Author Topic: Browning Hawken ? (Read 1114 times)

badshotbob · « **on:** July 03, 2003, 01:39:08 PM »

Hi all

,
Very new to muzzleloader's. In fact never shot mine YET. Have been a cartridge shooter, but always was facinated by the muzzleloader's.
A couple of months ago at a gun show, came across an Investarms Hawken .50 that was like new at a very good price. Picked it up, and started reading all the web sites I could find to learn how to use it safely. (also Fadala's book)
I have been reading about many different BP rifle companies and forums with their owners likes and dislikes.
At last weeks gun show, a gentleman was carrying a hawken for sale. At first I thought it was a CVA , but hoping for a Ithica (lol). Either way, looking for a good deal. Upon a quick check with him, he advised it was a Browning Hawken. I never heard Browning's talked about. It did not appear to be that nicely finished compared to other mfg's I look at. I always had high regard for a Browning Rifle. He was asking $350, but it didnt call my name. Did I pass on something rare or unusual ?
I did find a .50 T/C Renegade with custom 1 in 66 barrel and peep sites - also mint shape, that did call my name and was adopted immediately.
Now to stop polishing these rifles and try them out at the range soon. I hope my instructional reading works and that I get back to you'all with a range report on them.
Thanks everyone,
Bob :grin:

johnt · « **Reply #1 on:** July 03, 2003, 05:02:38 PM »

Good pass on the Browning Hawkin.
It may well have been a browned hawkin! An item like that can't be had anywhere,
well' anywhere's,,
,, in less than 3 day's.!
I hope ya shoot well badshot, seem's yer doin sum studies.
Check in from tyme ta tyme,although few of us have thyme ta spare.
:-D

alpini · « **Reply #2 on:** July 04, 2003, 10:23:20 AM »

I've always kinda liked the Jonithan Browning Mountain Rifle. They always looked pretty well made, never owned one though. I like the ram's curl on the snail. I don't know about price, that would depend a lot on the condition of the piece. I understand they were good shooters and collecteble during their time(late 70's early 80's). I had a friend that had a .50 and a .54 if I remember right, He liked them alot.

badshotbob · « **Reply #3 on:** July 05, 2003, 02:31:12 AM »

Hey guys,
Thanks for the responses. The Browning was over my price range for that day but struck my interest. I am glad I passed in that the Renegade that was just down the isle was really sweet. The previous owner , ordering the custom barrel , mounting the peep sights and keeping it in mint condition really cared for this rifle. I feel honored to be its owner.
Will keep in touch with the forum, and look forward to more postings from everyone. I really learn alot of information from you'all.

Thanks
Bob :-)

pendennis · « **Reply #4 on:** July 07, 2003, 03:27:53 AM »

Bob, I own two of the "Browning Hawkens", one in .45, and the other in .50. The correct nomenclature for the Brownings is the Jonathon Browning Mountain Rifle. The intent of Browning at the time was to produce a rifle that looked more authentic than the T/C Hawken, or the T/C Renegade. IMHO, they succeeded very well. Both of mine are very accurate, and they get a lot of good comments at the range. The browning of the barrel, and the pewter nose cap add to the authenticity. They are a little heavy with the barrel length, and the fact that the barrels are 1" across the flats. That just adds to the stability, again IMHO.

Depending on the condition, $350 is not a bad price, and you may have been able to dicker a little. I've seen them go for as much as $600 on various auction sites. The commemoratives will go for as much as $1000.

Best always and make smoke,
YMHS Dennis

badshotbob · « **Reply #5 on:** July 07, 2003, 01:34:30 PM »

Wow- Dennis,

The browning I looked at and by the few descriptions I read here, this gun must have had major alterations. It honestly threw me back when he said it was a Browning and it did in fact say Browning on the barrel, but now think it was a pieced gun. I admitt only taking a very short inspection, because it appeared very cheap, but now wish I examined it with more detail. I never saw a rams head on the snail or any pewter cap. I usually look for detail that makes a firearm pleasing because I enjoy their asthetics as well as shooting. wow- maybe major brainfart!

Well, thats why I really love this forum. I appreciate the many experienced people willing to share their knowledge. Maybe the gentleman didnt sell it and will appear at our next local gun show. If he does, you can bet I'll look very closely, or at least know much more about them in the future thanks to you 'all.

As always-thanks too all.
Bob

Gerald McDonald · « **Reply #6 on:** July 09, 2003, 07:32:46 AM »

I have a Jonathon Browning 50 I picked up at a good deal from a show, previous owner had worn the crown out with a fiberglass ramrod. Had it recrowned and it shoots good. Fit and finish (lock and stock) on mine is better than a run of the mill Lyman GPR, but it is pretty heavy and you can see some mill marks on the barrel.
Gerald