Browning Light Twelve 12 Gauge Semi Automatic Shotgun MFD 1950 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,137.50
LSB#: WY241107BT022
Make: Browning
Model: Light Twelve
Serial Number: 301899
Year of Manufacture: 1950
Caliber: 12 Gauge (2 ¾” Shells)
Action Type: Pump-Action, bottom-ejecting
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked: “BROWNING ARMS COMPANY ST LOUIS MO / SPECIAL STEEL / 12 GAUGE SHELLS / 2 ¾” as well as belgian proof marks.The right sie of the barrel is marked “MADE IN BELGIUM” The receiver is marked “LIGHT TWELVE / BROWNING” The bottom of the receiver is marked “301899” All numbers Matching
Barrel Length: 30 inches
Choke: Modified
Sights / Optics: Single front bead sight mounted to a post. The top of the receiver is serrated to reduce glare while aiming.
Stock Configuration & Condition: Smooth walnut stock with a checkered prince of whalesl grip and grooved forearm. The LOP measures approximately 14.5 inches from the trigger to the back of the plastic Ithaca buttplate. The wood is in Very Good condition, showing minor handling marks and light scratches but no cracks or chips.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with no visible erosion. In this writers opinion the bore rates 10/10
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 95% of its original finish. The balance shows light thinning, edge wear, and minor handling marks. The screw heads are sharp, and the markings are crisp. Overall, this shotgun rates in Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. Trigger and safety maintain their gold color.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: The Browning Automatic 5, most often Auto-5 or simply A-5, is a recoil-operated semi-automatic shotgun designed by John Browning. The Browning Auto-5 was the first mass-produced semi-automatic shotgun. Designed by John Browning in 1898 and patented in 1900, it was produced continually for almost 100 years by several makers with production ending in 1998. It features a distinctive high rear end, earning it the nickname “Humpback”. Browning presented his design to Winchester, where he had sold his rifle designs, but they refused his terms. He then went to Remington, but the president of the company died while he was waiting to offer them the gun. Browning then took the gun to FN in Europe and was so confident of his design that his first order was for 10,000 shotguns. The design was later licensed to Remington for their Model 11 and to Savage Arms for their Models 720 and 755.
This Auto-5 is a lightweight model which was built in 1950 with simple but nice engraving. It is chambered for 12 GA. 2 3/4” shells and has a 28 Barrel. A The gun appears to have seen some use in the field, in Very Good condition. This should still make for a great classic hunting gun for the lucky winner, but would also be a neat addition to a Browning collection. Please see our photos and good luck! -M.C.
