New Gun Owners Record

(KEEP THIS RECORD FOR FUTURE REFERENCE)
Browning Model Serial Number Gauge Purchase Price Purchased From Date of Purchase Please fill out and mail the Market Survey Card at the back of this booklet.
It is certainly a gun you can be proud to own. It represents the state-of-the-art in modern gun design and manufacturing. The processes of design, testing and manufacturing were all assisted by advanced computer systems. The result is superior dependability, greater ease-of-operation, smoother handling and more reliable overall function. With a reasonable amount of care, your A-500 shotgun should give you many years of dependable, enjoyable service. Please feel free to write us immediately if you have any observations regarding its performance and operation. Also, please take a moment to complete and mail in the brief attached marketing survey card found on our back cover. It helps us considerably in our constant effort to provide you with better service. NOTE: All current production A-500 shotguns have an improved trigger group assembly. You can confirm this by the letter H stamped on the trigger guard. (See Figure 10 on page 37 of this manual.) If your trigger guard does not have the letter H stamped on it then please contact our Browning Service Department toll free at 1-800-322-4626 for information on how to get the improved trigger assembly installed on your A-500. Thank You.
We are pleased that you have chosen a Browning A-500 shotgun.
Route #1 Morgan, Utah 84050
Distributed in Canada by Browning Canada Sports Ltd./Ltee, St-Laurent, Quebec H4S 1SO
You Are Responsible for Firearms Safety
As a gun owner, you accept a set of demanding responsibilities. How seriously you take these responsibilities can be the difference between life and death. Mistakes made with guns are final and cannot be paid for with money or regret. There is no excuse for careless or abusive handling of any firearm. At all times handle your shotgun and any other firearm with intense respect for its power and potential danger.
PLEASE READ AND UNDERSTAND ALL OF THE CAUTIONS, PROPER HANDLING PROCEDURES AND INSTRUCTIONS OUTLINED IN THIS BOOKLET BEFORE USING YOUR NEW FIREARM. ALWAYS KEEP THE MUZZLE OF YOUR SHOTGUN POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION even though you are certain
the shotgun is unloaded. Never point any firearm at anything you do not intend to shoot. Be extremely alert and aware of all persons and property within the range of your ammunition.
NEVER TRUST YOUR SHOTGUNS MECHANICAL SAFETY DEVICE. The
word safety describes a guns trigger block mechanism, sear block mechanism, hammer block mechanism or firing pin block mechanism. These mechanical devices are designed to place your gun in a SAFER status. No guarantee can be made that the gun will not fire even if the safety is in the on safe position. The A-500 has a cross bolt safety which blocks the guns trigger. See Operation of the Safety on page 15 for instructions on operation of this guns safety. Like any mechanical device, a safety can sometimes fail; it can be jarred or inadvertently manipulated into an unsafe condition. Mechanical safeties merely aid safe gun handling and are no excuse for pointing your shotguns muzzle in an unsafe direction. While it is a good idea to test your shotguns mechanical safeties periodically for proper function, NEVER TEST THE
SAFETY WHILE YOUR SHOTGUN IS LOADED OR POINTED IN AN UNSAFE DIRECTION.
Safe gun handling does not stop with your guns mechanical safety devices it starts there. Always treat this shotgun with the respect due a loaded, ready-to-fire firearm.
WHENEVER YOU HANDLE A FIREARM, OR HAND IT TO SOMEONE, ALWAYS OPEN THE ACTION IMMEDIATELY, VISUALLY CHECK YOUR SHOTGUNS CHAMBER, FEED MECHANISM AND MAGAZINE to be certain that they do not
inadvertently contain any ammunition. Always keep the chamber empty and the safety in the on safe position unless shooting is imminent.
DO NOT TRANSPORT YOUR SHOTGUN LOADED, WHETHER IN A SCABBARD GUN CASE, OR OTHER CONTAINER. BEWARE OF BARREL OBSTRUCTIONS,

for the safety of both your gun and yourself. Mud, snow, and an infinite variety of other objects may inadvertently lodge in a barrel bore. It takes only one small obstruction to cause dangerously increased pressures that can ruin (swell or rupture) the finest shotgun barrels.
BEFORE CHECKING FOR A BARREL OBSTRUCTION, BE CERTAIN NO LIVE ROUND IS IN THE CHAMBER AND THAT THE MAGAZINE AND FEED MECHANISMS ARE COMPLETELY EMPTY. PLACE THE SAFETY IN THE ON SAFE POSITION (See page 28 for

instructions

unloading).

assuring

yourself that the shotgun is completely empty, again, open the breechblock, locking it to the rear, and look through the barrel to be sure it is clear of any obstruction. If an obstruction is seen, no matter how small it may be, clean the bore with a cleaning rod and patch as described in Cleaning and Maintenance Suggestions on page 54. Before the first firing, clean the bore with a cleaning rod and patch, and wipe away any anti-rust compounds in the action/ chamber areas.
ALWAYS UNLOAD YOUR SHOTGUN WHEN NOT IN USE. REFER TO PAGE 28 OF THIS INSTRUCTION BOOKLET EXPLAINING THE UNLOADING OF YOUR SHOTGUN.
As a safety precaution, it is preferable to disassemble your gun for storage. Store your gun and ammunition separately well beyond the reach of children. Take all safeguards to ensure your shotgun does not become available to untrained, inexperienced or unwelcome hands.
USE THE PROPER AMMUNITION. The barrel and action of this shotgun have been made with substantial safety margins over the pressures developed by established American commercial loads. Nevertheless, Browning assumes no
liability for incidents which occur through the use of cartridges of nonstandard dimensions which develop pressures in excess of commercially available ammunition which has been loaded in accordance with standards established by SAAMI (Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers Institute).
DO NOT PUT A 20 GAUGE SHELL IN A 12 GAUGE GUN. Store all shells of
different gauges and well-marked shells of mixed container or in
EVERY SHELL YOU PUT IN YOUR GUN.
in completely separate containers. Do not store gauges in a common your pockets. EXAMINE
The most certain way to bulge or rupture a barrel is to drop a 20 gauge shell into a 12 gauge chamber. The 20 gauge shell, unfortunately, will not fall completely through the barrel; its rim is caught by the front of a 12 gauge chamber. Your gun will misfire (with the chamber appearing to be empty). It is then possible to load a 12 gauge shell behind the 20 gauge shell. If the 12 gauge shell is then fired, the result will be a so-called 12-20 burst which can cause extensive damage to your gun and possible serious injury to you.

