it's a sweet shooter. I'm planning to buy the new BLR, probably in .243. I might incline towards blue in the pistol grip version, but something in me really is calling for the takedown version, which is available only in stainless.
Fantastic camera, sound and content. Well done. Cheers from 🇨🇦
Greetings from British Columbia Canada! like your channel!
Good video and review. I have one of these in .308 (blued, not stainless) from the first year of modern production of the BLR ... 1981.
Got my trigger done on my 358 Winchester stainless BLR. Gun smith got it down to just over 3 pounds. It’s a real beauty.
Love this rifle ! I’m looking to get one chambered in .358 Winchester… I’d get it in .348 Winchester if I could ! The only thing I don’t like ( just my personal preference) is the glossy stock , and the sights , I would put a set of XS Ghost rings or Williams type peeps / tactical set up . I’ve never been an advocate of glass optics on a lever gun , but again, that’s just me , I want it for the handiness and ruggedness and quick to shoulder / quick sight acquisition in dense cover while hunting deer/ bear in the cedar swamps , and for elk in the timber’s . The high gloss looks amazing, until you take it out in the bush and it gets scratched up. Satin / matte wood stocks are a lot easier to remedy scratches than glossy stocks. And those glossy stocks are real slippery when you get them wet too .
It will draw more attention from reflection than anything else on that rifle .
Other than that , it’s a beautiful work of art and very fine functioning rifle . Pure class and elegance ! Cheers buddy, enjoy your Browning . And believe me , there’s nothing wrong with rifles manufactured in Japan, their quality control and attention to detail is above the industry standards .
My gunsmith used a automobile cleaning paste wax to take the glosss shine down off the rifle. That also help protect the finish and makes the rifle less slippery.
@@jamessanuk9066 that’s a nice little tipster ! Thanks for sharing
Great review so glad to see grouping and all honesty 3-inch groups is good for hunting especially follow-up shots on running game
One gorgeous rifle right there. Hello from Texas.
One of the problems I have had with the 7mm rem mag BLR is the barel heats up after 3 rounds.
I would he interested to see this same 3 shot grouping comparison with time for the barrel to cool down between groups (unless you actually did this)
Greetings from Sweden, Also got this rifle at home. Blr lightweight tracker .308, with kite optics hdp 1,6-10x42. Shoots great, no problem with accuracy, been shooting 300meters on range. Yes, heavy trigger but ok feel. Lever action is smooth and never faults. It's a hunting rifle, not a long range tool...
Schmidt & Bender also manufactures other 1" scopes, such as the classic models or the classic Hungaria, available with fixed and variable magnification!
Greetings from Germany! =)
I had a BLR, .308 with Meopta Meopro 3-9 x 42 and a bushnel red dot mounted on top of the scope. it loved Barnes TTSX 168 or 165 grain , tack driver. Took a Sambar at 380 m from the kneeling unsupported position, scope at 3 x
My fav deer bush gun
Just set up Browning hell canyon 308 with Leopold 3.5 by 10, shooting both 150 and 165 grain stuff in various brands quite well, very happy
Thanks for the fantastic review... Watching from the USA...
I have the same rifle and also find the trigger quite heavy. Although mines closer to 7 pounds. It's a very well built rifle and certainly a keeper. The action is miles ahead of any other lever on the market.
I had a gun run out of elevation adjustment.....Then i found Burris XTR signature rings....smartest thing ever....thet worked....And has plenty of windage adjustment!
I have a BLR 71 Model 308 Made in Belgium. Great Hunting Rifle!
I have the same rifle in stainless take down 308. I live the iron sights on it. Killed 82 ground hogs w Win 22 mag. High confidence level w levers here. Getting 1.5” groups w BXR Browning 308. The rifle will shoot better but my 57 y/o eyes can’t focus any better at 50. Don’t want to use a scope. I hunt in thickets. Max shot is 125 yards. Average shot in upstate NY is 45 yards.
Put a low power scope with see through mounts on it. You won’t be disappointed
I own one chambered in 325 wsm. Very accurate rifles .
That Outback 308 ammo is gold. It's all I shoot out of my 20in Rem 700. Nice video.
I have seen the movie Razorback.. You are gonna need a bigger rifle. Haha! These BLR's are well made. I love the BLR's although the steel receiver is what I mainly keep a look out for. And a super early made in Belgium would be a true find.
My BLR in 7mm-08 is a very very good performer. Once people have one in their hands no matter what they felt before do fall in love with these. I would love to find out more info on Brownings/Dupont finish on their wood . It is one of the nicest finishes around. Although nowadays satin finishes are in.
