Not that I'd ever carry the thing on the bikes, but...........
I have a Browning Auto-5 Light in 16 guage.......AKA: Sweet 16. Belgian. Been in our family since 1962-3. That's Dad's best recollection of when Mom got it for him. Tried using the methodology listed on Browning's website to get an accurate date of manufacture, but the serial number on the underside of the receiver doesn't match the decryption code on Browning's website.
Was wondering/hoping someone here could help me figure out exactly how old this weapon is. Serial Number is 3S16279. The buttstock end bears the old FN label. Gold trigger and lots of ornate stuff you'd expect on a Belgian Browning Sweet 16. Pristine. I remember oogling this thing since I was old enough to walk.......and based on that, the date on the instruction manual, and Dad's fading memory, I think it is a 1963 model, but I can't find anything definitive based on the serial number.
Thanks in advance to whoever can help me figure out how old this piece of my family history is.