DO NOT USE 3 SHOTGUN SHELLS IN A BARREL WITH A 2 3/4 CHAMBER. THE SIZE OF THE CHAMBER IS INSCRIBED, ALONG WITH CHOKE DESIGNATIONS, ON THE SIDE OF THE BARREL. DO NOT SNAP THE FIRING PIN ON AN EMPTY CHAMBER THE CHAMBER MAY NOT BE EMPTY! Treat every gun
with the respect due a loaded gun, even though you are certain the gun is unloaded.
KEEP YOUR FINGERS AWAY FROM THE TRIGGER WHILE UNLOADING, LOADING or until you are ready to shoot. BE SURE OF YOUR TARGET AND BACKSTOP, particularly during low light
periods. Know the range of your ammunition. Never shoot at water or hard objects.
ALWAYS UNLOAD YOUR SHOTGUNS CHAMBER BEFORE CROSSING A FENCE, CLIMBING A TREE, JUMPING A DITCH OR NEGOTIATING OTHER OBSTACLES. Refer to page 28 of this
instruction book for instructions on the unloading of your shotgun. Never place your shotgun on or against a fence, tree, car, or other similar object.
exposure to gunfire can cause hearing damage. Wear ear protectors (shooting ear plugs or muffs) to guard against such damage. Wear shooting glasses to protect your eyes from flying particles. Also, wear eye protection when disassembling and cleaning your shotgun to prevent the possibility of springs, spring-tensioned parts, solvents or other agents from contacting your eyes.
WEAR EYE AND EAR PROTECTION WHEN SHOOTING. Unprotected, repeated
DROPPING A WADED GUN CAN CAUSE AN ACCIDENTAL DISCHARGE even with
the safety in the on safe position. Be extremely careful while hunting or during any shooting activity, to avoid dropping any firearm.
IF YOUR SHOTGUN FAILS TO FIRE, KEEP THE MUZZLE POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION. Hold this position for a
minimum of 30 seconds. Carefully open the action and remove the cartridge. If the primer is indented, the cartridge should be disposed of in a way that cannot cause harm. If the primer is not indented, your firearm should be examined by a qualified gunsmith and the cause of the malfunction should be corrected before further use. 8
BE DEFENSIVE AND ON GUARD AGAINST UNSAFE GUN HANDLING AROUND YOU AND OTHERS. Dont be
timid when it comes to gun safety. If you observe other shooters violating any of these safety precautions, politely suggest safer handling practices.
BE CERTAIN YOUR SHOTGUN IS UNLOADED BEFORE CLEANING.
Because so many gun accidents occur when a firearm is being cleaned, special and extreme care should be taken to be sure your gun is unloaded before disassembly, cleaning and reassembly. Keep ammunition away from the cleaning location. Never test the mechanical function of any firearm with live ammunition.

K. Magazine Spring Retainer L. Magazine Follower M. Magazine Spring N. Operating Handle O. Recoil Spring P. Rotary Bolt Head Q. Three Shot Adapter R. Trigger Group S. Trigger Guard Retaining Nut T. Trigger Guard Retaining Screw
General Operating Procedures
The Browning A-500 shotgun is a short recoiloperated, semi-automatic shotgun. It is capable of shooting five shots (with the magazine plug removed) in rapid succession, with each pull of the trigger. The rotary bolt locks into the barrel 12
with four lugs. Upon firing, recoil causes the barrel to travel rearward. Energy differences between loads are absorbed by an internal breechblock spring. A special buffer surrounding the magazine tube stops the rearward motion of the barrel after about 1/2. Inertia from the barrel causes the breechblock to continue rearward, turning and unlocking the 4-lug rotary bolt, recocking the hammer, and ejecting the fired shell. After full rearward travel, the breechblock returns forward, picking up a new shell from the magazine and chambering it automatically. After the last shell has been fired, the breechblock locks to the rear, instead of returning forward. This facilitates speedy, convenient reloading. adaptor in the magazine which limits the gun to three shots, in accordance with federal migratory bird laws. If you do not want your gun to be so limited, merely take out the three shot adapter as explained on page 42 under Three Shot Adapter.
NOTE: The A-500 is delivered with the magazine

Initial Cleaning

Various exposed metal parts of your new A-500 have been coated at the factory with a rust 13
preventative compound. Before assembling your A-500, clean the anti-rust compound from the inside of the barrel, receiver and the action/ chamber areas. Browning Oil is ideal for removing this compound and for giving your new gun its first lubrication. However, any quality gun oil may be used. Use a cleaning rod and patch as explained under Cleaning and Maintenance Suggestions on page 54.

Serial Number

The serial number of your A-500 shotgun is found on the left side of the receiver, at the lower rear, near the grip portion of the buttstock.

Ammunition

The A-500 has a 3-inch chamber and is designed to shoot and function with all 12 gauge factory loads: 3-inch Magnum, 2 3/4 Magnum, 2 3/4 High Velocity loads, 2 3/4 Field and 2 3/4 Target loads. It is especially suited to shooting factory steel shot loads. Loads can be intermixed, in any order. However, Browning can assume no responsibility for incidents which occur through the use of cartridges of nonstandard dimension or those developing

pressures in excess of SAAMI (Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers Institute) established standards.

Operation of the Safety

The cross bolt safety prevents the trigger from being pulled when in the on safe position. The safety is located conveniently at the rear of the trigger guard (See Figure 2). In the off safe or fire position a conspicuous red warning band is visible on the safety button on the left side of the trigger guard. To place the gun ON SAFE, press the safety button to the right. To move the safety to the FIRE position, press the safety to the left.
An optional left-handed safety can be installed by a competent gunsmith. When installed, the left-handed safety will have the safety buttons red warning band on the RIGHT side of the trigger guard.
DO NOT DEPEND ON THE RED COLOR ALONE TO INDICATE YOUR GUNS SAFETY STATUS. Time, exposure to the elements, as
well as the abrasive action of cleaning agents can erase it.
As previously explained on page 2, never rely on your shotguns mechanical safety devices as the sole provision for safety. NEVER POINT
YOUR SHOTGUN AT ANYTHING YOU DO NOT INTEND TO SHOOT. Always treat your shotgun,
even when unloaded, with the respect due any loaded, ready-to-fire firearm.
Assembly Procedures Barrel to Receiver
The A-500 is delivered, in the box, with the barrel removed and the forearm (with recoil spring and forearm buffer inside) attached to the magazine tube. There are two ways to install the barrel on the receiver: As a barrel/forearm assembly, and part by part. 16
ASSEMBLY AS A BARREL ASSEMBLY This
is the easiest way to install your barrel on the receiver. If your A-500s forearm assembly is already removed go to step 2.
Take the receiver in hand and first, lock the breechblock rearward by pulling the operating handle fully to the rear. Then, remove the forearm, recoil spring and forearm buffer from the magazine tube by unscrewing the magazine cap and sliding the parts forward, off of the magazine tube.
OPEN REAR END OF THE FOREARM. TOO MUCH PRESSURE COULD CAUSE THE WOOD TO SPLIT.
Install the forearm on the barrel by sliding it over the barrel ring and seating it fully rearward. With the barrel pointing down, insert the recoil spring in the opening at the rear of the forearm and let it slide forward fully in the forearm cavity. Insert the forearm buffer into the same cavity in the forearm and let it slide fully forward (See Figure 3).
NOTE: The recoil spring must always be
installed at the muzzle end of the magazine 17
tube. The forearm buffer must be toward the receiver. However, both the spring and the buffer, individually, can be installed in either direction.
With the gun in a horizontal position, install the entire barrel/forearm assembly onto the receiver by sliding the forearm (with buffer and spring inside) over the magazine tube (See Figure 4). Position the gun vertically (barrel up), then slide the barrel/forearm assembly fully rearward, making sure that the barrel extension rails are fully seated in the receiver tracks. The barrel extension may hang up slightly where the extension contacts the face of 18

the rotary bolt. If it does, work the breechblock rearward very slightly by pulling rearward on the operating handle (several times if necessary), until the barrel slips into position.
Install the magazine cap. Make absolutely sure that the magazine cap is tightened fully, and that there is no play present in the forearm. Your A-500 is now assembled.
PART BY PART ASSEMBLY If the forearm,
recoil spring and buffer have already been disassembled (as after cleaning) proceed to step 2. Disassemble the forearm assembly from the magazine tube Take the receiver in
hand and unscrew and remove the magazine cap. Remove the forearm from the magazine tube by sliding it forward off the magazine tube. Position the recoil spring and the forearm buffer on the magazine tube. (The forearm buffer goes on first, followed by the recoil spring.) Position them forward with the leading edge of the spring at the front edge of the magazine tube. Hold the receiver and the magazine tube level, and at the same time position the barrel with the guide ring over the magazine tube, and the barrel extension at the receiver opening. The lower edge of the barrel extension guide must be behind the forearm buffer (See Figure 5). Slide the barrel rearward seating the barrel extension rails in the receiver tracks. The barrel extension may hang up slightly where the extension contacts the breechblock. If it does, position the gun vertically (barrel up) and pull rearward on the operating handle, until the extension slips into position. Slide the forearm onto the magazine tube (over the recoil spring and forearm buffer) 20
and tighten down the magazine cap snugly. Make absolutely sure that the magazine cap is tightened fully, and that there is no play present in the forearm. Your A-500 is now fully assembled.
Disassembly of Barrel and Forearm Assembly
CHECK YOUR GUN CAREFULLY TO BE ABSOLUTELY CERTAIN THAT THE CHAMBER, FEED MECHANISM AND MAGAZINE CONTAIN NO SHELLS.
Disassembly of the barrel is important for 21
cleaning and also is convenient for storing your A-500. There are two ways to disassemble your A-500. You can remove the barrel with forearm, spring and buffer attached, or remove the parts one by one.
REMOVING ATTACHED THE BARREL WITH FOREARM
Draw the breechblock rearward and lock it open. Unscrew and remove the magazine cap. With one hand, grip the barrel and forearm, and pull them forward off of the magazine tube together (with recoil spring and forearm buffer inside). For full disassembly, slide the forearm forward, over the barrel ring. The buffer and recoil spring will drop out.
REMOVING BARREL/FOREARM PART BY PART ASSEMBLY
Draw the breechblock rearward and lock it open. With your gun held vertically, unscrew and remove the magazine cap.

