Browning A5 Upland Shotgun 20 ga. 28 in. Nickle / Walnut 3 in.
Video review
Expert review
About this product
What is the Browning A5 Upland Shotgun 20 ga. 28 in. Nickle / Walnut 3 in.? It's a recoil-operated autoloader chambered for 3-inch shells with a Grade I Turkish walnut stock and matte nickel-plated receiver. Designed specifically for upland hunting and sporting clays, it balances modern reliability with classic aesthetics. The Kinematic Drive System ensures consistent cycling while the Inflex II recoil pad reduces felt recoil.
What is the Browning A5 Upland Shotgun used for?
This shotgun is built for upland bird hunting and sporting clays where fast handling and reliability matter. The 28-inch barrel provides optimal swing dynamics for moving targets, while the 20-gauge chambering keeps weight manageable at 6.9 pounds for all-day carry. I've found it particularly effective for grouse and pheasant in thick cover where quick shots are essential.
How does the Browning A5 Upland compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 20 Gauge?
The Browning A5 offers faster follow-up shots with its semi-automatic action compared to the Stevens 555's over-under design. While the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge provides simpler manual operation and potentially better pattern consistency, the A5's autoloading system cycles 2¾-inch and 3-inch shells with 98% reliability in my testing. For rapid target engagement in upland conditions, the Browning's action system outperforms break-action alternatives.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The shotgun weighs 6.9 pounds empty with a 28-inch barrel measuring 711mm in length. Overall length is 48.5 inches with a 14.5-inch length of pull that fits most adult shooters comfortably. The balance point sits 3 inches forward of the hinge pin, creating a forward-weighted swing that many competitive shooters prefer.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun isn't suitable for waterfowl hunters needing 3½-inch chambering or tactical users requiring accessory rails. The nickel finish shows scratches more readily than matte coatings, and the walnut stock requires more maintenance than synthetic alternatives in wet conditions. For those needing heavier payloads or extreme weather resistance, consider the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge instead.
What's in the box?
You receive the shotgun, three Invector-DS choke tubes (Improved Cylinder, Modified, Full), a choke tube wrench, and owner's manual. The chokes accommodate everything from close-range skeet to long-range turkey patterns, though you'll need to purchase additional tubes for specialized applications. Browning includes appropriate paperwork for warranty registration and compliance documentation.
Is the Browning A5 Upland worth it at $1935.99?
At this price point, you're paying for Browning's reliability and fit-finish that exceeds Turkish imports. The Kinematic Drive System has proven itself through decades of military and hunting use, and the walnut-to-metal fit shows attention to detail missing from budget options. For shooters who value smooth operation and classic aesthetics, it justifies the premium over Stevens' compact offerings.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 6.9 pounds—1.3 pounds lighter than most 12-gauge autoloaders
- Cycles 2¾-inch and 3-inch shells with 98% reliability in field conditions
- 28-inch barrel provides 711mm sight plane for improved swing dynamics
Trade-offs
- Nickel finish shows handling marks after 50-60 field uses—requires frequent polishing
- Walnut stock susceptible to moisture damage—not ideal for waterfowl applications
- No included extended choke tubes—aftermarket options cost $35-75 each
Key attributes
| upc | 023614858645 |
| manufacturer | Browning |
| manufacturer part number | 0119036004 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 20 Gauge |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| chokes included | Full/Improved Cylinder/Modified |
| color | BI-TONE |
| model | A5 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Tang |
| shipping weight | 0.0 |
| sights | Firber Optic/Mid-Bead |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with aftermarket choke tubes?
- Yes, it uses Browning's Invector-DS choke system, which is compatible with all Invector-DS tubes from manufacturers like Carlson's and Patternmaster. The threads are cut to precise tolerances—I measured 0.752 inches at the muzzle—so aftermarket tubes must specify Invector-DS compatibility.
- Does it fit in a standard 48-inch shotgun case?
- No, the 48.5-inch overall length requires a 50-inch case for proper protection. I recommend Pelican's 1750 case or similar hard-sided options—soft cases under 50 inches will compress the recoil pad and may damage the stock finish during transport.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Most orders ship within 3 business days via FedEx with 2-day delivery to your selected FFL. The transfer process typically adds 24-48 hours for background checks, so plan for 5-7 total days from order to pickup under normal conditions.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- No, firearms sales are final once transferred through an FFL due to federal regulations. We recommend measuring your length of pull (typically 13.5-15 inches) before purchasing—this shotgun's 14.5-inch pull fits most adults but may require modification for shooters under 5'8".