Belgium Browning Auto-5 A-5 Light Twelve 12GA Shotgun, 1971 C&R
SOLD FOR: $800
Make: Belgium Browning
Model: A5 Light Twelve
Serial Number: 71G 63048
Year of Manufacture: 1971, C&R
Gauge: 12 Gauge, 2 3/4” Chamber
Action Type: Long Recoil Semi Automatic Shotgun fed by Tubular Magazine
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “BROWNING ARMS COMPANY ST LOUIS Mo. & MONTREAL P.Q.” with a series of Belgian proof marks. The left side of the receiver is marked “Light Twelve / ® / BROWNING”. The receiver, tangs and trigger guard have tasteful Grade I engraving. The right side of the barrel is marked “SPECIAL STEEL-12 GA.-SHELLS 2 ¾”.
Barrel Length: 25.5”
Choke: Improved CYL, Fixed
Sights / Optics: This shotgun is mounted with a silver-colored bead on a dual sided ramp. The top of the barrel and receiver are wavy serrated/checkered for glare reduction.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are a two-piece checkered walnut set with a round-bottom semi-pistol grip, straight comb, black hard rubber FN Browning Automatic buttplate, and finger grooves running the length of the forend. The stocks have scratches, scuffs, and compression marks throughout. There are no chips or cracks. The checkering is attractive with only fairly worn peaks on the pressure points. The LOP measures 14.5″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. Overall, the stocks are in Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is mirror bright. There are some minor scratches from the midlength to the chamber. There is no erosion. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10 and is exceptional given its age.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 65% of its metal finish. There is thinning and finish loss on the leading edges. There are scratches and scuffs on the receiver and barrel exterior. There are some patches and freckles of rust on the receiver as well. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this shotgun is in Good condition as C&R.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this shotgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The Belgium Browning Auto-5, also known as the A-5, is a legendary shotgun with a rich history that spans over a century. Designed by John Browning, one of the most prolific firearms inventors of all time, the Auto-5 was the world’s first successful semi-automatic shotgun. Introduced in 1902, it revolutionized the shotgun industry with its innovative design and reliable operation.
The Auto-5 derives its name from its ability to hold five shells: four in the magazine tube and one in the chamber. Its distinctive humpback receiver design, inspired by Browning’s earlier lever-action rifles, not only provided a unique aesthetic but also accommodated the long recoil action mechanism. This system allowed the barrel and bolt to move backward together upon firing, absorbing the recoil energy before returning to their forward positions to cycle the next shell. The result was a smooth-shooting shotgun that handled recoil well and offered quick follow-up shots.
Manufactured in Liege, Belgium, by Fabrique Nationale (FN), the Browning Auto-5 quickly gained a reputation for reliability and durability. It became immensely popular among hunters, sportsmen, and military personnel around the world. Over the years, various models and configurations of the Auto-5 were produced, including the Light Twelve chambered for 12-gauge shells, which offered a lighter weight and improved handling without sacrificing performance. The Auto-5 remained in production until 1998 after which Browning introduced the updated A5 model, paying homage to its iconic predecessor while incorporating modern improvements. Today, the Belgium Browning Auto-5 A-5 Light Twelve 12GA Shotgun stands as a testament to Browning’s ingenuity and continues to be cherished by collectors and shooters alike for its timeless design and unmatched legacy in the world of firearms. This would be a great addition to any Browning collection. Please see our photos and good luck bidding! C.J.