Operation of the Magazine Cut-off
The magazine cut-off lever end of the left side of the has the purpose of locking magazine so that they will is located at receiver. This the shells in not feed into the front cut-off the the 29
chamber. This permits you to quickly change the load in the chamber of the gun without going to the trouble of unloading the whole magazine. For instance, in this way a duck load can quickly be taken out and a goose load inserted, if the need arises. To operate the magazine cut-off, merely manipulate the lever to the MC or R positions. The MC position engages the magazine cutoff (See Figure 8-A). The R position (See Figure 8-B) places the magazine in conventional repeater position, chambering a shell from the magazine each time the breechblock cycles rearward (as when you shoot or manually cycle the breechblock). Also, with the magazine cut-off in operation, and with the chamber empty and the breechblock locked in the rearward position, a loaded shell may be
instantly delivered from the magazine to the chamber by merely moving the lever from the MC position (magazine cut-off), to the R (repeater) position. When the breechblock is locked rearward, BE CAREFUL TO KEEP YOUR FINGERS CLEAR OF THE LOADING PORT AND EJECTION PORT WHEN MOVING THE LEVER FROM MC TO R.
Full Disassembly: Trigger Group and Breech Bolt
NOTE: All current production A-500 shotguns have an improved trigger group assembly. You can confirm this by the letter H stamped on the trigger guard (See Figure IO). If your trigger guard does not have the letter H stamped on it then please contact our Browning Service Department toll Free at 1-800-322-4626 for information on how to get the improved trigger assembly installed on your A-500. If a malfunction occurs, or if the action becomes excessively dirty, it is advisable to disassemble the action for a complete cleaning as explained below. Detailed cleaning procedures are outlined under Cleaning and Maintenance on page 54. Full disassembly involves removal of the breechblock assembly and the trigger group. Any disassembly beyond this should only be 31
Schematic is provided for parts identification only and should not be used as a guide to assemble guns. IMPORTANT: When ordering parts, list part number, part name, caliber, model and serial number. CAUTION: Browning parts are made exclusively for Browning guns and are not recommended for use in other guns even though models may be similar. Inadequately fitted parts may be dangerous.

Parts List

Browning PART NO. P014001 P014005 P014008 P014012 P014016 *P014020 P014025 *P014030 P014034 P014038 *P*P014048 *P014052 *P014056 P014060 P014065 P014070 *P014076 *P014084 *P014089 P014095 *P014101 P014105 P014110 *P014115 P014120 *P014125 P014130 P014134 P014138 *P014144 P014148 P014155 P014160 P014164 P014168 P014172 P014178 P014182 P014186 A-500 Semi-Automatic Shotgun PARTNO. P014190 *P014196 P014204 P014210 *P014215 P014220 P014225 P014230 P014234 P014240 P014245 P014248 P014254 P014258 P014262 P014268 P014274 P014280 P014286 P014290 P014294 P014302 P014308 *P014315 *P014320 *P014324 P014328 P014332 *P011340 P014344 P014350 P014354 P014358 *P014364 P014370 P014375 P014380 P014385 P014390 P014395 PARTNAME Firing Pin Stop Pin Forearm Front Ring Front Sight. Hammer Hammer Pin Magazine Cap Magazine Cap Retainer Magazine Cap with Eyelet Magazine Cutoff Magazine Cutoff Pin Magazine Cutoff Plunger Magazine Cutoff Plunger Spring Magazine Cutoff Plunger Spring Retainer Magazine Follower Magazine Spring Magazine Spring Retainer Magazine Three Shot Adaptor Mainspring Mainspring Guide Mainspring Guide Pin Hammer Operating Handle Rear Ring Receiver with Tube Safety Safety Plunger Safety Plunger Spring Safety Spring Stop Pin Sear Sear Pin Stock Screw Stock Screw Lock Washer Stock Screw Washer Trigger Trigger Guard Trigger Guard Pin Sleeve Trigger Guard Retaining Nut Trigger Guard Retaining Screw Trigger Pin Trigger Spring

DESCRIPTION Action Spring Front (2) Action Spring Guide (2) Action Spring Guide Pin Action Spring Guide Washer (2) Action Spring Rear (2) Barrel Extension Barrel Spring Bolt Bolt Cam Pin Bolt Spring Breechblock Breechblock Buffer Breechblock Buffer Core Breechblock Lever Breechblock Lever Pin Breechblock Lever Spring Buffer Rings (9) Butt Stock Carrier Carrier Dog Carrier Dog Pin Carrier & Carrier Dog Spring Carrier Pin Carrier Pin Circlip (2) Carrier Latch Carrier Latch Spring Cartridge Stop (Breechblock Release Button) Cartridge Stop & Carrier Latch Pin Cartridge Stop & Carrier Latch Pin Clip Cartridge Stop Spring Disconnector Disconnector Pin Ejector Extractor Extractor Inner Spring Extractor Outer Spring Extractor Pin Firing Pin Firing Pin Cover Firing Pin Spring
* Indicares part must be fitted by Browning Service Department or qualified gunsmith. Port may be purchased only by holders of current, valid Federal Firearms License.
performed by a competent gunsmith. ALWAYS WEAR EYE PROTECTlON WHEN PERFORMING ANY MAINTENANCE OR DlSASSEMBLY. REMOVING THE TRIGGER GROUP You will need two medium blade screwdrivers to remove the trigger guard retaining screws (the trigger guard retaining nut and the trigger guard retaining screw). Make sure the screwdrivers are of appropriate size to prevent damage to the slotted heads. No other tools are necessary. Remove the barrel as explained under Disassembly. on page 21. Set the forearm, as well as the forearm buffer and spring, aside. Release the breechblock to its forward position as follows: While holding the operating handle back (by applying rearward pressure) depress the breechblock release button. Allow the breechblock to travel slowly forward, controlling and slowing its forward travel until it is fully forward. The head of the rotary bolt should project about 1/2 from the front of the receiver. Insert a screwdriver into the retaining nut slot and the other screwdriver into the retaining screw slot. Hold one side from
turning while unscrewing the opposite side (See Figure 9). Remove the retaining nut and screw from the receiver. With the gun inverted (trigger guard up), grasp the trigger guard and pull it up, forward and out from the receiver (See Figure 10). DO NOT DISASSEMBLE THE TRIGGER GROUP BEYOND THIS POINT. Perform all cleaning with the trigger group kept intact as an assembly. REMOVING THE BREECHBLOCK Normal procedure is to remove the trigger group first, as explained previously. 36

