Browning A5 Sweet Sixteen: Lightweight 16-Gauge Hunting Icon

When you strip hunting gear down to what truly matters — reliability, handling, and lightweight performance — the right shotgun stands out. For hunters who want a fast-cycling autoloader that stays light on long walks and delivers quick follow-up shots in the field, there are few modern options that blend heritage and engineering as well as this one.

BROWNING A5 SWEET SIXTEEN is a 16-gauge hunting shotgun that brings a unique combination of speed and tradition to the blind and the upland field. Built around Browning’s short recoil-operated Kinematic Drive System, the A5 Sweet Sixteen is known as the fastest cycling recoil-operated autoloader on the planet. It ships with a 4-shell capacity and is available with either a 26″ or 28″ barrel, weighing in at under six pounds for effortless carry. Shop this product

What makes the A5 Sweet Sixteen stand out

The mechanical heart of this shotgun is Browning’s Kinematic Drive System. Unlike gas systems that divert gas from the barrel, the A5 uses short recoil to harness recoil energy and convert it into the mechanical motion needed to operate the action. That approach yields a rapid, reliable cycling pattern with fewer fouling concerns in extended field use.

Speed and balance in a working gun

At 5 lbs 13 oz, the A5 Sweet Sixteen lives up to its “sweet sixteen” billing by staying light enough for a full day in the marsh or uplands without compromising durability. The receiver is smaller and lighter, creating a sleek feel and reducing overall swing weight. The familiar humpback receiver profile integrates smoothly with the ventilated rib to extend the sight plane, which aids natural alignment and quicker target acquisition — a real advantage on flushing birds.

Barrel, choke options, and ballistic performance

Choose between a 26″ or 28″ barrel depending on your preferred handling and swing characteristics. The shotgun is chambered for 16 gauge with a 2 3/4″ chamber length — a configuration that balances payload and recoil for many hunting scenarios. Browning equips the A5 Sweet Sixteen with the Invector-DS choke tube system, and it ships with Full, Modified, and Improved Cylinder Invector-DS flush choke tubes plus a T-wrench. Those interchangeable chokes let you tailor shot patterns for close cover or open-field shots without changing ammunition types.

Total Barrel Dynamics and patterning

Browning’s Total Barrel Dynamics engineering aims to deliver consistent patterns and barrel harmonics. When combined with the Invector-DS chokes, the resulting performance lets shooters extract maximum effectiveness from a 16-gauge payload — whether you’re working with light upland loads or heavier 16-ga shells for waterfowl. The rib and receiver geometry help maintain a predictable sight plane for follow-up shots.

Field handling and real-world applications

For guided hunts, long walks across varied terrain, or sitting a blind for hours, the A5 Sweet Sixteen’s under-six-pound weight and 14 1/4″ length of pull make it a manageable tool for a wide range of shooters. The 4-round magazine capacity is typical for modern hunting shotguns and keeps the platform focused on sporting use rather than high-capacity applications.

In practical terms, the combination of light weight, fast cycling, and flexible choke options makes this shotgun ideal for upland game, dove and grouse hunts, and selective waterfowl applications where mobility and quick follow-up are assets. The polished black receiver paired with gloss stock and high-gloss barrel finish also makes for a handsome field piece that holds up to routine use.

View product details and pricing

Practical shooting tips for a 16-gauge autoloader

Start with a patterning session using the Full, Modified, and Improved Cylinder chokes provided. That will give you immediate data on which choke and load pairings best match your typical shooting distances. Use rifled or heavier loads cautiously; the Kinematic Drive System is robust, but consistent maintenance and the right ammunition mix will ensure reliable cycling.

Maintenance and reliability

The short recoil operation reduces dependence on gas ports and limits carbon buildup in the action, which simplifies cleaning intervals in the field. Regular lubrication, inspection of the Invector-DS choke threads, and checking headspace or extractor function at periodic intervals will keep the shotgun running smoothly season after season.

Specifications at a glance

Gauge: 16 Ga • Chamber Length: 2 3/4″ • Barrel Length: 26″ or 28″ • Overall Length: 49.25″ (with 28″ barrel) • Length of Pull: 14 1/4″ • Drop at Comb: 1 3/4″ • Drop at Heel: 2″ • Weight: 5 lbs 13 oz • Magazine Capacity: 4 • Rib Width: 1/4″ • Barrel Finish: High Gloss • Stock Finish: Gloss • Receiver Finish: Polished Black • Chokes Included: Full, Modified, Improved Cylinder (Invector-DS)

At a price point of $1,723.99, the A5 Sweet Sixteen occupies a space for shooters who want refined engineering, a legendary receiver profile, and modern autoloading reliability. Browning’s pedigree and the shotgun’s feature set make it a practical choice for hunters who value a fast-cycling, lightweight 16-gauge that’s equally at home on long walks or in the marsh.

If you want to inspect specs or purchase directly, click through to the shop page where you can complete your purchase with the retailer: Check current availability

— John Wick & Garand Thumb

People Also Ask

What makes this product stand out from competitors?

This product offers superior quality and innovative features that set it apart in the market. Its design focuses on both performance and reliability, making it a top choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Is this product suitable for beginners?

Yes, this product is designed with user-friendly features that make it accessible to beginners while still offering advanced capabilities for experienced users.

What warranty or support is available?

The product comes with comprehensive warranty coverage and excellent customer support to ensure your satisfaction and peace of mind.

How does this compare to similar products in its price range?

This product offers exceptional value for its price point, providing features and quality that typically cost significantly more in comparable alternatives.

What maintenance is required?

Minimal maintenance is required thanks to the product’s durable construction and quality materials. Regular cleaning and occasional inspections will keep it performing optimally.