Browning Auto 5 and light target loads

[BNAllen]

I am a rifle and handgun guy. Lots I do not know about shotguns ... so please pardon the question.

I shot my uncle's Auto 5 today (a WWII Marine, he passed away last year). I was using factory Winchester Light Target loads. The 1960 production Browning (2 3/4 in) would not auto eject the spent shell. I could cycle manually with no problem. Unfortunately, I did not have heavier loads with me ... so, I was unable to determine if the shotgun cycles properly with hunting loads. I suspect that the light loads do not have enough energy to work the action???

The shotgun appears to be in excellent condition. My uncle was meticulous.

And, it was a fine January day at the range. I introduced my son to the shotgun and he busted some clays. Can't think of a better Sunday afternoon! I know my uncle is looking down with a smile on his face.

 

[Two Cold Soakers]

There is a way to adjust the friction rings in the forearm assembly. Might just need a little oil.

Look here:

http://www.midwestgunworks.com/field_service_manual/browning_auto_5_field_service_manual.pdf

 

[BNAllen]

Thanks. Lots of reading is leading me to some ideas ... This G model Belgian shotgun is standard weight, I've read that most standard weight A5's struggle to cycle a light load. That being the case, I'll clean it thoroughly, check all of the settings, try the light loads and try a heavier load. Perhaps this gun will not cycle the lighter loads. I suspect my uncle never used light loads and therefore never encountered this issue. I'll keep looking for information and post my results when time allows.

 

[ImARugerFan]

Yeah, the friction ring is the likely culprit. If as you guess, the previous owner shot mostly heavy loads, then the ring is probably set in that position. If you do change the ring for light loads, make sure you put it back when shooting heavy loads so you don't overstress it.

 

[wgp]

Check the friction ring, be sure it is turned correctly for the load in use. My A-5s in 12 and 20 function perfectly with about any load, if set correctly.

 

[BNAllen]

The friction ring is now set properly for lighter loads. The following link made the task simple. I am posting in case someone else is faced with the same problem. Now, I cannot wait to hit the range and try the light loads, again. Thanks everyone!

http://www.browning.com/customerservice/qna/detail.asp?ID=105

Now, my next question, can someone explain to me how moving the ring from one end of the tube to other other makes a difference?