Description
You’re in the Missouri timber, the sun’s low, and a covey of quail explodes from the brush. Your swing is instinctive, fluid. The gun comes up as one with your body—no hesitation, no drag. That’s the promise of the Browning Citori Feather Lightning Over/Under 12 Ga 26″ Barrel, 3″ Chamber, Gloss Walnut Blue. It’s a field-ready classic engineered for the hunter who demands speed and balance without sacrificing the rock-solid reliability of a Browning over/under. At $1746.32, it delivers proven performance where it counts.
What is it? The Browning Citori Feather Lightning is a 12-gauge over/under shotgun built for fast handling in the field. It features a 26-inch barrel, 3-inch chambers, and a lightweight, responsive design wrapped in a gloss walnut stock with a deep blue finish. This shotgun is designed for upland hunters and clay shooters who prioritize a quick, natural point.
Built for the Swing, Not the Shoulder
This isn’t a safe queen. The ‘Feather’ designation is earned. Browning shaves weight strategically from the receiver and barrels, resulting in a shotgun that feels alive in your hands. The 26-inch barrel length is the sweet spot for maneuverability in thick cover—think Missouri cedars or creek bottoms. You won’t fight the gun; it moves where you look. The gloss walnut stock isn’t just for show; it’s shaped for a consistent, repeatable mount. The single selective mechanical trigger is crisp, and the manual safety is positive. Here’s the thing—it’s a tool that fits out of the box, requiring no gunsmithing to start putting birds in the bag. The 3-inch chamber versatility means you can run everything from light 2¾-inch target loads to heavier 3-inch upland or waterfowl steel.
Proven Action, Refined Balance
At the heart is the Citori action, a benchmark for strength and durability. The boxlock design is famously robust, handling thousands of rounds with minimal maintenance. The barrel set is built with Browning’s signature wall-to-wall rib, providing a clean, undistorted sight plane for fast target acquisition. Weighing in at approximately 6.5 pounds, the balance point is just ahead of the hinge pin. This makes the gun feel slightly muzzle-light, aiding in a swift, effortless swing. That said, the inertia of the moving parts is tuned for smooth operation, whether you’re cycling through a sporting clays course or following a flushing rooster. It’s compatible with a wide range of aftermarket chokes, including the Invector-DS system, allowing you to tailor your pattern for any scenario.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3″ |
| Barrel Length | 26 Inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 42.5 Inches |
| Weight | Approx. 6.5 lbs |
| Finish | Gloss Walnut Stock, Blue Barrel/Receiver |
Pros & Cons: The Practical View
Pros: Exceptional pointability and fast handling due to reduced weight. The 26-inch barrel is ideal for tight-cover hunting. The Citori action is legendary for its durability. The gloss walnut and blue finish offer classic, durable aesthetics. Manual safety and single selective trigger provide reliable, simple operation.
Cons: The lighter weight can translate to slightly more felt recoil with heavy 3-inch magnum loads compared to heavier over/unders. The gloss finish, while beautiful, can reflect light in the field—a consideration for some purists. As a premium firearm, it commands an investment over entry-level models.
Who It’s For
This shotgun is for the active upland hunter who covers miles and needs a responsive partner. It’s for the walk-up clay shooter who values a fast, smooth swing. If your priority is a reliable, lightweight over/under that performs without fuss from the first day afield, this is your gun. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. An FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Citori Feather Lightning suitable for waterfowl hunting?
A: While its 3-inch chamber and durability can handle it, the 26-inch barrel and lighter weight are optimized for upland game. For sustained waterfowl hunting with heavy loads, a longer-barreled, heavier model like the Citori 725 might be a better fit to manage recoil.
Q: What chokes does it use?
A: It utilizes Browning’s Invector-DS choke tube system. It typically comes with a set of flush-mounted chokes (often Improved Cylinder, Modified, and Full), providing great versatility for different ranges and targets.
Q: How does it compare to a Citori CX?
A: The Feather Lightning is built for a faster, more dynamic feel in the field with its lighter weight and shorter barrel options. The CX models are often slightly heavier with dimensions geared more towards dedicated clay target sports, offering a smoother, more deliberate swing.
Ready to experience the balance and speed of a field-proven classic? See the Browning Citori Feather Lightning for yourself.
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