FN Browning Auto-5 12 Gauge Semi-Auto, Belgian Made (1947), 20.5 in Special Steel Plain Barrel, Blued, Scroll Engraved, 4+1
This 1947 Belgian-made Browning Auto-5 is a postwar FN-produced example with factory scroll engraving, a 20.5-inch plain Special Steel barrel, and Browning Arms Company St. Louis import markings. It retains its classic long-recoil system with friction rings and an external magazine cut-off, and shows Belgian proofs throughout. An aftermarket ventilated recoil pad with a white-line spacer is fitted, and the receiver top has drilled and plugged holes.
Condition
Overall Condition: Very good condition, showing only light, superficial signs of prior handling or use.
Bore Overall Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Specific Condition Notes: This early Belgian-made A5 retains strong blued finish with only light handling wear and minor surface marks. The walnut stock and long forearm are solid with attractive grain and modest handling impressions, with no cracks or structural issues. Original markings remain clear and legible. The receiver top has drilled and plugged holes. An aftermarket ventilated recoil pad with a white-line spacer is installed.
What’s Included
- FN Browning Auto-5 12 gauge shotgun
Made in Belgium by FN in 1947, this Auto-5 features factory scrollwork on the receiver with a "BROWNING TRADE MARK" panel and a matted anti-glare strip along the receiver top. The Browning Arms Company St. Louis address and "MADE IN BELGIUM" rollmark are present, along with FN oval and Belgian proof/inspection stamps on the barrel and bolt.
The 20.5-inch FN Special Steel barrel is a plain (non-rib) configuration with a small front bead on a short ramped base. Barrel markings include "SPECIAL STEEL - 12 GAUGE - SHELLS 2 3/4" and a Belgian pre-proof weight stamp "0 Kg 871." The chamber is 2 3/4 inch, and capacity is 4+1.
It operates on the long-recoil system with a friction-ring arrangement and includes an external magazine cut-off. Sighting is straightforward with a front bead only. The overall finish is blued steel, consistent with postwar FN production standards.
The walnut furniture includes a round-knob pistol-grip stock and a long checkered forearm with a finger groove. Length of pull measures 14 inches. A ventilated recoil pad with a white-line spacer has been added, and the receiver top shows drilled and plugged holes.