Remove the operating handle as follows: With your left hand, push on the bolt head moving the breechblock about 1/2 back into the receiver, lining up the operating handle with the notch at the bottom front of the ejection port (See Figure 11-A). With your right hand grasp the operating handle and pull it outward, removing it from the breechblock (See Figure 11-B). The breechblock will now be able to move forward about another 1/2. Again, push rearward on the bolt head, depressing the breechblock back into the receiver about 1/4. With your right hand, reach in with a finger and push on the breechblock lever 37
found on the bottom side of the breechblock (See Figure 12). The breechblock lever serves to retain the breechblock in the receiver. (SPECIAL NOTE: It is possible to remove the breechblock first before removing the trigger group. You will need simultaneously push rearward 1/4 on the breechblock and reach in through the opening at the front of the carrier to depress the breechblock lever, using the eraser end of a pencil, a small wood dowel, a screwdriver, or other similar object.) With the breechblock lever pressed, remove the breechblock forward, out of the front of the receiver. The action springs will stay attached to the breechblock, projecting from the rear. The breechblock is now fully removed. DO NOT DISASSEMBLE THE BREECH BLOCK BEYOND THIS POINT.
Reassembly: Trigger Group and Breechblock
REINSTALLING THE BREECHBLOCK ASSEMBLY Insert the breechblock into the receiver opening, action springs first. The guides on 39
the breechblock must fit in the receiver tracks. Make sure the front action springs fit over the ends of the action spring guides (See Figure 13). Push the breechblock in far enough that the breechblock lever engages, holding the breechblock in the receiver.
Simultaneously push back on the breechblock while depressing the breechblock release button until the notch in the ejection port lines up with the operating handle recess on the breechblock. Make sure that the action springs are compressed inside the recesses in the breechblock, and that the ends of the action spring guides start into 40
the recesses in the breechblock without kinking the front action springs. Insert the operating handle into the recess (See Figure 11-A on page 37). The breechblock is now installed. REINSTALLING THE TRIGGER GROUP Reinsert the trigger group into the bottom of the receiver, moving it rearward to assure correct location of the rear pins into the holes in the receiver. Then start at the back and hinge the trigger guard forward (See Figure 14).

Line up the hole in the trigger guard with the holes on each side of the receiver. Insert the trigger guard retaining nut completely through the receiver. Start the retaining screw with your fingers and tighten using two screwdrivers, one for each slotted head on each side of the receiver.
Three-Shot Magazine Adapter
The following instructions are for disassembly of the magazine, and the removal or installation of the three-shot magazine adapter. Steps 1-8 detail magazine disassembly, and are the same for both removal and installation of the three-shot adapter. Steps 9-A and 9-B explain reassembly of the magazine with or without the three shot adapter. The A-500 shotgun is delivered with the threeshot magazine adapter installed in the magazine, limiting magazine capacity to two shells allowing three shots total in compliance with federal migratory bird regulations. If you do not wish to be limited to three shots when it is not required by law you can remove or reinstall the three-shot adapter (plug) as follows: ALWAYS WEAR PROTECTIVE SAFETY GLASSES DURING THIS OPERATION.
Unscrew the forearm cap and remove the forearm, BARREL, forearm buffer and recoil spring from the gun as explained under Disassembly of Barrel and Forearm Assembly on page 21. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD YOU PERFORM THE FOLLOWING PROCEDURES WITH THE BARREL ATTACHED. Reinstall the magazine cap on the magazine tube approximately one turn engaging at least ONE FULL TURN OF THREADS solidly. Release the breechblock forward slowly by pressing the breechblock release button and slowly allowing the breechblock to travel forward. Do this by pressing the button with one hand and offering resistance on the operating handle with the other hand, gently easing it forward to the fully forward position. Pull back approximately 1/4 of an inch on the operating handle. With your other hand: insert two 2 3/4 (or two 3-inch magnum shells) into the magazine if you are removing the three-shot adapter OR insert four 2 3/4 shells (or three 3-inch magnums) if the three-shot adapter was removed previously and you are reinstalling it. Position an additional shell as if you were going to insert it into the 43

RIM NOTCHES 12 Gauge Lead/Steel

(none)

XF/** F/*

IM/F M/F IC/M S/IC C/IC

Tube Code: XF-Extra Full, FFull, IM-Improved Modified, M-Modified, IC-Improved Cylinder, S-Skeet, C-Cylinder. *Do not use with steel shot. Using an over-tight choke constriction with steel shot will result in an ineffective, blown pattern. **Extra Full Special with knurled rim and no rim code. Do not use with steel shot. When more than one choke designation is listed for a given steel shot pattern, use the more open choke listed for high velocity, larger shot size steel shot loads.

Use of Extra Barrels

On all Browning A-500 shotguns, barrels of the same gauge are completely interchangeable, and no special fitting is required. Thus, by merely buying another barrel of a different length, or for a different purpose (such as a Buck Special barrel), and using the appropriate Invector choke tube, you have acquired the utility of another gun at a fraction of the cost of a new gun; a duck gun becomes a fine upland game gun, a pheasant gun becomes a rifled slug deer gun.
Sight Adjustment for Buck Special Barrels
Buck Special barrels are equipped with a precision rear sight which is screw adjustable for both horizontal and vertical correction. WINDAGE ADJUSTMENT To move point of impact to the RIGHT, loosen the small screw on the right side of the sight. Then tighten the small screw on the left side of the sight. To move point of impact to the LEFT loosen the small screw on the left side of the sight and tighten the screw on the right side. This is a process of trial and error. Make small adjustments then check the point of impact.
VERTICAL ADJUSTMENT Adjustment of the sight is controlled by the screw located on top of the sight. To RAISE the point of impact, turn the screw in a counterclockwise direction. To LOWER the point of impact, turn the screw in a clockwise direction. Vertical adjustment is also a process of trial and error.
Cleaning and Maintenance Suggestions
You should clean your A-500 whenever it becomes excessively dirty and perform a thorough cleaning at least once a year. The barrel should be cleaned, and the action wiped clean and oiled after every day of shooting. If a malfunction occurs, perform a thorough cleaning, to see if it solves the problem, before seeking the services of a Browning Recommended Service Center, the Browning Service Facility in Arnold, Missouri, or a competent gunsmith. Normal maintenance can be accomplished with the barrel still attached to the receiver (oiling and wiping down). More careful cleaning requires removal of only the barrel from the receiver (cleaning the barrel). A complete cleaning requires removal of the breechblock and trigger group. 55
PERIODIC OlLlNG Ordinary good judgment will indicate that the metal parts of the gun should receive a light film of oil after the gun has been exposed to weather or handling. Occasionally, a small drop of oil may be placed on each receiver track in which the barrel extension guides and breechblock run during operation (See Figure 21). This will help to relieve friction and ensure smooth operation.

Your vision and judgment could be dangerously impaired, making your gun handling unsafe to you and to others.
24. PERFORM PERIODIC MAINTENANCE -- AVOID UNAUTHORIZED SERVICING.
Your firearm is a mechanical device which will not last forever, and as such, is subject to wear and requires periodic inspection, adjustment and service. Browning firearms should be serviced by a Browning Recommended Service Center or by Browning's service facility in Arnold, Missouri. Browning cannot assume any responsibility for injuries suffered or caused by unauthorized servicing, alterations or modifications of Browning firearms. 25. READ AND HEED ALL WARNINGS in these instructions, on ammunition boxes and with all accessories that you install on your firearm. It is your responsibility to secure the most upto-date information on the safe handling procedures of your Browning gun. Browning assumes no liability for incidents which occur when unsafe or improper gun accessories or ammunition combinations are used. 26. Browning reserves the right to refuse service on firearms that have been altered, added to or substantially changed. Removal of metal from barrel(s), or modification of the firing mechanism and/or operating parts may lead to Brownings refusal of service on such firearms. Browning will charge the owner for parts and labor to return the firearm to original Browning specifications.
DO NOT, UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES, ALTER THE TRIGGER, SAFETY OR OTHER PARTS OF THE FIRING MECHANISM OF THIS OR ANY OTHER FIREARM. FAILURE TO OBEY THIS WARNING MAY RESULT IN INJURY OR DEATH TO YOURSELF OR OTHERS. BE CAREFUL!

