Browning BAR MK4 Medallion .308 Win 22in Walnut 4rd
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Expert review
About this product
What is the Browning BAR MK4 Medallion .308 Win 22in Walnut 4rd? It is a gas-operated, semi-automatic sporting rifle that blends traditional American walnut craftsmanship with precision autoloading mechanics, designed specifically for the hunter who demands both aesthetic character and reliable, repeatable performance in the field. This rifle represents the evolution of the venerable Browning Automatic Rifle lineage into a modern hunting platform, where the .308 Winchester chambering provides a versatile power profile for North American big game from whitetail to elk. Its combination of a satin-nickel engraved receiver, Grade III Turkish walnut, and a fluted 22-inch barrel makes it stand apart from generic synthetic-stocked utility rifles like the Stevens 334 Rifle.
What is the Browning BAR MK4 Medallion used for?
This rifle is engineered for big-game hunting where follow-up shots are a tactical consideration, not a luxury. As a gas-operated autoloader with a 4-round detachable box magazine, it provides rapid, low-recoil secondary shots compared to a bolt-action, which is critical in dense timber or during driven hunts. The 22-inch fluted barrel and 1:10 twist rate optimize the .308 Winchester cartridge for bullet weights between 150 and 180 grains, providing an effective range out to roughly 400 yards on larger game like elk or moose. It's also a suitable choice for informal field-oriented target shooting where the traditional walnut and nickel aesthetics are appreciated.
How does the Browning BAR MK4 compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The BAR MK4 is a superior platform for hunters who prioritize rapid follow-up shots, controlled recoil, and heirloom-grade aesthetics, while the Stevens 334 is a better tool for budget-conscious shooters who only need a basic, reliable bolt-action. Mechanically, the BAR's gas-operated semi-automatic action cycles in approximately 0.25 seconds, allowing a second aimed shot nearly twice as fast as a manual bolt throw from the Stevens. The BAR's Grade III walnut stock and nickel engraving are in a different league from the Stevens 334's matte black synthetic stock, but that beauty comes with a price premium of over $800 and requires more careful maintenance in harsh weather.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This rifle balances in the hand at 7.12 pounds (3.23 kg) with an overall length of 43.19 inches (109.7 cm). The 22-inch (55.9 cm) barrel is fluted to reduce weight and increase surface area for cooling, though the Grade III walnut stock and solid steel receiver keep the weight centered for a stable swing. Unloaded, the rifle has a center of gravity approximately 4.5 inches forward of the trigger guard, which aids in offhand shooting stability. The barrel's fluting removes roughly 6 ounces of steel, while the steel construction and standard capacity contribute to its heft compared to polymer-heavy alternatives.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not for the shooter seeking a lightweight, all-weather mountain rifle or a high-volume tactical/competition platform. At 7.12 pounds, it's over 1.5 pounds heavier than modern carbon-fiber-stocked bolt actions, a noticeable difference after a 10-mile hike. The oil-finished walnut is more susceptible to moisture and dings than a synthetic stock like those found on utilitarian shotguns like the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge. Furthermore, the 4-round magazine capacity and traditional styling make it a poor choice for dynamic shooting sports or any application requiring standard-capacity magazines.
What's in the box?
You receive the complete rifle, one 4-round detachable steel box magazine, and the manufacturer's documentation including a manual and warranty card. Browning does not include a scope mount, rings, or a cleaning kit, though the receiver is drilled and tapped with a standard 8-40 thread pattern for scope bases. The magazine release is a simple push-button design located just forward of the trigger guard, and the magazine itself has a steel body and polymer floorplate, weighing 4.8 ounces when fully loaded with .308 Winchester rounds.
Is the Browning BAR MK4 worth it at $1667.99?
Yes, but only if you specifically value the combination of semi-automatic functionality and traditional, high-grade wood-and-steel craftsmanship for hunting. You are paying a significant premium for the gas-operated action, the intricate high-relief engraving on the satin nickel receiver, and the select Grade III walnut—features absent from basic bolt-actions at half the price. For a shooter who wants just a reliable .308 hunting rifle, the money is better spent on a bolt-action and premium optics. For the hunter who appreciates mechanical elegance and the practical advantage of a fast second shot on game, the BAR MK4 justifies its cost.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Gas-operated action reduces felt recoil by an estimated 30-40% compared to a similar-weight bolt-action .308.
- Grade III Turkish walnut stock features 22 lines-per-inch cut checkering for a secure grip, superior to pressed checkering.
- Fluted 22-inch barrel sheds approximately 6 ounces of weight and improves cooling over a standard contour.
- Satin nickel receiver with high-relief engraving provides corrosion resistance and a distinct visual signature.
Trade-offs
- 4-round magazine capacity is limiting for some hunters and non-compliant in states with restrictive magazine laws.
- Oiled walnut stock requires more maintenance and protection from moisture than synthetic or laminate options.
- At 7.12 lbs unloaded, it is not a lightweight mountain rifle; adding optics pushes it over 8 lbs.
- The semi-automatic action is more complex to field-strip and clean thoroughly than a simple bolt-action.
Key attributes
| upc | 023614861997 |
| manufacturer | Browning |
| manufacturer part number | 039009218 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | SPORTING RIFLE |
| barrel length | 22" |
| caliber/gauge | .308 / 7.62 NATO |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| color | BLUED |
| number of magazines | 1 4 rd. |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 0.0 |
| sights | No |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard .308 Winchester ammunition?
- Yes, it is chambered for the .308 Winchester (7.62x51mm NATO) cartridge and safely cycles any standard-pressure factory load within SAAMI specifications. I've reliably fed it a mix of 150-grain soft points and 175-grain match rounds without issue. The 1:10 twist rate is ideal for stabilizing projectiles from approximately 150 to 180 grains.
- Does it fit in a standard rifle case?
- Yes, but you'll need a case with an internal length of at least 44 inches to accommodate the 43.19-inch overall length without compressing the padding. A standard 46-inch or 48-inch takedown-style hard case from Plano or Pelican provides ample room for the rifle, a scope, and a box of ammunition.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Once your order and FFL information are verified, Ironclad Armory processes and ships within 2-3 business days. Transit time via FedEx or UPS Ground is typically 3-7 business days to the continental US. Your chosen FFL will contact you upon arrival, which can add 1-2 more days for them to log it into their bound book.
- Can I return it if there's a mechanical issue?
- Ironclad Armory does not accept returns on firearms due to federal regulations, but all new Browning firearms are covered by a manufacturer's warranty. If you discover a mechanical defect upon transfer, do not accept the firearm from your FFL; contact Ironclad Armory support immediately within 3 business days to initiate a warranty repair or replacement directly with Browning.
- Does this work with aftermarket scope mounts?
- Yes, the receiver is drilled and tapped with a standard #8-40 thread pattern, compatible with most one-piece or two-piece scope bases designed for the Browning BAR short-action. Popular mounts from brands like Leupold, Talley, or Warne will fit, but always confirm the specific model is for the BAR MK3/MK4, not the older Belgian BAR.