A Legacy Forged in Steel and Tradition
From the hallowed grounds of competitive clay shooting to the heart of the hunting grounds, the glint of a finely crafted shotgun can evoke a sense of respect. More than just a tool, it’s an extension of the shooter, a symbol of skill, and a testament to enduring craftsmanship. Among the most revered names in the world of shotguns, Browning stands tall, and within its distinguished lineup, the Browning Citori series shines brightly. This article delves deep into one particular gem within that series: the Browning Citori Special Steel 20 Ga, exploring its nuances, performance, and the reasons why it remains a top choice for discerning shooters.
Unveiling the Engineering Marvel: Design and Build
The essence of the Browning Citori Special Steel 20 Ga lies in its meticulous design. The over-under configuration, a hallmark of precision and balance, allows for rapid follow-up shots and offers a clean sight picture. This layout contributes to a lower profile and reduced felt recoil. The receiver, the heart of the shotgun, is crafted from high-strength steel. This choice of material isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about ensuring the gun’s structural integrity and its ability to withstand the stresses of repeated firing over many years. It’s a testament to Browning’s commitment to longevity.
The stock and fore-end, frequently crafted from beautifully grained walnut, offer both elegance and functionality. The wood is often hand-finished, adding to the premium feel and enhancing the tactile experience. The ergonomics are carefully considered, with a stock design that promotes comfortable shouldering and a natural cheek weld, which aids in acquiring the target quickly and accurately. The fore-end, often featuring a Schnabel or other elegant design, provides a secure and comfortable grip, allowing for precise control during swinging and tracking the target. The quality of the wood, the finish applied, and the subtle shaping all converge to deliver a truly premium feel.
Choke System and Barrel Capabilities
The barrels of the Browning Citori Special Steel 20 Ga are designed with an emphasis on both performance and versatility. One of the key features is its compatibility with steel shot, crucial for hunters in areas with restrictions on lead shot. This means the barrels are built to withstand the rigors of steel shot, which is harder than lead and exerts more force on the barrel. The use of Special Steel in the barrel construction contributes to the shotgun’s reputation for durability.
The shotgun typically incorporates a sophisticated choke system. Browning often uses its Invector-Plus choke system, offering a range of choke tubes that can be easily interchanged. This versatility is paramount. Depending on the chosen choke, the shooter can fine-tune the shot pattern to suit the specific target distance, the type of game being hunted, or the chosen sporting clays station. From open chokes like Skeet for close-range targets to more constricted chokes like Full for longer distances, the shooter has complete control over the pattern density and its spread. This level of customization is a significant advantage in various shooting scenarios.
Unlocking Precision: Action and Operation
The action of the Browning Citori Special Steel 20 Ga is a study in mechanical efficiency. The over-under design provides a straightforward and reliable mechanism. The ejectors swiftly and cleanly remove spent shells, ensuring smooth and uninterrupted reloading. The single selective trigger allows the shooter to choose which barrel fires first, enhancing versatility and optimizing for different shooting scenarios. This trigger system is also engineered to provide a crisp and clean pull, minimizing any disturbance during the shot and contributing to greater accuracy.
Safety is a paramount concern, and the Citori is equipped with a reliable safety mechanism. The tang-mounted safety is easily accessible and provides a positive on/off function, minimizing the risk of accidental discharges. It also includes an automatic barrel selector, allowing the shooter to choose between the upper and lower barrels with ease. The combined features ensure that the operation of the shotgun is both smooth and secure, instilling confidence in the shooter.
Ergonomics and the Shooting Experience
The weight and balance of the Browning Citori Special Steel 20 Ga are carefully calibrated to enhance the shooting experience. The 20-gauge platform is inherently lighter and nimbler than its larger counterparts, the 12-gauge. This characteristic makes it a joy to carry in the field for extended periods and helps in quicker target acquisition. The balance of the shotgun, a result of the carefully chosen materials and expert construction, plays a pivotal role in how it handles. It allows for smooth and controlled swings, whether tracking a flushing bird or breaking a clay target.