I miss Ausland. I lived in NSW for around 9 years . My wife is an Aussie . Why did I leave you ask? Well the heat is absolutely brutal. And the man eating spiders also can make a grown man shiver. Oh and all them pesky flies. Everyone knows the good ole Aussie wave.
I also absolutely could not live with the firearm laws in Australia. Shame because there is just so much open country to go shooting.
Great review. Thank you. Oh and you need to send me that "cough" crappy S&B scope. Haha.
Such a nice looking rifle. Good job on the review.
Mate have one. And is my favourite pig hitting gun!! Packs a punch. The new 9 round mag coming mid July will be a great addition!
Outback has Always shot the best through mine.
Did I just read 9 round mag? Who and where can I get one come July?? Have the Browning blr black label in .308 - thing is a gem.
Cleaver firearms. Check out there website you can order them online. 9shot with one in the camber. 308 and 243.
Beautiful rifle
I’ve got a 1st gen BLR in .308. Fantastic rifle.
Love your reviews. I had 2 BLRs in 358 Win and 7mm WSM in pistol grip, wood stock and blued. Beautiful fit and finish, light and beautiful wood. However neither gun would shoot in factory or handloads. I too found the trigger to heavy. I’m not sure if a 308 would have produced better results due to the sheer amount of different ammo to try. Thinking I should have gone with it instead of the two oddball calibers I did buy. But love the 358 cartridge though.
Tremendous rifle.
LOVE mine so essy to carry and pointable
Wish they made a heavier longer barreled on for driven hunts
Because the short and light barrel doesnt lend itself well to shooting strings of rounds
Hello, I have this exact rifle in 7mm-08, and I love it. I went without a scope the first time I took it out hunting and killed a big Mule deer buck with it. I liked it so much with the iron sights I left it that way. I have taken 3 big bucks with it since I've owned it and have never taken the scope out of the box that I bought for it. I would like one in a long action 30-06 or 7mm mag., mabey a take down version for back country work. Thanks from a fellow hunter out of Montana.
Nice.
Yep that 7mm 08 rips!
Hi, do you know where you can buy the Browning .308 rifle? I can't find it anywhere
That is one beautiful rifle!!!!!
Browning, lever action, 308. What else is there to say. I just left the open sights on mine. Great rifle.
Was in a shop recently and they had some new BLRs and an older well used 2nd hand one. Trigger on the old one was as good as any bolt action but the two new ones were pretty spongy. Couldn't feel a break point. Would have bought one if its trigger was as good. Rest of the new rifles were beautifully finished. Fully floated forearms.
I'm thinking that'd be a nice rifle in .223 ( my favorite centerfire cartridge)
This one seems to like the heavier load, doesn't it.
Enjoyable review Ozzie, Thank you!
Agreed on the .223 aspect. Would love one too in that size
@@sawbbq I've been thinking about that so much, that I've started to check out dealers' prices etc.
@A Christian Jew Thanks, but first, it's just that I like the .223 and second, I don't do re-loading, but I hear and understand what you're saying.
@A Christian Jew Oh my yes, I know it's a great part of the hobby to do re-loading, but, unfortunately I don't have any place in which to do this. I did forget to mention that I live in eastern Canada and while I am not a hunter, I do some plinking and target shooting for my own R& R, also I have a bad habit of collecting too many rifles as well? LOL!
@A Christian Jew Oh boy ! I wish I could do some re-loading. I have watched many a video here on this and wish I could join in.
Ammunition costs are high here too ( of course) as compared to our southern neighbours in the U.S. Silencers/ moderators are prohibited here too, as our Governments look on them as "evil and nasty" things and are "forbidden fruit".!!!! LOL
Really good review!!💫
Great video, thank you for the demonstration. Ammo accuracy is subjective since we don’t really know if it’s the rifle, ammo or you pulling the shots.
I got one of the light weight monte carlo versions in 308, last left in the shop. Got it for $1500.
It's a slick rifle and with both the Aussie Outback 165's and Federal 150's will do 1 MOA at 100 if I do my part. Outstanding accuracy from a lever gun, no doubt because it locks up as strong as a bolt action.
The trigger is heavy but it's consistent with little to no creep so it doesn't bother me.
The low shooting issue is weird, sure you didn't have a 10 or 20 MOA rail mounted backwards?
That good ole Aussie dollar. Sometimes I have to go and convert to USD to understand what you folks are actually paying $735.00 is what I paid for my last one which is just a bit over $1000.00 AUD. But prices here vary on what is hot and what is not .
