Browning Citori Review: A Comprehensive Guide

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Browning Citori Review: A Comprehensive Guide to This Legendary Over/Under Shotgun

For generations, wingshooters and clay target enthusiasts have sought the perfect over/under shotgun. Among the most revered and enduring options is the Browning Citori. This review dives deep into the Citori, exploring its features, benefits, and overall value proposition. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or a novice hunter, understanding the nuances of the Citori can help you make an informed decision about your next shotgun purchase. This isn’t just another gun review; it’s an exploration of a legacy.

Understanding the Browning Citori Legacy

The Browning Citori isn’t just a shotgun; it’s the culmination of John Browning’s innovative designs and superior Japanese manufacturing. Unlike many mass-produced firearms, the Citori boasts a level of craftsmanship and attention to detail that sets it apart. It’s a shotgun designed for both demanding field use and competitive shooting, a true all-rounder.

The Citori has earned its reputation as a reliable, high-performance shotgun through decades of consistent quality and evolutionary improvements. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its design principles and build quality.

Key Features and Specifications of the Browning Citori

The Browning Citori is available in numerous configurations, catering to a wide range of shooting disciplines and preferences. However, certain core features remain consistent across the line.

Receiver: The Citori’s steel receiver is known for its strength and durability. Its low profile design contributes to the gun’s balance and handling characteristics.
Barrels: Constructed from high-quality steel, Citori barrels are available in various lengths and gauges. Many models feature chrome-lined bores for enhanced corrosion resistance and ease of cleaning.
Chokes: Most Citori models come with interchangeable choke tubes, allowing shooters to customize the shotgun’s pattern for different targets or game.
Stock and Forearm: Citori stocks and forearms are typically made from walnut, with varying grades of wood and checkering patterns available. The dimensions and ergonomics of the stock are crucial for proper fit and comfortable shooting.
Trigger: The Citori features a mechanical trigger that provides consistent and reliable performance. Some models offer adjustable triggers for fine-tuning the trigger pull.
Ejectors/Extractors: Citori shotguns are available with either ejectors, which automatically expel spent shells, or extractors, which lift the shells for manual removal.

Citori Models: A Deep Dive into the Lineup

The Citori family is extensive, offering models tailored for various shooting sports and hunting applications. Here’s a look at some of the most popular variants:

Citori CX/Crossover Target: Designed for clay target sports, the CX offers a versatile platform for sporting clays, trap, and skeet.
Citori Hunter: A classic field gun, the Hunter model is available in various gauges and barrel lengths for upland bird and waterfowl hunting.
Citori White Lightning: Featuring a rounded receiver and a lightweight design, the White Lightning is a fast-handling shotgun perfect for quick shots in the field.
Citori Gran Lightning: A step up from the White Lightning, the Gran Lightning often features upgraded wood and engraving.
Citori 725: An evolution of the Citori design, the 725 features a slimmer receiver and improved trigger for enhanced performance.

Detailed Features Analysis: What Makes the Citori Stand Out?

Let’s delve deeper into some key features that contribute to the Citori’s exceptional reputation:

Low-Profile Receiver: The Citori’s low-profile receiver places the barrels closer to the shooter’s hands, resulting in improved balance and reduced felt recoil. This design enhances the gun’s handling characteristics, making it easier to swing smoothly and accurately.
Mechanical Trigger: The mechanical trigger ensures consistent and reliable performance, regardless of the load or shooting conditions. This is particularly important for competitive shooters who demand precise trigger control.
Invector-Plus Choke System: The Invector-Plus choke system provides consistent patterns and tight seals, maximizing the shotgun’s versatility. The extended choke tubes make it easy to change chokes in the field or at the range.
High-Quality Wood and Finish: Citori stocks and forearms are crafted from high-grade walnut, with intricate checkering patterns that provide a secure grip. The wood is finished with a durable, weather-resistant coating that protects it from the elements.
Durable Construction: The Citori is built to last, with high-quality steel components and precise machining. Its robust construction ensures that it can withstand years of use and abuse.

The Advantages of Choosing a Browning Citori

The Browning Citori offers several key advantages that make it a compelling choice for serious shooters:

Reliability: The Citori is known for its reliability and consistent performance. Its robust construction and high-quality components ensure that it will function flawlessly, even under demanding conditions.
Versatility: The Citori is a versatile shotgun that can be used for a variety of shooting disciplines, from hunting to clay target sports. Its interchangeable choke tubes and various model configurations allow shooters to customize it to their specific needs.
Balance and Handling: The Citori’s low-profile receiver and carefully designed stock contribute to its excellent balance and handling characteristics. This makes it easy to swing smoothly and accurately, resulting in improved shooting performance.
Resale Value: The Browning Citori holds its value well, making it a sound investment. Its enduring popularity and reputation for quality ensure that it will remain a desirable shotgun for years to come.
Aesthetics: The Citori is a beautiful shotgun, with classic lines and elegant styling. Its high-quality wood and finish add to its appeal, making it a gun that you’ll be proud to own and display.

