Browning A5 Sweet Sixteen Upland Review

Experience the Browning A5 Sweet Sixteen Upland, a 16-gauge shotgun weighing 5 pounds, 13 ounces. It features a 28-inch barrel, 49 5/8-inch overall length, and a 2 3/4-inch chamber. Comes with Full, Modified, and Improved Cylinder chokes. This review will provide an overview of its specs, features, performance, and its pros and cons.

Browning A5 Sweet Sixteen Upland Overview

The Browning A5 Sweet Sixteen Upland is a semi-automatic shotgun designed for upland hunting and clay shooting. It’s known for its balance, reliability, and classic design.

Browning A5 Sweet Sixteen Upland Features

Performance

The Browning A5 Sweet Sixteen Upland is a top choice for hunters because of how well it works. It is light, which makes it easy to carry and use for a long time. This shotgun also has a special choke system called Invector-DS. This system helps hunters hit their target more often, no matter what they are hunting. People like it because it shoots smoothly and doesn’t have problems often.

Whether you are shooting at flying birds or targets on the ground, this gun can handle it. Its design lets hunters use it in many different situations. So, if you’re looking for a shotgun that won’t let you down and is fun to shoot, the A5 Sweet Sixteen might be the perfect fit.

Browning A5 Sweet Sixteen Upland Pros and Cons

Maintenance

The Browning A5 Sweet Sixteen Upland shotgun requires regular maintenance to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. Here are the key maintenance steps for this shotgun:

Safety Check

• Before beginning any maintenance, ensure the shotgun is completely unloaded. Check the chamber, receiver, and magazine to confirm they are empty.

Disassembly

• Remove the barrel: Unscrew the magazine cap, then gently pull the barrel forward and off the receiver.
• Take out the recoil spring: With the barrel removed, locate and carefully remove the recoil spring from the fore-end.
• Remove the bolt assembly: Slide the bolt assembly forward and out of the receiver.
• Take apart the trigger assembly: If necessary for deep cleaning, push out the retaining pins and gently remove the trigger assembly.

Cleaning

• Barrel: Use a cleaning rod with a bore brush soaked in solvent to scrub the inside of the barrel. Follow up with patches until they come out clean. Apply a light coat of oil.
• Choke tubes: If your shotgun has removable choke tubes, unscrew them, clean thoroughly with solvent, and apply a light coat of oil before reinstalling.
• Bolt and action: Clean the bolt, action bars, and inside the receiver with a brush and solvent. Wipe down with a clean cloth and apply a thin layer of lubricant.
• Trigger assembly: If removed, carefully clean accessible parts with a brush and solvent. Lightly oil moving parts.

Inspection

• As you clean, inspect all parts for wear or damage, such as cracks or excessive wear on moving parts. Pay particular attention to the recoil spring and buffer for any signs of fatigue or damage.

Reassembly

• Reverse the disassembly process to reassemble your shotgun. Ensure each component is correctly positioned and securely fastened.
• Reinstall the trigger assembly (if removed) by aligning it within the receiver and replacing the retaining pins.
• Slide the bolt assembly back into the receiver.
• Insert the recoil spring into the fore-end, then reattach the barrel and screw the magazine cap back on securely.

Function Check

• Once reassembled, perform a function check to ensure everything operates as it should. Do this by working the action, checking the safety, and dry firing (in a safe direction) to confirm the trigger mechanism functions correctly.

Exterior Maintenance

• Wipe down the shotgun’s exterior with a lightly oiled cloth to prevent rust and corrosion, paying extra attention to metal surfaces. Don’t forget to maintain the wood (if applicable) with appropriate wood conditioner to keep it from drying out or cracking.

Storage

• Store your shotgun in a dry, cool place to prevent rust and damage. Consider using a gun safe with a dehumidifier for optimal conditions.

Additional Tips

For beginners using the Browning A5 Sweet Sixteen Upland shotgun, here are some additional tips to enhance safety and shooting proficiency:

