Browning FN Auto-5 A-5 20 GA 2 ¾” 25.5” Semi-Auto Shotgun, C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,775.00
LSB#: LSB250729TC059
Make: Fabrique Nationale for Browning Arms
Model: A5
Serial Number: 78834
Year of Manufacture: 1903-1939, C&R
Gauge: 20 Gauge, 2 3/4” Chamber
Action Type: Long Recoil Semi Automatic Shotgun fed by Tubular Magazine
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “FABRIQUE NATIONALE D’ARMES DE GUERRE HERSTAL- BELGIQUE / ACIER SPECIAL-C.20-CART. 2 3/4” with a series of Belgian proof marks. The bottom of the receiver in front of the feed ramp is marked with the serial number.
The left side of the extra barre is marked “BROWNING ARMS COMPANY MORGAN, UTHAH &MONTREAL P.Q / MADE IN BELGIUM” and “S75965”. The right side of the barrel is marked “BROWNING AUTO_5 / SPECIAL STEEL 20 GA. SHELL_2 ¾”_28 / BROWNING PATENT”.
Barrel Length: 25.5” Vent-Rib.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a silver bead.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are a two-piece checkered walnut set with a round-bottom pistol grip, straight comb, FN Browning Automatic plastic buttplate, and finger grooves running the length of the forend. The stocks have light scratches and compression marks. There are no cracks or chips. The checkering is sharp. The LOP measures 14″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. Stocks include sling swivels on front and rear. Overall, the stocks are in Fair condition.
Type of Finish: Blue, Matte Silver, Black textured Receiver, Brass
Finish Originality: Refinished
Bore Condition: The bore is bright. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 10 out of 10.
The extra Browning barrel’s bore is bright. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates at a 9 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 97% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish show handling and storage wear. There are scratches and thinning throughout. The barrel has slight scratches and thinning. The blue finish has started to turn to a patina and thin. The matte silver has a yellow tint in some places. The screw heads are sharp. 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: This shotgun comes with an extra barrel in about Fine condition.
Our Assessment: This Fabrique Nationale-built Browning Auto-5 presents as a well-preserved example of the long-recoil A-5 platform, complete with an extra Browning marked barrel. Both bores are excellent — the installed 25.5″ vent-rib barrel is bright with sharp rifling (rated 10/10) and the extra Browning barrel is likewise bright and serviceable (rated 9/10). The shotgun retains approximately 97% of its metal finish following a refinish; the balance of the finish shows light handling and storage wear with scattered scratches and slight thinning, some patina developing in the blue and a mild yellow tint to the matte silver. The two-piece checkered walnut stock set is sound with sharp checkering, only light compression marks and no cracks or chips; LOP is 14″ and sling swivels are installed. The receiver and working parts function as intended on inspection (not test fired).
For both shooter and collector this A-5 is an attractive offering: mechanically sound with outstanding bores and the useful inclusion of an extra barrel. It rates overall in about Fine condition. As with all previously owned firearms, we recommend a gunsmith inspection of the recoil/locking assemblies and springs and a routine strip and cleaning prior to firing to confirm safe operation and to meet your maintenance standards. Please see our photos and good luck with your bid! -N.P