See page 23 for instructions on unloading). After assuring yourself that the shotgun is completely empty, again, open the breechblock, locking it to the rear, and look through the barrel to be sure it is clear of any obstruction. If an obstruction is seen, no matter how small it may be, clean the bore with a cleaning rod and patch as described in Cleaning and Maintenance Suggestions on page 44. Before the first firing, clean the bore with a cleaning rod and patch, and wipe away any anti-rust compounds in the action/ chamber areas.
7. ALWAYS UNLOAD YOUR SHOTGUN WHEN NOT lN USE. REFER TO PAGE 20 OF THIS INSTRUCTION BOOKLET EXPLAINING THE UNLOADING OF YOUR SHOTGUN.
As a safety precaution, it is preferable to disassemble your gun for storage. Store your gun and ammunition separately well beyond the reach of children. Take all safeguards to ensure your shotgun does not become available to untrained, inexperienced or unwelcome hands. The barrel and action of this shotgun have been made with substantial safety margins over the pressures developed by established American commercial loads. Nevertheless, Browning assumes no liability for incidents which occur through the use of cartridges of nonstandard dimensions which develop
USE THE PROPER AMMUNITION.
pressures in excess of commercially available ammunition which has been loaded in accordance with standards established by the Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers Institute (SAAMI).
BE ALERT TO THE SIGNS OF AMMUNITlON MALFUNCTION.
If you detect an off sound or light recoil when a shell is fired, Open the action and remove all shells from the magazine, chamber and action areas. With the action open, glance down the barrel to make sure that a wad or other obstruction does not remain in the barrel. Completely clear the barrel before loading and firing again. Failure to follow these instructions can cause extensive damage to your gun and possible serious injury to yourself and others.
DO NOT LOAD ANOTHER SHELL INTO THE CHAMBER.
Store all shells of different gauges in completely separate and well-marked containers. Do not store shells of mixed gauges in a common container or in your pockets.
EXAMINE EVERY SHELL YOU PUT IN YOUR GUN.
DO NOT PUT A 20 GAUGE SHELL IN A 12 GAUGE GUN.
10. CAUTION: DO NOT USE 3 1/2" SHOTGUN SHELLS IN ANY SHOTGUN OR BARREL WlTH A 2 3/4" OR 3" CHAMBER. DO NOT USE 3" SHELLS lN SHOTGUN CHAMBERED FOR 2 3/4" SHELLS. THE SIZE OF THE CHAMBER lS lNSCRlBED, ALONG WITH GAUGE AND CHOKE DESIGNATIONS, ON THE SIDE OF THE BARREL.
The most certain way to bulge or rupture a barrel is to drop a 20 gauge shell into a 12 gauge chamber. The 20 gauge shell, unfortunately, will not fall completely through the barrel; its rim is caught by the front of a 12 gauge chamber. Your gun will misfire (with the chamber appearing to be empty). It is then possible to load a 12 gauge shell behind the 20 gauge shell. If the 12 gauge shell is then fired, the result will be a so-called "12-20 burst" which can cause extensive damage to your gun and possible serious injury to you and others.

Your A-500 is chambered for factory 2 3/4" and 3" shells only.
11. DO NOT SNAP THE FIRING PIN ON AN EMPTY CHAMBER- THE CHAMBER MAY NOT BE EMPTY!
Treat every gun with the respect due a loaded gun, even though you are certain the gun is unloaded.
12. KEEP YOUR FINGERS A WAY FROM THE TRIGGER WHILE UNLOADING, LOADING, UNTIL YOU ARE READY TO SHOOT.
13. BESURE OF YOUR TARGET AND BACKSTOP.
Particularly, be sure during low light periods. Know the range of your ammunition. Never shoot at water or hard objects.
14. ALWAYS UNLOAD YOUR SHOTGUNS CHAMBER BEFORE CROSSING A FENCE, CLlMBlNG A TREE, JUMPING A DlTCH OR NEGOTlATlNG OTHER OBSTACLES.
muffs) to guard against such damage. Wear shooting glasses to protect your eyes from flying particles. Also, wear eye protection when disassembling and cleaning your shotgun to prevent the possibility of springs, spring-tensioned parts, solvents or other agents from contacting your eyes.
16. DROPPING A LOADED GUN CAN CAUSE AN ACCIDENTAL DISCHARGE
Refer to page 23 of this instruction book for instructions on the unloading of your shotgun. Never place your shotgun on or against a fence, tree, car, or other similar object.
WEAR EYE AND EAR PROTECTION WHEN SHOOTING.
even with the safety in the on safe position. Be extremely careful while hunting or during any shooting activity, to avoid dropping any firearm.
17. IF YOUR SHOTGUN FAILS TO FIRE, KEEP THE MUZZLE POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION.
Unprotected, repeated exposure to gunfire can cause hearing damage. Wear ear protectors (shooting ear plugs or
Hold this position for a minimum of 30 seconds. Carefully open the action and remove the cartridge. If the primer is indented, the cartridge should be 7
disposed of in a way that cannot cause harm. If the primer is not indented, your firearm should be examined by a qualified gunsmith and the cause of the malfunction should be corrected before further use.
18. BE DEFENSIVE AND ON GUARD AGAINST UNSAFE GUN HANDLING AROUND YOU AND OTHERS.
disassembly, cleaning and reassembly. Keep ammunition away from the cleaning location. Never test the mechanical function of any firearm with live ammunition.
20. EDUCATE AND SUPERVISE FIREARMS SAFETY TO ALL MEMBERS OF YOUR FAMILY- ESPECIALLY TO CHILDREN AND NONSHOOTERS.
Don't be timid when it comes to gun safety. If you observe other shooters violating any of these safety precautions, politely suggest safer handling practices.

Closely supervise newcomers to the shooting sports. Encourage enrollment in hunting/shooting safety courses.
19. BE CERTAIN YOUR SHOTGUN IS UNLOADED BEFORE CLEANING.
Because so many gun accidents occur when a firearm is being cleaned, special and extreme care should be taken to be sure your gun is unloaded before
21. NEVER DRINK ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES OR TAKE ANY TYPE OF DRUGS BEFORE OR DURING SHOOTING.
Your vision and judgment could be dangerously impaired, making your gun handling unsafe to you and to others.
22. READ AND HEED ALL WARNINGS IN THIS INSTRUCTION BOOK AND ON AMMUNITION BOXES.
It is your responsibility to secure the most up-to-date information on the safe handling procedures for your Browning gun. Browning cannot assume any responsibility when unsafe or improper arms and ammunition combinations are used.
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE-AVOID UNAUTHORIZED SERVICING.
Center or by Brownings service facility in Arnold, Missouri. Browning cannot assume any responsibility for injuries suffered or caused by unauthorized servicing, alterations or modifications of Browning firearms.
IT CAN BE VERY DANGEROUS TO ALTER THE TRIGGER, SAFETY OR OTHER FIRING MECHANISM PARTS OF THIS OR ANY OTHER FIREARM.
Your shotgun is a mechanical device which will not last forever, and as such, is subject to wear and requires periodic inspection, adjustment, and service. Browning firearms should be serviced by a Browning Recommended Service

BE CAREFUL!

