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Passed on an A5 deal today. Mistake?
saserby
Member Posts: 1,873 ✭✭✭✭✭
Local gun shop is reducing old inventory. They have a Browning A5 in 16 gauge with good metal and decent stock. Forarm is cracked about halfway down. Can be stopped from inside likely, but will probably always show without restoration. I think that was a common problem with them. I'm guessing its from the 40s or 50s. Less than $300 with tax.
Should I go back tomorrow? 16 gauge is kind of my gauge, and I don't have an A5.
Should I go back tomorrow? 16 gauge is kind of my gauge, and I don't have an A5.
Comments
That is a great price. I would snatch it up.
AS has been said, you shouldn't need to even ask.
W.D.
Was it just a 16 gauge, or a Sweet 16?
AS has been said, you shouldn't need to even ask.
W.D.
I'm not sure. I was trying not to look at it too much so I wouldn't buy it.[:I]
I'm thinking for the price, it doesn't matter. It's not something I'll use really, but that hasn't stopped me in the past. I must be getting older or something.
Go back.
YES!!
As to price I can't say much other than to generalize. Too many variables such as barrels and the exact model. Early guns have what we call a "suicide safety" located ahead of the trigger. Some consider this less desirable than the more modern guns. I, myself, sort of like the feature and have one this type within easy reach. I tend to think of it as an 870 on steroids. Just the sound of the bolt slamming home should be fair warning to anyone potentially on the wrong end of this old girl.
So... A well used plain vanilla A5 in 16 Ga should bring at least $400 if in good condition. A raised rib or vent rib will add value. If a Sweet 16, then Katie bar the door! Probably at least three times the base gun and likely more. Condition being critical. On a plain field gun it won't make much difference whether made in Japan or Belgium. This is not the case for higher end models in fine condition. Belgian guns carry a premium.
The cracked forestock is probably a $100 demerit on this particular gun. (Much more of a demerit on a Sweet Sixteen.) Assuming a base gun in reasonably good mechanical condition with a cracked forestock I'd say that $300 is about right. If you're lucky it can be repaired. Otherwise you'll spend some money and find a replacement piece.