Browning Citori CXS Over-Under 20 Gauge Shotgun

Description

You’re on the station, the low sun at your back. A pair of clays arcs out over the decoys, one high, one crossing low. Your mount is fluid, the swing instinctive. The first shot breaks the high bird, and the second barrel handles the crossing shot with authority. That’s the rhythm the Browning Citori CXS Over-Under 20 Ga, 28″ Barrel, 3″, Walnut, 2rd is built for—a dedicated sporting tool engineered for the specific demands of American-style clays and upland hunting. It’s a purpose-driven over-under that bridges the gap between competition-grade performance and field-ready handling.

Here’s the thing—when it comes to breaking clays consistently or taking fast-flushing birds, a shotgun must be an extension of your intention. The Citori CXS is designed around that principle. Its 20-gauge chambering in a 3-inch configuration offers a superb balance of manageable recoil and effective payload, making it a favorite for shooters who value a lively, quick-handling gun over raw power. Weighing in at approximately 7 lbs, 2 oz, it carries easily in the field yet remains stable through the swing. The 28-inch barrels provide a smooth, forgiving sight plane and the inertia-driven mechanical trigger system delivers a crisp, reliable pull for each of its two rounds.

The heart of this shotgun is its fit. Browning’s Inflex II Recoil Pad and ventilated rib are designed to direct recoil straight back into the shoulder, not up into your cheek, which is critical for maintaining sight picture and comfort during long practice sessions. The satin-finished walnut stock isn’t just for show; it’s shaped with a sporting-specific geometry. The pistol grip and fore-end are checkered for a positive, non-slip grip in all conditions, from a damp Missouri morning to a dusty skeet field. This is a gun that fits out of the box for a wide range of shooters, requiring no immediate gunsmithing to achieve a natural point of aim.

Specifications

Gauge/Chamber	20 Gauge / 3″
Barrel Length	28 Inches
Overall Length	Approx. 45.5 Inches
Weight	Approx. 7 lbs, 2 oz
Capacity	2 Rounds
Stock	Satin Finish Walnut

Pros: The 20-gauge platform offers reduced recoil for faster follow-up shots and less shooter fatigue. The mechanical trigger is renowned for its reliability, a step above some inertia-only systems. The CXS-specific dimensions—like its slightly higher rib—are optimized for breaking clays. The classic Citori action is time-tested and built to last for generations with proper care.

Cons: The two-round capacity demands precision; there’s no spray-and-pray. At $2165.66, it’s a serious investment in your shooting discipline. It’s a specialized tool—if your primary need is a high-volume waterfowl gun, a semi-auto might be more practical.

So who is this for? The Browning Citori CXS is for the shooter who has moved past a basic field gun and wants a dedicated instrument for sporting clays, skeet, or upland hunting where a fast, accurate pair is the goal. It’s for the hunter who appreciates the simplicity and pointability of an over-under and wants the refined handling of a 20-gauge. It’s compatible with a wide range of aftermarket chokes, like the Browning Invector-DS system, allowing you to fine-tune your pattern for any course or quarry. This firearm is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the Citori CXS suitable for a beginner?

A: While it’s an excellent gun, its sporting-specific geometry and price point make it better suited for an intermediate shooter who understands their fit and is committed to the discipline. A beginner might be better served starting with a more general-purpose model.

Q: Can this gun handle steel shot for waterfowl?

A: Yes, with the correct Invector-DS choke tubes installed. Always consult the choke tube markings and Browning’s guidelines for steel shot size and velocity restrictions to ensure safe operation and prevent barrel damage.

Q: What’s the main difference between the CXS and other Citori models?

A: The CXS is built specifically for American sporting clays. It typically features a slightly higher rib than field models for a more heads-up shooting posture, and dimensions are tuned for the quick, often vertical target presentations found on sporting clays courses.

If the rhythm of a deliberate, accurate pair of shots defines your time at the range or in the field, the Browning Citori CXS 20-gauge is built to be your partner. See the full details and availability on our site.