1932 Browning Auto Five A-5 16 Gauge 26" Poly Choke Semi Automatic Shotgun
Our Assessment: The Browning Automatic 5, most often Auto-5 or simply A-5, is a recoil-operated semi-automatic shotgun designed by John Browning. The Browning Auto-5 was the first mass-produced semi-automatic shotgun. Designed by John Browning in 1898 and patented in 1900, it was produced continually for almost 100 years by several makers with production officially ending in 1998 (though other makers have continued to make the pattern). It features a distinctive high rear end, earning it the nickname "Humpback". Browning presented his design to Winchester, where he had sold his rifle designs, but they refused his terms. He then went to Remington, but the president of the company died while he was waiting to offer them the gun. Browning then took the gun to FN in Europe and was so confident that his first order was for 10,000 shotguns. The design was later licensed to Remington for their Model 11 and to Savage Arms for their Models 720 and 755. This example is chambered for 16 Gauge and was made in Belgium in 1932, it is in pretty Good shape, showing honest wear for a 90 year old semi automatic shotgun. This classic Browning will go nicely in any Shotgun collection and is ready to get back out into the field. Please see our photos, good luck and happy bidding!
Make: Browning
Model: Auto 5
Serial Number: 125146
Year of Manufacture: 1932
Caliber: 16 Gauge, 2 9/16" - 2 3/4" Shells
Action Type: Semi Auto Shotgun fed by Tubular Magazine
Barrel Length: 26", Adjustable Poly Choke installed.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a fixed white bead attached to the choke.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The two piece checkered wood stock has a fluted straight comb, finger grooves, semi pistol grip and hard rubber buttpad. The wood shows moderate wear from handling and storage. There are compressions, scuffs and rubs. The left side of the forearm shows a minor crack. The LOP measures 13.75" from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stocks rate in about Very Good overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The smooth bore is semi bright with some scabbing and streaks of fouling. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates a 7 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 70% of its metal finish. The metal shows handling marks, scuffs, scratches and some freckles of oxidation. There is finish thinning on the edges and several spots of finish loss. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this shotgun rates in about Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this shotgun. As with all used firearms, a more thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
CA LEGALITY: C&R: YES, CA DEALER Transferable: YES
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