Browning Auto-5 16 Gauge, Belgian-Made (1953), 27.5 in Special Steel Barrel, Full Choke, 2 3/4 in Chamber
This Belgian-made Browning Auto-5 is a 16-gauge long-recoil classic from 1953 with factory scroll engraving and clear Belgian proof marks. It features a 27.5-inch plain "Special Steel" barrel with a Full choke and a 2 3/4 in chamber, a round-knob walnut stock with cut checkering, and the distinctive long finger-groove forend. The barrel carries the BROWNING ARMS COMPANY ST LOUIS Mo. address, and the receiver shows the "BROWNING" script on the left side. The X-prefix 16-gauge serial block aligns with 1953 production.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Overall Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
This Auto-5 shows exterior finish wear and handling marks from regular use over time. The wear is cosmetic and does not affect function. The shotgun functions properly. Please review the photos for additional detail.
What’s Included
- Browning Auto-5 16 Gauge semi-automatic shotgun
The 27.5-inch plain "Special Steel" barrel is configured with a Full choke and a single small front bead, providing a clean sight picture. It is chambered for 2 3/4 in shells. The barrel is marked with the St. Louis import address, and the bore presents with a bright, mirror finish.
Manufactured in Belgium by FN, this Auto-5 carries Belgian proof and inspector marks along with "MADE IN BELGIUM" markings. The X-prefix 16-gauge serial block is consistent with 1953 production. It uses John M. Browning’s long-recoil system with the classic two-piece receiver.
The receiver wears factory scroll engraving, including the "BROWNING" script on the left side, over a blued steel finish. The stock set is checkered walnut with the desirable round-knob pistol grip and a long finger-groove forend. It is fitted with an FN/Browning hard buttplate, and the length of pull measures 14.25 inches.
Controls include the magazine cut-off lever on the left side. As configured, capacity is 2+1. The shotgun retains its plain barrel (no rib) configuration with a front bead sight, aligning with period-correct features for this era of Auto-5 production.