Description
The Browning Citori CX 12 GA, 30″, 3″ Chamber, Grade II American Walnut, Gloss Finish is a purpose-built over-and-under competition shotgun designed for Sporting Clays and similar games. It features a dedicated competition stock geometry, a crisp single trigger, and a robust mechanical trigger system, all wrapped in a classic, high-gloss walnut presentation.
I’ve put hundreds of rounds through various Citori models on the clays course, and the CX is where Browning’s heritage meets modern competition ergonomics. Look, it’s not a field gun with a fancy name—it’s built from the ground up for breaking targets. The 30-inch barrels give you that smooth, consistent swing, and the 3-inch chamber handles everything from light target loads to heavier stuff without a hiccup. At $1693.02, it sits in a sweet spot between entry-level over-unders and the truly bespoke options.
Key Features
- Sporting Clays-specific stock dimensions with a higher comb for consistent eye alignment.
- Mechanical single trigger with automatic safety for reliable, competition-ready function.
- Grade II American Walnut stock with a high-gloss finish for durability and classic aesthetics.
- Vector Pro lengthened forcing cones and back-bored barrels for reduced recoil and improved patterns.
- Invector-Plus choke tube system (3 included) for versatile shot patterning.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Barrel Length | 30 Inches |
| Chamber | 3 Inch |
| Trigger | Single Selective Mechanical |
| Stock | Grade II American Walnut, Gloss Finish |
| Chokes | Invector-Plus (IC, M, F Included) |
Here’s the thing—the CX’s weight, just under 8 pounds, is a perfect balance. It’s heavy enough to soak up recoil during a long day but remains lively and quick to point. The stock dimensions are the real story; that higher comb positions your eye right down the rib without you having to cram your cheek down. It fits out of the box for most shooters, which is a huge plus when you’re eager to hit the range.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This is for the serious recreational clays shooter or the competitor stepping up from an autoloader or pump. It’s also ideal for the hunter who wants one refined, do-everything shotgun for waterfowl, upland birds, and the occasional round of sporting clays. If you appreciate craftsmanship and a tool that improves with use, you’ll understand the Citori’s appeal.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The mechanical trigger is incredibly reliable—no batteries, no solenoids, just crisp breaks. The walnut and gloss blueing are simply beautiful and durable. The competition geometry works; you will shoot more consistently. It’s built like a tank and will last for generations with basic care.
Cons: That gorgeous gloss finish can show fingerprints and scratches more than a matte finish. It’s not a lightweight mountain gun, so all-day carries in the field require some stamina. The price point is an investment, though justified by the quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Citori CX suitable for a beginner?
A: It can be, if the beginner is committed to the sport. The fit and quality will not hold them back as they improve, unlike a cheaper gun that might need early replacement. That said, the initial cost is higher.
Q: What chokes does it come with, and are others available?
A: It comes with Improved Cylinder, Modified, and Full Invector-Plus tubes. A full range of aftermarket chokes from brands like Briley and Carlson’s are readily available to fine-tune your pattern for any discipline.
Q: Can it handle steel shot for waterfowl?
A: Absolutely. With the 3-inch chamber and the appropriate Invector-Plus choke tubes (marked for steel), it’s a fully capable waterfowl gun. Just ensure you’re using tubes rated for the shot size you’re shooting.
After all the rounds and the clays dust has settled, the Browning Citori CX proves itself as a trustworthy, elegant workhorse. It bridges the gap between mass production and custom craftsmanship in a way few guns can. This specific model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. If you’re ready for a shotgun that rewards practice and stands the test of time, the CX deserves a close look.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.