Miroku ML22

Miroku Corporation · Rifle · In Production · 1970

Also known as: ML-22, Browning BL-22

Overview

The Miroku ML22 is a Japanese-made lever-action rimfire rifle chambered in .22 Long Rifle (also accepting .22 Short and .22 Long). Built by Miroku in Kochi, it is mechanically identical to the Browning BL-22, which Miroku manufactures in the same factory. It is noted for an exceptionally short 33-degree lever throw that allows very fast follow-up shots, a 15-round tubular magazine, a 509 mm (20 in) barrel, and a walnut or maple stock. It has been a popular plinking and small-game rifle, especially in Australia.

Specifications

Weight (empty)	2270 g (80.1 oz)
Overall Length	933 mm (36.73")
Barrel Length	509 mm (20.04")
Action Type	Lever Action
Firing Mechanism	Hammer Fired
Trigger Type	Single Stage
Magazine Capacity	15 rounds
Magazine Type	Tube
Muzzle Velocity	330 m/s (1083 fps)
Muzzle Energy	141 J (104 ft·lbf)
Effective Range	100 m (109 yd)
Maximum Range	1500 m (1640 yd)
Barrel Rifling	Right Hand
Frame Material	Steel
Barrel Material	Steel
Stock Material	Wood
Finish	Blued

Calibers

.22 Long Rifle · primary — also known as .22 LR, 22 LR, 5.6x15mmR

Features

Firing modes: Repeating
Feed systems: Tubular Magazine
Safety mechanisms: Half Cock Hammer
Features: Short Throw Lever, Tubular Magazine, Exposed Hammer, Multi Cartridge Capability

Production

Production years: 1970-present

Produced by Miroku both under its own ML22 name and as the Browning BL-22

Origin

Country of origin: Japan

Notes

Sold under Miroku's own ML22 designation as well as branded for Browning as the BL-22; the two are the same rifle from the same production line. The tubular magazine holds 15 rounds of .22 LR, more of the shorter cartridges.

Background

Prized for its 33-degree short-throw lever, the ML22 can be cycled so fast that Australian rimfire shooters have used it for four decades as one of the quickest lever-action .22s available.