Browning Sako High Power Safari Grade — .243 Winchester 22” Bolt-Action Rifle (1965)
Archival record: Specifications and condition reflect the firearm as listed at the time of auction.
Final Auction Price: $1,307.00
This Browning High Power Safari Grade, chambered in .243 Winchester and manufactured in 1965 by Sako of Finland, represents the early production period of one of Browning’s most respected sporting rifles. The Safari Grade was the foundation of the High Power line—beautifully crafted with select walnut and fine checkering—and paired here with Sako’s precise Finnish action and exceptional machining.
Identification
MMA#: 250913RK002
Make: Browning (manufactured by Sako, Finland)
Model: High Power Safari Grade
Serial Number: 4152Z5
Year of Manufacture: 1965
Caliber: .243 Winchester
Action Type: Bolt action with hinged magazine floorplate
Barrel Length: 22”
Sights / Optics
The rifle is fitted with a hooded beaded blade front sight on a ramped base and an elevation-adjustable folding U-notch rear sight dovetailed into a windage-adjustable base. The receiver top is equipped with a Kuharsky Bros. sight base for scope mounting.
Stock Configuration & Condition
One-piece checkered walnut stock with Monte Carlo comb and cheekpiece, pistol grip, sling swivels front and rear, and a ventilated White Line recoil pad. A brown leather sling is attached.
Light, scattered nicks and dings appear throughout, with some notable scratches on the left forend and minor bubbling at the right rear buttstock edge. Checkering remains sharp, and the stock shows no cracks or chips. Importantly, this example predates Browning’s salt-brined stock period (1967–1969).
Length of Pull (LOP): 13⅝” (to pad), 12⅜” (to wood)
Stock Condition: Very Good–Fine
Finish & Overall Condition
Type of Finish: Blue (original)
This rifle retains approximately 96% of its metal finish. The barrel shows light freckling and faint handling marks, with minor buildup in recessed areas. The lower metal exhibits light marks, and the bolt shows normal operational wear. Screw heads are sharp.
Overall Condition: Fine Plus
Bore & Mechanics
Bore Condition: Bright and sharp rifling, free of erosion — rated 10/10 by the writer.
Mechanics: Action functions correctly on inspection. This rifle has not been test-fired. As with all used firearms, a professional inspection and cleaning are recommended prior to firing.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories
Included: mounted Kuharsky Bros. scope base and attached brown leather sling.
Our Assessment
The Browning High Power Safari Grade rifles—manufactured by Sako in Finland—combine the best elements of classic European sporting craftsmanship and Browning’s refined American design language. Produced between 1961 and 1975, these rifles featured strong Mauser-style or Sako actions and were offered in a wide range of calibers from .222 Remington up to .458 Winchester Magnum.
This 1965 example, chambered in .243 Winchester, showcases high-grade walnut, crisp hand-checkering, and the smooth bolt operation for which Sako was renowned. With its rich blued finish and elegant lines, it remains both a functional hunting rifle and an attractive collectible for enthusiasts of mid-century sporting arms.
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Firearm Archive – View additional Browning and Sako bolt-action rifles.
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