Browning Auto-5 Light Twelve 12 Gauge, 28 in Barrel, 2 3/4 in Chamber, Modified Choke, Belgian FN 1974
This Browning Auto-5 Light Twelve is a Belgian-made example from 1974, produced by FN prior to the 1976 transition to Japan. It features factory light scroll and border engraving, a 28-inch plain matted barrel marked SPECIAL STEEL, and a gold-tone trigger. The gun retains hallmark Auto-5 features including the long-recoil, friction-ring regulated system and the left-side magazine cut-off lever.
Condition
Overall Condition: Fair condition, showing extensive signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Specific Condition Notes: There are significant handling marks and areas of finish loss from prior use, with rust spotting present throughout. The bottom screw on the rear buttpad will not tighten, resulting in a loose buttpad. The bore is bright and clean.
What’s Included
- Browning Auto-5 Light Twelve 12 Gauge shotgun
Belgian FN production and "MADE IN BELGIUM" markings establish this Auto-5 as a pre-1976 example with factory engraving. The receiver top is matted to reduce glare, and the gold-tone trigger provides a distinctive visual detail consistent with period Light Twelve configuration.
The 28-inch plain barrel has a matted top and is marked SPECIAL STEEL with the Belgian ** code denoting a Modified choke. It is chambered for 2 3/4-inch shells, and the listing confirms Mod Choke. A single front bead provides a clear sighting reference.
Operating on the classic long-recoil Auto-5 system, this shotgun uses a friction-ring regulated setup to tune cycling. A left-side magazine cut-off lever allows the user to interrupt feeding from the magazine. The charging handle is rounded and checkered for positive control. Stated capacity is 2+1.
The stock and forend are walnut, with checkering at the pistol grip and forend for a secure hold. It wears a ventilated recoil pad, and the length of pull measures 15.25 inches. The overall aesthetic is completed by light scroll and border engraving on the receiver.
Key setup details include the 2 3/4-inch chamber, Modified choke, and a plain, matted 28-inch barrel—an easy-to-like configuration for this 1970s-era Light Twelve.