Browning Auto-5 Light Twelve 12 Gauge Semi-Auto, 26 in Plain Special Steel Barrel, Belgian 1955, Factory Scroll Engraved
This 1955 Browning Auto-5 Light Twelve is a Belgian-made FN Herstal example with factory scroll engraving and classic mid-century features. It carries a 26 inch plain "Special Steel" barrel with a matted top, a fixed choke marked by Belgian star codes, and a 2 3/4" chamber. Notable period details include the magazine cut-off, adjustable friction ring system, and the L-prefix serial pattern that denotes the Light Twelve series.
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: The firearm remains solid. Expect scattered scratches and blemishes in the finish, along with spots of exterior pitting on the receiver and barrel.
What’s Included
- Browning Auto-5 Light Twelve 12 gauge semi-automatic shotgun
Built in 1955 in Belgium by FN Herstal, this Light Twelve represents the classic long-recoil Auto-5 pattern with the lighter 12-gauge configuration. The Browning Arms Company St. Louis, Mo barrel address, Belgian proofs, and Belgian star choke marks are present, aligning with period-correct production and import details. The L-prefix serial pattern identifies it within the Light Twelve series.
The 26 inch plain "Special Steel" barrel features a matted top and a single front bead, with a fixed choke denoted by the Belgian star code. It is chambered for 2 3/4" shells and feeds from a 4+1 capacity magazine. The knurled magazine cap and the receiver-mounted magazine cut-off add to the familiar Auto-5 handling.
Furniture is classic walnut throughout, including the forend and a round-knob pistol grip stock with cut checkering and an FN hard buttplate. Controls and appointments include a gold-colored trigger, cross-bolt safety, and a slender bolt handle, all consistent with mid-1950s Belgian production.
The steel receiver shows factory Browning scroll engraving. Internally, the adjustable friction ring system supports tuning for appropriate loads within the design’s operating range. Markings and proofs reflect Belgian origin and St. Louis importation, fitting the era and configuration.
Length of pull measures 14.5, providing a traditional field fit on the Light Twelve platform. Overall, this is a Belgian-made, factory-engraved example with correct features and markings from a desirable production period.