The Browning BLR lever action rifle has all of the fine qualities of a good lever action with the inherent strength and accuracy of a bolt action. The BLR is essentially a "lever operated bolt action" because multiple locking lugs on the head of the bolt rotate into the breech end of the barrel to create a very strong action. The rack and pinion operating design allows the trigger to move with the lever, eliminating finger jams.

The receiver is drilled and tapped for scope mounts, and features a hammer half cock safety, fully enclosed bolt head, and a good trigger mechanism. The magazine capacity is four rounds in standard calibers. It is the only lever action currently offered than can handle the pressures generated by high intensity and magnum cartridges.

The Lightweight (short action) model has a pistol grip stock, 20 inch barrel, deep blued finish and American walnut checkered stock and schnable forend. The weight is 6.5 pounds, and the overall length is just 40 inches. Adjustable iron sights are standard. The detachable box magazine allows the use of pointed bullets, and the forend design eliminates the use of barrel bands. There are long and short action versions, depending on caliber.

The Lightweight '81 model is similar to the standard BLR Lightweight, but comes with a straight hand stock and a carbine style forend with a barrel band. The '81 is the Western style BLR.

There is also an "all weather" Lightweight, with stainless steel silver/gray metal finish and a gray laminated hardwood stock. For 2008 the caliber list is the same for all models. Available numbers include .22-250, .243 Win., .270 Win., 7mm-08, 7mm Rem. Mag., .308 Win., .30-06, .358 Win. (the only production .358 Winchester rifle), .450 Marlin, .270 WSM, 7mm WSM, .300 WSM, .300 Win. Mag. and .325 WSM.

The Browning BLR is a very dependable, accurate and easy to operate lever action rifle. It offers an excellent combination of ease of use, rapid follow up shots, plenty of power, and a wide variety of useful applications for the North American big game hunter.

Note: An in depth review of the Browning BLR Lightweight Takedown rifle can be found on the Product Reviews Page.