A few weeks ago I made the drive to my not-so-local awesome gun store where I replaced my prior sold SIG P365. While there I noticed a Browning T-Bolt Varmint in .22WMR on clearance. Unfortunately I didn’t take the time to really check it out but have been intrigued about it since, liking the heavier stock and barrel and that it was chambered in .22WMR, not to mention the clearance price. After a dental appointment yesterday that was a new experience in fun and enjoyment I decided to call to see if the T-Bolt was still there. I was told it was and it was placed on hold. Soon after I began the 50 mile drive each way to check it out.
When I arrived I asked to see the T-Bolt I had placed on hold. What I was handled was a Sporter model, which has a lighter stock and barrel while still being a .22WMR. I guess I didn’t specify that the T-Bolt I was inquiring about was the Varmint model, fortunately as it worked out. Looking it over I really liked the walnut stock and the feel of the rifle, and the additional $25 rebate from Browning made it an even better deal. It was in pristine shape, a concern as the clearance rack is set out so anyone can easily play with it, so I decided to take it home.
On the way home I stopped by the local Bass Pro where I bought a Vortex Diamondback 2x7x35 rimfire scope, handy since I had a credit on my Bass Pro card. Tomorrow my Browning scope mount/ring mounts arrive from Amazon. Once I mount the scope I am in business!
The T-Bolt is typical Browning/Miroku quality, with a beautiful walnut stock with nice contrast, nice blueing and a really ingenious double helix 10round magazine to go with the straight pull action. While it wasn’t cheap, being over $100 more than the CZ 457 American in .22 I bought over a month ago, it scratches a long term itch. A little bit of cleaning, lubing and a light amount of grease on the locking lugs really smoothed the action out.
Can’t wait to shoot it!!