The best calibers to own with the barrel profile are . 308 , 7mm-08, 270, 22-250 and if they offer a 6.5 Creedmoor then it is a very viable cartridge. These rifles are not very fun to shoot in magnum calibers I can assure you. Their 7 Rem mag and .300 win mag absolutely suck to shoot. You will find with the lower profile barrels that once they heat up then your groups start to open up. But it is a hunting rifle and once it is sighted in you more than likely shouldn't need more than one round.
I wonder if the last group was impacted by the hot barrel?
I still use my 81 BLR in .308 bought new in 1984.
my first rifle was a winchester lever action .22 magnum, i wish I never gave it up, and now with the Marlins taking over this market WOW , not sure about the Magazine though compared to 9 down the tube, should also be noted you can de cock the hammer safely without firing , i would love one in the cupboard. I also think it would be great with ghost sights fitted over a scope. another great review Ozzie just brilliant thanks
Ouch, drop that mag when you clear your firearm. Negligence is how it happens. Love this rifle thanks for the video.
Is that a see thru rail so you can still utilize the standard sights?
My dream gun right here
Nother good review Auzzie. Yeh, It did throw that other ammo round a bit.
I know levers can have shits of triggers. I've got a Winchester trapper which had a terrible mushy shit heavy trigger. Did some sear squaring, filing & polishing &, although it's mechanically no lighter, it feels much lighter & breaks like glass now. Sometimes you've just gotta get shit going yourself.
You may well find that, a bit of honing & squaring up the sear will make the world of difference.
Ive got a BLR 81 in .222 and i can hold the rifle.... with a scope and mounts ...cocked ...by the trigger !!!..its that heavy !! nice rifle ...but worst trigger of any gun I've owned....Lesson: try the trigger on any BLR you buy... before you buy !!!!
I am between buying thus riffle in 308 or the henry long ranger 308. I like them both but I want the better of the two.
Okie bbq from personal experience, all else equal, browning fit and finish is beyond the rest of the pack
The new ten round mags for these add a bit more appeal.
Think lucky 13 are making some right now. I'm not to sure but that's what i heard.
@@CrazyDog651 Yes The Barn at Oakey are advertising them now. In stock late July
How could that work? The lever would hit it no?
And The barrel gets too warm with such rapid firing anyway
@@yeahbee8237 No.
Nice video mate might go have a look at one now keep up the good work
Lighter trigger would be awesome, i found barrel heats up very quick with repetitive shoots, but perfect for those hunts where you only let off one or two rounds go ie deer hunting!
Ill be buggered though, howd does the included browning gun lock work?
GOONSHARK I think you have to drop the mag, open the action and feed it through. Not real good is it!
I couldn't for the life of me get the gun lock to work.
You're meant to drop out the magazine and feed it through the ejection port then out the magazine well.
Will not fit through mine.
If the scope was on the barrel couldnt you bore sight this lever action because of the way it functions?
... the walnut/blue version of the BLR '81 takedown was discontinued ... they are as scarce as chickens teeth ... I have both the stainless & blue versions in 308 Win and they "like" different ammo
that shot at about 38sec shows how much the barrel on rifles flexes on firing.
Do you sling it tip-upwards or tip-down by choice?
Thanks for the gid...I wouldn’t choose the transition music, me.
It’s an interesting gun, but I’m starting to wonder about the sense of 308 for a first, non-hunting, levergun. Boys always want the biggest, hardest hitting , but you pay the price for plinking and target in a number of ways - size, weight, cost, impact at the shoulder and the target. And this one won’t ever be a distance king, even 500 yards may be beyond its ken, though the cartridge is good to 800 yards typically, or further with excellent setup and studied ammunition. But it does look like fun!
video*
Wasnt the scope zeroed neutral before you started put on level. Sorry just never came across that before . Always neutral my scopes in the mirror
good looking rifle
Ozzie do a review on the browning x bolt! It would be an awesome video
Nice review. Nice gun.
You say 'obviously' a lot, especially regarding points that are not necessarily obvious.
Hey mate what earplugs are you using here?
I'm a Canadian considering this rifle in 30-06, the 'takedown' model. I do intend to mount a scope, but will be getting a high power PCP air rifle as my primary & intend to get a scope that'll work on both. I'd be mounting the scope on top of the action like in this video.
Anyone who's owned this rifle (takedown version or not) for a while have any regrets with theirs?
BLR are nice rifles, what is the make of the see-through rail?
Rail mounted backwards?
Hi.. have you done a review on the Henry long ranger?
Beautiful gun. I can’t justify buying one. But I would like one.
