Description
The Browning Citori Grade 7 Lightning 20 Ga., 28 Inch, Blued Receiver, IV+ Chokes, Gloss Finished Walnut is a premium over-and-under shotgun built for the dedicated upland hunter or serious sporting clays shooter who demands both performance and heirloom-grade aesthetics. It represents the pinnacle of Browning’s production line, blending a scaled 20-gauge frame for fast handling with meticulous engraving and wood-to-metal fit that signals a serious investment in the field.
Key Features
- Scaled 20-Gauge Receiver: Lighter and faster swinging than a 12-gauge platform, ideal for long days pursuing pheasant or quail.
- Grade VII/7 Gloss Walnut Stock: Exhibition-grade wood with a deep, hand-rubbed gloss finish that showcases the wood’s figure.
- Deep-Relief Engraving & Blued Finish: Intricate scrollwork cut into a polished, blued steel receiver for a classic, durable appearance.
- Browning’s IV+ Choke Tube System: Includes Invector-Plus flush chokes (likely IC, M, F) for versatile patterning from close-flushing birds to long crossing shots.
- 28″ Barrel Length: Provides a smooth swing arc and stable follow-through, a favorite balance for field and course.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 20 Gauge |
| Barrel Length | 28 Inches |
| Choke System | Browning Invector-Plus (IV+) |
| Receiver Finish | Polished & Blued with Engraving |
| Stock Finish | Gloss Finished Walnut |
| Approx. Weight | 6.5 – 7 lbs (Field Ready) |
This isn’t a gun you buy on a whim—it’s a lifetime purchase. The heft, just under 7 pounds, is a perfect balance of stability and agility. When it comes to crossing shots on a Missouri rooster that’s decided to run, the 28-inch barrels and scaled frame come up smoothly, tracking the target without feeling sluggish. The gloss walnut isn’t just for show; it’s sealed against the elements, and the blued steel, while requiring care to maintain its luster, develops a character all its own. At $4427.86, this Citori sits in a tier where fit, finish, and pride of ownership are as much a part of the specification sheet as barrel length.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This is for the hunter who has moved past mere functionality. You’re the shooter who appreciates the mechanical symphony of a perfectly timed over-and-under action, where the lockup is tight and the triggers break like glass. You spend seasons in the field and your weekends at the club, and you want a single, superb tool for both. It’s for the individual who sees a firearm as an investment in craft—a piece that performs flawlessly and looks like a piece of art in the safe. It’s compatible with the entire ecosystem of Browning Invector-Plus chokes, letting you fine-tune your pattern for everything from 7/8 oz target loads to heavier field loads, no gunsmithing required.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Exceptional fit and finish straight from the factory. The scaled 20-gauge frame is a joy to carry all day. The Grade VII walnut and engraving offer undeniable prestige and beauty. Browning’s proven, reliable action design. Versatile with the IV+ choke system for field or sport.
Cons: The premium price tag is a significant investment. The high-gloss finish on wood and metal can show scratches and glare in bright sun—some prefer an oil finish for pure field work. It’s a specialized tool; if your primary need is a high-volume waterfowl gun, a 12-gauge might be more practical.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What chokes are included with this model?
A: It typically comes with a set of three Invector-Plus flush choke tubes (often Improved Cylinder, Modified, and Full), providing immediate versatility for most hunting and clay target scenarios.
Q: Is this a good choice for a beginner?
A: Look, while its handling is superb, its price and finish make it better suited for an experienced shooter who will appreciate the nuances and is ready for a lifetime gun. A beginner might better start with a standard-grade Citori to learn on.
Q: How does the 20-gauge frame handle recoil?
A: The over-and-under design and the gun’s weight, around 6.5 to 7 pounds, effectively soak up the manageable recoil of standard 20-gauge field loads. It’s very shootable, but always use proper mounting technique. This firearm is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, with an FFL transfer required for firearm purchases.
If the blend of timeless craftsmanship and modern performance aligns with your standards for a field gun, this Citori Grade 7 Lightning deserves your consideration.
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