Belgium Browning Lightning Superposed 20 GA 26.5” Shotgun C&R MFD 1965

SOLD FOR: $3,102.00

WOA#: WY240626CB014

Make: Browning

Model: Superposed Field Grade

Serial Number: 35375 V5

Year of Manufacture: 1965 (https://www.browning.com/support/date-your-firearm/superposed-shotgun.html)

Gauge: 20 Gauge 2 3/4 and 3” Shells

Action Type:  Over/Under, Top Break Shotgun w/ Ejectors, and Single selective inertial trigger. The safety does not reset automatically.

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-20GA-SHELLS 2 3/4” AND 3” / PATENTS NO 2.203.378-2.233.861 ”. On the take down level for the non removable forend “35375 V5 ” and on the right side “R7”. On the locking tab “35375 V5”. On the left side just in front of the chambers both barrels are marked with proof marks. The left side of the Monoblock is marked “35375 V5” and two stars for the top barrel and 2 stars – for the bottom barrel. There are also several more proofs on the right and underside of the block. The ejectors are labeled “O” and “U”.  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 “35375 V5”. The safety selector is marked “S U O”. The buttpad is marked “BROWNING”.

Barrel Length: 26.5” Vented Rib.

Choke: Fixed Chokes, Modified / Improved Cylinder.

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a small silver bead affixed to the front of the rib. The rib has checkering for glare reduction.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The wood furniture is a two-piece checkered walnut set. The stock is a checkered prince of Wales grip, fluted straight comb, with the Browning textured plastic butt plate.  The forend is a checkered thin profile, non removable, forend. The LOP measures 14.25” from the front of the trigger to the rear of the buttplate. The stock shows some very faint hairline marks with a divot in the left side above the trigger, and a few small marks scattered throughout. The forend shows some spiderweb hairline cracks in the gloss finish with a small scratch in the left side nose.  Overall the wood on this shotgun is in about Very fine condition for C&R given its age. Please take a close look at the photos to better understand the Wood on this shotgun.

Type of Finish: Blue

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 retains about 98% of its metal finish. The receiver shows some hairline scratches, finish loss on the leading edges of the receiver and trigger guard and finish loss with pitting on the trigger. The inside of the receiver has some surface rust as does the nose of the receiver. The finish has also rubbed away under the safety which is normal for these shotguns at this age. The barrel set shows the signature rub mark from the forend, some scattered very minor lines and nicks, with some small patches of rust freckling on the bottom barrel. Both edges of the rib show finish loss as well. The screw heads show light tool marks with strong slots and the markings are clear. Overall this shotgun is in Fine to Very Fine condition for its age for C&R.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly including the ejectors. The shotgun features a single selective trigger. The forend is the Browning Non removable style forend. There is zero movement between the barrels and frame. 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 Luggage Style Case with paperwork for the case.

Our Assessment: The Browning Lightning Superposed in 20 gauge from 1965 is a classic over-and-under shotgun that represents the pinnacle of craftsmanship and design from the mid-20th century. The Superposed line, designed by the legendary John Moses Browning and later refined by his son Val Browning, was the company’s flagship over-and-under shotgun, known for its impeccable build quality, elegant design, and reliable performance. Produced in Belgium by FN Herstal, these shotguns are highly regarded by collectors and shooters alike for their historic significance and enduring functionality. A 1965 model in 20 gauge with 26.5-inch barrels is particularly desirable due to its balance and versatility. The 20 gauge is a popular choice for upland bird hunting, skeet, and sporting clays because it offers a lighter recoil compared to the 12 gauge, while still providing sufficient power and shot capacity for effective performance in the field. The 26.5-inch barrels are a less common length, contributing to quick handling and faster target acquisition, making this configuration ideal for fast-moving game and dynamic shooting sports. In terms of aesthetics, the Browning Lightning Superposed from 1965 features a distinctive rounded action with classic scroll engraving, a beautifully finished prince of Wales walnut stock with fine checkering, and the iconic lightning-style rounded forend that contributes to the gun’s graceful appearance and handling. The action is known for its strength and smooth operation, with a reliable trigger system that offers a crisp, consistent pull. The tang-mounted safety and barrel selector are intuitive and easy to operate, adding to the shotgun’s overall ease of use. Overall, this 1965 Browning Lightning Superposed in 20 gauge with 26.5-inch barrels is a unique and highly functional firearm. An elegant look into the past of shotgun design available in the modern era. Please see our photos and best of luck with your bidding!!!-R.L.

Belgium Browning Lightning Superposed 20 GA 26.5” Shotgun C&R MFD 1965
Belgium Browning Lightning Superposed 20 GA 26.5” Shotgun C&R MFD 1965