The trigger pull is typically smooth and predictable, allowing for precise shot placement. The comfortable stock design, with its thoughtful dimensions and well-defined cheek piece, ensures a good fit and a natural sight picture. These ergonomic elements combine to create an intuitive shooting experience, where the gun seems to become an extension of the shooter’s body.
Mastering Different Disciplines
The versatility of the Browning Citori Special Steel 20 Ga makes it an excellent choice across a variety of shooting disciplines. In the hunting field, its manageable weight and effective performance make it a favorite for upland bird hunting. Its ability to handle a wide range of ammunition and choke configurations provides the hunter with the flexibility needed to engage different types of game at various distances.
For skeet, trap, and sporting clays, the Citori shines. Its balance and smooth action contribute to consistent breaks and accurate target engagement. The fast swing and crisp trigger allow the shooter to react quickly and effectively, leading to improved scores. The 20-gauge offers a pleasant shooting experience and is often preferred by shooters looking for a less punishing recoil than a 12-gauge. This makes it a fantastic option for shooters of all experience levels, even for extended shooting sessions.
Harnessing the Benefits
The Browning Citori Special Steel 20 Ga offers a wealth of advantages. Its robust build translates to exceptional durability, ensuring that the shotgun will last for generations with proper care. The accuracy is exceptional, with the ability to achieve consistent patterns at varying distances. The craftsmanship and the use of high-quality materials, such as the steel receiver and the walnut stock, give the shotgun an air of refined elegance.
The smooth action and reliable operation add to the confidence that the shooter feels. The design provides a comfortable and intuitive shooting experience, allowing the shooter to focus on the task at hand, the engagement of the target. The Browning Citori Special Steel 20 Ga also tends to hold its value well, representing a sound investment for the discerning shooter.
A Consideration: Potential Drawbacks
While the Browning Citori Special Steel 20 Ga presents a compelling package, it’s essential to acknowledge any potential drawbacks. The initial investment is significant, reflecting the quality of the materials and the craftsmanship. The maintenance is relatively straightforward, though the shooter should remain attentive to the cleaning process and occasional lubrication.
A Comparison of Worthy Competitors
Several other shotguns compete within the 20-gauge over-under market, but the Browning Citori Special Steel 20 Ga maintains a strong position. Other options, such as the Beretta Silver Pigeon or some models from Benelli, offer worthy alternatives. The Beretta, with its reputation for elegance and performance, competes closely, while Benelli offers some exceptional semi-automatic shotguns. The Citori, however, often provides a greater degree of durability and is valued for its robustness.
The Art of Care and Maintenance
Proper maintenance is crucial to preserving the functionality and longevity of the Browning Citori Special Steel 20 Ga. After each shooting session, the shotgun should be thoroughly cleaned. This involves removing any residue from the barrel, action, and choke tubes. A quality gun cleaning solvent and appropriate brushes should be used to achieve this. Lubricating the moving parts with a suitable gun oil ensures smooth operation and prevents corrosion. The stock and fore-end can be wiped down with a soft cloth and protected from moisture. Storing the shotgun in a dry, secure location, protected from extreme temperatures and humidity, is also a good practice.
In Conclusion: The Right Choice?
The Browning Citori Special Steel 20 Ga is far more than just a shotgun; it’s a testament to the passion for excellence that continues to define Browning. Its combination of craftsmanship, performance, and versatility makes it a standout choice for shooters of all experience levels. From the refined aesthetics to the rugged reliability, it’s an investment that will bring joy to the discerning shooter for years to come.
If you’re looking for a durable, accurate, and beautiful over-under shotgun that will perform admirably in various shooting disciplines, the Browning Citori Special Steel 20 Ga deserves your serious consideration. It’s a legacy firearm, built to provide a lifetime of shooting pleasure. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of a fine shotgun, a tool that can also be a source of pride and satisfaction for generations.
