Guide

Browning BL-22 Grade I Micro Midas 22LR Lever Action Review: Compact, Slick, and Perfect for Smaller Shooters

Browning BL-22 Grade I Micro Midas 22LR Lever Action Review: Compact, Slick, and Perfect for Smaller Shooters

Introduction

The Browning BL-22 Grade I Micro Midas 22LR Lever Action is purpose-built for shooters who want classic lever-gun handling in a truly compact rimfire package—without settling for “youth rifle” compromises. With its shorter stock and 16.25-inch barrel, the Micro Midas variant is especially well-suited for younger shooters, smaller-framed adults, and anyone who wants a fast, lively .22 LR for plinking, range fundamentals, or small-game walks.

Even within the crowded rimfire lever-action category, the BL-22 family stands out for its smooth, short-arc lever throw and refined fit-and-finish. The Micro Midas takes that same BL-22 operating system and scales the ergonomics to better match shorter length-of-pull needs—while still feeling like a “real” rifle that can stay in the family for decades.

MPN: 024115103
UPC: 023614071242

Key Features and Specifications

Below are the most decision-relevant specs and design traits buyers typically care about for this model.

Core specs (Micro Midas configuration)

  • Caliber: .22 Long Rifle (BL-22 rifles are also designed to function with .22 Short and .22 Long as marked on the barrel) (browning.com)
  • Action: Lever action, side-eject
  • Barrel length: 16.25 inches (bluebookofgunvalues.com)
  • Magazine type: Tubular magazine
  • Capacity: Commonly listed as 12 rounds for the Micro Midas configuration (bluebookofgunvalues.com)
    (Note: the BL-22 owner’s manual lists standard BL-22 magazine capacities of 15 rounds for .22 LR, 17 for .22 Long, and 22 for .22 Short; Micro variants can differ due to magazine tube length.) (browning.com)
  • Length of pull (LOP): 12 inches (short LOP designed for smaller shooters) (bluebookofgunvalues.com)
  • Weight: Often listed around 4.75 lb (bluebookofgunvalues.com)

What makes a BL-22 feel different

  • Short-throw lever cycling: The BL-22 is known for a lever that runs through a short arc, allowing quicker follow-up shots and a less “reachy” cycle—especially helpful for smaller hands and shorter arms. Browning describes the BL-22’s lever operation as occurring through a “short arc” that ejects, cocks, and chambers as you cycle the lever. (browning.com)
  • Lever safety interlock: The BL-22 incorporates an interlock that helps prevent firing unless the lever and bolt are fully closed, and it also prevents firing if the trigger is held while closing the lever (you must release and press again). (browning.com)
  • No traditional manual safety: Like many exposed-hammer lever guns, BL-22 handling commonly relies on proper hammer position and safe carry practices rather than a separate manual safety lever.

Sights and optics readiness

  • Iron sights: The BL-22 uses traditional iron sights attached via dovetail slots. (browning.com)
  • Receiver grooves for rimfire rings: Many BL-22 variants are grooved for tip-off style rimfire mounts; this makes it possible to add a compact optic without drilling/tapping in many cases. (Because dovetail dimensions/ring fit can vary by ring brand and rifle generation, verify ring compatibility before purchase.)

Durability and maintenance notes

  • Do not dry-fire: Browning explicitly warns against dry firing the BL-22 because it may damage components. (browning.com)
  • Use SAAMI-spec ammo: Browning notes the firearm is built with safety margins around SAAMI-established pressures and warns against nonstandard or overpressure ammunition. (browning.com)

Pricing & availability (how to verify “right now”)

Because firearm pricing and inventory change weekly (and often daily), the most reliable way to confirm current availability is to check with your preferred local dealer/FFL and Browning’s current catalog status for the exact MPN.

If you’re evaluating fair-market positioning, third-party publications have historically characterized the BL-22 as a premium-priced rimfire lever action compared to value-focused alternatives, with the tradeoff being refinement, smoothness, and long-term fit/finish.

