Let's go back in time.... A5

[ROON]

Hello old friends. Need some help on a old A5 Browning shotgun. I'm trying to find out some history on a shotgun I was just given by my father in-law. I like to know what I have and it's bugging me not knowing the history and specifics of this old shotgun.

I've looked at Browning's website and found out dating a pre WWII A5 is next to impossible. But I thought I'd ask the pros on here.

So I think it's between a 1903 and 1939. The serial number is 4407 which should mean the barrel should be stamped with "Browning automatic arms co". Mine is stamped Browning arms company. The butt plate also looks way out of date. I would like any info or history you guys could throw my way. Thank you!

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[dennishoddy]

It appears yours was built in 1924?

http://proofhouse.com/browning/a5.htm

1924 sn started at 3000 and ended at 18000

 

[ROON]

Awesome thank you! I guess I didn't google enough. I couldn't find anything with serial numbers in the 4 digits.

 

[Sanford]

Since it's marked as a "Light Twelve" I'm going to guess that the actual serial number is L4407 which according to the NRA Firearms Museum list would have been manufactured in 1953.

 

[adamsredlines]

Buttplate as you said is not original. The correct ones will have a stylized FN logo on them.
They are prone to chipping if you drop it there and each one was fit to the gun when the stock was made...so getting a replacement that properly fits is nearly impossible (ask me how I know).

Make sure the friction ring is the correct orientation for the loads you shoot from it. I bird hunt with a Belgium Auto 5 Light 12 and its a fantastic shotgun.

 

[sedona]

I agree with Sanford on the date.The A-5s built in the 20s,30s and I believe the 40s had the safety in front of the trigger instead of behind the trigger like yours.