#20 of 100 Browning Miroku BT-99 Pigeon Grade Engraved 12 GA Shotgun, 2002
SOLD FOR: $3,283
LSB#: 240123WC011
Make: Browning
Model: BT-99 Pigeon Grade
Serial Number: 03020MY171
Year of Manufacture: 2002 (“MY” Date Code)
Gauge: 12 Gauge 2 ¾”
Action Type: Top-Break Single Barrel with Ejector
Markings: The receiver features decorative floral scroll and border engraving with gold pigeons on either side. The top tang is marked “03020MY171”. The forend hardware is marked “03020”. The left side of the barrel is marked “BROWNING ARMS COMPANY MORGAN, UTAH / MADE IN JAPAN/MIROKU”. The left side of the locking lug is marked “34” and “INVECTOR / PLUS”. The bottom of the barrel is marked “03020”, “H” in a dashed circle, a circled “SP” with three lines, and “NP”. The right side of the barrel is marked “BT-99 SPECIAL STEEL 12 GA. SHELLS 2 3/4” and “PAT. 5933997”. The bottom of the lugs is marked “NP”.
Barrel Length: 34” Ported
Choke: the barrel is threaded to accept different chokes and is currently installed with a Briley extended Modified choke. There are a myriad of chokes including Briley Extended, Browning Comp ‘N Chokes, and Invector Plus chokes, ranging in size from Cylinder to Extra Full. Please see the photos.
Weight: 8 lbs. 4.8 oz.
Sights / Optics: This shotgun is mounted with a red fiber optic beaded blade front sight and a small white mid-rib bead. Both of these are mounted on a high-ventilated trap rib. The rib has wavy serrations for glare reduction.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are high gloss checkered walnut with a beavertail forearm, pistol grip, adjustable comb, and a black Kick-Eez pad. There are some minor draglines on the right side of the wrist. There is a nick on the right of the forearm at the front and a few faint marks on the buttstock. The checkering is sharp and there are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 14” & 13” from the front of the trigger to the back of the pliable buttpad. In its current configuration, the drop at the front and rear of the adjustable comb measures 1 3/8”, the drop at the heel measures 1 3/4”. The pad shows minor wear. The cast is neutral. The stocks rate in about Fine-Excellent overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blue & French Gray
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright. There is no erosion. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates a 10 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 98% of its current metal finish. The barrel shows some scattered faint marks and there is light thinning on the edges of the rib. On both sides of the barrel, there is some minor loss from contact with the receiver. Otherwise, there is no significant wear. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this shotgun rates in about Fine-Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The ejector works properly. There is no safety. We have not fired this shotgun. As with all previously owned items, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This shotgun comes in a Browning carrying “suitcase” with the mentioned chokes and a choke wrench.
Our Assessment: Since its introduction in 1968, the Browning BT-99 has had a loyal following from veteran shooters as well as those just getting into the sport of trap. These shotguns are very simple yet elegantly designed and the quality is hard to match. This trap gun has a great feel and was used respectfully by its previous owner. The receiver features Pigeon Garde engraving in a French Gray finish with a blued barrel. This gun is from a “1 of 100” series manufactured in 2002 that would make a terrific trap gun and in its high condition, it would also sit nicely in a Browning collection. This shotgun was manufactured in 2002, though it would be hard to believe just by looking at it. Don’t pass up on this beautiful classic! Please see our photos and good luck!
-Greenfield
