1956 Browning Auto-5 Light Twelve 12 Gauge Semi-Auto — Belgian FN, 27.5 in Vent Rib, Modified Choke, Factory Engraved
This Belgian-made Browning Auto-5 Light Twelve was manufactured in 1956 (L-prefix) and imported by Browning Arms Co., St. Louis. It features factory acanthus scroll engraving, a 27.5 in Special Steel barrel marked with the Belgian “**” Modified choke code, and a ventilated, matted rib with a single front bead. Classic Auto-5 design elements include the long-recoil system with friction-ring tuning, the left-side magazine cut-off, and a round-knob walnut stock.
Condition
Overall Condition: Fair condition, showing extensive signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Overall Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Specific Condition Notes: There are significant handling marks, with rust and finish loss present throughout. Please refer to the photos for a close look at surface condition.
What’s Included
- Browning Auto-5 Light Twelve 12 Gauge semi-automatic shotgun
Built by FN in Belgium for Browning Arms Co., this Light Twelve carries Belgian proof marks and import legends reading “BROWNING ARMS COMPANY ST. LOUIS MO” and “MADE IN BELGIUM.” The L-prefix serial format identifies 1956 production within the 1950s era of Auto-5 manufacture.
The 27.5 in Special Steel barrel is ribbed and matted, with a single front bead for a clear sight picture. It is stamped with the Belgian choke code “**” for Modified and the barrel weight “1Kg 145,” aligning with the listed Modified choke configuration.
The receiver and small parts retain a blued finish and showcase factory acanthus scroll engraving with the “BROWNING” legend within the scrolls. Controls include a cross-bolt safety, right-side ejection, and a cylindrical bolt handle, with a gold-colored trigger complementing the classic Auto-5 aesthetic.
Furniture consists of checkered walnut with a round-knob pistol grip, a long finger-groove forend, and a hard buttplate embossed “AUTOMATIC.” Length of pull measures 14.5 in. The long-recoil action uses friction-ring tuning, and this example is noted with a 2+1 capacity and the traditional left-side magazine cut-off.