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Does the Browning family still own Browning?

Published in Firearms Company Ownership 2 mins read

No, the Browning family does not currently own Browning.

Browning, officially known as the Browning Arms Company, is a renowned American manufacturer of firearms and fishing tackle. While the company carries the name of the legendary firearm designer John Moses Browning, the family no longer holds ownership of the enterprise.

Current Ownership Structure

Browning is presently a wholly owned subsidiary of FN Herstal, a prominent Belgian firearms manufacturer. This means that FN Herstal possesses 100% of Browning's shares, exercising full control over its operations and strategic direction.

  • Parent Company: FN Herstal (Fabrique Nationale Herstal)
  • Relationship: Browning operates as a direct subsidiary.

John M. Browning's Legacy and Company Evolution

John M. Browning stands as one of history's most innovative and prolific firearm designers. Many of his groundbreaking designs have been manufactured under license by various well-known companies throughout history, including:

  • Winchester
  • Colt
  • Remington
  • FN Herstal (prior to its full acquisition of Browning)
  • Miroku

Although the company was founded in 1878 by John Moses Browning and his brothers, its ownership has transitioned over time. The acquisition by FN Herstal represents a significant shift from family ownership to corporate control, integrating Browning into a larger global firearms group. This arrangement enables Browning to continue producing its highly regarded products as part of a broader portfolio under FN Herstal's stewardship.

For additional information on the company's history and product lines, you can explore the Browning Arms Company Wikipedia page.