Make: Browning

Model: Auto-5 (A5) Standard Weight

Serial Number: X40951

Year of Manufacture: 1950, C&R Eligible

Caliber: 16 Gauge (2 ¾” Shells)

Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Long Recoil Operated, Tubular Magazine, Trigger Guard Safety.

Barrel Length: 27.5”

Choke: Fixed, Full

Sights / Optics: The shotgun is mounted with a silver bead front sight on a finely matted vented rib.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is in a 2 piece wood configuration featuring a fluted straight comb, plastic buttplate, checkered prince of whales grip and checkered forend. The LOP is 14.5” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. There are light scratches and compression marks present. There are no chips or cracks. The stock rates in Very Good condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright. There is no visible erosion in the bore. There is only some light stubborn fouling present. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9.5/10

Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 95% of its original metal finish. There are some light scratches present. The finish is strong. The screw heads are sharp and serviceable. The pins are clean. The markings are sharp and legible. Overall, this shotgun rates in about Very Good condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this shotgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None

Our Assessment: The Browning Auto-5, often called the A5, was one of the most iconic semi-automatic shotguns of the 20th century. Designed by the legendary John Moses Browning, it was the first successful semi-auto shotgun and saw use by sportsmen and military forces alike for over 100 years. This example is a Standard Weight model, built in Belgium in 1950, making it C&R eligible.

Chambered in 16 gauge, a popular upland game load, this shotgun offers the perfect balance between performance and reduced recoil. Its long recoil-operated system is proven and reliable, and the high-polish blue finish and finely checkered walnut stocks reflect Browning’s renowned craftsmanship.

Whether you're a collector seeking a clean early post-war Auto-5 or a hunter who appreciates the classic lines and cycling of this proven design, this is a well-preserved, mechanically sound example ready for the field or display.