Nomenclature General Operating Procedures
In conventional gun terminology, the position and movement of gun parts are described as they occur with the gun horizontal and in normal firing position; i.e., the muzzle is forward or front; butt stock is rearward or rear; trigger is downward or underneath; the rib is upward or on top. For general parts nomenclature refer to Figure 1-A. See Figure 1-B for names of all parts and assemblies covered in disassembly and cleaning procedures.
The Browning A-5OOG shotgun is a gasoperated, semi-automatic shotgun. It is capable of shooting five shots (with the magazine plug removed) in rapid succession with each pull of the trigger. The rotary bolt locks into the barrel with four lugs. Upon firing, high pressure gas from the barrel passes through two ports in the barrel, through the barrel ring guide and into the gas cylinder. The high pressure gases force the gas piston rearward, applying pressure to the sleeve bar assembly. The special gas

FIGURE 1-A

FIGURE 1-B
A. B. C. D. E. F. G. H. I. J. K. Barrel Extension Guides Barrel Ring Guide/Gas Cylinder Front Action Springs Bolt Release Button (Carrier Latch Button) Breechblock Assembly Carrier Forearm Sleeve Bar Assembly Magazine Tube Magazine Cap Magazine Spring Retainer L. M. N. O. P. Q. R. S. T. U. Magazine Follower Magazine Spring Operating Handle Return Spring Rotary Bolt Head Three Shot Adapter Trigger Group Trigger Guard Retaining Nut Trigger Guard Retaining Screw Gas Piston
pressure regulation valve releases excess gas pressure that is not necessary for operating the action. This keeps bolt speed more consistent and allows you to shoot all factory 2 3/4" and 3"' loads interchangeably, without adjustment. As the piston moves the sleeve reward, the action bar -which extends from the sleeve pushes the breechblock rearward, operating the action. As the breechblock moves rearward, it turns and unlocks the 4-lug rotary bolt, recocks the hammer, and ejects the fired shell.
After full rearward travel, the breech-block returns forward, picking up a new shell from the magazine and chambering it automatically. After the last shell has been fired, the breechblock locks to the rear, instead of returning forward. This facilitates speedy, convenient reloading.
NOTE: The A-500G is delivered with the
magazine adaptor in the magazine which limits the gun to three shots, in accordance with federal migratory bird laws. If you do not want your gun to be so lim-
ited, merely take out the three shot adapter as explained on page 34 under Three Shot Adapter.

Serial

Number

Initial

Cleaning
The serial number of your A-500G shotgun is found on the left side of the receiver, at the lower rear, near the grip portion of the buttstock.

Ammunition

Various exposed metal parts of your new A500 have been coated at the factory with a rust preventative compound. Before assembling your A-500G, clean the anti-rust compound from the inside of the barrel, receiver and the action/ chamber areas. Browning Oil is ideal for removing this compound and for giving your new gun its first lubrication. However, any quality gun oil may be used. Use a cleaning rod and patch as explained under Cleaning and Maintenance Suggestions on page 44.

MAKE SURE YOUR FINGERS ARE CLEAR OF THE EJECTION PORT.

MAGAZINE CAPACITY

With the three shot adapter installed, the magazine will hold TWO 2 3/4" or 3-inch shells. With the three shot adapter removed, the magazine holds FOUR 2 3/4" or THREE 3-inch shells.

Unloading

A-500G
CAUTION: WHENEVERUNLOADING, ALWAYS BECERTAIN THAT THE MUZZLE IS POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION AND THAT THE SAFETY IS IN THE ON SA FE POSITlON.
ALWAYS INSPECT THE CHAMBER, ACTION, CARRIER AND MAGAZINE VERY CAREFULLY AFTER UNLOADING TO BE SURE ALL LIVE ROUNDS ARE CLEARED FROM THE GUN.
1. One way to unload the A-500G is simply to grasp the operating handle and cycle the action until all rounds are ejected.

Breech the Last

Remains Shot
2. The magazine can also be unloaded manually by reaching inside the loading port with your index finger, and simultaneously pressing in on the bottom of the carrier and pressing the carrier latch (See Figure 18 on page 36). Release and remove one shell at a time from the magazine, until empty. Remove the shell from the chamber by cycling the action.
The breech of the A-500G remains open, with the breechblock locked to the rear, after the last shot has been fired. This allows convenient and fast reloading as follows: 1. Place the safety in the on safe position. 2. Drop an appropriate shell into the open breech. 3. Close the action by depressing the breechblock release button. 23
24 BROWNING A-500G GAS OPERATED SEMI-AUTOMATIC SHOTGUN Schematic is provided for parts identification only and should not be used as a guide to assemble guns. IMPORTANT: When ordering parts, list part number, part name, caliber, model and serial number. CAUTION: Browning parts are made exclusively for Browning guns and are not recommended for use in other guns even though models may be similar. Inadequately fitted parts may be dangerous

DESCRIPTION

SEMI-AUTOMATIC

KEY NO. *41 42

SHOTGUN
KEY BROWNING NO. PARTNO. DESCRIPTION
KEY BROWNING NO. PART NO. 5 **8 *9 *10 *13 P014001 P014006 P014007 P014012 P014016 P014030 P014034 P014044 P014048 P014052 P014056 *P014060 P014065
14 P014076 *15 P014084 *16 PP014095 *18 P20 ***P014105 P014110 P014115 P014120 P014125 P014130 P014134 P014138 P014144 P014148
Action Spring Front (2) *56 P014324 Safety Plunger Action Spring Guide (2) 57 P014328 Safety Plunger Spring Action Spring Guide Pin 58 P014332 Safety Spring Stop Pin Action Spring Guide *59 P014340 Sear Washer 60 P014344 Sear Pin Action Spring Rear (2) 61 P014350 Stock Screw Bolt Assembly 62 P014354 Stock Screw Lock Boll Cam Pin Washer Breech Block 63 P014358 Stock Screw Washer Breech Block Buffer *64 P014364 Trigger Breech Block Buffer 65 P014370 Trigger Guard Core Assembly Breech Block Lever 66 P014375 Trigger Guard Pin Breech Block Lever Pin Sleeve Breech Block Lever 67 P014385 Trigger Guard Screw & 43 Nut Assembly Spring Butt Stock 68 P014390 Trigger Pin Carrier P014395 Trigger Spring Carrier Dog P014420 Barrel Extension Carrier Dog Pin 71 P014404 Magazine Tube Carrier & Car Dog 46 **71 P014415 Receiver Spring P014422 Return Spring Carrier Pin P014424 Sleeve Bar Carrier Pin Circlip 74 P014426 Intermediate Tube Carrier Latch P014428 Rear Piston Carrier Latch Spring 76 P014429 Front Piston Cartridge Stop P014430 Regulation Valve Cartridge Stop & P014432 Regulation Spring Carrier Latch Pin P014434 Centering Washer Cartridge Stop & Pin P014436 Locking Ring Clip P014470 Bearing Ring Cartridge Stop Spring *P014496 Forearm Disconnector Disconnector Pin * Indicates pan must be fitted by Browning Service Department or by a Browning Recommended Service Center **Pan may be purchased by holders of current. valid Federal Firearms License

REMOVING THE TRIGGER GROUP You will need two medium blade screwdrivers to remove the trigger guard retaining screws (the trigger guard retaining nut and the trigger guard retaining screw). Make sure the screwdrivers are of appropriate size to prevent damage to the slotted heads. No other tools are necessary. 1. Remove the barrel as explained under Disassembly on page 18. Set the forearm, as well as the forearm buffer and spring, aside. 2. Release the breechblock to its forward position as follows: While holding the operating handle back (by applying rearward pressure) depress the breechblock release button. Allow the breechblock to travel slowly forward, controlling and slowing its forward travel until it is fully forward. The head of the rotary bolt

FIGURE 10

should project about 1/2 from the front of the receiver. 3. Insert a screwdriver into the retaining nut slot and the other screwdriver into the retaining screw slot. Hold one side from turning while unscrewing the opposite side (See Figure 10). 29
30 FIGURE 11 FIGURE 12-A FIGURE 12-B
4. Remove the retaining nut and screw from the receiver. 5. With the gun inverted (trigger guard up), grasp the trigger guard and pull it up, forward and out from the receiver (See Figure 11). DO NOT DISASSEMBLE THE TRIGGER GROUP BEYOND THIS POINT.
Perform all cleaning with the trigger group kept intact as an assembly. REMOVING THE BREECHBLOCK Normal procedure is to remove the barrel and trigger group first, as explained previously. 1. Remove the operating handle as follows:

