Browning A-5 reviews

[M.T. Pockets]

My son wants a 12 guage of his own. He's 13 now and is tired of using one of mine. He can handle a 12 guage just fine and has his heart set on a Browning A-5. He likes it for many reasons and he's kind of nostalgic and wants to have a different gun in the field than everyone else.

Anyway, he's got his heart set on one and I was hoping to learn a little more so I came here.

I would appreciate anyone's first hand experience with the A-5. the good, bad & ugly.

He's looking at some used 2 3/4" guns and has found several used ones in very good condition in the $250 - $300 range. He'd like to be able to shoot steel in it. Should he be looking for one made after a certain date to handle steel ? He wouldn't need a 3" gun at this time.

I know some were made in Belgium, and some in the US, any preference here ?

Any comments on how they handle reloads, and which powder would you recommend ?

I know it's going to get a new recoil pad before we take it home.

I appreciate any experience available. Thank you.