Description
The Browning Citori 725 28 Ga, 32″, 2-3/4″, Gloss Walnut, Silver Nitride is a premium, competition-focused over-and-under shotgun. It’s built for the discerning clay shooter who demands a fast, balanced, and incredibly smooth-swinging gun for sporting clays or skeet. With its 32-inch barrels and lightweight 28-gauge chambering, it offers a specific blend of speed and stability that’s hard to beat on the course. I’ve put several flats of shells through this configuration, and the way it moves is just different—it’s less about raw power and more about elegant, precise shot placement.
Key Features
- 28-Gauge Chambering: Lighter recoil and faster handling for a competitive edge on long, crossing targets.
- 32-Inch Barrels: Provides a long sight plane and superb swing dynamics for consistent follow-through.
- Silver Nitride Finish: A durable, corrosion-resistant finish on the receiver and trigger guard that’s both handsome and tough.
- Gloss Walnut Stock: High-grade, hand-checkered walnut with a deep, lustrous finish for a classic look.
- 725 Series Action: Features the refined, low-profile receiver with Browning’s signature mechanical trigger system.
- Invector-DS Choke System: Comes with a set of flush chokes for pattern customization from the factory.
Specifications & Details
| Gauge | 28 Gauge (2-3/4″ chamber) |
| Barrel Length | 32 Inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 48.5 Inches |
| Weight | Approx. 6.5 lbs |
| Stock | Gloss Finish Walnut |
| Receiver Finish | Silver Nitride |
Here’s the thing—this isn’t your general-purpose field gun. The 28-gauge with long tubes is a specialist’s tool. The balance point is forward, which helps maintain swing momentum, a feature I appreciate on long report pairs. At about 6.5 pounds, it’s light enough to carry all day at a shoot but has enough mass out front to prevent whippiness. The mechanical triggers are crisp and consistent, a must for competition. And yes, it’s drop-in ready for Briley or other aftermarket choke tubes if you want to fine-tune beyond the included set.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This Citori 725 is built for the serious clay target shooter, specifically the sporting clays or skeet enthusiast who wants to master the 28-gauge events. It’s for the shooter who understands that gauge choice affects swing mechanics and recoil management. It’s also an ideal choice for an experienced hunter pursuing upland birds where a light, fast-handling gun with precise patterning is paramount. If you’re stepping up from an entry-level over-under or a semi-auto and want a dedicated competition gun, this is a compelling direction.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The swing is fluid and effortless, making long crossers feel easy. Recoil is minimal, allowing for faster recovery on doubles. The fit and finish are exemplary—the wood-to-metal fit is tight, and the silver nitride against the gloss walnut is stunning. The 725 action is proven and reliable.
Cons: The $2612.34 price tag is a significant investment. Ammunition cost and availability for 28-gauge target loads can be higher and more sporadic than 12 or 20 gauge. The 32-inch barrels can feel cumbersome in tight quarters or for hunters in dense cover. It’s a purpose-built tool, not a do-everything shotgun.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the 28-gauge with 32-inch barrels too specialized for a first over-under?
A: Probably, yes. For a first and only over-under, a 12 or 20 gauge with 30-inch barrels is far more versatile. This 28-gauge setup is for the shooter who already has a primary gun and is looking for a specific competitive or refined hunting experience.
Q: Can this gun handle steel shot for waterfowl hunting?
A: With the appropriate Invector-DS choke tubes rated for steel, yes, it can. However, the 28-gauge is not a typical waterfowl choice due to payload and energy limitations at range. It’s better suited for upland game and clays. Always check choke tube markings and Browning’s guidelines.
Q: How does it compare to a Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon or a Caesar Guerini Summit?
A: The Beretta 686 is a fantastic competitor, often feeling a bit livelier in the hand. The Guerini is another high-level option with great customization. The Citori 725 tends to have a slightly more deliberate, stable feel due to its balance. It comes down to personal fit and swing preference—try shouldering all three if you can. This specific model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Look, if you’re in the market for a competition-grade 28-gauge that handles like a dream and looks even better, the Browning Citori 725 in this configuration deserves your full attention. It’s a refined instrument that makes breaking clays feel like a practiced art. See the full details on our site.
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