Description
The Browning A5 Sweet Sixteen is a modern, gas-operated semi-automatic shotgun chambered in 16 gauge. It features a 28-inch barrel, a high-gloss walnut stock, and a 4-round capacity. It’s a refined upland and waterfowl gun that blends classic aesthetics with reliable, soft-shooting performance. I’ve put a few boxes of light 2.75″ loads through this one, and it’s a smooth operator that fits out of the box.
Look, if you’re after the Browning A5 Sweet Sixteen 16 Ga, 28″ Barrel, 2.75″ Walnut High Gloss Stock, 4rd, you’re looking at a specific iteration of a legendary name. This isn’t your grandpa’s humpback—it’s the new generation, but it carries the soul of the original. The price point of $1489.04 puts it in a premium class, and you feel it the moment you shoulder it. The balance is just right, and that glossy walnut stock is a real looker in the field.
Key Features
- Kinematic Drive System: This is Browning’s short-recoil operating system. It’s simple, reliable, and cycles a wide range of loads without adjustment.
- High-Gloss Walnut Stock: This isn’t just for show. The wood is dense, well-figured, and finished to a deep, protective luster that stands up to the elements.
- 28″ Back-Bored Barrel: The longer barrel provides a smooth swing for wingshooting. The back-boring reduces felt recoil and improves pattern consistency.
- Inflex Technology Recoil Pad: This pad is a game-saver. It directs recoil straight back into your shoulder instead of bouncing, making long days in the field much more pleasant.
- Versatile 16 Gauge Chambering: It strikes a perfect middle ground between the 12 and 20. You get ample power with less weight and a noticeably softer kick.
Specifications & Details
| Gauge | 16 Gauge |
| Chamber | 2.75″ |
| Barrel Length | 28 Inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 49 Inches |
| Capacity | 4+1 Rounds |
| Weight | Approx. 6.8 lbs |
That weight—right around 6.8 pounds—is a big part of the appeal. It’s light enough to carry all day without fatigue, yet the 28-inch barrel gives it enough heft out front for a steady, fluid swing. The 4+1 capacity is standard for migratory bird hunting regulations, and the 2.75″ chamber handles everything from light target loads to heavy waterfowl steel. Here’s the thing—the 16 gauge niche is for the shooter who appreciates nuance. It’s not the most common, but for those who use it, it’s often the only gauge they need.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This A5 is built for the dedicated upland hunter chasing pheasants over pointing dogs, or the waterfowler who wants a lighter, faster-handling gun in the blind. It’s also an excellent choice for the clay shooter who wants a dedicated sporting gun with more personality than a plain-Jane 12 gauge. If you value tradition but demand modern reliability, this is your hitter. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The recoil management is superb, making it a joy to shoot. The fit and finish are top-tier Browning. The 16 gauge offers a fantastic balance of power and shootability. The Kinematic drive is famously reliable with minimal maintenance.
Cons: Ammunition cost and variety can’t compete with 12 or 20 gauge—you’ll likely be ordering online. The high-gloss finish, while beautiful, can reflect light in the field. It’s a premium investment, so it’s not an impulse buy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the 16 gauge powerful enough for geese or turkey?
A: Absolutely, with the right ammunition. Modern non-toxic loads in 16 gauge, like those from Hevi-Shot or Federal Premium, are more than capable for waterfowl and turkey within reasonable ranges. It’s all about shot placement and using an appropriate choke.
Q: Can I use 2.75″ and 3″ shells interchangeably?
A: No. This specific model is chambered for 2.75″ shells only. You must not fire 3″ magnums in it. Always check the chamber marking on your barrel. Browning does offer A5 models in 3.5″ chambers for 12 gauge, but this Sweet Sixteen is strictly a 2.75″ gun.
Q: What chokes does it use, and are they easy to change?
A: It uses Browning’s Invector-DS choke tube system. Changing them is simple with the provided wrench—just hand-tighten. The system is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket tubes from brands like Patternmaster and Carlson’s, giving you great flexibility for different game or clay targets.
So, is the A5 Sweet Sixteen worth it? If you’re a hunter who covers ground and values a lightweight, soft-shooting companion that turns heads for all the right reasons, then yes. It’s a specific tool for a specific shooter, and it executes that role flawlessly. See the full details and availability on our site.
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