Description
The Browning Citori White Lightning 16 Ga, 28″, 2.75″, Grade II/ Grade III Walnut is a classic, field-ready over-under shotgun built for the discerning upland hunter. It’s a modern iteration of Browning’s legendary Citori line, chambered in the sweet-shooting 16-gauge, featuring a 28-inch barrel set, and dressed in high-grade walnut with a distinctive white receiver and scroll engraving. This is a purpose-built tool for the hunter who values tradition, balance, and a fast, instinctive swing.
Key Features
- Iconic 16-Gauge Chambering: Offers the perfect middle ground between 12 and 20-gauge—less recoil than a 12, more payload than a 20, with a legendary reputation for smooth, effective shooting.
- White Lightning Finish: The polished, nickel-plated receiver isn’t just for looks. It provides excellent corrosion resistance and creates a striking visual contrast against the walnut and deep-blue barrels.
- Grade II/III Walnut Stock: You’re getting select American walnut with a satin finish. The wood-to-metal fit is typically excellent, and the grain is far above standard factory grade.
- 28″ Barrel Length: This is the goldilocks length for a 16-gauge field gun. It provides a smooth swing for crossing shots on birds like pheasant and grouse without feeling cumbersome in tight cover.
- Proven Citori Action: Built on Browning’s rugged, time-tested boxlock action. It’s simple, reliable, and locks up tight. I’ve put hundreds of rounds through various Citoris without a single mechanical hiccup.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 16 Gauge (2.75″ Chambers) |
| Barrel Length | 28 Inches |
| Chokes | Invector (Choke Tubes Included) |
| Stock | Grade II/III Walnut |
| Receiver | Polished Nickel (White Lightning) |
| Average Weight | Approx. 6.8 lbs |
The gun comes with a set of Invector choke tubes, so you can tailor your pattern for close-flushing woodcock or longer-range pheasants. The single selective trigger and automatic ejectors are standard—no gunsmithing required, it’s ready for the field out of the box. The 16-gauge, frankly, is a joy to carry all day. That weight of around 6.8 pounds strikes a perfect balance between stability and fatigue. It points naturally, and the 16-gauge shell has a cult following for good reason. It’s a cartridge that rewards good shooting form without punishing your shoulder.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This is for the upland purist. If you spend your autumns chasing roosters in CRP fields, grouse in the hardwoods, or quail in the draws, this Citori speaks your language. It’s also for the shooter who appreciates a firearm with soul—a tool that blends modern reliability with classic aesthetics. You won’t see many of these in the duck blind; this is a field gun through and through. It’s compatible with the entire ecosystem of 16-gauge ammunition from brands like Federal, Fiocchi, and RST, though you’ll want to plan your ammo purchases a bit more carefully than with a 12-gauge.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The 16-gauge balance and shootability are phenomenal. The White Lightning finish is durable and stunning in the field. The Citori action is arguably the most proven over-under platform in the world. The grade of walnut at this price point is a significant value add.
Cons: 16-gauge ammunition, while available, is less common and sometimes more expensive than 12 or 20-gauge. The polished receiver can show fingerprints and requires a bit more care than a matte finish. At a price of $1694.43, it’s an investment, but you’re paying for a legacy firearm that will last generations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the 16-gauge obsolete or hard to find ammo for?
A: Not at all. While not as ubiquitous as 12-gauge, 16-gauge shells are produced by all major manufacturers. You might not find every load at a big-box store, but specialty retailers and online sources stock a great variety. It’s a cartridge that’s experiencing a well-deserved resurgence.
Q: What’s the difference between Grade II and Grade III walnut?
A: It primarily comes down to the figure and grain of the wood. Grade III will exhibit more pronounced figuring, darker contrasts, and generally more aesthetic appeal. Both are high-quality, but Grade III is a step up in visual presentation. The choice often comes down to the specific stock blank and personal preference.
Q: Can this handle steel shot for waterfowl?
A: With the correct, modern Invector choke tubes rated for steel, yes, it can safely fire steel shot. However, the 16-gauge is not a common waterfowl choice today due to payload restrictions. This gun’s heart is in the uplands—that’s where its balance and handling truly shine. An FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases, and this model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Look, if you’ve been curious about the legendary 16-gauge or want a Citori that stands out from the crowd with purpose-built elegance, the White Lightning deserves a close look. It’s a modern classic that handles like a dream.
See the detailed specs and availability on our site.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.