Browning Auto-5 Grade I 12 Gauge, Belgian 1951, 29.5 in Plain Barrel, 2 3/4 in Chamber, Blued/Walnut
This Belgian-made 1951 Browning Auto-5 Grade I showcases the classic long-recoil humpback design with a 29.5 in plain Acier Special steel barrel and a 2 3/4 in chamber. It bears Belgian Liège proof marks and features the left-side magazine cut-off, right-side ejection with bolt release, and a 4+1 capacity. The blued steel receiver and walnut furniture with a round-knob grip and finger-groove forend complete a well-known and distinctive configuration.
Condition
Overall Condition: Fair condition, showing extensive signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Overall Condition: Fair - Generally clean, some residue or smudges, slight corrosion.
Specific Condition Notes: The stock and fore-end show heavy scratching throughout. The receiver displays surface rust, discoloration, and scratches. The bore is clean with minor wear marks.
What’s Included
- Leather sling included
The shotgun retains the classic Auto-5 long-recoil action with the recognizable humpback profile. It includes the left-side magazine cut-off and a round bolt handle, with right-side ejection and a bolt release, delivering the period-correct controls associated with this series.
The 29.5 in plain, non-rib barrel is marked "Acier Special – C.12 – CART. 2 3/4" and carries the Belgian choke mark "**" (Modified). The single front bead provides a clean sight picture, with no rear sight as issued.
Proofed in Belgium, it shows Belgian Liège markings including the crowned ELG, the Perron, and FN-in-oval stamps. The receiver is blued steel, consistent with the Grade I configuration of the era.
Walnut furniture includes a finger-groove forend and a round-knob, checkered pistol-grip stock, paired with a black hard-rubber buttplate marked "AUTOMATIC." Sling swivels are fitted front and rear. Capacity is 4+1 with 2 3/4 in shells.