Make: FN, Belgium, for Browning Arms Co.

Model: Auto 5 Sweet Sixteen

Serial Number: 7S 62841

Year of Manufacture: 1967 / ATF Classification: C&R

Caliber/Gauge: 16 Gauge, 2.75" Chamber

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

Barrel Length: 28" Ventilated Rib

Choke: Fixed modified

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

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 crazing in the wood finish and infrequent surface scratches. The checkering remains well defined and sharp. There are no chips or cracks. 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 90% of its original metal finish. The finish shows moderate handling and operational wear with scattered 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 90% of its original blue finish. The metal surfaces show even, honest wear consistent with field use, and the iconic humpback receiver profile remains crisp and well defined. The 28" ventilated rib barrel provides a smooth, deliberate swing and excellent target tracking, while the Sweet Sixteen configuration delivers the renowned balance that made this model a favorite among upland hunters.

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 designed. The fixed Modified choke offers versatile patterning suitable for a wide range of upland and general field applications.

Historically, the Sweet Sixteen occupies a special place in Browning's Auto 5 lineage, combining the handling of a lighter gun with the durability of the Auto 5 system. FN produced examples from this era are especially respected for their quality and finish. A 1967 production Sweet Sixteen with a ribbed barrel remains a highly desirable configuration, and this example stands as a solid, well preserved representative of one of Browning's most celebrated field shotguns.