Make: FN, Belgium, for Browning Arms Co.

Model: Auto 5 Magnum

Serial Number: 6V 86721

Year of Manufacture: 1966 / ATF Classification: C&R

Caliber/Gauge: 12 Gauge, 3" Chamber

Action Type: Recoil operated semi-automatic, fed by tubular magazine

Barrel Length: 32"

Choke: Fixed full

Sights/Optics: The front sight is a metal bead atop the checkered rib

Grip/Stock Configuration & Condition: The refinished stocks are a two-piece wood stock set, with a checkered semi-pistol grip, fluted straight comb, brown synthetic Browning recoil pad, and a checkered forend with finger grooves. The LOP measures 14" from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stocks show light wear with infrequent pressure dings and handling wear on the checkering. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the stocks rate in Very Good Plus condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Refinished

Bore Condition: The bore is bright with minimal streaking. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 10/10.

Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 98% of its current metal finish. The finish shows old handling and operational wear with scattered pitting and dings under the current finish. The screw heads are unmarred and retain strong slots. The engravings on the receiver are a little faded from being refinished, but still look good. The markings are a little faded, but complete. Overall, this shotgun rates in about Fine condition as refinished.

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

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Extra recoil spring.

Our Assessment: This is a high condition example of Browning's heavy duty Auto 5 Magnum, configured for magnum length shells and long range field use. The shotgun retains approximately 98% of a nonoriginal blue finish, which has been evenly applied and presents very cleanly. The furniture has been refinished, and it shows a tidy, attractive appearance with correct contours and good overall presentation. The long 32" barrel gives the shotgun a commanding profile and a smooth, deliberate swing characteristic of magnum Auto 5 field guns.

Mechanically, the shotgun is excellent. The bore rates a perfect 10 out of 10, bright and clean throughout with no visible wear. The long recoil action functions correctly, cycling smoothly and reliably as designed. The fixed Full choke reflects the Magnum's intended role for longer range waterfowl and heavy field loads, consistent with period configurations.

Historically, the Auto 5 Magnum represented Browning's answer to the increasing popularity of 3" magnum shells during the mid twentieth century. FN produced examples from this era are especially respected for their durability and build quality. While this shotgun is no longer in factory original finish and wood, it remains a strong and attractive example of the Auto 5 Magnum, offering excellent mechanical condition and classic long barrel handling.