Make: Fabrique Nationale for Browning Arms

Model: Auto 5, Grade I

Serial Number: 119875 (matching serialized parts)

Year of Manufacture: Circa 1939 / ATF Classification: C&R

Caliber/Gauge: 16 Gauge, 2.75" chamber (bored out from the original 2 9/16" chamber)

Action Type: Semi-auto, tube fed, long recoil

Barrel Length: 28"

Choke: Fixed Full

Sights/Optics: The front sight is a metal bead atop the solid rib. The top of the receiver and rib are matted to reduce glare.

Grip/Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks have been sanded and refinished. The two piece wood furniture consists of a straight comb, checkered semi pistol grip, checkered forend, and a synthetic Browning FN buttplate. The buttplate shows light handling wear and discoloration. The wood shows a few minor pressure dings and drag lines. The LOP measures 14.25" from the face of the trigger to the rear of the butt. There is a crack running from the upper tang. The furniture rates 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 firearm retains about 80% of its original finish. The finish shows thinning on the receiver, edge wear, light scratches, and a couple faint spots of freckling. The screw heads are unmarred and retain turnable slots. The markings are fairly clear and complete. Overall, this firearm rates in Very Good 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 pre-war FN Browning Auto-5 Grade I was manufactured circa 1939 and qualifies as a Curio and Relic firearm. Designed by John M. Browning and produced by Fabrique Nationale Herstal in Belgium, the Auto-5 was the world's first successful semi-automatic shotgun and revolutionized sporting arms after its introduction in 1902. This shotgun was manufactured during the final months of Belgian production before Germany invaded Belgium in May 1940, making it part of the last Auto-5s produced before wartime occupation halted normal commercial manufacture. As such, these late pre-war Belgian examples hold special historical significance for both Browning collectors and military history enthusiasts.

Chambered for 16 Gauge with a 28 inch barrel choked Full, this shotgun was originally manufactured with the standard 2 9/16 inch chamber common to the period. The chamber has since been lengthened to accept modern 2.75 inch shells, increasing its practicality for today's shooters. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 9.5 out of 10, indicating excellent internal condition. The long-recoil action functions correctly.

The refinished furniture rates in Very Good condition with honest handling wear. This shotgun retains approximately 80% of its original metal finish, showing expected wear consistent with decades of careful use. Overall, this firearm rates in Very Good condition and represents a desirable late pre-war Belgian Browning Auto-5, combining the legendary John M. Browning design with the historical appeal of one of the last FN-produced examples manufactured before the German invasion of Belgium. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids!