
If you’ve ever held a Winchester lever-action rifle or a Colt 1911 semi-auto, you’ve had a piece of history in your hands, thanks to the genius of John Moses Browning. Browning wasn’t simply a gunsmith working in a workshop (although a master he was). He was foremost an innovator whose designs shaped the firearms world for over a century. From rifles to pistols to shotguns, his creations have stood the test of time. So, grab your favorite piece of Browning history and settle in as we take a look back at the man behind some of the most iconic firearms ever made.
Today’s post is our introduction to the John Moses Browning story. Keep it bookmarked and check back for upcoming chapters:
- Introduction (currently reading)
- Rifles and Carbines
- Semi-Auto Pistols
- Shotguns
Early Life: A Tinkerer From the Start
Born in Ogden, Utah, in 1855, John Moses Browning came into the world with the kind of curiosity that could get a kid into trouble—or, in his case, start a firearms revolution. His father, Jonathan Browning, was a gunsmith, so you could say tinkering with metal and powder was in his blood. The younger Browning built his first firearm while he was still just an apprentice. Legend has it that he and his then five-year-old brother (and future business partner) Matthew took John Moses’ first creation out hunting almost immediately.
Partnership with Winchester: A Match Made in Firearms Heaven
When John Moses Browning met Winchester Repeating Arms Company, the two hit it off like a .30-30 round hitting steel. Starting with the Model 1885 and then quickly moving on to the 1886, Browning’s designs brought innovation and reliability to lever-action rifles. The Model 1894? Yep, that one was his, too. The best-selling sporting rifle in history, still being made today.
To look at our body of restoration work, it will come as no surprise that we are forever dedicated to the traditions of Browning and Winchester. We’ll dig deeper into this legendary collaboration next month. (Update: The Rifles of John Moses Browning)
The Iconic Colt Model 1911: Browning’s Masterpiece
If you had to pick one firearm that truly embodies Browning’s genius, it would probably be the Colt Model 1911 semi-automatic pistol. This sidearm was adopted by the U.S. military in—you guessed it—1911, and it served through two world wars and beyond. Designed with a simple, rugged, and reliable mechanism, the 1911 quickly became the go-to sidearm for soldiers and lawmen alike. Browning didn’t just create a gun; he created a legend.
The road to 1911 is paved with fascinating stories. We’ll offer up a handful later in our series. (Update: The Pistols of John Moses Browning)
Browning’s Shotguns: A Legacy of Smoothbores
You can’t talk about Browning without mentioning his love affair with shotguns. Whether it was the Auto-5, the world’s first mass-produced semi-automatic shotgun, or his various over/under designs, Browning’s shotguns were as smooth as butter and as reliable as sunrise. The Auto-5’s “humpback” design is as recognizable as a cowboy hat at a rodeo, and you’ll still find them in duck blinds and trap ranges today.
Yet John Moses Browning’s genius wasn’t limited to just one iconic shotgun—he designed several that have had a lasting impact on both the hunting world and competitive shooting. We’ll explore these in the coming months. (Update: The Shotguns of John Moses Browning)
Browning’s Later Years and Legacy
Even as Browning grew older, he never slowed down. He continued inventing until the very end, creating designs for military, hunting, and civilian use alike. By the time he passed away in 1926, he had left behind more than 120 firearm patents, many of which are still in use today. His designs are timeless—kind of like that old Winchester in your gun safe that still shoots like a dream.
John Moses Browning wasn’t just a man with a knack for firearms; he was a visionary who saw the potential in every piece of metal and wood he touched. His designs are still revered by collectors and shooters alike, and his legacy lives on in countless examples by Winchester, Colt, Remington and more. Next time you’re at the range or in the field, tip your hat to ol’ John Moses. After all, he’s the reason many of those guns in your collection are worth every penny.

What a great man! Over the years I have collected many of his designs. Original 1911, World War 1, restored by Turnbull. Original 1892 Winchester restored by Turnbull. I have passed these two to my children. I currently have three 1911’s. Anxious to see more articles.
Thank you Mr. Brown, so glad you’re enjoying our articles. And of course, it’s been a distinct pleasure to care for your family heirlooms. It’s a thrill to know your children are among the next generation to carry on the stories of these legendary makers and their inspired work.