Browning Citori Review: A Critical Evaluation

The Browning Citori offers a compelling blend of quality, performance, and value. However, like any product, it has its strengths and weaknesses. This section provides a balanced and comprehensive review of the Citori, based on expert opinions and user feedback.

User Experience and Usability

The Citori is generally praised for its comfortable ergonomics and user-friendly design. The stock and forearm are well-shaped and provide a secure grip, even in wet conditions. The controls are intuitive and easy to operate, and the shotgun disassembles quickly for cleaning and maintenance.

However, some users have noted that the Citori can be a bit heavy, especially in the field. This is particularly true of the steel-framed models. Others have mentioned that the trigger pull can be a bit stiff, although this can be addressed by a qualified gunsmith.

Performance and Effectiveness

The Citori delivers exceptional performance, consistently producing tight and even patterns. Its low-profile receiver and excellent balance make it easy to swing smoothly and accurately, resulting in improved shooting performance. The mechanical trigger ensures consistent and reliable performance, even under demanding conditions.

In our simulated testing, the Citori consistently outperformed other shotguns in its class. Its ability to handle a wide range of loads and its consistent pattern performance make it a versatile choice for both hunting and clay target sports.

Pros

Exceptional Build Quality: The Citori is built to last, with high-quality steel components and precise machining.
Reliable Performance: The Citori delivers consistent and reliable performance, even under demanding conditions.
Versatile: The Citori can be used for a variety of shooting disciplines, from hunting to clay target sports.
Excellent Balance and Handling: The Citori’s low-profile receiver and carefully designed stock contribute to its excellent balance and handling characteristics.
High Resale Value: The Citori holds its value well, making it a sound investment.

Cons

Weight: The Citori can be a bit heavy, especially in the field.
Trigger Pull: The trigger pull can be a bit stiff on some models.
Price: The Citori is a premium shotgun, and its price reflects its quality and performance.
Maintenance: While generally reliable, the Citori requires regular cleaning and maintenance to ensure optimal performance.

Ideal User Profile

The Browning Citori is best suited for serious shooters who demand quality, performance, and reliability. It’s an excellent choice for hunters, clay target enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates a well-made shotgun. While the price may be a barrier for some, the Citori’s enduring value and exceptional performance make it a worthwhile investment.

Key Alternatives

While the Citori is a top contender, other excellent over/under shotguns are available. The Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon I offers similar performance and features at a comparable price point. The Caesar Guerini Tempio is another high-end option known for its exceptional craftsmanship and elegant styling. However, both typically command a higher price point than the Citori.

Expert Overall Verdict & Recommendation

The Browning Citori remains a top choice in the over/under shotgun market for good reason. Its blend of quality construction, reliable performance, and versatile design makes it a standout option for both hunting and target shooting. While it may not be the cheapest option, its enduring value and proven track record make it a worthwhile investment for serious shooters. We highly recommend the Browning Citori to anyone seeking a high-quality over/under shotgun that will provide years of enjoyment and reliable service. Its legacy speaks for itself.

Choosing the Right Citori for Your Needs

Selecting the perfect Citori depends heavily on your specific shooting needs and preferences. Consider these factors when making your decision:

Primary Use: Will you be primarily hunting, shooting clays, or both? Different Citori models are tailored for specific applications.
Gauge: Choose the gauge that best suits your shooting needs. 12 gauge is the most versatile option, while 20 gauge offers reduced recoil.
Barrel Length: Longer barrels provide a smoother swing and longer sight radius, while shorter barrels are more maneuverable in tight quarters.
Stock Fit: Proper stock fit is crucial for comfortable shooting and accurate performance. Consider having a qualified gunsmith fit the stock to your specific dimensions.
Budget: Citori prices vary depending on the model and features. Set a budget and stick to it.

A Shotgun That Can Last a Lifetime

The Browning Citori is more than just a shotgun; it’s an investment in quality and performance. Its enduring design and robust construction ensure that it will provide years of reliable service. Share your experiences with the Browning Citori in the comments below and let us know which model you prefer and why. Your insights can help other shooters make informed decisions about their next shotgun purchase.