Description
The Browning Citori CX Over-Under 12 Ga, 28″ Barrel, 3″, American Walnut, 2rd is a purpose-built competition shotgun designed for Sporting Clays and target shooting. It offers a proven, reliable over-under action with a focus on balance and pointability, delivering serious performance at a price point that undercuts many of its high-end rivals. This is a workhorse target gun that prioritizes function and value over flashy embellishments.
Key Features
- Target-Focused Design: Built specifically for Sporting Clays with a slightly higher rib and optimized weight distribution for smooth, consistent swings.
- Proven Citori Action: Utilizes Browning’s time-tested, durable boxlock action with a single selective mechanical trigger for reliable shot-to-shot performance.
- American Walnut Stock: Features a satin-finished, hand-checkered stock that provides a classic look and a secure grip without the premium cost of exhibition-grade wood.
- Value Proposition: Priced at $1861.10, it sits in a sweet spot between entry-level over-unders and premium models, offering core Citori quality for the budget-conscious shooter.
- Practical Chamber: 3″ chambers handle a wide range of 12-gauge target and field loads, giving you versatility without paying for magnum-length chambers you might never use.
Specifications & Details
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3″ |
| Barrel Length | 28″ |
| Overall Length | Approx. 45.5″ |
| Weight | Approx. 7 lbs 12 oz |
| Capacity | 2 Rounds |
| Stock | American Walnut |
| Trigger | Single Selective Mechanical |
The 28″ barrel length is a popular choice for Sporting Clays—long enough for a smooth swing plane but not so long it becomes cumbersome on quick, close presentations. Weighing in around 7 pounds 12 ounces, it strikes a balance between being stable for follow-through and lively enough for fast second shots. The mechanical trigger is a key feature at this price; it’s more reliable for competition than inertial systems that can occasionally fail on light target loads. Here’s the thing—this gun is drop-in ready for most shooters. The dimensions are standard, and while you can always get a stock fitted, most will find it fits out of the box, saving you immediate gunsmithing costs.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This Citori CX is ideal for the serious clay shooter who has outgrown their semi-auto or pump and wants to step into the over-under world without a five-figure investment. It’s for the competitor who views their shotgun as a tool—where reliability and consistent handling matter more than fancy engraving. It’s also a solid choice for a hunter who wants one versatile gun for both clays and upland birds, appreciating the 3″ chamber’s flexibility. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Pros & Cons: The Practical Tradeoffs
Pros: You get the legendary Citori durability and a true competition-focused geometry. The mechanical trigger is a major plus. Compared to a Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon I, you’re often getting more gun for similar money, especially in target-specific features. The walnut stock offers a traditional feel that synthetic stocks can’t match.
Cons: At this price, you accept some trade-offs. The walnut is nice but not highly figured. The finish is durable but not ornate. It’s a pure performer, not a showpiece. Some may find the weight a bit much for long days carrying in the field, but for stand-and-shoot clays, it’s an asset.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Citori CX suitable for a beginner?
A: It can be, if the beginner is committed to clay sports. It’s a dedicated target gun, so its balance and handling are optimized for that. A new hunter might be better served by a field model with a more neutral balance, but for a new clays shooter, it’s an excellent and forgiving platform to learn on.
Q: Can it handle steel shot for waterfowl?
A: Yes, the Citori CX is built with steel-shot-compatible barrels. With its 3″ chambers, it can handle standard steel loads commonly used for waterfowl. Always check the choke constriction, as using a too-tight choke with steel can be unsafe—stick with Modified or more open chokes.
Q: What chokes does it come with?
A: The Citori CX typically comes equipped with a set of Browning’s Invector-DS (Drop-Safe) choke tubes. You’ll usually get a set that includes Improved Cylinder, Modified, and Full tubes, giving you a solid range for most target and hunting situations. They use the same threads as other standard Invector chokes, so aftermarket options from brands like Briley or Muller are plentiful.
Look, if you want a no-nonsense, reliable over-under that will break clays and last for generations without breaking the bank, the Browning Citori CX represents a clear value. It delivers the core experience of a high-end competition gun by focusing budget on the action, barrels, and handling—where it counts. Remember, an FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases. See if this workhorse target gun is the right fit for your range bag.
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