Description
Picture this: you’re walking a field, and a bird flushes. You mount the shotgun smoothly, and it just fits. No awkward stretch, no fumbling for the trigger. That’s the promise of a shotgun scaled for the shooter, not just scaled down. For the budget-conscious hunter or clay shooter who needs a gun that works with their frame, the search often ends with a compromise. But what if you didn’t have to?
The Browning Citori CXS Micro 20 Ga, 24″ Barrel, 3″, Polished Blued Gloss, Black Walnut Stock is a scaled, field-ready over-under shotgun designed for shooters with shorter length of pull. It delivers the proven Citori action and CXS pointability in a 20-gauge package with a 1.5″ shorter stock and 24″ barrels for superior handling and faster mounting, all for a price that undercuts many custom-fit options. At $1835.62, it represents a significant value in the fitted shotgun market, offering a factory-engineered solution where alterations often add hundreds more.
Here’s the thing—the ‘Micro’ designation isn’t just marketing. Browning didn’t simply chop the stock. The entire receiver and action are proportionally scaled to the 20-gauge shells, resulting in a balanced, lively feel that heavier 12-gauge guns can’t match. The 24-inch barrels are a key feature for this model, providing a quick swing without the muzzle-heaviness sometimes found in longer tubes. This setup is drop-in ready for a large segment of shooters, particularly those with shorter statures or youths transitioning to an adult-grade firearm. You get the renowned Citori reliability and the CXS’s slightly higher rib, ideal for maintaining visual focus on crossing targets, without paying for a full custom gun.
The polished blued gloss finish and genuine black walnut stock are pure Browning hallmarks. They offer a classic aesthetic that holds up in the field, providing a level of fit and finish that justifies the investment compared to entry-level over-unders. The gun weighs in at a manageable approximate 6.5 lbs, making it a pleasure to carry all day. This model is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories, including Briley choke tubes (using Invector-DS threads) and many standard Browning Citori hard cases.
| Gauge | 20 Gauge (3″ Chambers) |
| Barrel Length | 24 Inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 42.5 Inches |
| Weight | Approx. 6.5 lbs |
| Stock | Black Walnut, Satin Finish |
| Length of Pull | Approx. 13.5 Inches (Micro) |
Pros: The scaled dimensions offer a genuine ergonomic advantage for many shooters. The 20-gauge chambered for 3″ shells is versatile enough for everything from dove to turkey with proper loads. The CXS configuration is a proven middle-ground for field and clays. You’re getting the Citori’s legendary durability at a price point that, while not cheap, avoids the cost of a gunsmith’s fitting services.
Cons: The shorter length of pull may be too compact for average or larger-framed shooters. The 24″ barrels, while fast-handling, sacrifice some sight plane for long-range trap or sustained lead on high-flying waterfowl. It’s a specialized tool within the Citori line.
So who is this for? Primarily, it’s for the adult or advanced youth shooter who has always found standard shotguns a bit too long and cumbersome. It’s a brilliant choice for a dedicated upland hunter who covers miles and values a quick, responsive gun. It’s also a smart pick for the recreational clay shooter—especially in skeet or sporting clays—who wants a single, well-fitted over-under without breaking the bank on a fully custom stock. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the ‘Micro’ stock too short for an average adult male?
A: It depends on build and preference. With an approximate 13.5″ length of pull, it’s designed for shooters who typically need a shorter stock. Many average-height women and younger shooters find it perfect. If you usually add a pad to standard stocks, the Micro might fit you out of the box.
Q: Can this handle 3″ magnum loads for waterfowl or turkey?
A: Yes. The 3″ chamber specification means it can safely fire 2.75″ and 3″ 20-gauge shells. While a 20-gauge is not a traditional waterfowl choice, modern non-toxic loads in 3″ make it a viable, lighter-recoiling option for certain scenarios within range.
Q: How does the value compare to buying a standard Citori and having it cut down?
A: Financially, the Micro often wins. A gunsmith cut-and-recoil pad job can add $200-$400 to the cost of a base gun. The Micro is a factory-original, proportionally scaled solution at a set price, preserving warranty and resale value better than a modified standard model.
If a shotgun that finally matches your frame is what you need, the Browning Citori CXS Micro presents a compelling, value-focused path to get there. See the full details on our product page.
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