FN Browning Double Auto Pre-Twelvette 12 Ga. 28″ Velvet Gray Shotgun, C&R
Sold for $2000
LSB#: 220906JM005
Make: Fabrique Nationale
Model: Double Auto Lightweight Pre-Twelvette, European Market
Serial Number: A14439
Year of Manufacture: 1955 (“?” Date Code)
Caliber: 12, chambered for 2 3/4” Shells
Action Type: Semi-Automatic Receiver Fed Shotgun
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “FABRIQUE NATIONALE D’ARMES DE GUERRE HERSTAL-BELGIQUE / *SPECIAL STEEL – 12 GAUGE – SHELLS 2 3/4″”. Also on the left side of the barrel is “1Kg” followed by a series of proofs, manufacturing marks, and a “?” date code. The underside of the barrel, under the forearm, is marked with several proof marks, measurements, and “26471”; ahead of the forearm, it is marked “BV LYNDEN WA / DOUBLE AUTOMATIC”. The right side of the barrel is marked “BROWNING PATENTS / MADE IN BELGIUM”. The top of the barrel extension is marked with two proofs and an inspection mark. The underside of the receiver is marked “A14 / 439” and “FN” in an oval. Both sides of the receiver and the trigger guard are marked with decorative scroll and border engraving. The left side of the receiver is also marked “Twelvette” in a cursive script. The bolt is marked with a series of Belgian proofs.
Barrel Length: 28” w/ Recessed Solid Rib
Choke: Full, Fixed
Sights/Optics: There is a steel bead set on the rib at the muzzle. The edges of the rib are finely checkered and the top of the receiver is serrated, both for the purpose of reducing glare.
Stock, Configuration, and Condition: The stocks are checked walnut with a round knob pistol grip, straight comb, and a black composite buttplate. The forearm has a few light nicks and compressions with a more notable ding on the upper left edge. The buittstock shows little in the way of wear, only light handling marks. The checkering shows light wear and is generally sharp. The LOP measures 14 1/8” from the front of the trigger to the back of the plate. The plate has light edge wear and scattered light nicks. The stocks rate in about Fine-Plus overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blued Steel with “Velvet Gray” Alloy Receiver
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright. There is no erosion.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 99% of its metal finish. There are two faint, superficial scratches on the trigger guard. Otherwise, there are just a few faint storage marks. The markings are clear. Overall, this shotgun is in Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this shotgun. As with all previously owned firearms, thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: This shotgun comes in its original FN cardboard box with paperwork including the manual and a Belgian firearms certificate.
Our Assessment: These Browning Double Autos are an interesting design. There is no tubular magazine, and the shotgun is capable of holding two shells, one in the chamber, and the other in the receiver below the bolt. It is loaded by locking the bolt back and placing a shell into the loading port located in the lower-left side of the receiver and running the bolt forward. A second shell can then be placed into the loading port ready to be chambered when the bolt next operates. A person can have shells available in a left pocket or pouch, to constantly top off the shotgun. As it holds only two rounds, it can also be safely used in skeet or sporting clays. The Double Auto Lightweight was produced from 1952 to 1956, this one having been made in 1955 specifically and for the European market. It has a Lightweight alloy receiver with what was called a “Velvet Gray” finish. It retains about 99% original finish and has a decent bore. Good luck and happy bidding!