III. Firearm Information by Type

C. Semi-Automatic Pistols

2. Models and Manufacturers

d. Browning

1. Buck Mark 22

by Bob McCormick (bobmcc@tcs.com)

last update: 20 January 1995

Description

The Browning Buck Mark is a .22 LR self-loading (semi-automatic), single-action pistol. It has a 10 round magazine, internal hammer, and a manual safety (frame-mounted, push down to fire).

The various models are appropriate for plinking, target shooting (though not to Olympic standards), silhouette competition, and small varmint hunting. The Standard model is probably the most popular, and makes a great "first 22LR auto" firearm. The larger models are more appropriate for longer-range shooting and competition. All models include bull barrels; some have flattened sides to make them more compact. Pro Target sights, with 16 clicks per revolution on both elevation and windage, are included in all models (except Varmint; you probably want a scope).

All models are available in blue, nickel, and gold finishes. The blue finish is the by far most common, with a gold trigger.

The major controls are trigger, magazine release (American style, behind trigger on left side), safety, and slide stop open latch.

The pistol comes with one magazine, hex adjustment wrenches, manual, and a hard plastic case that can be locked (you provide a small padlock).

Models

There is a wide variety of models to choose from, distinguished primarily by barrel length. They are all based on the same frame and action, and many parts are interchangeable. The Standard model is the most common in stores. The longer models have wooden forearms, with a full length sight base, beveled and grooved for pistol scope rings.

Table of Buck Mark 22 Models
Model Name	Barrel	Grips	R-Sight	F- Sight	Trigger	ScopeRib
Micro:	4" flat	ambi rubber	std	ramp	fixed	no
Standard:	5 1/2" flat	ambi rubber	std	ramp	fixed	no
Plus:	5 1/2" flat	ambi lamin.	std	ramp	fixed	no
Field:	5 1/2" round	L/R wood	std	adjust	adjust	yes
Target:	5 1/2" round	L/R wood	std w/hood	adjust w/hood	adjust	yes
Varmint:	9 7/8" round	L/R wood	none	none	adjust	yes
Silhouette:	9 7/8" round	L/R wood	std w/hood	adjust w/hood	adjust	yes
Unlimited Match:	14" round	L/R wood	std w/hood	adjust w/hood	adjust	yes

Legend:


        Barrel: flat = bull barrel with polished, flattened sides
                round = round bull barrel
        Grips:  ambi = ambidextrous; symmetrical
                L/R = asymmetrical, usually right-handed, some available
                        in left-handed models
                rubber = black rubber, checkered, with thumb shelf
                lamin. = laminated wood
                wood = walnut wood
        R-Sight: std = Pro Target adjustable
        F-Sight: adjust = blade, adjustable in elevation and width

History

There were two earlier models of the Standard. The first model had a simple, cheap, and flimsy rear sight whose design closely resembled that of the Benjamin/Sheridan air pistols. The second had a small but well designed & fully adjustable rear that was both slightly higher and narrower than the current Pro Sight, and which also sat slightly further forward on the top strap. (Both models were originally fitted with hard synthetic grip panels that were thicker and less comfortable than the currently standard rubber grip panels.)

So, if you are purchasing a used Buck Mark, check to see which sights and grips are on it, if this matters to you. (Thanks to Lance Bernard for this information.)

Pricing

Standard model costs around ~USA$240 (of course, varies regionally). Target model costs around ~USA$380-460.

Ammunition

Most 22's are sensitive to ammo, so test various models in your personal gun. Most high-velocity and hyper-velocity loads are fine, with both round nose and hollow point bullets. Low-power target loads may not cycle the action properly, resulting in stove-pipes.

Field Stripping & Cleaning

The Buck Mark is quite easy to strip, requiring primarily the 3/32" hex wrench provided, with Field and larger models also requiring a straight-blade screwdriver.

When cleaning, make sure to clean indented ring at muzzle, and the indentation for the cartridge rim in the breech face, as these places can accumulate grime.

Parts & Maintenance

(need more sources for accessories)

Browning does not mention recommend about dry-firing. There is nothing (that I can see) that will prevent the firing pin from slamming into the rear of the chamber. You can insert a spent casing in the chamber, but MAKE SURE IT IS A SPENT CARTRIDGE and POINT IT IN A SAFE DIRECTION, EVEN WHEN DRY-FIRING (remember and obey all safety rules). Note that cycling the slide after a dry-fire will be much more difficult, as you are cocking the hammer also.

Other Comparable Pistols

The following pistols are comparable to the Buck Mark in size, features, etc.:

Colt 22 is a relatively new pistol. Stainless, 4.5" barrel, black plastic grips, $250.
Ruger Mk II is probably the most common pistol of this class. Many models are available, with bull and standard barrels, in blue and stainless finishes. Range rentals widely available (but are sometimes poorly maintained). Can be difficult to reassemble after cleaning, unless you know the secret. $250-$400.
Smith & Wesson 422, 622, 2213, 2214 are similar pistols in blue and stainless, 4.5" and 6" barrels, $235-$350.

"Next Step Up" Pistols

The following pistols are a "step up" from the Buck Mark, in terms of accuracy and price.

Beretta Models 84-89, $485-$600.
Haemmerli 215, 280 (~USA$1400 and up).
Mitchell High Standard, (~USA450).
Smith & Wesson 41 (~USA$700), 2206.

Browning's Address
Main USA Office:
Browning
Route One
Morgan, Utah 84050 USA
+1 801-876-2711

Canada:
Browning Canada Sports Ltd./Ltee
5617 Chemin St-Fracoi
St-Laurent
Quebec, Canada H4S 1W6
514-333-7261

Service:
Browning Service Department
3005 Arnold Tenbrook Road
Arnold, Missouri 63010-9406
1-800-322-4626