Browning A5 Wicked Wing Auric 12ga 26″ 3.5″
Pros & cons
What works
- Kinematic Drive system cycles 3.5" magnum loads with 42% less felt recoil than inertia-driven systems
- Full chrome-plated bore withstands 500+ rounds between cleanings in saltwater conditions
- 7.18 lb weight balances perfectly for swinging on crossing geese at 35+ yards
- Burnt Bronze Cerakote provides 3x the corrosion resistance of standard blued finishes
Trade-offs
- $2,134.99 price point exceeds many hunters' budgets for a single-purpose waterfowl gun
- 26" barrel limits effectiveness for tight-quarters turkey hunting compared to 24" options
- Auric camo pattern is specific to wetland environments - less effective in dry field settings
- No included case requires additional $75-150 investment for proper transport protection
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Browning A5 Wicked Wing Auric 12ga 26″ 3.5″ is a semi-automatic shotgun engineered specifically for harsh wetland conditions, featuring a Kinematic Drive recoil system and full corrosion resistance. This shotgun represents Browning's latest evolution in waterfowl-specific firearms, built to handle the extreme demands of goose and duck hunting where reliability is non-negotiable. With its specialized choke system and weatherproof construction, it bridges the gap between competition-grade autoloaders and pure field guns.
What is the Browning A5 Wicked Wing Auric used for?
This shotgun is purpose-built for waterfowl hunting in demanding wetland environments. The 3.5″ chamber handles heavy waterfowl loads, while the extended Invector-DS choke tubes provide optimal patterns for geese at 40+ yards. The corrosion-resistant components withstand constant exposure to water, mud, and humidity that would compromise lesser firearms.
How does the Browning A5 Wicked Wing Auric compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The A5 provides superior capacity and faster follow-up shots compared to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U. While the Stevens offers classic O/U reliability at approximately half the price, the A5's 4+1 capacity and semi-auto operation give it a clear advantage for moving waterfowl where multiple shots are often necessary. The A5 handles 3.5″ shells versus the Stevens' 3″ maximum, making it better suited for large geese.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The A5 Wicked Wing Auric weighs 7.18 lbs with an overall length of 47.63 inches. The 26-inch barrel provides optimal swing characteristics for waterfowl shooting, balancing maneuverability in blinds with sufficient sight plane for consistent lead. At 7.18 lbs, it's heavy enough to absorb 3.5″ recoil but light enough for all-day carry.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun isn't suitable for budget-conscious hunters or those who primarily shoot upland game. The $2,134.99 price point puts it in the premium category, and the specialized waterfowl features offer little benefit for pheasant or grouse hunting. If you need a versatile field gun for multiple game types, consider the more affordable Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge.
What's in the box?
The package includes the shotgun with three extended Invector-DS choke tubes (Full, Modified, Improved Cylinder), owner's manual, and Browning's limited warranty documentation. The choke tubes feature extended profiles that protrude 1.5 inches beyond the muzzle for easy changes in the field without tools.
Is the Browning A5 Wicked Wing Auric worth it at $2134.99?
At this price, the A5 delivers exceptional value for dedicated waterfowl hunters who demand absolute reliability. The corrosion-resistant chrome bore and Cerakote finish provide protection that cheaper coatings can't match, extending the firearm's service life in saltwater environments. For hunters who spend 20+ days per season in blinds, the investment pays off in consistent performance when conditions are at their worst.
Key attributes
| upc | 023614855415 |
| manufacturer | Browning |
| manufacturer part number | 0119142005 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 26" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| color | BRONZE |
| length | 39.7500 |
| package height | 3.6 |
| package width | 11.8 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| shipping weight | 15.15 |
| sights | FS:Fiber Optic/Ivory Mid-Bead |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Does this work with standard Invector choke tubes?
- No, it requires specifically Invector-DS choke tubes due to the extended barrel threading. Standard Invector tubes will not seat properly. Browning offers Invector-DS chokes in 10 different constrictions for specialized patterning.
- Can I use 2.75" target loads for practice?
- Yes, the Kinematic Drive system cycles 2.75" target loads reliably, though you may experience slightly more felt recoil than with heavier waterfowl loads. I recommend testing your preferred practice ammunition before hunting season to ensure proper function.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- FFL shipments to Montana typically require 5-7 business days for processing and transit. All firearms ship via FedEx with adult signature required upon delivery to your local FFL dealer.
- Is the stock length adjustable?
- Yes, the synthetic stock includes three spacers that allow length of pull adjustment from 13.5" to 14.5". The comb height is fixed, but aftermarket pads are available for additional customization.
- Does it come with a hard case?
- No, the A5 ships in a cardboard box with foam inserts. I recommend investing in a Plano All-Weather case for transport and storage, particularly given the shotgun's premium finish and specialized choke tubes.