Beautiful lever rifle , would like to see a larger loop available for cold weather hunting in northern Canada
You'd need a bigger trigger guard too if your gloves are that big. The loop matches the trigger guard. Not sure how that problem could be solved. I use mine with my snowmobile gloves no problem but I'm in central canada not north.
The BLR Short Action .300 WSM is crazy scary accurate. And given the choices of bullet weights. You can have your cake and eat it too....
Classy looking rifle - great scope.
But what happened to your favourite Trijicon scopes, Ozzie - I don't see them around at all any more.
Nice rifle ....thanks
Quite appreciated your effort at a fair review. I like your style more than many American gunners on TH-cam. No idiotic nonsense, such as shooting ballistic gel gummy bears or seeing how many frozen turkeys you can waste with an elephant gun.
My only issue is with the scope shooting so high. A Schmidt and Bender not having enough internal adjustment to zero at 100yards or meters just doesn't make sense to me. Something wasn't right. Either your mounts weren't appropriate or your scope was defective. S and B have an excellent reputation and are top dollar optics as far as I have heard. Out of my price range. But the scopes that I have had experience with, like Leupold, Nikon, Weaver, Vortex, have never had this issue. I also have never used a rail to mount optics, so I certainly don't have the experience to say what's right or wrong in the system. Maybe you or another viewer, with better insight, might illuminate this, for me or us.
First time viewer, have subscribed and liked.
What's the warranty like? I imagine if there's extractor issues or any other cycling issues are not an easy fix.
Why would you dry fire the firing pin?
What's the picatinny rail on the rifle?
Another good review! Any chance of a review of the Anschutz 1416? Thinking of it for my first rifle.
If you don't mind reloading, the BLR in .358 Winchester is a real thumper.
Between a savage hog hunter and the blr which one would you choose ?
Great stuff. Cheers
Hey Ozzie
That rail is on back to front...looks like a 15moa tilt in reverse...??
@Juan Batista Yes i know thats what the package says..but
1....the scope has no down travel.
2... it looks divergent from what i can see...
3...what do you trust more a $2000 Jap made product or a $35 American product?????
4...for the record I own a BLR!
@Juan Batista Ok...
I rekon i still see the rail tilt when the rings are attached and that explains the outcome...
Can you adjust the trigger?
Nice review. The down side of judging a round based on one factory load is you're not checking various loads for nodes. Its quite possible those inaccurate bullets would be very accurate with 0.5 gr more or less powder.
Great review chief, can you tell me if the receiver is nickel plated alloy or nickel plated steel ?
stainless steel
Receiver is Aluminum
That 4 round Mag is cute...
You really shouldn't need more than 1 or maybe 2 if your sights are well adjusted.
The Browning lever gun always looked a bit strange to me, as if the trigger and lever assembly should be at least an inch further forward than it is, relative to the receiver.
Lifted_Above don’t worry about the looks. It shoulders and shoots awesome. Had one for years and never once thought the trigger should be forward. Put a 1-6 power scope and it’s the perfect hunting rifle
@@mikemellon80 I'm not worried. Just observing aesthetics. Compared to the other levers on the market (Big Horn Armory, Chiappa, Rossi, Winchester, Marlin, Davide Pedersoli & Co, Taylor's & Co, Uberti, Henry and more), the trigger assembly is noticeably rearward in relation to the receiver.
I shoot lever action comp and all the star and national competitors shoot BLRs in 222 or 223 ! They are ergonomically spot on . Some including myself have custom stocks and aftermarket barrels fitted . We shoot open or peep sights to great accuracy . Great guns
Nice video.
Beautiful rifle and good to see a great scope put on it to test it's inherent accuracy. Like all BLR's it's only downfall is the trigger which you've highlighted. Something a good smith familiar with the BLR would be able to remedy. As to the ammo I own a Browning A Bolt 11 Stainless Stalker in .308 and I gave up reloading for it once I tried the factory OutBack 165gr Sierra Gameking's. Five shots inside an inch and for the cost of buying in bulk are well worth it. Great review Ozzie and thanks for sharing!
Thanks Ozzie that was a wonderful review , just wondering how did the leaver feel like ,and the bolt travel
Have been shooting one close to 40 years, has the smoothest bolt of any bolt action rifle and I am including my Tikka in this. The only downside with the rifle is a little heavy trigger and getting to the internals for cleaning. I have never taken the bolt out but it continues to work flawlessly.
While the lever action uses a bolt, I wouldn’t compare it to bolt action guns!
Just got mine 30-06 expired to bring it out