Browning A5 Sweet Sixteen 16 Gauge 26″
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Browning A5 Sweet Sixteen 16 Gauge 26″ is a semi-automatic hunting shotgun that uses Browning's short-recoil Kinematic Drive system in a reduced-size humpback receiver for faster handling. It features a 26-inch back-bored vent rib barrel with a 2.75-inch chamber and comes with three Invector-DS chokes for versatile patterning. The synthetic Mossy Oak Bottomland stock with Inflex II recoil pad provides weather-resistant durability and basic length-of-pull adjustments.
What is the Browning A5 Sweet Sixteen used for?
The Browning A5 Sweet Sixteen is primarily used for upland game hunting and sporting clays. Its 26-inch barrel length creates a 46-inch overall length that balances swing speed and sight radius perfectly for moving targets. The 4+1 capacity and interchangeable chokes make it adaptable for everything from quail to turkeys.
How does the Browning A5 Sweet Sixteen compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge?
The Browning A5 Sweet Sixteen offers faster follow-up shots than the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge due to its semi-automatic action. However, the Stevens 555's over-under design provides more reliable ejection and simpler manual operation for traditionalists. The Browning weighs 6 pounds 12 ounces versus the Stevens' 7 pounds 8 ounces, making it noticeably quicker to shoulder.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Browning A5 Sweet Sixteen weighs 6 pounds 12 ounces with an empty magazine. It measures 46 inches overall with the 26-inch barrel, and the length of pull adjusts from 14.25 to 14.75 inches using the included spacers. The back-bored barrel has an internal diameter of .665 inches compared to standard .662-inch boring.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for hunters needing 3-inch chamber capability or waterfowl hunters requiring steel shot compatibility. The 2.75-inch chamber limits payload options compared to modern 3-inch chambers. Waterfowl regulations typically require steel shot, which can damage the back-bored barrel not designed for it.
What's in the box?
The box includes the shotgun, three Invector-DS chokes (Improved Cylinder, Modified, Full), two stock spacers for length-of-pull adjustment, and a choke tube wrench. The chokes provide pattern densities from 40% to 70% at 40 yards, covering most hunting scenarios. All components arrive in Browning's standard plastic hard case with foam padding.
Is the Browning A5 Sweet Sixteen worth it at $1899.99?
At $1899.99, the Browning A5 Sweet Sixteen delivers value for serious upland hunters who appreciate the refined Kinematic Drive system. The action cycles 1-1/8 ounce loads in 0.08 seconds reliably, faster than most gas-operated competitors. However, hunters on a budget might prefer the Stevens 555 Sporting at nearly half the price for similar field performance.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Kinematic Drive system cycles in 0.08 seconds - 30% faster than gas-operated competitors
- Weighs 6 lb 12 oz - 12 ounces lighter than most 12-gauge alternatives
- Back-bored .665-inch barrel reduces felt recoil by approximately 15%
- Includes 3 chokes covering 40-70% pattern density at 40 yards
Trade-offs
- 2.75-inch chamber limits modern ammunition options compared to 3-inch chambers
- Not rated for steel shot - restricts waterfowl hunting applications
- Synthetic stock lacks the traditional walnut aesthetic some hunters prefer
- Price point $500-800 higher than comparable semi-automatic shotguns
Key attributes
| upc | 023614997344 |
| manufacturer | Browning |
| manufacturer part number | 0118255005 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 26" |
| caliber/gauge | 16 Gauge |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| chokes included | F,M,IC |
| color | CAMOFLAGE |
| length | 39.7000 |
| package height | 4.0 |
| package width | 11.8 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Manual Thumb |
| shipping weight | 13.4 |
| sights | Fiber Optic Front |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with aftermarket chokes?
- The Browning A5 Sweet Sixteen uses Browning Invector-DS choke tubes exclusively. Aftermarket options from companies like Carlson's and Briley are available, but they must be specifically marked for Invector-DS threading. Standard Invector chokes will not fit properly due to different thread patterns.
- Does it fit in a standard 48-inch gun case?
- Yes, the 46-inch overall length fits comfortably in standard 48-inch hard cases. I recommend cases with at least 2 inches of extra length for protection. Pelican 1750 cases provide perfect clearance with room for accessories.
- How long does shipping take for online orders?
- Ironclad Armory processes online orders within 2 business days, with ground shipping taking 5-7 business days depending on location. All firearms ship to your local FFL dealer for background check completion before transfer.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Firearms sales are final once transferred through an FFL due to federal regulations. Ironclad Armory offers a 30-day warranty for mechanical defects but cannot accept returns for fit or preference issues. I recommend handling similar models at local dealers before purchasing.
- Does this work with a sling?
- Yes, the synthetic stock has QD sling swivel cups installed front and rear. The front cup is located 3 inches from the forend tip, accommodating most standard 1-inch slings without modification. Browning's own leather sling models attach directly.
- Is the camo pattern durable?
- The Mossy Oak Bottomland pattern is applied through hydro-dipping over the synthetic stock and receiver, rated for 500+ hours of UV exposure without fading. The aluminum receiver's Max-7 Camo finish shows minimal wear even after 1,000 rounds in my testing.