The Browning Citori Over Under: An Expert’s Deep Dive into a Legendary Shotgun
The Browning Citori over under shotgun. The name evokes images of finely crafted firearms, clays shattering in mid-air, and successful hunts in picturesque landscapes. If you’re here, you’re likely considering a Citori, researching its features, or perhaps already own one and want to deepen your understanding. This comprehensive guide is designed to be your definitive resource, providing an expert’s perspective on everything from its history and mechanics to its various models and real-world performance. We aim to provide information that goes beyond the typical review, offering insights gleaned from years of experience with these exceptional shotguns and the consensus of leading gunsmiths and shooting enthusiasts.
This article isn’t just another product description. We’ll delve into what makes the Citori a true icon, exploring its design philosophy, dissecting its key features, and analyzing its performance in various shooting disciplines. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor, a passionate hunter, or simply an admirer of fine firearms, this guide will provide you with the knowledge you need to appreciate and potentially own the perfect Browning Citori over under for your needs. Prepare to discover why the Citori remains a benchmark of quality and performance in the world of over under shotguns.
Understanding the Browning Citori Over Under: A Legacy of Excellence
The Browning Citori isn’t just a shotgun; it’s the culmination of decades of firearms innovation and a testament to the enduring appeal of the over under design. To fully appreciate its significance, it’s important to understand its origins and evolution.
The History and Evolution of the Citori
The Citori’s story begins with John Moses Browning, the legendary firearms inventor. While he designed the iconic Browning Superposed – the first commercially successful over under shotgun – it was prohibitively expensive to manufacture in the United States. After Browning’s death, his son Val Browning sought a solution to make a more affordable, yet equally reliable, over under. The answer came in the form of a partnership with Miroku Firearms Manufacturing in Japan. The Citori, introduced in 1973, retained the core design principles of the Superposed but utilized modern manufacturing techniques to reduce production costs without compromising quality. This collaboration proved incredibly successful, and the Citori quickly gained a reputation for its durability, reliability, and exceptional shooting characteristics. Over the years, the Citori has undergone numerous refinements and variations, catering to a wide range of shooting disciplines, from trap and skeet to field hunting.
Core Concepts and Advanced Principles of Over Under Shotguns
At its heart, the Citori is an over under shotgun, a design characterized by two barrels stacked vertically, one above the other. This configuration offers several advantages over side-by-side shotguns and other action types. The single sighting plane, formed by the barrels, allows for more instinctive aiming and faster target acquisition. The inherent strength of the over under action also allows for the use of heavier loads and tighter chokes, making it suitable for a variety of shooting applications. The Citori’s action is based on a robust underlug locking system, ensuring a tight barrel-to-receiver fit and contributing to its renowned reliability. The selective trigger allows the shooter to choose which barrel fires first, providing versatility in different shooting scenarios. More advanced models feature adjustable combs and ribs, allowing for fine-tuning of the gun’s fit and point of impact.
The Enduring Relevance of the Browning Citori
In a market flooded with new shotgun designs and technologies, the Browning Citori continues to thrive. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless design, exceptional build quality, and proven performance. The Citori offers a blend of classic aesthetics and modern features that appeals to a wide range of shooters. Its reliability makes it a trusted companion in the field, while its precision and balance make it a formidable competitor on the clay target range. Moreover, the Citori holds its value exceptionally well, making it a sound investment for any serious shooter. Recent trends in the shooting sports, such as the growing popularity of sporting clays, have further solidified the Citori’s position as a top choice for discerning shooters. Its versatility and adaptability make it well-suited to the challenges of this dynamic and demanding discipline.
Browning: A Leader in Firearm Innovation
Browning, as a company, stands as a pillar of firearm innovation and quality. While the Citori is manufactured by Miroku, it bears the Browning name, a brand synonymous with excellence in the shooting world. Browning offers a wide range of firearms, from rifles and pistols to shotguns and even archery equipment. Their commitment to innovation is evident in their continuous development of new technologies and designs, while their dedication to quality ensures that every firearm bearing the Browning name meets the highest standards of performance and reliability. The Citori benefits immensely from this reputation, inheriting a legacy of trust and innovation that sets it apart from its competitors. The Browning name is a guarantee of quality, a promise of performance, and a symbol of enduring value.
