Browning BAR

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This article is about the Browning BAR hunting rifle. For the military rifle, see M1918 Browning Automatic Rifle.
Browning BAR
Type Semi-automatic rifle
Place of origin Flag of Belgium Belgium
Production history
Manufacturer Browning Arms Company
Specifications (Current production BAR[2])
Weight 6 lb (2.7 kg) to 8 lb (3.6 kg)
Length 41 in (1,041 mm) to 45 in (1,143 mm)
Barrel length 20 in (508 mm) to 24 in (610 mm)
Cartridge Short and long-action cartridges [1]
Action Gas-operated, rotating bolt,
Rate of fire Semi-automatic
Feed system Detachable box magazine
Sights Open sights (depending on model) and optional scope base

The BAR is a gas-operated, semi-automatic rifle produced by the Browning Arms Company first in Belgium and later in Japan. The rifle loads from a box magazine detachable from a hinged floor plate[3]. This rifle should not be confused with the M1918 military rifle which is a completely different design though also referred to as the BAR. Browning redesigned the BAR models in 2004[4].

[edit] Variants

There are several different models of the Browning BAR; Safari, Long- and ShortTrac and Lightweight Stalker. Both LongTrac and ShortTrac versions are available in a Mossy Oak takedown, basic and Stalker variant.

The Safari model is the most luxurious model in the BAR-line, with an engraved steel receiver and more luxurious walnut stock[5]. The barrel is 22, 23 or 24 inches long depending on the calibre. The Safari is the only model with the Browning BOSS (Ballistic Optimizing Shooting System). The system reduces recoil and should enhance accuracy with an adjustable muzzle brake and -weight[5].

The Lightweight Stalker model has no engraving, and an aluminum-alloy receiver. The stock is matte black synthetic instead of a walnut stock. The stalker is the only model to feature iron sights[5]. The barrel is 20, 22, 23 or 24 inches long.

LongTrac and ShortTrac models (Long or Short depending on the length of the action) feature an aluminum-alloy receiver without engraving, a plastic trigger guard and floorplate, and more stylised stock[2][5]. The basic version has a walnut stock, the stalker version has a matte-black finish and a black composite stock. The Mossy Oak version has a composite stock and the entire rifle is painted in camouflage colors[2]. Depending on variant and calibre, the barrel is 22, 23 or 24 inches.

[edit] References

  1. ^ Numerous cartridges have been offered over the years. See Browning web site for current chamberings.
  2. ^ a b c Browning Catalog: BAR rifles
  3. ^ Taffin, John (October 2006), “The Gentleman’s Sporting Auto”, GUNS magazine, <http://www.gunsmagazine.com/F10.html> 
  4. ^ Hoots, Lee J., “Deer Rifles Abound”, Guns & Ammo, <http://www.gunsandammomag.com/long_guns/deer100404/> 
  5. ^ a b c d Hawks, Chuck, The Browning BAR Mark II Rifle, <http://www.chuckhawks.com/bar.htm>. Retrieved on 23 February 2008 

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