Browning Citori Grade 3 Hunting 12 GA 28” O/U Shotgun MFD 1987
SOLD FOR: $1,907.00
WOA#: WY240415EH240
Make: Browning, Mfg. by Miroku
Model: Citori Grade 3 Hunting, 353 Code.
Serial Number: 51356PR353
Year of Manufacture: 1987 PR date code. (https://www.browning.com/support/date-your-firearm/citori-over-under-shotgun.html)
Caliber: 12 Gauge 2 3/4” and 3” Shells
Action Type: Over Under Shotgun, with Single Selective Inertial Trigger & Ejectors
Markings: The left side of the upper barrel is marked “BROWNING ARMS COMPANY MORGAN, UTAH & MONTREAL P.Q. / MADE IN JAPAN”. The left of the monoblock is marked “ 3 51356 3 INVECTOR”. The bottom of the monoblock is marked with “NP SP 2”. The right side of the top barrel is marked “SPECIAL STEEL 12GA-2 3/4” AND 3”-28””. The inside of the forend iron is marked “51356” and the inside of the forend is stamped “B51356”. The top tang, under the lever, is marked with “51356PR353” and “S U O”. The receiver is fully engraved with fowl scenes and floral patterns. The buttpad is marked “BROWNING”.
Barrel Length: 28” Vent-Rib.
Choke: This Shotgun uses Browning Invector 12 Gauge interchangeable chokes. Currently installed Full over Modified.
Sights / Optics: There is a silver bead at the front of the rib. The top of the rib is finely checkered for the purpose of reducing glare.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock and forend are a two piece checkered Grade 3 walnut furniture set. The stock is a semi-pistol grip, fluted straight comb, with a brown vented rubber Browning(Pachmayr) buttpad. The stock wood shows some scattered minor lines and a small cluster of marks on the left side. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures approximately 14.25” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. The stock has a neutral cast. The buttpad has very minor wear and is mostly rigid. The forend is a checkered, rounded, full finger shelf style forend, there are no notable marks on the forend. The wood rates in Excellent overall condition with beautiful grain and a High Gloss finish.
Type of Finish: Blued barrels, Coin receiver & Gold Toned Trigger
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The smooth bores are mirror bright with no erosion or lines from use. In this writer’s opinion the bores rate 10/10.
Overall Condition: This gun retains about 98% of its metal finish. The barrel set shows some rub wear from the forend that is covered when assembled. The balance of the finish shows almost no marks. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear and the pins are clean. Overall, this gun rates in Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The shotgun features a single selective trigger and ejectors. The barrels lock up solidly. The safety does not engage automatically when the action is opened but does function properly when engaged manually. 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: None.
Our Assessment: The Browning Citori Grade Three Hunting Edition shotgun is a highly esteemed over/under shotgun, part of Browning’s renowned Citori line, this model combines superior materials and meticulous engineering to create a firearm that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The Citori Grade Three stands out with its beautiful walnut stock and forend, which are selected for their attractive grain patterns and durability. The wood is meticulously checkered to ensure a firm grip and finished with a high gloss, not only enhancing its visual appeal but also providing protection against the elements. The Grade Three designation signifies a higher quality of walnut, featuring more elaborate and intricate grain patterns that add to the shotgun’s luxurious appearance. One of the most striking features of the Citori Grade Three is its detailed engraving. The receiver is adorned with intricate engravings, depicting bird scenes and scrollwork. The 28” barrels of the Grade Three Hunting are fitted with Browning’s Invector choke system, allowing for easy interchangeability of chokes to match different shooting conditions and game types. It features a single selective trigger, allowing the shooter to choose which barrel to fire first, and a top-tang safety/barrel selector that is easy to operate. The break-action mechanism is robust and dependable, ensuring consistent performance and ease of use. The shotgun’s balance and weight distribution are carefully engineered to provide optimal handling characteristics. Whether tracking fast-moving game or aiming for precise shots, the Citori Grade Three offers exceptional control and responsiveness. Its recoil is well-managed, contributing to a comfortable shooting experience, especially during extended hunting sessions. Aesthetically, the Citori Grade Three Hunting Edition is a work of art. The combination of the finely finished walnut, detailed engraving, and polished metal surfaces creates a visually stunning firearm that is sure to attract admiration both in the field and among collectors. Its elegance is complemented by its rugged build quality, ensuring that it performs reliably in various hunting environments. In summary, the Browning Citori Grade Three Hunting Edition shotgun is a premium firearm that embodies the perfect blend of beauty and performance. Whether used for upland game, waterfowl, or other hunting pursuits, the Citori Grade Three delivers exceptional performance and stands as a testament to Browning’s legacy of excellence in firearms manufacturing. Please see our photos and best of luck with your bidding!!!-R.L.
