Make: FN, Belgium, for Browning Arms Co.

Model: Auto 5 Sweet Sixteen

Serial Number: X65975, serial matching barrel and forend

Year of Manufacture: 1952 / ATF Classification: C&R

Caliber/Gauge: 16 Gauge, 2.75" Chamber

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

Barrel Length: 28"

Choke: Fixed full

Sights/Optics: The front sight is a raised metal bead at the front of the barrel. There is matte texturing running the length of the barrel for glare reduction.

Grip/Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are a two-piece wood stock set, with a checkered semi-pistol grip, fluted straight comb, black synthetic Browning buttplate, and a checkered forend with finger grooves. The LOP measures 14.25" from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stocks show light wear with infrequent surface scratches mostly located on the forend. The checkering remains well defined and sharp. There is a crack at the toe where the buttplate has a piece chipped off. Overall, the stocks rate in Very Good condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright with light streaking. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 9.5/10.

Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 96% of its original metal finish. The finish shows light handling and operational wear with infrequent surface scratches and rub marks. The screw heads are unmarred and retain strong slots. The engravings on the receiver are clean and tasteful. The markings are clear and complete. Overall, this shotgun rates in about Very Good Plus condition.

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: None

Our Assessment: This shotgun presents in Very Good Plus overall condition, retaining approximately 96% of its original blue finish. The metal surfaces show very light, even handling wear, and the classic humpback receiver profile remains crisp and well defined. Importantly, this example retains matching numbered parts, a strong point of originality and collector appeal. The 28" barrel provides a smooth, deliberate swing and a traditional sighting plane well suited to upland and field use.

Mechanically, the shotgun is excellent. The bore rates 9.5 out of 10, bright and clean with strong interior condition. The long recoil action functions correctly, cycling smoothly and reliably as intended. The fixed Full choke favors longer range patterning and reflects the era's emphasis on deliberate field shooting.

Historically, the Sweet Sixteen is one of the most celebrated variants of the Auto 5 line, prized for its balance, handling, and effectiveness in the field. FN produced examples from the early 1950s are especially respected for their quality of materials and workmanship. A 1952 Sweet Sixteen with strong original finish, matching numbers, and a high quality bore stands as a highly desirable and collectible example of Browning's iconic semi automatic shotgun.