Browning Auto-5 12ga. shotgun

[Bartholomew Roberts]

Came across a Browning Auto-5 12ga shotgun, SN: 7XXX. The gun is one of the first 10,000 imported into the U.S. and was probably manufactured around 1903-1904. The gun has been in storage (and well-stored) for about 30-40 years.

It is in excellent condition (97-99%?) with the majority of its bluing and good wood. The only problem is that the firing pin sticks out of the bolt by 2-3 inches until the gun is cocked (at which point the firing pin falls back inside the bolt).

Curious to know if anybody has an idea of the value of the gun?

Also, what's the best thing to do concerning the firing pin? Is the gun worth more broken and in original condition or repaired? Already checked to see if maybe the firing pin channel was just gunked up; but something is definitely broken...

 

[James K]

Your description sounds like a broken firing pin. Do NOT attempt to load or fire that gun until you have it checked by a gunsmith.

Replacing a firing pin is not going to affect collector value at all, and a broken firing pin could cause the gun to fire without being locked, damaging the gun and perhaps injuring the shooter or someone nearby. Until you can get it fixed, lock it away and be sure no one tries to use it.

Repeat, get the gun fixed as soon as possible!

As to value, unless those guns have engraving and inlay work and/or fancy wood, the value is not high. Values run $400-500+ in perfect condition, something that is seldom seen. Average used condition brings only about $200-280, with a little more for a ribbed barrel.

HTH

Jim