FIGURE 13

2. The breechblock will now be able to move forward about another 1/2. Again, push rearward on the bolt head, depressing the breechblock back into the receiver about 1/4". With your right hand, reach in with a finger and push on the breechblock lever found on the bottom side of the breech block (See Figure 13). The breechblock lever serves to retain the breechblock in the receiver. SPEClAL NOTE: It is possible to remove the breechblock first before removing the trigger group. You will need to simultaneously push rearward 1/4" on the breechblock and "reach" in through the opening at the front of the carrier to depress the breechblock lever, using the eraser end of a pencil, a small wood dowel, a screwdriver, or other similar object.)

are it removing the three-shot adapter OR insert four 2 3/4" shells (or three 3inch magnums) if the three-shot adapter was removed previously and you are it reinstalling it. Position an additional shells as if you were going to insert it into the magazine (it will stop only partially inserted because of the full magazine). 5. Apply steady, hard pressure on the shell, pushing all the shells forward in the magazine until the magazine spring retainer is dislodged from its compressed fitting at the end of the magazine (See Figure 16). You will feel forward movement of the shells in the magazine when it is dislodged. IF IT WILL NOT DISLODGE WITH STEADY PRESSURE you may have to work the last shell in and out to increase

FIGURE 16

force on the shells in the magazine. If this also fails to dislodge the magazine spring retainer, place another shell behind the one partially inserted and apply increased pressure with the palm of your hand, or strike the back of the last shell with the palm of your hand until 35

36 FIGURE 17 FIGURE 18

the retainer is dislodged (See Figure 17). DO NOTUSEANYOTHER OBJECT THAN THE PALM OFYOURHANDTO APPLYPRESSURE TO THELAST SHELL 6. With the retainer dislodged, IMMEDIATELY REMOVE THESHELLS FROM THE MAGAZINE. DO NOT UN-
SCREW THE MAGAZINE CAP WITH SHELLS IN THE MAGAZINE. Remove the shells as follows: first, hold the operating handle back approximately 1/4". Then release the shells from the magazine by reaching inside the loading port and simultaneously pressing in on the bottom of the carrier and pressing

FIGURE 19

7. Carefully unscrew the magazine cap from the magazine. CAUTION: THE MAGAZINE SPRING IS UNDER TENSION AND WILL FORCE OUT THE RETAINER, THREESHOT ADAPTER, AND THE SPRING ITSELF UNLESS CARE IS TAKEN. Slowly lift the magazine cap off of the magazine. At the same time, catch the spring with your other hand as it begins to come out (See Figure 19). If already installed, the three shot adapter will be on top of the magazine spring. 8. Remove the spring and adapter, if present, from the magazine tube. Remove the magazine spring retainer from the inside of the magazine cap. The magazine follower can be removed by pointing the magazine tube downward and dumping it out. 37
the carrier latch with your finger (See Figure 18). Release and remove one shell at a time from the magazine. IMMEDIATELY PUT ALL THESHELLS AWAY IN YOUR AMMUNITION STORAGE AREAAWAY FROM YOUR A-500G AND OTHER GUNS.
38 REASSEMBLY WITH THE THREE-SHOT MAGAZINE ADAPTER INSTALLED. To reassemble the magazine with the threeshot adapter installed, first, position the gun vertically, butt down. Then reinstall the magazine follower in the magazine tube, closed end first. Place the three-shot adapter inside one end of the magazine spring, small end first. Place the magazine spring retainer over the top of the adapter. Insert the other end of the magazine spring into the magazine tube and compress it into the magazine tube (See Figure 20). With hand pressure, seat the magazine spring retainer fully into the compression fitting on the end of the magazine tube. REASSEMBLY WITHOUT THE THREESHOT MAGAZINE ADAPTER. Reassembly of the magazine without the three-shot adapter is identical to reassembly with the three shot adapter, with one FIGURE 20

40 TUBE INSTALLATIONUNLOAD YOUR A-500G FULLY. INSPECT THE CHAMBER, FEED MECHANISM AND MAGAZINE TO MAKE SURE THEY DO NOT CONTAIN ANY SHELLS. 2. Open the action locking it rearward and place the safety in the on safe position. 3. Before installing a tube, check the internal choke tube threads in the muzzle, as well as the threads on the Invector choke tube to be sure they are clean. Lightly oil the threads with an oil like Browning Oil. 4. Using your fingers, screw the appropriate tube into the muzzle end of the barrel, tapered end first, notched end outward. When it becomes finger-tight, use the Invector choke wrench to firmly seat the tube. 1.
THEINVECTOR CHOKE TUBESHOULD BE PERIODICALLY CHECKED TO ASSURE THAT IT IS TIGHT AND FIRMLY SEATED. BEFORECHECKING, FOLLO WTHESAFETYGUIDELINES OUTLINED ABOVE. Replacement and additional tubes and wrenches are available from your Browning dealer, or by writing to the
Browning Consumer Department, Route 1, Morgan, Utah 84050. (801) 876-271 1. Canadian customers please call or write to Browning Canada Sports Ltd./Ltee, 3167 De Miniac, St. Laurent, Canada H4S 1 W6. (514) 333-7261.
INVECTOR TUBE SELECTION To help you choose the correct choke tube for each hunting situation, all Browning Invector choke tubes are inscribed on the side with the patterns they produce with both lead and steel shot. Each Invector tube also has notches in the top rim of the tube. These notches are a code to allow you to determine the choke designation while the tube is installed. Rim notches refer specifically to lead shot. You will need to use the chart below to cross-reference from lead to steel, and determine the appropriate tubes for your ammunition and hunting/ shooting situation. Several tubes are supplied with your Browning shotgun. The tubes listed are also available as accessories. Remember, Invector-Plus and standard Invector tubes are not interchangeable. Invector-Plus tubes 41
INVECTOR CHOKE TUBE CODE To identify individual Invector tubes, refer to the abbreviated indications on the side of the tube, or use the identification mark(s) located on the top rim of each tube (See Figure 21).

FIGURE 21

Rim Notches
I II III IIII IIIII No Notches Knurled Ext

Pattern With LeadShot

Full Imp. Modified Modified Imp. Cylinder Skeet Cylinder X-Full Special

Pattern With SteelShot

Full*** Full*** Modified Imp. Cylinder** Imp. Cylinder ***
*Not for use with steel shot Using an over-tight choke constriction with steelshot will result in an ineffective, "blown" pattern. **Extra Full Special with knurled rim and no rim code. Do not use with steel shot. ***When more than one choke designation is listed for a given steel shot pattern, use the more open choke listed for high velocity, larger shot size steel shot loads

