Browning Auto-5 12 Gauge Pre-WWII Belgian, 27.5 in Vent Rib, Fixed Modified Choke, Factory Scroll Engraving
This FN-made Browning Auto-5 is a pre-WWII Belgian example with factory light scroll accents on the receiver and a star inspection mark. It features the classic hump-back steel receiver with a magazine cut-off on the left side and a ventilated-rib 27.5-inch barrel with a fixed Modified choke and single front bead. The round-knob, long-tang checkered walnut stock shows the desirable early configuration, complemented by an aftermarket Pachmayr White Line ventilated recoil pad with a white spacer. Marked BROWNING with the small TRADE MARK rollmark, it aligns with the all-digit serial format associated with pre-war FN production.
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 is some pitting throughout the metal surfaces. The shotgun is remarkably well kept for its age.
What’s Included
- Browning Auto-5 12 Gauge semi-automatic shotgun
- 27.5-inch ventilated-rib barrel with fixed Modified choke
- Aftermarket Pachmayr White Line ventilated recoil pad with white spacer
Belgian-made before World War II, this Auto-5 combines early-production features with documented factory details. The light factory scroll engraving on the receiver and star inspection mark underscore its FN heritage, while the BROWNING TRADE MARK rollmark reflects period-correct branding. Its all-digit serial format is consistent with pre-war FN production practices.
The shotgun is configured with a 27.5-inch ventilated-rib barrel and a fixed Modified choke, paired with a single front bead for a straightforward sight picture. Chambered in 12 Gauge, it uses the long-recoil semi-automatic system and carries a 5-round capacity.
The steel hump-back receiver includes the left-side magazine cut-off, a hallmark Auto-5 control that adds utility during loading and unloading. The build and layout present the classic profile collectors look for in early Browning autoloaders.
Furniture includes a round-knob, long-tang walnut stock with cut checkering and a matching walnut fore-end. The aftermarket Pachmayr White Line ventilated recoil pad with a white spacer sets the length of pull at 14.75 inches and completes the shotgun’s period-correct aesthetic with a known upgrade.