FN Browning Twelvette Double Auto 12 Ga 26” Polychoke Shotgun 1965 C&R

SOLD FOR: $1,525.00

LSB#: LSB250520NP001

Make: Browning

Model: Twelvette Double Auto Lightweight

Serial Number: 5A47575

Year of Manufacture: 1965

Caliber: 12 Gauge 2 ¾” Shells

Action Type: Semi-Automatic Receiver Fed Shotgun

Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “BROWNING ARMS COMPANY ST LOUIS Mo. & MONTREAL P.Q. / MADE IN BELGIUM”. Also on the left side of the barrel is “1Kg016” followed by a series of proof and manufacturing marks. The right side of the barrel is marked “**SPECIAL STEEL – 12 GAUGE – SHELLS 2 3/4? / BROWNING PATENTS”. The underside of the receiver is marked “5A47 / 575”. Both sides of the receiver and the trigger guard are marked decorative scroll and border engraving. The left side of the receiver is also marked “Twelvette”. The bolt is marked with a series of Belgian proofs.

Barrel Length: 25 ½” (Nominal 26”). 27 ¾” with Deluxe Polychoke

Choke: Deluxe Polychoke

Sights / Optics: There is a brass bead set on a serrated base screwed to the polychoke. The vent-rib is finely checkered and the top of the receiver is serrated, both for the purpose of reducing glare.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are checked walnut with a round knob pistol grip, fluted straight comb, and a Browning black composite buttplate. Right hand case. There is crazing on the buttstock. There are a few minor handling marks. The checkering is strong with some light rub wear. The LOP measures 14 3/8” from the front of the trigger to the rear of the buttplate. The stocks rate in about Fine overall condition.

Type of Finish: Blue & Black Alloy

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright. There is no erosion. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 10/10. 

Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 99% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish is strong and complete throughout. There is little to no operational wear. The markings are clear. Overall, this gun rates in about Excellent condition.

Mechanics: The action functions properly. We did not fire this shotgun. As with all previously owned firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None. 

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 Twelvette was produced from 1957 to 1971 and is still popular with many people who have actually owned and shot them. This is a Lightweight model that was made in 1965 based on its serial number. It has a Lightweight alloy receiver with a black finish. It retains about 99% original finish and has a minty bore. Please see our photos and good luck! – L.S.