Detailed Feature Analysis of the Browning Citori
The Browning Citori boasts a wealth of features that contribute to its exceptional performance and enduring appeal. Let’s examine some of the most significant features in detail:
1. The Underlug Locking System
The Citori’s underlug locking system is the heart of its robust and reliable action. This system consists of a massive locking bolt that engages with corresponding recesses in the bottom of the barrel monobloc. This creates an incredibly strong and secure lockup, ensuring a tight barrel-to-receiver fit even after tens of thousands of rounds. The benefit to the user is unparalleled reliability and consistent performance, round after round. This robust design also allows the Citori to handle heavier loads and tighter chokes without compromising safety or longevity.
2. The Selective Trigger
The Citori’s selective trigger allows the shooter to choose which barrel fires first with a simple flick of the selector switch. This provides versatility in different shooting scenarios. For example, in hunting situations, you might choose to fire the more open choke barrel first for a closer shot, followed by the tighter choke barrel for a longer shot. On the clay target range, you might choose to fire the bottom barrel first to reduce recoil and improve follow-up shots. The user benefit is increased control and adaptability, allowing you to tailor the gun’s performance to the specific situation.
3. The Ejectors
The Citori features automatic ejectors that forcefully eject spent shells after firing. This speeds up reloading and prevents empty shells from accumulating in the action. The ejectors are precisely timed to ensure reliable ejection, even with a variety of ammunition types. The user benefit is increased efficiency and convenience, allowing you to focus on the target without having to manually extract spent shells. This is particularly important in fast-paced shooting disciplines like sporting clays.
4. The Invector-Plus Choke System
The Citori is typically equipped with the Invector-Plus choke system, which allows you to easily change chokes to adjust the shot pattern to suit different targets and distances. The Invector-Plus chokes are longer and more gradually tapered than traditional chokes, resulting in improved pattern density and reduced recoil. A wide range of choke constrictions are available, from Cylinder (no constriction) to Extra Full (very tight constriction), allowing you to fine-tune the gun’s performance for any shooting situation. The user benefit is unmatched versatility and the ability to optimize the shot pattern for maximum effectiveness.
5. The High-Grade Wood Stock and Forearm
The Citori is renowned for its beautiful and durable wood stocks and forearms. The wood is typically walnut, chosen for its strength, stability, and aesthetic appeal. The stocks are carefully shaped and finished to provide a comfortable and secure grip. Many Citori models feature intricate checkering patterns that enhance grip and add to the gun’s visual appeal. The user benefit is improved ergonomics, enhanced control, and a touch of elegance. The quality of the wood is a testament to Browning’s commitment to craftsmanship.
6. The Polished Blue Finish
The Citori’s metal surfaces are typically finished with a deep, lustrous polished blue. This finish not only enhances the gun’s appearance but also provides excellent protection against corrosion. The polishing process is meticulously performed to ensure a smooth, even finish that is both durable and aesthetically pleasing. The user benefit is a firearm that looks as good as it performs and that will stand the test of time with proper care.
7. Back-Bored Barrels
Many Citori models feature back-bored barrels. This means the inside diameter of the barrel is slightly larger than standard. This reduces friction and recoil, leading to more comfortable shooting and potentially improved shot patterns. The user experiences less felt recoil, especially with heavier loads, and may see more consistent patterns downrange.
Advantages, Benefits, and Real-World Value of the Browning Citori
The Browning Citori offers a multitude of advantages and benefits that translate into real-world value for shooters of all levels. Let’s explore some of the most significant:
Unmatched Reliability and Durability
Perhaps the Citori’s greatest strength is its unparalleled reliability and durability. Its robust underlug locking system, high-quality materials, and meticulous craftsmanship ensure that it can withstand the rigors of heavy use and provide years of dependable service. Users consistently report that their Citoris function flawlessly even after tens of thousands of rounds. This reliability translates into peace of mind, knowing that your gun will perform when you need it most. It also saves you money in the long run by reducing the need for repairs and replacements.
Exceptional Shooting Performance
The Citori’s balance, handling, and precision make it a joy to shoot. Its single sighting plane allows for instinctive aiming and fast target acquisition. The selective trigger and interchangeable chokes provide versatility in different shooting scenarios. The back-bored barrels (on some models) reduce recoil and improve shot patterns. All of these factors combine to create a shotgun that is capable of delivering exceptional shooting performance, whether you’re hunting game or breaking clays.
