FN Browning Auto-5 16 Gauge Semi-Auto, 28 in Full Choke, Belgian 1927, Blued/Walnut
This Belgian-made Browning Auto-5 is a 1927 FN Herstal example in 16 gauge, built in the standard-weight configuration preceding the Sweet Sixteen. It features a 28 inch Special Steel barrel with a matted sighting plane and fixed Full choke, classic long-recoil operation with friction-ring system, and period-correct controls including the left-side magazine cutoff and the early front-of-trigger safety. Prominent Belgian proofs and FN cartouches further confirm its pre-WWII origin. An aftermarket ventilated rubber recoil pad with a white line spacer sets the length of pull at 14.0 inches.
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: Metal surfaces show widespread rust and pitting. The walnut stock and fore-end exhibit numerous scratches and blemishes. The blued finish has multiple areas of scratching and wear.
What’s Included
- FN Browning Auto-5 16 Gauge semi-automatic shotgun
Built by FN in Belgium, this Auto-5 reflects the standard-weight 16 gauge configuration that predates the Sweet Sixteen line. It retains the classic long-recoil, friction-ring operating system that defines the model, along with a left-side magazine cutoff lever for quick ammunition management and the early front-of-trigger lever safety.
The 28 inch Special Steel barrel has a matted sighting plane and a fixed Full choke, paired with a small front bead for a simple, durable sight picture. The barrel carries the Belgian weight stamp "0Kg 944," consistent with FN practices of the era.
Proof and maker markings include the crowned ELG in oval, Perron (tower) proof, PV, star-over-letter inspector marks, the FN oval cartouche, and "MADE IN BELGIUM." The receiver is bottom-serialed with an FN oval above the serial, aligning with early production features.
The walnut furniture features a pistol-grip stock with hand-cut checkering, and a matching fore-end with hand-cut checkering and finger grooves. An aftermarket ventilated rubber recoil pad with a white line spacer brings the length of pull to 14.0 inches.
Capacity is 4+1 in 16 gauge, with a blued steel receiver and barrel. This pre-WWII FN Auto-5 combines period-correct markings and controls with the hallmark shooting characteristics of the model.