Browning Auto-5 16 Gauge, 28 Inch Plain Barrel, Full Choke, 2 3/4 Inch Chamber, Belgian-Made (1953), Factory Scroll Engraved
This Belgian-made 1953 Browning Auto-5 in 16 gauge pairs classic postwar production with desirable features and clean mechanical details. It has a 28 inch plain steel barrel with a fixed Full choke and a 2 3/4 inch chamber, factory light scroll engraving on the receiver, and the hallmark humpback profile. Belgian proof marks, the FN oval, and "MADE IN BELGIUM" confirm origin, with "* SPECIAL STEEL – 16 GAUGE – SHELLS 2 3/4" on the barrel.
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 handling marks and areas of finish loss from previous use.
What's Included
- Browning Auto-5 16 Gauge semi-automatic shotgun
Made in Belgium in 1953, this Auto-5 is part of the postwar X-prefix 16-gauge series and is marked with Belgian proofs and the FN oval. The barrel carries the "* SPECIAL STEEL – 16 GAUGE – SHELLS 2 3/4" marking, consistent with period production. Factory light scroll engraving is present on both sides of the steel receiver.
The 28 inch plain barrel features a fixed Full choke (single "*" stamp) and a 2 3/4 inch chamber, with a single front bead for a clear sight picture. This configuration delivers the classic 16-gauge balance and patterning associated with Full choke constriction.
It operates on Browning's long-recoil system with an adjustable friction-ring setup tailored to load performance. Controls include a magazine cut-off lever on the left side. The design retains bottom loading and right-side ejection with a 2+1 capacity and the signature humpback receiver profile.
The walnut buttstock is smooth (uncheckered) with a round-knob pistol grip that reflects period style; the forearm has cut checkering. Length of pull measures 14.25 inches. The metal buttplate is marked "Automatic Browning," aligning with original features from this era.
Key functional and identifying features include the 2 3/4 inch chamber, fixed Full choke, steel receiver and barrel, and period-correct Belgian markings. This example presents as a well-kept, classic Auto-5 with notable 1950s Belgian production details.