Practical Applications

1) Training and first rifle fundamentals (done the right way)

The Browning BL-22 Grade I Micro Midas 22LR Lever Action shines as a “first serious rifle” because:

  • Shorter LOP (12") helps new shooters mount the rifle correctly—improving sight alignment, trigger reach, and confidence. (bluebookofgunvalues.com)
  • Light overall weight reduces fatigue and makes it easier to hold steady from field positions.
  • Lever action pace naturally slows the rate of fire compared to semi-autos, encouraging deliberate fundamentals (breath, hold, press, follow-through).

2) Trail, farm, and camp rifle duties

For a compact rimfire that’s easy to carry, the Micro Midas format is particularly convenient:

  • 16.25" barrels are handy in brush and around vehicles/ATVs
  • .22 LR keeps noise, recoil, and cost low
  • Tube magazines keep the profile sleek (no protruding box mag)

3) Small-game hunting and pest control (where legal)

The BL-22 platform is a classic woods-walker.

  • The fast, short-arc cycle makes it easier to stay on target for quick second shots. (browning.com)
  • Traditional iron sights are robust and well-suited to the typical distances for squirrels/rabbits.

(Always verify local regulations for seasons, methods of take, and legal ammunition types.)

Expert Analysis

Why the Micro Midas variant matters

Many “youth” rifles are simply cut-down stocks on economy platforms. The Micro Midas concept is more thoughtful: it keeps the same BL-22 operating feel, but tunes the dimensions (notably the 12" LOP) so smaller shooters can run the gun correctly right away. (bluebookofgunvalues.com)

That correct fit has real benefits:

  • Better cheek weld consistency
  • Less tendency to crawl the stock
  • Improved trigger control because the shooter isn’t overreaching

Handling and reliability expectations

Browning’s documentation highlights built-in interlocks that prevent firing unless the lever is fully closed and require a proper trigger press after closing the action. (browning.com) This contributes to safe and consistent operation—particularly for newer shooters learning lever-gun cadence.

Also, Browning’s manual is unusually direct about not dry firing the BL-22. (browning.com) That’s a practical ownership note: if you practice at home, use appropriate .22 rimfire snap caps and follow safe handling rules.

Accessory strategy (keep it compact)

To preserve the Micro Midas’ “quick little carbine” personality:

  • Consider a small rimfire scope or micro red dot only if the shooter needs it; otherwise upgraded irons (front bead visibility / rear clarity) can keep the rifle trim.
  • If mounting an optic, measure for eye relief carefully—compact receivers can limit ring spacing and positioning flexibility.

Who should buy it

You’ll get the most value from this model if you want:

  • A premium, heirloom-grade rimfire lever action in a true compact fit
  • A training rifle that encourages disciplined shooting habits
  • A handy woods/ranch .22 that feels refined, not disposable

Conclusion

The Browning BL-22 Grade I Micro Midas 22LR Lever Action is one of the smartest “small-stature” lever-action rimfires on the market: compact, quick-handling, and built on a platform known for smooth cycling and classic Browning fit-and-finish. With its 16.25-inch barrel and 12-inch length of pull, it’s a particularly strong pick for younger shooters and smaller adults who want a rifle that fits correctly now—and still feels special years later. (bluebookofgunvalues.com)

If you’re choosing a single rimfire lever gun that can cover training, plinking, and small-game carry—while remaining genuinely enjoyable to operate—this Micro Midas configuration is hard to beat.

Sources

Browning. "BL-22™ Rifle Owner’s Manual (21-BFA-339)." Browning.com. 2021. https://www.browning.com/content/dam/browning/support/owners-manuals/2021/21-BFA-339_BL-22%20OM_WEB.pdf

Blue Book of Gun Values. "Browning BL-22 Grade I Micro Midas." BlueBookOfGunValues.com. (Accessed 2026). https://bluebookofgunvalues.com/products/browning-bl-22-grade-i-micro-midas

Browning. "Browning Gun Parts Price List — Lever-Action 22 Caliber Rifle BL-22." Browning.com. January 1, 2013 (prices effective). https://www.browning.com/content/dam/browning/support/parts-service/gun-parts-price-list/parts/2013/12-arn-432-bl-22.pdf