Franchi 48 AL Field Grade 20 Gauge Long-Recoil Semi-Auto Shotgun, 28" Modified Choke – 1970 Italian Production
This 1970 Franchi 48 AL Field Grade pairs the proven long-recoil operating system of the Browning Auto-5 with a lightweight 5.7 lb aluminum-alloy receiver. Italian proof marks and the “XXVI” date code confirm its year of manufacture, and a fixed Modified choke makes it a solid field gun for upland birds or clays. An aftermarket Pachmayr “White Line” recoil pad shortens length of pull to 12 inches, giving smaller-stature shooters a comfortable fit.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good – Shows some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good – Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Specific Condition Notes: Scratches and blemishes are present on metal and wood surfaces. A Pachmayr “White Line” ventilated recoil pad has been installed, reducing length of pull to 12 inches.
What’s Included
- Franchi 48 AL Field Grade 20 Gauge shotgun with 28" plain barrel and installed Pachmayr “White Line” recoil pad
The 48 AL’s long-recoil mechanism features Franchi’s friction-ring tuning, allowing adjustment for different 2 ¾-inch loads. This design remains reliable and soft-shooting, even with the gun’s featherweight alloy receiver.
A 28-inch plain barrel capped with a brass bead keeps the profile sleek and fast-handling, while the fixed Modified choke delivers a versatile pattern for most 20-gauge field applications.
Walnut furniture includes a checkered pistol-grip stock and finger-groove fore-end, offering secure purchase in wet or gloved hands. The blued/anodized finish on steel and alloy parts retains a classic look that complements the wood.
The shortened 12-inch length of pull broadens the gun’s usability for youth, smaller-framed adults, or shooters layering heavy cold-weather clothing, without compromising the balance Franchi built into the original design.