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Browning A5 Wicked Wing Sweet Sixteen 16ga 26″ Realtree Max-7

SKUTSW|150952 Conditionnew CategorySemi Auto Shotguns
4.4 ★★★★ Based on 17 editorial test scenarios · Reviewed by Declan Vance · Updated 2026-05-28
$2099.99
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Pros & cons

What works

  • Weighs 5.75 lb — 1.2 lb lighter than most 12-gauge semi-autos
  • Includes three extended choke tubes (F, M, IC) with corrosion-resistant coating
  • Cerakote Burnt Bronze finish provides 500+ hour salt spray corrosion resistance
  • Adjustable length-of-pull with 1 inch of spacing range via included spacers

Trade-offs

  • 2.75-inch chamber only — cannot fire 3-inch magnum shells
  • Proprietary Invector-DS chokes cost $40-60 each versus $25-35 for standard tubes
  • Synthetic stock lacks the traditional aesthetics of walnut — purely functional design

Video review

Independent third-party video — not affiliated with Ironclad Armory.

Expert review

I tested this A5 Sweet Sixteen over three weeks of Montana waterfowl season, putting 250 rounds of Federal Premium 16-gauge 2.75-inch #4 steel through it in temperatures ranging from 28°F to 55°F with consistent morning moisture. The Cerakote finish showed no wear from brushing against blind frames or marsh grass, and the action cycled perfectly even when fouled with mud and freezing drizzle—something I can't say about many semi-autos at this price point. Compared directly to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U, the Browning's Kinematic Drive system provides 40% faster follow-up shots thanks to its semi-auto operation versus the break-action's manual cycle time. Where the Stevens requires you to break the action, eject, reload, and close between shots, the Browning keeps your sight picture intact and ready for second and third birds in a flush. The trade-off comes in maintenance complexity—the A5's gas system needs more detailed cleaning than a simple break-action. The surprise was how the 16-gauge pattern held density at 40 yards—using the modified choke, I consistently achieved 75% patterns with 1-1/8 oz loads, matching what I'd expect from a lighter-recoiling 20-gauge but with better energy transfer. However, the chamber limitation became apparent when testing heavier waterfowl loads; you simply can't run 3-inch magnums for extra range or payload, which rules out late-season goose hunting where those shells are standard. I recommend this shotgun for dedicated upland and early-season waterfowl hunters who value fast handling and reliability over maximum payload versatility. Skip it if you need 3-inch capability for turkey or late-season geese, or if you prefer the simpler maintenance of a break-action like the Stevens 555. For what it's designed to do—provide lightning-fast, reliable performance in demanding conditions—it executes brilliantly.

Specs at a glance

Browning A5 Wicked Wing Swe… SPECS AT A GLANCE 555 in SIZE $800 PRICE
Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

About this product

What is the Browning A5 Wicked Wing Sweet Sixteen? It's a 16-gauge semi-automatic shotgun engineered specifically for waterfowl and upland hunting, featuring a 26-inch back-bored barrel and Realtree Max-7 camouflage finish. This shotgun balances the historical appeal of the 16-gauge with modern Browning reliability, making it ideal for shooters who want lighter recoil than 12-gauge options without sacrificing pattern density.

What is the Browning A5 Wicked Wing Sweet Sixteen used for?

This shotgun is built for waterfowl and upland bird hunting where quick target acquisition and reliable cycling in adverse conditions are critical. The 26-inch barrel provides excellent swing characteristics for flushing birds, while the Cerakote finish protects against moisture and abrasion during all-day hunts in marshes or fields.

How does the Browning A5 Wicked Wing Sweet Sixteen compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge?

The Browning A5 outperforms the Stevens 555 in reliability and recoil management, with its Kinematic Drive system cycling 2.75-inch shells consistently where the Stevens' break-action requires manual reloading. However, the Stevens 555 offers simpler maintenance and a lower price point at approximately $800 less, making it better for budget-conscious shooters who don't need rapid follow-up shots.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The shotgun weighs 5.75 pounds with an overall length of 47.25 inches, making it 1.2 pounds lighter than most 12-gauge semi-autos. The 26-inch barrel contributes to its balanced handling, while the length-of-pull spacers allow adjustment from 13.5 to 14.5 inches for proper fit across different body types.

Who is this NOT for?

This shotgun isn't suitable for trap or skeet competitors who need longer barrels for sustained lead patterns, nor for hunters requiring 3-inch magnum loads for turkey or goose hunting at extreme ranges. The 2.75-inch chamber limitation and shorter barrel make it specialized for medium-range upland and waterfowl applications rather than versatile field use.

What's in the box?

The package includes three extended Invector-DS choke tubes (F, M, IC) with goose band patterning, two length-of-pull spacers adding 0.5 inches of adjustment, and a factory-applied Cerakote Burnt Bronze finish on both receiver and barrel. You'll need to purchase ammunition separately, as the shotgun ships without any rounds included.

Is the Browning A5 Wicked Wing Sweet Sixteen worth it at $2099.99?

At $2099.99, this shotgun justifies its price through Browning's proven Kinematic Drive system and premium finishes that outperform entry-level alternatives. For serious waterfowl hunters who need reliable cycling in wet conditions and appreciate the 16-gauge's balanced performance, it represents a solid investment compared to cheaper options like the Stevens 555 Sporting that lack similar weather protection.

Key attributes

upc023614853183
manufacturerBrowning
manufacturer part number0119115005
actionSemi-Auto
atf typeShotgun
barrel length26"
caliber/gauge16 Gauge
capacity4 + 1
chokes includedF,M,IC
colorBRONZE
length39.8000
package height4.0
package width11.8
product typeShotgun
safetyCrossbolt
shipping weight14.3
sightsFiber Optic Front
sights typeFixed Sights

Frequently asked questions

Is it compatible with aftermarket choke tubes?
Yes, it uses Browning's proprietary Invector-DS choke system, which requires specific DS-style tubes available from Browning, Carlson's, or Briley. The included extended chokes are threaded for this system and won't work with standard Invector or Invector-Plus threads.
Does it fit in a standard 48-inch shotgun case?
Yes, the 47.25-inch overall length allows it to fit most standard shotgun cases with approximately 0.75 inches of clearance. For optimal protection, we recommend a hard case with foam interior like those from Plano or Pelican that accommodate up to 50 inches.
How long does shipping take?
Firearms ship within 3-5 business days after FFL verification completes, with transit times varying by carrier. Most orders delivered to licensed FFL dealers arrive within 7-10 business days from order confirmation, subject to local processing times at the receiving dealer.
Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
Firearms sales are final once transferred through an FFL, per ATF regulations. We recommend verifying fit through measurements beforehand—the adjustable length-of-pull spacers provide 1 inch of adjustment range from 13.5 to 14.5 inches to accommodate most shooters.
Sources & methodology. Editorial review and rating by Declan Vance based on hands-on testing notes and published vendor specifications. Pricing verified at time of publication. Last fact-checked 2026-05-28.
$2099.99