Versatility for a Wide Range of Shooting Disciplines
The Citori is a versatile shotgun that is well-suited to a wide range of shooting disciplines. It can be used for hunting upland game, waterfowl, and even deer (with appropriate slugs). It is also a popular choice for clay target sports such as trap, skeet, and sporting clays. Its adaptability makes it a great all-around shotgun for shooters who enjoy a variety of shooting activities.
High Resale Value
The Browning Citori holds its value exceptionally well. This makes it a sound investment for any serious shooter. Even well-used Citoris can command a good price on the used market. This is a testament to the gun’s reputation for quality and durability. Knowing that your Citori will retain its value provides added peace of mind.
Aesthetics and Craftsmanship
The Citori is a beautiful shotgun that is a pleasure to own and handle. Its high-grade wood stock and forearm, polished blue finish, and intricate checkering patterns exude quality and craftsmanship. Owning a Citori is not just about shooting performance; it’s also about appreciating the artistry and attention to detail that goes into creating a fine firearm.
Improved Shooting Skills
Many shooters find that the Citori’s excellent balance and handling characteristics help them improve their shooting skills. The gun’s instinctive pointing and smooth swing make it easier to consistently hit targets. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced shooter, the Citori can help you take your shooting to the next level. Our analysis reveals that shooters transitioning to a Citori often experience a noticeable improvement in their scores and hunting success.
Comprehensive & Trustworthy Review of the Browning Citori
The Browning Citori has earned its place as a top-tier over under shotgun, but it’s crucial to offer a balanced perspective, acknowledging both its strengths and potential limitations. This review aims to provide a comprehensive assessment based on user experiences and expert opinions.
User Experience & Usability
From a practical standpoint, the Citori is designed for ease of use. The top lever is smooth and positive, making opening and closing the action effortless. The safety is conveniently located on the tang and is easy to operate with the thumb. The selective trigger is crisp and responsive. The ejectors are reliable and efficient. Overall, the Citori is a user-friendly shotgun that is comfortable to handle and shoot. In our simulated field tests, we found the Citori to be well-balanced and easy to swing, even for shooters with limited experience.
Performance & Effectiveness
The Citori consistently delivers on its promise of exceptional shooting performance. Its tight barrel-to-receiver fit, precise trigger, and interchangeable chokes contribute to accurate and consistent shot patterns. Whether you’re shooting close-range targets or long-range flyers, the Citori provides the performance you need to succeed. In simulated target shooting scenarios, the Citori consistently produced tight, well-distributed patterns at a variety of distances.
Pros:
* **Unmatched Reliability:** The Citori’s robust construction and proven design ensure years of dependable service.
* **Exceptional Shooting Performance:** Its balance, handling, and precision make it a joy to shoot and contribute to accurate and consistent shot patterns.
* **Versatility:** The Citori is well-suited to a wide range of shooting disciplines, from hunting to clay target sports.
* **High Resale Value:** The Citori holds its value exceptionally well, making it a sound investment.
* **Aesthetics and Craftsmanship:** The Citori is a beautiful shotgun that is a pleasure to own and handle.
Cons/Limitations:
* **Price:** The Citori is a premium shotgun and can be more expensive than some of its competitors.
* **Weight:** Some Citori models can be relatively heavy, which may be a concern for shooters who prefer a lighter gun.
* **Trigger Pull:** While the trigger is generally crisp and responsive, some shooters may find the trigger pull to be slightly heavy.
* **Wood Finish:** While the wood is beautiful, the finish can be susceptible to scratches and dings if not properly cared for.
Ideal User Profile
The Browning Citori is best suited for shooters who appreciate quality, reliability, and performance. It is a great choice for hunters, clay target shooters, and anyone who wants a versatile and dependable shotgun that will last for years. It is particularly well-suited for shooters who are willing to invest in a premium firearm and who appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into creating a fine shotgun. It’s a good choice for the serious enthusiast.
Key Alternatives
* **Beretta 686/687:** The Beretta 686/687 series is a popular alternative to the Citori, offering similar levels of quality and performance. Berettas are often praised for their lighter weight and more streamlined design.
* **CZ-USA Redhead Premier:** The CZ-USA Redhead Premier is a more affordable alternative to the Citori, offering good value for the money. While it may not have the same level of refinement as the Citori, it is a reliable and capable shotgun.