• Familiarize Yourself with the Gun’s Features: Before heading out, take the time to understand your A5 Sweet Sixteen’s specific features, including its kinematic drive system, safety mechanisms, and how to adjust the choke tubes for different hunting scenarios.
• Practice Mounting and Aiming: Practice mounting the shotgun to your shoulder and aiming at targets. This will help you become more comfortable with the gun’s weight and balance, making it easier to acquire targets quickly and accurately in the field.
• Understand Choke Tube Usage: Learn about the different choke tubes that come with your A5 Sweet Sixteen and what each is best used for. Practicing with various chokes can significantly improve your shot pattern and success rate.
• Invest in Quality Ammunition: Use high-quality ammunition that is suitable for the game you are hunting. Experiment with different loads to see what works best with your shotgun for various distances and targets.
• Prioritize Gun Safety: Always adhere to gun safety rules: keep the gun unloaded until ready to use, never point the gun at anything you do not intend to shoot, and be sure of your target and what is beyond it.
• Regular Maintenance is Key: After each use, clean and maintain your shotgun as recommended. Proper care will keep your A5 Sweet Sixteen functioning smoothly and extend its lifespan.
• Attend a Hunter Safety Course: If you’re new to hunting, attending a hunter safety course is invaluable. You’ll learn about safe gun handling, ethical hunting practices, and conservation, alongside tips for using your shotgun effectively.
• Start with Clay Pigeons: Before hunting live game, practice shooting clay pigeons. This provides a dynamic target and helps hone your shooting skills in a controlled environment.
• Be Patient and Observant: Upland hunting requires patience and keen observation. Learn to move quietly, listen for your game, and observe the terrain and wind direction for the best approach.
• Join a Community: Connect with experienced hunters or a local hunting club. They can provide valuable insights, tips, and companionship, enhancing your hunting experience.

Browning A5 Sweet Sixteen Upland Performance Review

Aspect	Review Summary	Score
Accuracy	The Browning A5 Sweet Sixteen Upland is praised for its precise accuracy, making it perfect for upland hunting.	9/10
Reliability	Known for its consistent performance, it cycles various ammunition types reliably with minimal issues.	9/10
Customization	While offering some customization through interchangeable chokes, it’s somewhat limited compared to others.	6/10
Ergonomics	Designed for hunter comfort, it features a lightweight and balanced build for easy handling and aiming.	8/10
Recoil Management	Incorporates technology to reduce recoil, enhancing the shooting experience, especially over long hunting sessions.	8/10
Value	Offers great value considering its performance, durability, and Browning’s reputation in the hunting community.	7/10
Overall	The Browning A5 Sweet Sixteen Upland is a reliable, accurate, and comfortable shotgun for hunters of all levels.	7.8/10

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Browning A5 Sweet Sixteen Upland is a well-rounded shotgun that offers a blend of reliability, versatility, and performance. Its lightweight design, coupled with the Invector-DS choke system, makes it a favored choice for hunters and sport shooters alike. With proper maintenance, this shotgun can continue to deliver consistent and enjoyable shooting experiences for its users.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is the Browning A5 Sweet Sixteen Upland suitable for clay shooting?
   
   • Yes, the A5 Sweet Sixteen Upland is well-suited for clay shooting due to its reliable performance and versatile Invector-DS choke system.
     
2. What makes the A5 Sweet Sixteen Upland lightweight?
   
   • The A5 Sweet Sixteen Upland is lightweight due to its design and materials used in construction, making it easy to carry during extended hunting trips.
     
3. Can the A5 Sweet Sixteen Upland shoot larger shells?
   
   • No, the A5 Sweet Sixteen Upland is limited to 2 3/4 inch shells.
     
4. How often should the A5 Sweet Sixteen Upland be maintained?
   
   • Regular maintenance after each use is recommended to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
     
5. What type of ammunition is best suited for the A5 Sweet Sixteen Upland?
   
   • High-quality ammunition suitable for upland hunting and clay shooting is recommended for the A5 Sweet Sixteen Upland.
     
6. Is it necessary to attend a hunter safety course before using the A5 Sweet Sixteen Upland?
   
   • It is highly recommended, especially for beginners, to attend a hunter safety course to learn safe gun handling and ethical hunting practices.
     
7. What is the significance of the Invector-DS choke system?
   
   • The Invector-DS choke system provides shooters with the ability to quickly adapt to different shooting scenarios, enhancing the shotgun’s versatility.
     
8. Can the A5 Sweet Sixteen Upland be used for hunting various types of game?
   
   • Yes, the A5 Sweet Sixteen Upland’s design allows it to be used effectively in a variety of hunting situations.
     
9. How should I store the A5 Sweet Sixteen Upland when not in use?
   
   • It’s best to store the shotgun in a dry, cool place to prevent rust and damage, ideally in a gun safe with a dehumidifier.
     
10. What is the recommended approach for beginners using the A5 Sweet Sixteen Upland?
    
    • Beginners should familiarize themselves with the shotgun’s features, prioritize gun safety, practice with clay pigeons, and consider joining a hunting community for valuable insights and companionship.