Browning BLR 308 Model 81

[bandit2012]

Hello everyone. Hoping someone can really help me out here. I've just recently been given a Browning BLR in 308 model 81 by my dad who recently had a heart attack. Dad is doing better but I am in need of a 308 magazine for this rifle. I recently purchased one from Midway USA which is a flush mount and is the wrong one also. I contacted Browning and the customeer service rep acted like he didn't really have time to help me or look anything up for me. But what he did tell me is that between 1994 & 1995, Browning started using a different metal on the receiver resulting in a new magazine style. He said that I would need the magazine that was made from 1994 -to prior. This may be the one that sticks out the bottom a little. I sure would appreciate it if anyone can help me out. It's ashame that there are rifles out there that need a magazine and Browning says that there is nothing that they can do to help out. I guess they will have to just sit in the gun safe and collect dust. Thanks for your help everyone.

 

[X-Rap]

Regretably those magazines like many other discontinued others have become something of a collectors item.
I have heard of prices as high as $250 for the old BLR mags. I have a first year that was made in Belgium in 308 that aside from the box is like new and I sold a well used 243 (also Belgian) that I wish I still had.
Keep looking and maybe you can find one cheap on line or in some junk box at an auction.

 

[Don McDowell]

You need to know for sure whether you have the 81 model or the original design. Both were made by Miroku. I'm not positive buy I believe the lightning models used the same magazine as the 81.
The 81 model the sides of the receiver are flat, the original version the sides are scalloped in a touch.
Keep an eye on Gun Broker, and Guns America, those magazines pop up there every once in awhile

 

[bandit2012]

Thanks guys. I really appreciate the help and info. It's really ashame some of these people bought these pretty cheap and now they are wanting to sell them for an outrageous amount of money. I will keep checking the gun shows to see if I can come across one of them. Thanks again guys.