Browning Citori: One of 2019's Top Over-Under Shotguns

by
posted on July 25, 2020
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
browning-lightning.jpg

Browning introduced the Citori in 1971, the fifth generation of John M. Browning’s famed B-25 Superposed, which rolled out in 1931 and grew to become the first over-under shotgun to gain favor with shooting enthusiasts. Models were produced by the factory until 1986 and today you can still buy a new one, although purchases must be made through Browning International’s Custom Shop.

Before you order, though, take a close look at the current Citori Lightning lineup. They have many of the same features that made the original family member a classic, and are still handcrafted, not mass produced.

The numbers indicate you’ll not be alone if you decide the modern iteration is more to your liking. The 725 version of the Citori may have been the number one over-under shotgun in 2019, but the Lightning models have ranked No. 3 in GunBroker.com’s annual sales rankings for the past three years.

There are three Lightning models currently available; White Lightning, Feather Lightning and Gran Lightning. MSRPs are, respectively, $2,669.99 to $2,739.99, $2,869,99 and $3,329.99 to $3,399.99. This branch of the Citori line gets its name from the rounded pistol grip, designed to speed the gun to the shoulder for those “lightning” fast birds. Each feature impeccable checkering and engraving, but the versions differ slightly in looks and features.

The Gran model is available in 12, 20 and 28 gauges, as well as .410 bore. Barrel lengths are either 26 or 28 inches and each feature the Invector-Plus Extended choke system. Three extended Midas-grade chokes are included. All chamber 3-inch shotshells, with the exception of the 28-gauge version, which digests 2 3/4-inch ammo.

The Feather comes in 12 and 20 gauge, with barrels of 26 or 28 inches in both chamberings. The big difference with this one is in the weight savings provided by its high-strength alloy receiver.

The metal on the White’s receiver is not blued, color case-hardened or colored in any way. It’s a special look and is available in the same chamberings, barrel lengths as the Gran.

Latest

springfield armory kuna
springfield armory kuna

Springfield Kuna: A PDW For The Masses

Small, yet fierce, the namesake of Springfield Armory’s latest large-format pistol is a revered forest dweller in the land of its Croatian manufacturing partner, HS Produkt. The new Kuna is poised to be just as welcome in America.

The Armed Citizen® June 30, 2025

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Book Review: Clockwork Basilisk: The Early Revolvers Of Elisha Collier & Artemas Wheeler

The result of a decade of research, Clockwork Basilisk is a comprehensive, two-volume history of the rare revolvers that preceded the development of the well-known Colt guns of the 1830s.

Preview: 1791 Gunleather Cobra Gun Belt 01

Employing the same rugged and rigid 0.25"-thick American steerhide as 1791 Gunleather’s original Gun Belt 01, the new Cobra Gun Belt 01 offers enhanced ease of use by taking advantage of a high-strength Cobra quick-latch/release buckle.

NRA CEO Hamlin and President Bachenberg Hold First Virtual Townhall

In the interests of transparency, NRA CEO and EVP Doug Hamlin and NRA President Bill Bachenberg held a live Townhall event, where both answered direct questions from NRA members.

Benelli Adds New 28-Gauge Models to Super Black Eagle 3 Line

Benelli initially introduced the 28-ga. chambering to its Super Black Eagle 3 line in 2022, but this year, the company added three new models tailored specifically to hunters.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.