Description
The Browning Citori Gran Lightning 16 Ga, 28″, 2.75″, Walnut Stock, Polished Blued is a premium over-and-under shotgun designed for the discerning wingshooter. It combines classic aesthetics with modern mechanical reliability, offering a balanced, fast-handling platform for upland game and sporting clays. This specific model features a 28-inch barrel chambered for 2.75-inch shells, a select walnut stock, and a deep, polished blued finish for durability and timeless appeal.
Key Features
- 16 Gauge Chambering: Delivers effective patterns with less felt recoil than a 12-gauge, making it ideal for extended days in the field.
- 28″ Barrel Length: Provides an excellent balance between swing speed and sight plane for fast, accurate shots on crossing birds.
- Select Walnut Stock: Features a hand-checkered pistol grip and fore-end for a secure, classic grip in all weather conditions.
- Polished Blued Finish: Offers superior corrosion resistance and a deep, traditional luster that stands up to field use.
- Mechanical Trigger: Provides a crisp, consistent pull shot after shot, a critical feature when a second, quick shot on a flushing covey is required.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 16 Gauge |
| Chamber | 2.75″ |
| Barrel Length | 28 Inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 45.5 Inches |
| Weight | Approx. 6.8 lbs |
| Finish | Polished Blued Steel, Walnut Stock |
Weighing in at approximately 6.8 pounds, this Citori moves with an intuitive fluidity. The 16-gauge chambering is the sweet spot for many hunters—it patterns effectively for pheasant and grouse without the heft of a 12-gauge. When it comes to a long day walking CRP fields for Missouri quail, that weight difference is tangible. The mechanical trigger is a no-gunsmithing required feature you can trust; it’s reliable, simple, and built for thousands of rounds. This model is priced at $2291.52, reflecting its position as a lifetime-grade firearm.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This is for the hunter who values tradition but demands performance. It’s for the shooter who spends more time in the field than at the club and needs a tool that simply works. If your season involves chasing woodcock in damp timber, roosters in picked corn, or doves over a sunflower field, this is a primary weapon. It’s also a superb choice for the sporting clays shooter who appreciates a lighter, faster-handling gun for courses with true pair presentations. The fit and finish are drop-in ready for serious use, requiring no break-in period to achieve reliable function.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The 16-gauge offers a fantastic balance of power and shootability. The 28-inch barrel provides a smooth, quick swing. Browning’s build quality ensures longevity and consistent lockup. The classic walnut and blued steel construction is both durable and aesthetically superior to synthetic options. It’s a proven design with decades of field validation.
Cons: The premium materials and craftsmanship command a premium price point. 16-gauge ammunition, while available, is not as ubiquitous as 12 or 20-gauge loads, so planning ahead is wise. That said, its quality justifies the investment for a dedicated wingshooter. It ships to Missouri and compliant US states through licensed FFL dealers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the 16-gauge suitable for waterfowl hunting?
A: With modern non-toxic shot shells in appropriate sizes, yes, it can be effective at reasonable ranges. However, check local regulations, as some areas may have shell capacity or specific gauge restrictions for waterfowl. For most upland and small game applications in Missouri, it is perfectly capable.
Q: What chokes does this model come with?
A: The Browning Citori Gran Lightning typically includes Invector-DS choke tubes. Common configurations include Improved Cylinder and Modified tubes, providing versatility from close-range woodcock to longer pheasant shots. They are compatible with the extensive line of Browning Invector-DS aftermarket chokes for further customization.
Q: How does it compare to a Citori CX or Cynergy?
A: The Gran Lightning sits in Browning’s traditional hunting line, emphasizing classic lines and field handling. The CX is geared more toward competitive clay sports with a higher rib and different balance. The Cynergy uses a modern, monoblock hinge design. The Gran Lightning is purpose-built for the field hunter who prefers a timeless profile and pointability.
Look, a shotgun is an extension of the hunter. The Browning Citori Gran Lightning 16 Gauge removes doubt from the equation—it points where you look and fires when you need it to. Its construction means it will handle the knocks of briar patches and the moisture of a fall morning without complaint. This is a tool for creating memories, season after season. Available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
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