Who Owns Browning Arms Company?
Browning Arms Company is a well-known American firearms manufacturer that has been in operation for over 135 years. From its humble beginnings as a small gunsmith shop in Ogden, Utah to its current status as one of the largest and most respected firearms manufacturers in the world, Browning Arms Company has a rich and storied history. In this article, we’ll delve into the ownership history of Browning Arms Company, exploring who owns the company and how it has remained a leading player in the firearms industry.
Current Ownership Structure
As of 2022, the Browning Arms Company is owned by FNHerstal, a Belgian weapons manufacturer. FNHerstal is a subsidiary of the Walloon region government, which is responsible for the economic development of Wallonia, a region in southern Belgium. In 2007, FNHerstal acquired a majority stake in Browning Arms Company, making it a wholly-owned subsidiary.
History of Browning Arms Company
Prior to its acquisition by FNHerstal, Browning Arms Company was owned and operated by the Brown family, who founded the company in 1878. John Moses Browning, the company’s namesake and founder, is widely regarded as one of the most influential firearms designers in history. He holds over 120 patents in his name, including designs for the M1911 pistol, the M14 rifle, and the.50-caliber machine gun.
Key Milestones in Browning’s Ownership History
Here are some key milestones in Browning Arms Company’s ownership history:
- 1878: John Moses Browning founds the Browning Arms Company in Ogden, Utah.
- 1927: The company is incorporated as the Winchester Repeating Arms Company (WRAC).
- 1967: WRAC is acquired by the conglomerate Olin Corporation.
- 2007: Olin Corporation sells WRAC to FNHerstal, which assumes ownership of the Browning Arms Company brand.
Why Did FNHerstal Acquire Browning?
FNHerstal’s acquisition of Browning Arms Company was a strategic move to expand its presence in the global firearms market. At the time, FNHerstal was looking to diversify its product lines and expand its customer base beyond its traditional military customer base. Browning’s reputation for producing high-quality firearms, combined with its strong brand recognition and vast distribution network, made it an attractive acquisition target for FNHerstal.
Benefits of the Acquisition
The acquisition of Browning Arms Company by FNHerstal has brought several benefits to both companies. These include:
- Shared Resources: FNHerstal and Browning Arms Company have been able to leverage each other’s resources and expertise to improve product quality and reduce costs.
- Expanded Product Line: The acquisition has allowed both companies to expand their product lines, with Browning Arms Company gaining access to FNHerstal’s vast portfolio of military and commercial firearms.
- Improved Distribution Network: The combination of FNHerstal and Browning Arms Company has created a powerful distribution network that spans the globe.
- Enhanced R&D Capabilities: Both companies have been able to invest in research and development, driving innovation and producing new and improved products for consumers.
Conclusion
The ownership structure of Browning Arms Company is a result of a series of mergers and acquisitions that date back to the company’s founding in 1878. Today, the company is a wholly-owned subsidiary of FNHerstal, a Belgian weapons manufacturer. While the company has undergone several changes in ownership over the years, its commitment to producing high-quality firearms remains unchanged. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or an avid collector, Browning Arms Company is a well-respected brand that offers a wide range of products to suit every need.
