Browning Auto 5 vs Remington 11 48 talking older guns

.22LRGUY

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Hey guys-my first shotgun was (is) an old 12ga 11-48 that belonged to my grandfather. Once in a while, I take it out for a round of clays to see if I can still shoot it well and I'm always surprised at how much I enjoy the experience. I'm still a bit reluctant to use it, as it's the only gun I have from my grandfather and I'd like to pass-it on one day...in the condition it's in. The gun is no collector-grade, or special in any way other than nostalgia, and I know they're robust. Question is this;

I've always thought the older A5's were very handsome guns, but I've never shot one. On summer varmint-hunting outings...I like to have a shotgun with me for barn pigeons, impromptu clays, etc...but I never bring the 11-48 for the above reasons. How does the shooting experience compare, considering the actions are so similar. (recoil operated) I mostly have/use #6 or #7-1/2. I'd also be interested in knowing what parts availability is like on the older A5s. I've only ever had to source one part for an 11-48, but at least it seems that most people know what A5s are. lol

Looking forward to the replies.
 
They dont handle or swing at all the same. I too love the look of the old auto5 but cant shoot one worth a damn. An 1148 on the other hand i shoot very well. Ive never had issues sourcing parts for old 1148 guns. Parts do not need to be hand fit whereas some older auto5s need hand fitting. Both are reliable guns
 
Thanks brybenn-perhaps I should try and test an older A5 before committing. WGP had the part I needed, when I needed it. (11-48), it just seems like the A5s are considered to be superior guns or at least, seemed to be held in high regard.

I did have to hand-whittle a set of Citori firing pins to make them work, so I think I have a sense of what you're talking about. Ordered the right parts too, I almost laughed when I compared them to what came out of the gun.
 
The browning Auto 5 and the Remington 1148 operate on the same principal recoil. I shoot both and the Auto 5 is definitely more refined and durable. That is saying a lot as the 1148 is excellent in durability also. The Auto 5 feels more solid when shot. The 1148 has the famous barrel wobble when the action is locked open. The Auto 5 does not. I feel the use of stamped parts in the 1148 vs. the machined parts of the Auto 5 make up for 99% of all differences in feel when shooting. I shoot both equally well which is still mediocre in my case. Buy an Auto 5 you will love it. The Auto 5 will not replace your 1148 but the two will compliment one another.

Darryl
 
Auto 5’s are my favourite. That being said I’m not a hard core waterfowl guy and if I was, I’d likely own a newer synthetic Browning, Beretta, etc. I guess one could always get a synthetic stock set too for an Auto 5 when putting it to hard waterfowl use.

Hunting rabbits, pheasants (haven’t for years) or shooting trap and skeet, I love the auto 5.
 
Meh, oww duzz thuh alphabit start?

A-5's arf nutt'in butt awwwfullniss.

Old war'orse that don't qwit.
Now the choke designation is important awn application.
 
Have owned and shot both the Auto 5 and Remington 11-48.Both are basically the same gun.Some modifications on the 11-48 to make it easier and cheaper to manufacture and of course the 11-48 has a steam lined receiver, while the Auto 5 has the famous hump back.Of the two, I find the 11-48 easier to shoot,mainly because I am use to a streamed lined receiver,while I find the Auto 5 to be a better built gun.Just my opinion however.:)
 
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