FN Browning Portugal Gold Hunter 20 Ga 26″ Invector Semi-Auto Shotgun, 1995
SOLD FOR: $1500
LSB#: 220221SB070
Make: FN Browning, Assembled in Portugal
Model: Gold Hunter
Serial Number: F61NV05045
Year of Manufacture: 1995 (NV date code)
Gauge: 20 gauge, 2 3/4″ & 3” Shells
Action Type: Gas-Operated, Semi-Automatic, Tubular Magazine Fed Shotgun
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “BROWNING ARMS COMPANY MORGAN UTAH & MONTREAL P.Q. / MADE IN BELGIUM – ASSEMBLED IN PORTUGAL”, and under the stock-line with the serial number and a series of Belgian proofs. The right of the barrel is marked “GOLD-20 GA-2 3/4″ AND 3” INVECTOR” / PATENTS PENDING”. The left of the receiver is marked with a Browning logo next to “BROWNING”, “Gold / HUNTER” and on the bottom edge with the serial number. The right side of the receiver is marked “Gold / HUNTER”. The bottom of the trigger guard has a Browning BuckMark logo. The top of the forearm is marked “17795”.
Barrel Length: 26″, Vent-Rib
Choke: Threaded for Invector chokes with a Skeet-Lead/Modified-Steel choke. No additional chokes are included.
Sights / Optics: There is a white bead at the front of the rib. The top of the rib and receiver are serrated for glare reduction.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are a two-piece checkered walnut set with pistol grip, straight comb and black rubber Browning buttpad. The belly of the buttstock shows scattered compressions and some light draglines. The rest of the wood shows some infrequent faint lines and handling marks. There are no chips or cracks. The checkering is sharp. The LOP measures 14″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. The pad is still supple with light rubs along the edges. Overall, the stocks are in Very Good-Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Blue & Black Alloy Receiver
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright. There is no erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 96% of its metal finish. The barrel has a few scattered minor marks. There is a scuff on the top of the rib midway. The receiver has a few scattered faint scratches on the flats, but none through the finish. The action shows light operational wear. The pinheads are unmarred. The markings are clear. Overall, this shotgun is in about Fine condition.
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: Browning is well known for introducing the first commercially successful semi-automatic shotgun, the Auto 5, its long-recoil operating system was eventually improved on. The Gold Hunter uses a more modern gas piston operating system as well as a more conventional receiver shape for a modern shotgun. This example is a 20 gauge chambered for 2 3/4″ & 3” shells with a 26″ vent-rib barrel threaded for Invector chokes. The gun looks like it’s seen light and responsible use. This should make for a soft-shooting, versatile gun that will be great for both hunting and clays. Please see our photos and good luck!