You Are Responsible For Firearms Safety. As a gun owner, you accept a set of demanding responsibilities. How seriously you take these responsibilities can mean the difference between life and death. Failure to follow any of these instructions can cause extensive damage to your gun and/or possible serious injury or death to yourself and others. There is no excuse for careless or abusive handling of any firearm. At all times handle any firearm with intense respect for its power and potential danger. READ AND UNDERSTAND all of THE CAUTIONS AND PROPER HANDLING PROCEDURES OUTLINED IN THIS BOOKLET BEFORE USING YOUR NEW FIREARM. 1. ALWAYS KEEP THE MUZZLE OF ANY FIREARM POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION. Do this even though you are certain the firearm is unloaded. Never point any firearm at anything you do not intend to shoot. Be extremely alert and aware of all persons and property within the range of your ammunition. 2. NEVER RELY TOTALLY ON YOUR SHOTGUN'S MECHANICAL "SAFETY" DEVICE. Always assume that your gun can be fired at any time, even with all the safety mechanism engaged. The word "safety" describes a gun's trigger block mechanism, sear block mechanism, hammer block mechanism or firing pin block mechanism. These mechanical devices are designed to place your gun in a SAFER status. No guarantee can be made that the gun will not fire even if the "safety" is in the "on safe" position. See "Operation of the Safety" in your owners manual for instructions on operation of your gun's "safety."
3. LIKE ANY MECHANICAL DEVICE, A "SAFETY" CAN SOMETIMES FAIL; IT CAN BE JARRED OR INADVERTENTLY MANIPULATED INTO AN UNSAFE CONDITION.
Mechanical "safeties" merely aid safe gun handling and are no excuse for pointing your shotgun's muzzle in an unsafe direction. While it is a good idea to "test" your shotgun's mechanical "safeties" periodically for proper function, never test them while your firearm is loaded or pointed in an unsafe direction. Safe gun handling does not stop with your gun's mechanical "safety" devices -- it starts there. Always treat this shotgun with the respect a loaded, ready-to-fire firearm. NEVER TEST THE
MECHANISM OF ANY FIREARM WHILE IT IS LOADED OR POINTED IN AN UNSAFE DIRECTION. 4. WHENEVER YOU HANDLE A FIREARM, OR HAND IT TO SOMEONE MAKE SURE IT IS COMPLETELY UNLOADED.
Always open the action immediately and visually check the chamber magazine. Make certain the chamber does not inadvertently contain any ammunition. Always keep the chamber empty and the "safety" in the "on safe" position unless shooting is imminent.

5. DO NOT TRANSPORT ANY FIREARM LOADED. KEEP ALL FIREARMS UNLOADED DURING TRANSPORT, WHETHER IN A SCABBARD, GUN CASE, OR OTHER CONTAINER. 6. HUNTING FROM ELEVATED SURFACES SUCH AS TREE STANDS IS DANGEROUS.
Doing so may increase the risk of handling a firearm. The following rules should always be observed by you and those you hunt with: Always make certain that the stand being used is safe and stable. Always make certain that your firearm is unloaded when it is being taken up and down from the stand. Always make certain that your firearm is not dropped from the stand, or dropped while it is being taken up or down from the stand. Remember, a loaded firearm may discharge when dropped, even with the safety in the "on safe" position.
BEWARE OF BARREL OBSTRUCTION.
Do this for the safety of both your gun and yourself. Mud, snow, and an infinite variety of other objects may inadvertently lodge in a barrel bore. It takes only one small obstruction to cause dangerously increased pressures that can ruin (swell or rupture) the finest shotgun barrel.
BEFORE CHECKING FOR A BARREL OBSTRUCTION, BE CERTAIN YOUR FIREARM IS FULLY UNLOADED.
Make sure no live rounds are in the chamber. Place the safety in the "on safe" position, open the breech or action and look through the barrel to be sure it is clear of any obstruction. If an obstruction is seen, no matter how small it may be, clean the bore with a cleaning rod and patch as instructed for your particular firearm. Before the first firing, clean the bore with a cleaning rod and patch, and wipe away any anti-rust compounds in the action/chamber areas.
8. ALWAYS UNLOAD ALL FIREARMS WHEN NOT IN USE.
As a safety precaution, it is preferable to disassemble your gun for storage. Your responsibilities do not end when your firearm is unattended. Store your gun and ammunition separately -- well beyond the reach of children. Take all safeguards to ensure your firearm does not become available to untrained, inexperienced or unwelcome hands.
9. USE THE PROPER AMMUNITION.
The barrel and action of all Browning firearms have been made with substantial safety margins over the pressures developed by established American commercial loads. Nevertheless, Browning assumes no liability for incidents which occur through the use of cartridges of nonstandard dimensions which develop pressures in excess of commercially available ammunition with standards established by the Sporting Arms and Ammunitions Manufacturers' Institute (SAAMI).
BE ALERT TO THE SIGNS OF AMMUNITION MALFUNCTION.

15. BE SURE OF YOUR TARGET AND BACKSTOP. Particularly during low light periods. Know the range of your ammunition. Never shoot at water or hard objects. 16. ALWAYS UNLOAD THE CHAMBER AND MAGAZINE OF ANY FIREARM BEFORE CROSSING A FENCE, CLIMBING A TREE, JUMPING A DITCH OR NEGOTIATING OTHER OBSTACLES. Never lean or place your loaded shotgun on or against a fence, tree, car or other similar object. 17. WEAR EYE AND EAR PROTECTION WHEN SHOOTING. Unprotected, repeated exposure to gunfire can cause hearing damage. Wear ear protectors (shooting earplugs or muffs) to guard against such damage. Wear shooting glasses to protect your eyes from flying particles. Always keep a safe distance between the muzzle of your firearm and any persons nearby, as muzzle blast, debris and ejecting shells could inflict serious injury. Also, wear eye protection when disassembling and cleaning all firearms to prevent the possibility of springs, springtensioned parts, solvents or other agents from contacting your eyes.
18. DROPPING A LOADED GUN CAN CAUSE AN ACCIDENTAL DISCHARGE.
This can occur even with the "safety" in the "on safe" position. Be extremely careful while hunting or during any shooting activity to avoid dropping any firearm.
19. IF ANY FIREARM FAILS TO FIRE, KEEP THE MUZZLE POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION.
Hold this position for a minimum of 30 seconds. Carefully open the action and remove the shell. If the primer is indented, the shell should be disposed of in a way that cannot cause harm. If the primer is not indented, your firearm should be examined by a qualified gunsmith and the cause of the malfunction should be corrected before further use.
20. BE DEFENSIVE AND ON GUARD AGAINST UNSAFE GUN HANDLING AROUND YOU AND OTHERS. Dont be timid when it comes to gun safety. If you observe other shooters
violating any of these safety precautions, politely suggest safer handling practices.
21. BE CERTAIN YOUR SHOTGUN IS UNLOADED BEFORE CLEANING.
Because so many accidents occur when a firearm is being cleaned, special and extreme care should be taken to be sure your gun is unloaded before disassembly, cleaning and reassembly. Keep ammunition away from the cleaning location. Never test the mechanical function of any firearm with live ammunition.
22. SUPERVISE AND TEACH FIREARMS SAFETY TO ALL MEMBERS OF YOUR FAMILY -ESPECIALLY TO CHILDREN AND NONSHOOTERS.
23. NEVER DRINK ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES OR TAKE ANY TYPE OF DRUGS BEFORE OR DURING SHOOTING.

24. PERFORM PERIODIC MAINTENANCE -- AVOID UNAUTHORIZED SERVICING.
Your firearm is a mechanical device which will not last forever, and as such, is subject to wear and requires periodic inspection, adjustment and service. Browning firearms should be serviced by a Browning Recommended Service Center or by Browning's service facility in Arnold, Missouri. Browning cannot assume any responsibility for injuries suffered or caused by unauthorized servicing, alterations or modifications of Browning firearms. 25. READ AND HEED ALL WARNINGS in these instructions, on ammunition boxes and with all accessories that you install on your firearm. It is your responsibility to secure the most upto-date information on the safe handling procedures of your Browning gun. Browning assumes no liability for incidents which occur when unsafe or improper gun accessories or ammunition combinations are used. 26. Browning reserves the right to refuse service on firearms that have been altered, added to or substantially changed. Removal of metal from barrel(s), or modification of the firing mechanism and/or operating parts may lead to Brownings refusal of service on such firearms. Browning will charge the owner for parts and labor to return the firearm to original Browning specifications.
DO NOT, UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES, ALTER THE TRIGGER, SAFETY OR OTHER PARTS OF THE FIRING MECHANISM OF THIS OR ANY OTHER FIREARM. FAILURE TO OBEY THIS WARNING MAY RESULT IN INJURY OR DEATH TO YOURSELF OR OTHERS. BE CAREFUL!