Browning Auto-5 12 Gauge Belgian Semi-Auto, 26 inch Plain Barrel, 2 3/4 Chamber, Factory Scroll Engraving, 1950–1951
This Belgian-made Browning Auto-5 is a 12 gauge, early 1950s example with factory scroll engraving and classic round-knob walnut furniture. It features a plain 26 inch Special Steel barrel chambered for 2 3/4 inch shells, Belgian proofmarks with FN oval cartouche, and the hallmark long-recoil action with friction-ring system. An installed Poly-Choke vented adjustable choke and a ventilated rubber recoil pad with spacer complete the configuration.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Specific Condition Notes: There are visible signs of wear and handling with scratches and blemishes, along with areas of finish loss.
What’s Included
- Poly-Choke adjustable choke (vented), installed on barrel
- Ventilated rubber recoil pad with spacer (installed)
Built by FN in Belgium in 1950–1951, this Auto-5 carries Belgian proofmarks, an FN oval cartouche, and a barrel marking of "MADE IN BELGIUM." The barrel also shows the "1Kg 861" pre-finish weight stamp, confirming period-correct manufacture details from the early postwar era.
The shotgun uses Browning’s long-recoil-operated action with a friction-ring recoil system. It includes a magazine cut-off lever on the left side of the receiver and right-side ejection with the classic Auto-5 bolt handle and carrier release.
The 26 inch steel barrel is plain (non-ribbed) and marked "SPECIAL STEEL – 12 GA – SHELLS 2 3/4." An aftermarket Poly-Choke vented adjustable choke/muzzle device is installed, adding on-barrel choke adjustment while retaining the period appearance of a plain barrel. Capacity is 4+1.
The receiver is steel with a blued finish and factory scroll engraving on the sides and top. Furniture includes a walnut round-knob pistol-grip stock with checkering and finger grooves, plus a long, slim walnut fore-end with finger grooves.
An aftermarket ventilated rubber recoil pad with spacer is installed, setting the length of pull at 14.0 inches. The overall presentation reflects a classic Belgian Auto-5 with tasteful factory engraving and practical, period-style updates.