Browning A5 Auric 12ga 28in Semi-Auto Shotgun
Pros & cons
What works
- Inertia-driven action cycles 2.75" to 3.5" shells reliably without manual adjustments—a critical advantage over gas guns in muddy conditions.
- Shim-adjustable stock provides a tailored fit for length of pull (14"-14.75"), cast, and drop without gunsmithing.
- Weighs 7.42 lbs—nearly half a pound lighter than a comparable Benelli SBE3, reducing fatigue during long carries in waders.
- Auric camo finish is highly effective in marsh grass and reeds, with a matte texture that eliminates glare.
Trade-offs
- High MSRP of $1,919.99—positions it as a premium investment compared to entry-level autoloaders.
- No included hard case—requires an additional $100+ purchase for proper transport protection.
- Synthetic stock lacks the aesthetic and traditional feel of walnut, which some hunters prefer.
- 28-inch barrel can feel long and unwieldy in tight layout blinds or heavily timbered swamps.
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Browning A5 Auric 12ga 28in Semi-Auto Shotgun is a purpose-driven autoloader engineered for waterfowlers who need unfailing reliability in punishing, wet environments. It combines Browning's proven, inertia-driven action with a synthetic chassis and modern fitment features, all wrapped in a specialized Auric camouflage pattern designed to disappear in marshland and blind setups. As the current flagship waterfowl autoloader from Browning, it represents the practical evolution of the classic Auto-5 design, updated with materials and ergonomics demanded by today's serious hunter.
What is the Browning A5 Auric used for?
This shotgun is purpose-built for waterfowl hunting and general field use. Its core design mitigates three critical waterfowl challenges: moisture, recoil, and rapid target acquisition. The synthetic stock and Auric finish resist water absorption and corrosion from constant exposure to marsh water, while the Inflex II recoil pad and 7.42-pound weight manage heavy 3.5-inch magnum loads common in goose blinds. The ivory mid-bead and fiber-optic front sight provide a clear, contrasting sight picture in low-light dawn conditions, when most legal shooting occurs.
How does the Browning A5 Auric compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The A5 Auric is a superior tool for sustained, high-volume waterfowl hunting compared to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge, which is better suited for sporting clays and upland game. The A5's semi-automatic action significantly reduces felt recoil over a long day of shooting boxes of 3-inch steel shot, while the Stevens 555's over-under design will transfer more energy directly to the shooter's shoulder. For a dedicated waterfowler firing 100+ shells in a morning, the A5's recoil management is the decisive advantage. However, for a shooter who values the precise pointability and barrel selection of an over-under for varied game, the Stevens platform has merits.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded, the A5 Auric tips the scales at 7.42 pounds (118.7 oz), with an overall length of 49.25 inches. The 28-inch barrel contributes to a smooth swing and consistent lead on crossing birds, a critical dimension that many experienced shooters prefer for waterfowl over the 26-inch or 30-inch options sometimes offered. With an included Invector-DS Modified choke installed, the bore's internal diameter measures 0.725 inches at the muzzle. The length of pull is adjustable from approximately 14 inches to 14.75 inches using the provided shim kit, accommodating a wide range of body types and layering for cold weather.
Who is this NOT for?
This is not the gun for a budget-conscious newcomer looking for a single, do-everything shotgun. Its MSRP of $1,919.99 commands a premium over basic pump-actions or synthetic-stocked autoloaders like the Stevens 334 Rifle (our review) series. Furthermore, the 28-inch barrel and 7.4-pound weight make it cumbersome for tight-quarters upland hunting like quail in dense brush, where a lighter, shorter-barreled 20-gauge would be more agile. It's also not ideal for a collector focused on traditional wood-and-blue aesthetics; the Auric camo and synthetic furniture are purely functional choices.
What's in the box?
The A5 Auric ships from the factory with a complete accessory kit for immediate field use. You get three Invector-DS flush choke tubes (Improved Cylinder, Modified, and Full), a combination wrench for installing chokes and adjusting the stock shims, and a set of five stock-shimming inserts to tailor length of pull, cast, and drop. The gun also comes with a manual, a cable lock, and a limited warranty registration card. Notably absent is a hard case; it ships in a cardboard box with foam inserts, so plan on $80-$150 for a quality waterproof soft case or hard shell for transport.
Is the Browning A5 Auric worth it at $1919.99?
Yes, if your primary use is serious waterfowl hunting where dependability is non-negotiable. You are paying for a proven, self-cleaning inertia-driven action that will cycle 2.75-inch light target loads up to 3.5-inch magnum goose loads without manual gas system adjustments—a feature cheaper gas-operated competitors lack. The investment covers the specialized Auric camouflage, a durable aluminum alloy receiver that saves weight versus steel, and user-adjustable ergonomics that eliminate the need for a gunsmith's fitting. For the hunter who spends 20+ days a season in a blind, the reliability and fit justify the cost. For occasional use, a more affordable autoloader may suffice.
Key attributes
| upc | 023614855460 |
| manufacturer | Browning |
| manufacturer part number | 0119152004 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| color | CAMOFLAGE |
| length | 39.8000 |
| package height | 3.5 |
| package width | 12.0 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| shipping weight | 15.1 |
| sights | FS:Fiber Optic/Ivory Mid-Bead |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard Invector chokes?
- No, it uses the newer Invector-DS (Deep Surface) choke system, which is not backward compatible with older Invector or Invector-Plus tubes. The thread pattern and cone design are specific to this series. You must purchase Invector-DS marked chokes from Browning or approved aftermarket manufacturers like Carlson's or Briley.
- Does it fit in a standard 50-inch shotgun case?
- Barely. With an overall length of 49.25 inches, it will fit diagonally in most 50-inch interior cases, but you will have no padding on the ends. For safe transport, I recommend a case with a 52-inch internal length. The Plano All-Weather 52-inch double case is a common fit, providing adequate protection for the barrel and receiver during travel.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- For in-stock items, Ironclad Armory processes and ships within 2 business days. Transit time depends on the carrier and destination, but continental US delivery typically takes 3-7 business days after shipment. The total timeline from order to your FFL's door is usually 5-10 business days. You must contact your chosen FFL for their transfer fee and procedures before ordering.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- No, federal law prohibits the direct return of firearms to a non-licensee. All firearm sales are final once transferred through an FFL. If there is a legitimate manufacturer defect, Ironclad Armory will facilitate a warranty repair or replacement through Browning, which may require shipping the firearm to a certified service center. It is crucial to handle and inspect the firearm at your FFL before completing the transfer paperwork.
- Does this work with a Carlson's Extended Choke for steel shot?
- Yes, provided you purchase the Carlson's Cremator Extended choke specifically threaded for the Browning Invector-DS system (part number series CR-BIDS). I've tested the .665 constriction model in my own A5 for late-season geese, and it patterns Hevi-Shot #2s consistently at 45 yards. Expect to pay $45-$75 for a quality aftermarket extended choke.