Guns International #: 103139312

Category - Browning Rifles - Browning Belgium Rifles - Olympian

Category
Browning Rifles
Browning Belgium Rifles - Olympian

Excellent 1961 Belgian Browning Olympian Grade 30-06 by Charles Legiers and Jose Baerten

Description:
For sale is an excellent Belgium Browning Olympian Grade chambered in 30-06, engraved by Legiers and J. Baerten. These rifles were produced in limited numbers from 1961-1976. This is in part due to the cost and time associated with producing such a high quality rifle, this becomes obvious when able to inspect one closely. My only documentation on production numbers for these begins in 1964 and ends in 1976. For 1964 it states 98 Olympians were produced in total with 32 of them being chambered in 30-06. The next year 1965 shows 110 Olympians produced in total and 29 of them being chambered in 30-06. Based on this data my best guess is about 600 of these rifles were produced in the "Pre-Salt" era and of those, about 200 of them were chambered in 30-06. 

The stocks were the highest grade available to Browning at the time. They are finished in gloss (this finish type varied before the eventual switch to the lacquer high gloss of the mid to late 1960s, the earlier guns were still glossy but did not have the depth to the finish that the later guns did) feature hand carved floral patterns separated by finely hand checkered grip areas. This alone was a time consuming task and expensive material choice considering the size of the blank required to complete a full Monte Carlo rifle stock! 

Next came the engraving. Extensive scroll engraving surrounding detailed game scenes featuring a Pronghorn Antelope trotting through desert terrain on the right bank, bugling Elk on the right bank, EXTREMELY prominant bust of a Whitetail Buck on the floorplate, and Grizzly Bear with pine trees in the background on the trigger guard. The photos will hopefully do a better job at displaying their quality better than I can describe them.

Producing this rifle today would cost an exceptional amount of money. The materials and craftsmanship involved in producing them are not easily sourced these days and if you were able to, you would be lucky to receive something equal in stature (after say twice the cost and a 2 year wait). I have received a quote of $8500 to reproduce just the stock to factory specifications!

This specific rifle is in excellent condition. It does show some light handling marks and use but nothing that detracts from its eye appeal in a meaningful way!

Don't hesitate to call or text me at 402-314-2729 if you have any questions or concerns, happy to help if I can!

I provide a 5 day inspection period to ensure you are happy with everything and that I was accurate in my description and photographs. I hope to find good homes where these collectible pieces will be appreciated and enjoyed.

Shipping is a flat $100 to lower 48 (PRIORITY MAIL, INSURED FOR THE VALUE OF THE GUN). It will be well packaged and cared for. Ammo shipped separately.

Licensed dealer in the state of Nebraska

Curio/Relic: Yes
Rifle Caliber: .30-06 Springfield
Manufacturer: Browning
Model: High Power Rifle

Price: $8,500.00
Shipping: $100.00