Browning A5 Magnum 12GA Two Barrel Set 28” & 32” Semi-Auto Shotgun C&R 1970
SOLD FOR: $1,550.00
LSB#: WY250314FH016
Make: Fabrique Nationale for Browning Arms
Model: Auto 5 Magnum Twelve
Serial Number: 70V54400
Year of Manufacture:1970 (https://www.browning.com/support/date-your-firearm/auto-5-semi-automatic-shotgun.html)
Gauge: 12 gauge, 3” Shells
Action Type: Long-Recoil, Semi-Automatic, Tubular Magazine Fed Shotgun
Markings: The left side of the receiver is marked “MAGNUM / BROWNING”. The bottom of the receiver has the serial number. The 28” barrel is marked “BROWNING AUTO-5 **SPECIAL STEEL 12 GA. SHELLS 3” 28 BROWNING PATENTS” on the right and “BROWNING ARMS COMPANY MORGAN, UTAH & MONTREAL P.Q. MADE IN BELGIUM” there are also several Belgian proofs and “VM22134 J 2” on the left. The 32” barrel is marked “*SPECIAL STEEL-12 GAUGE-SHELLS 3”” on the right and “BROWNING ARMS COMPANY ST LOUIS Mo. & MONTREAL P.Q. MADE IN BELGIUM” with Belgian proofs and “VL32940” on the left.
Barrel Length: 28” and 32”.
Choke: Both barrels have fixed chokes. The 32” barrel is a FULL, the 28” barrel is IMPROVED MODIFIED.
Sights / Optics: Both barrels have small brass bead front sights with finely checkered ribs for reducing glare.
Stock Configuration & Condition: This shotgun includes two checkered semi pistol grip fluted straight comb stocks both with ventilated rubber buttpads. The forend is a full finger shelf checkered forend showing no chips or cracks and only minor handling wear. The installed stock shows minor scattered wear with some very minor crazing in the finish. There are a few minor scattered surface level lines. The buttpad is still pliable. The length of pull is 14.25” the drop at comb is 1.75” and the drop at heel is 2.5”. The cast is neutral. The shotgun weighs 8lbs 13OZ with the 32” barrel. The extra stock shows scattered storage wear. Neither stock shows chips or cracks. Overall the furniture is in about Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The 32” barrel’s smooth bore is mirror bright with no erosion and only very minor plastic fouling just in front of the chamber in this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9.75/10. The 28” barrel’s smooth bore is bright with no visible erosion. The barrel shows moderate plastic fouling in the forcing cone that should be able to be removed with a proper cleaning. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 8/10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains 98% of its metal finish. The receiver shows some very minor thinning on the leading edge near the handguard, the edge of the hump and on the edges of the trigger guard. The barrels show some very minor scattered marks with some minor rub wear from the handguard that is concealed when assembled. The markings are clear, the screw heads have strong slots and the pins are un-marred. Overall this shotgun is in Very Good to Very Good+ condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. There is a magazine cutoff on the left front of the receiver, a safety at the rear of the trigger guard and a bolt release on the right side of the receiver. 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: This shotgun includes a Browning Cardboard box, extra stock, two barrels, Browning luggage case, manual with sleeve, beeswax, extra bushing and tag.
Our Assessment: ?This 1970 Browning Auto-5 Magnum 12-gauge shotgun with a two-barrel set is a remarkable example of Browning’s craftsmanship and versatility. Manufactured in Belgium, this semi-automatic shotgun includes two distinct barrels: a 32-inch barrel with a fixed full choke, ideal for long-range shooting such as waterfowl hunting, and a 28-inch barrel with a fixed improved modified choke, suitable for upland game and general-purpose shooting. The inclusion of both barrels allows the shooter to adapt to various hunting scenarios effectively.?
The shotgun features checkered walnut furniture, offering both aesthetic appeal and a secure grip. The wood’s rich grain and fine checkering exemplify the attention to detail characteristic of Browning firearms from this era. Housed in a Browning-branded luggage-style case, this set is not only practical for transport and storage but also adds to its collectible value. Given its Belgian origin, dual-barrel configuration, and well-maintained condition, this Auto-5 Magnum set holds significant interest for collectors and hunting enthusiasts alike. Please see our high quality photos via the link and best of luck with your bidding!!!-R.L.
