Browning Auto 5 Ducks Unlimited Sweet Sixteen 16 Ga 26” Semi-Auto Shotgun
SOLD FOR: $2,375.00
LSB#: LSB250520NP045
Make: Miroku, in Japan, For Browning
Model: Auto 5, Sweet Sixteen, Ducks Unlimited
Serial Number: 88DU002145
Year of Manufacture: 1988
Gauge: 16, 2 ¾” Shells
Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Tube Magazine Fed Shotgun.
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “BROWNING ARMS COMPANY MORGAN, UTAH & MONTREAL P.Q. / MADE IN JAPAN”, the right side is marked “BROWNING AUTO 5 / INVECTOR SPECIAL STEEL 16 GA SHELLS-2 ¾”-26” / BROWNINGS PATENTS”, the left side of the receiver is marked “SWEET SIXTEEN” in banner and “T.UZIHARA”, the right is marked “DUCKS UNLIMITED” in scroll, the bottom has the serial number, the bottom of the trigger guard has a gold-colored duck head. The receiver is finely engraved and darkened to highlight details, depicting water fowl, nature scenes, scroll engraving and the Ducks Unlimited logo. The recoil pad is marked “Browning”.
Barrel Length: 26”
Choke: The barrel is threaded for Invector chokes, SKEET choke installed.
Sights / Optics: This shotgun is mounted with a steel bead, screwed into the ventilated rib; the top of the rib is milled in a wave-like pattern for glare reduction; the top of the receiver is serrated for glare reduction.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are gloss finished checkered walnut stocks round pistol grip, fluted straight comb, rubber buttpad, and forend with wrap around checkering and finger grooves running the length. The LOP measures 14 1/8” from the front of the gold-colored trigger to the back of the black rubber recoil pad. The pad has a black spacer. The stocks rate in about Excellent overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blued & Coin Plated
Finish Originality: Factory 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 shows no notable operational wear. The finish is strong and complete throughout. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are crisp. Overall, this shotgun rates in about Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The action locks up tight and the mechanics respond with reassuring rigidity. The shotgun is very balanced and provides a quick point of aim. We have not fired 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: This Browning Auto-5 Sweet Sixteen Ducks Unlimited edition is a striking example of one of the most iconic and beloved semi-automatic shotguns ever produced. Manufactured by Miroku in Japan in 1988, this limited-edition shotgun honors both John Browning’s timeless design and the conservation legacy of Ducks Unlimited. Featuring exquisite scroll engraving with waterfowl scenes, a coin-finished receiver, and richly checkered walnut furniture, this shotgun is as much a collector’s piece as it is a field-ready firearm.
Chambered in 16 gauge and rated for 2 ¾” shells, this Sweet Sixteen is fitted with a 26” barrel and threaded for Invector chokes, making it versatile for upland game, clay shooting, and light waterfowl use. The Skeet choke currently installed enhances its quick, instinctive handling, which is further complemented by the light weight and responsive feel that have long defined the 16 gauge Auto-5.
With about 99% of its original finish remaining and all mechanics functioning smoothly, this example appears to have been carefully maintained or only lightly handled. Whether you’re a dedicated Auto-5 aficionado, a Ducks Unlimited supporter, or a collector of fine sporting arms, this Sweet Sixteen represents the perfect marriage of function, beauty, and heritage. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.