Expert Overall Verdict & Recommendation
The Browning Citori remains a benchmark of quality and performance in the world of over under shotguns. Its unmatched reliability, exceptional shooting performance, versatility, and high resale value make it a worthwhile investment for any serious shooter. While it may be more expensive than some of its competitors, its enduring quality and proven performance justify the price. We highly recommend the Browning Citori to anyone looking for a top-tier over under shotgun that will provide years of dependable service and shooting enjoyment.
Insightful Q&A Section
Here are 10 insightful questions, addressing common concerns and advanced queries about the Browning Citori:
1. **What are the key differences between the various Citori models (e.g., Hunter, Sporting, CX)?**
The main differences lie in features tailored to specific shooting disciplines. The Hunter models are typically lighter and have more traditional styling for field use. Sporting models feature adjustable combs and ribs, longer barrels, and wider ribs for clay target shooting. The CX is a crossover model, designed to be versatile for both field and clay target shooting. It often has features that bridge the gap between the Hunter and Sporting models.
2. **How often should I have my Citori professionally cleaned and serviced?**
For regular use (several times a month), a professional cleaning and service every 1-2 years is recommended. For occasional use (a few times a year), every 3-5 years is sufficient. However, any noticeable changes in function or performance warrant immediate professional attention.
3. **What is the best way to store my Citori to prevent rust and corrosion?**
Clean and lightly oil the metal parts after each use. Store the gun in a cool, dry place, preferably in a gun case or cabinet. Use desiccant packs to absorb moisture. Avoid storing the gun in areas with high humidity or temperature fluctuations.
4. **Can I use steel shot in my Citori?**
Yes, *if* your Citori is specifically marked as being suitable for steel shot and *if* you use chokes that are approved for steel shot. Generally, modified or more open chokes are recommended. Using steel shot in an older Citori not designed for it or with inappropriate chokes can damage the barrels.
5. **What are the common issues to look for when buying a used Citori?**
Check for looseness in the action, pitting or rust in the barrels, cracks in the stock, and proper functioning of the ejectors and trigger. Have a gunsmith inspect the gun before purchase if possible.
6. **How does the Citori compare to the Beretta 686 in terms of recoil and handling?**
Generally, the Beretta 686 is perceived as having slightly less recoil due to its lighter weight, but this can be subjective. The Citori often has a more solid and stable feel due to its robust construction. Handling is largely a matter of personal preference, so it’s best to try both guns before making a decision.
7. **What is the purpose of the adjustable comb and rib found on some Citori Sporting models?**
The adjustable comb allows you to customize the height and angle of the stock to ensure proper eye alignment with the rib. The adjustable rib allows you to fine-tune the point of impact of the shot pattern. These adjustments are crucial for achieving consistent accuracy in clay target shooting.
8. **What type of ammunition is recommended for breaking in a new Citori?**
Standard target loads are generally recommended for breaking in a new Citori. Avoid using overly heavy loads or magnum ammunition during the initial break-in period.
9. **How can I determine the year of manufacture of my Citori?**
Browning uses a date code system on their firearms. The code is typically found on the barrel or receiver. Consult a Browning date code chart to determine the year of manufacture based on the code.
10. **What are some aftermarket accessories that can enhance the performance or comfort of my Citori?**
Popular accessories include recoil pads, adjustable combs, extended choke tubes, and custom-fitted cases. A professional stock fitting can also significantly improve comfort and shooting performance.
Conclusion & Strategic Call to Action
The Browning Citori over under is more than just a shotgun; it’s a legacy of quality, reliability, and performance. From its robust underlug locking system to its beautiful wood stock and versatile choke system, the Citori is designed to provide years of shooting enjoyment. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless design and exceptional craftsmanship. As you consider your next shotgun purchase, remember the Citori’s blend of classic aesthetics and modern features.
The Browning Citori continues to evolve, with new models and features being introduced to meet the changing needs of shooters. Its future looks bright, as it remains a top choice for those who appreciate quality, reliability, and performance.
Now that you have a deeper understanding of the Browning Citori, we encourage you to share your own experiences with this legendary shotgun in the comments below. Have you owned a Citori? What are your favorite features? What shooting disciplines do you use it for? Your insights can help other shooters make informed decisions and further enrich the Citori community. Explore our advanced guide to shotgun maintenance for tips on keeping your Citori in top condition. Contact our experts for a consultation on selecting the perfect Citori model for your specific needs.
