Browning Auto 5

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	Weapon: Browning Auto 5 Type: Semi-Automatic Shotgun Country of Origin: United States Caliber: 12 Gauge Action: Short Recoil

The Browning Auto-5, designed by the legendary John Moses Browning in 1898 and patented in 1900, was the world's first successful semi-automatic shotgun. Its distinctive "humpback" profile, created by the extended receiver, allowed for a longer sighting plane, which contributed to its accuracy. The Auto-5 used a long-recoil operation system, where the barrel and bolt recoil together before separating to eject the spent shell and chamber a new one. This innovative design provided reliable cycling and established the Auto-5 as a revolutionary firearm in both civilian and military applications.

Production of the Auto-5 began in 1902 under FN Herstal in Belgium and later expanded to the United States through Remington and subsequently by Browning itself. Over 2.7 million units were manufactured across various production facilities until the model was discontinued in 1998. The Auto-5 was produced in multiple gauges, including 12, 16, and 20, and was highly versatile, finding use in hunting, sport shooting, and as a military and law enforcement firearm. During World War II, the Auto-5 saw service in limited roles, primarily as a utility and guard weapon.

The Browning Auto-5 remains one of the most iconic shotguns in history, known for its reliability, durability, and groundbreaking design. Its popularity among sportsmen and collectors is enduring, with many original models still in use today. The Auto-5's impact on the development of semi-automatic firearms is profound, influencing countless designs that followed. Its status as a classic, both for its historical significance and exceptional performance, ensures its place in the pantheon of great firearms.