FN Belgian Browning A5 Light Twelve 12GA 26” Semi-Auto Shotgun, 1964 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,224.00
LSB#: LSB250830TW025
Make: FN, Belgium; for Browning Arms Co.
Model: A5 Light Twelve
Serial Number: 4G67585
Year of Manufacture: 1964 (4G Prefix)
Gauge: 12 Gauge, 2 3/4″ Chamber
Action Type: Recoil Operated Semi-Automatic, fed by Tubular Magazine
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “BROWNING ARMS COMPANY ST. LOUIS MO. & MONTREAL P.Q. / MADE IN BELGIUM”, along with a series of proof and import marks. The right side of the barrel is marked “**SPECIAL STEEL-12 GAUGE-SHELLS 2 3/4″”. The left side of the receiver is marked “Light Twelve / BROWNING”. The bottom of the receiver is marked with the serial number. The right and left sides of the receiver, top and bottom tangs, and the trigger guard are factory engraved with Grade 1 engraving.
Barrel Length: 26”, Vent Rib.
Choke: Modified, Fixed.
Sights / Optics: This shotgun is mounted with bead at the front of the vent rib. The receiver and the vent rib are serrated for glare reduction.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are a two-piece checkered walnut stock set, with a traditional pistol grip, fluted straight comb, black plastic buttplate, and a checkered forend with finger grooves. The LOP measures 14 1/4″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The drop at comb measures 1 1/2″, and the drop at heel measures 2 1/4″. The stocks show light wear, with scattered scratches, dings, and compressions throughout the buttstock and forend. There is some thinning of the stock’s finish at the front of the forend. Otherwise, the stock’s finish is intact, and the wood grain is attractive. The checkering remains well defined, with mostly sharp peaks. The stocks fit tightly to the frame, with no play. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the stocks rate in Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright. There is no erosion in the bore, but there is some plastic wad fouling towards the muzzle. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9.5/10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 95% of its original metal finish. The balance of the finish shows thinning of the finish on the leading edges of the receiver, and very minor freckles of surface corrosion starting to form around the chamber and on the receiver, and some light scratches and dings throughout the barrel. Otherwise, the bluing is deep and dark throughout. The markings are clear and legible. The factory engravings are crisp and vivid. The screw heads are sharp and the pins are unmarred. Overall, this shotgun rates in Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly, as does the cross-bolt safety. We have not fired this shotgun, but we did perform a mechanic’s check. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: By 1964, the Belgian-built Browning Auto-5 had already cemented its reputation as one of the most influential sporting shotguns of the 20th century. Designed by John M. Browning in 1898 and first produced in 1902, the long-recoil mechanism of the A5 remained unmatched for decades in reliability and adaptability. This Light Twelve variant, built by FN in Belgium, represents the refined mid-century era of production, when Browning’s aesthetic and mechanical standards were at their peak. The Grade 1 engraving, vent-rib barrel, and well-fitted walnut stocks all speak to the craftsmanship FN was known for, and this example retains strong finish and crisp engraving with only modest signs of field use.
The 12-gauge 2 3/4-inch chambering has long been the cornerstone of sporting and wingshooting in North America and Europe, offering a balance of power and versatility that made the A5 a dominant design for generations. Its modified-choked 26-inch barrel and bright bore complement the Auto-5’s quick, authoritative recoil cycle, making it a favorite among upland hunters and clay shooters alike. The cosmetic wear on this shotgun is mild and consistent with careful handling, while the mechanics remain confident and smooth, as expected of a Belgian A5. With its attractive walnut, striking mid-century engraving, and classic FN build quality, this 1964 Light Twelve stands as a fine example of one of the most iconic autoloading shotguns ever produced. Please see our high quality photos and good luck on your bids! – J.D.
