Belgium Browning Superposed Lightning 12GA 28” O/U Shotgun C&R 1967
SOLD FOR: $1,426.00
WOA#: WY240415EH014
Make: Browning Arms Company
Model: Superposed Lightning
Serial Number: 73701 S7
Year of Manufacture: 1967 S7 date code. (https://www.browning.com/support/date-your-firearm/superposed-shotgun.html)
Gauge: 12 Gauge, 2 3/4” Shells
Action Type: Over/Under, Top Break Shotgun w/ Ejectors, and Single selective inertial trigger.
Markings: The left side of the upper barrel is marked “BROWNING ARMS COMPANY St LOUIS Mo. & MONTREAL P.Q. MADE IN BELGIUM”. The right side of the barrel is marked “SPECIAL STEEL-12GA. -2 ¾” / PATENTS NO 2.203.378-2.233.86”. On the take down level for the non removable forend “73701S7”. On the right side “A6”. On the left side just in front of the chambers are marked with a series of Belgian proofs. The left side of the Monoblock is marked “73701S7” and One star for the top barrel and two stars for the bottom barrel. There are also several more proofs on the right and underside of the block. The right side of the barrels are marked “18.3” with more proofs. The bottom of the receiver is marked “Lightning BROWNING” With a Circle R and the Engraved profile of John M. Browning, the inside of the receiver on the floor there are also several proofs, The top of the tang is marked “73701S7”. The safety selector is marked “S U O”. The buttpad is marked “BROWNING”. The inside of the forend is marked “73701S7B”
Barrel Length: 28” Vented Rib.
Choke: Fixed Full over Modified.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a low brass bead and the rib is fully checkered for glare reduction.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece checkered walnut with a round bottom semi pistol grip, fluted straight comb, checkered traditional forend, and a Browning black plastic buttpad. The High Gloss stock shows minor lines in the gloss finish throughout the stock that are barely noticeable. The forend wood has some scattered very minor lines. The checkering is well defined both on the forend and the stock. The LOP measures 14.25” from the trigger to the rear of the buttpad. Overall, the stocks are in about Very Good to Excellent condition as C&R.
Type of Finish: Blued with engraving and a Gold trigger.
Finish Originality: Original.
Bore Condition: The smooth bores are mirror bright with no scratches and no erosion. In this writer’s opinion the bores rate 10/10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun receiver retains about 98% of its metal finish. There are some very small marks scattered throughout the receiver but none are noteworthy. The barrel set has scratches and lines scattered throughout as well as patches of rust near the right side ejector, the block, the vent rib and right side ejector itself. The barrel set has also had the forend removed and disassembled; this renders the shotgun inoperable until the forend can be reassembled by a competent gunsmith. The forend metal is also covered with small patches of rust. This shotgun is in poor condition as at the moment it is non functional. However the shotgun would be in Good Overall Condition if the forend was assembled and functional. All of the parts necessary to reassemble the shotgun forend appear to be present.
Mechanics: The barrel set has also had the forend removed and disassembled; this renders the shotgun inoperable until the forend can be reassembled by a competent gunsmith. The safety does NOT set automatically when the action is opened but functions properly when manually set. We have not fired this shotgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This shotgun includes a Browning Suitcase style case, Choke tube, choke tube wrench, envelope with screws, parts to reassemble the forend and info card.
Our Assessment: The Browning Superposed Lightning is a classic over-and-under shotgun renowned for its elegant design, reliable performance, and exceptional craftsmanship. Manufactured in Belgium, the Superposed has earned a reputation as one of the finest shotguns ever produced. Introduced by John Moses Browning, one of the most prolific firearms designers in history, the Superposed marked the culmination of Browning’s career, being the last gun he worked on and the first commercially successful over-under shotgun.This specific model of the Browning Superposed is a Lightning model 12 gauge with 28″ barrels, representing a versatile option suitable for a variety of shooting activities, including hunting, clay shooting, and sport shooting. With its shorter barrels this shotgun offers faster swings and a more portable package than its longer barrelled counterparts. This makes the Lightning particularly well-suited for Hunting. The fixed chokes, full over Modified, are ideal for waterfowl or upland game bird hunting. Manufactured in 1967, this particular Browning Superposed reflects the craftsmanship and attention to detail characteristic of Belgian-made firearms from that era. The shotgun features high-quality walnut wood furniture with finely checkered patterns, adding to its aesthetic appeal and providing a comfortable and secure grip for the shooter. The Browning Superposed is known for its robust construction and smooth operation. Its boxlock action design ensures durability and reliability. This model also features a unique take down method. By unlocking and sliding the forend forward on the lower barrel this allows the shooter to take down the shotgun without the handguard coming loose or falling, a very appealing feature while in the field. Overall, the Browning Superposed Lightning 12 gauge shotgun with 28″ barrels represents a classic example of Belgian gunmaking excellence. With its timeless design, choke configuration, and proven performance, it continues to be highly sought after by discerning shooters and collectors alike. Whether used for hunting, clay shooting, or simply admired for its craftsmanship, the Browning Superposed remains an enduring symbol of quality and precision in the world of shotguns. Please see our photos and best of luck with your bidding!!!-R.L.
