doublegunshop.com - home Forums General Discussion DoubleGun BBS @ doublegunshop.com Browning Factory Records

Is there a Browning resource similar to the Winchester Cody letters? I have an unusual 1975 20 Ga. Superlite Grade 1 which has what appears to be factory Midas wood and checkering, and I'd like to verify it's originality.

It's hidden pretty deep on the Browning web site:

Q. I would like historical information about my Browning firearm. Where can I get this?

A. Add a piece of history to your firearm! For $39.95 (Shipping included), our Browning Historian will research your firearm and type a historical letter. Historical Letters include: Date of manufacture, invoice number, date of sale, to where the gun was shipped, and a description of the firearm. All letters come on official Browning Historic Letterhead which is authentically stamped & signed by the Historian and are enclosed in a plastic cover. For more information, please contact Browning Customer Service at 1-800-333-3288.

Perfect! Thanks.

I own one and only one Browning firearm. A first year (1931) Superposed. I called the historian and since I live nearby we chatted for a very long time.

He mentioned he was nearing retirement so I am not sure the same person will answer the phone. If it is the same guy he will give you a LOT more information (assuming it is available) over the phone than will be in the letter. Be prepared to take notes. Browning has given him some odd rules concerning the letters. He can not tell you the original sale price in the letter but he will tell you over the phone.

Very nice guy and I wish I had taken him up on his offer to visit him in person.

Good luck.

Mike

Just got off the phone with presumably the same man. Super! Answered my question, gave me the original price ($1000 in 1977!) One big attaboy for the Browning historian.

46 years make a difference.

I do not remember the exact price but I know my Grade 1 Super sold for less than $50 in 1937.....