Browning’s A5 Makes High Grade
Dr. John Woods 05.17.17
The Browning A5 semi-automatic shotgun is one of those iconic smoothbores that, along with the Winchester Model 12 pump is known to so many in America. The A5’s signature humpback look has seen many a hunting field and dale for many shotgun-toting hunters.
The first Browning Automatic shotguns were manufactured in Belgium by FN starting around 1900. The first Grade 1 Autoloaders to become known as the Auto 5 or A5 started production sometime around 1940. As with most long-lasting production run firearms, many changes were made over the years, but the A5 has remained popular among hunters, shooters, and collectors; especially the Belgium-made models.
Although the original Auto 5 is no longer in production, Browning’s name continues to be placed on a number of modern versions now known as the “new” A5. The demand for this was so high that Browning has brought out the new models to fill orders from buyers waiting in line.
In 2016, Browning began the virtual reintroduction of the A5s with the new Sweet Sixteen model. It was an immediate success. In 2017 Browning will be expanding the A5 line with an A5 High Grade Hunter model. One look at the receiver on this new shotgun and you’ll know it is something special.
The receiver is engraved with scenes of pheasants on the left hand side and mallard ducks on the right side. Each scene is framed by fine scrollwork. The Grade 2.5 walnut stock is a work of art too. Its checkering is cut extra-sharp at 22 lines per inch. The wood is finished in a super-rich gloss finish.
The Browning A5 High Grade Hunter model will be produced with either a 26-inch or 28-inch barrel with a flat ventilated rib in a gloss blued finish. The receiver is made from aluminum alloy and finished in a gloss black finish. The shotguns are chambered 12 gauge with a 3-inch chamber.
Other features include a shim adjustment on length of pull, a Vector Pro Lengthened Forcing Cone, and three Invector DS choke tubes are included. The stock comes fitted with an Inflex recoil pad. The front barrel sight is a fiber-optic with a mid-barrel ivory bead. Suggested retail is set at $1859.99. See Browning’s A5 Section of their website for more details.
