Belgium Browning Superposed 26.5” 20 GA 2.75” MOD/IC O/U Shotgun 1952 C&R
SOLD FOR: $2,162.00
LSB#: LSB250807EM049
Make: Browning
Model: Superposed
Serial Number: 3645, All the serialized parts match.
Year of Manufacture: 1952 (https://www.browning.com/support/date-your-firearm/superposed-shotgun.html)
Gauge: 20 Gauge 2 3/4″ Shells
Action Type: Over/Under, Top Break Shotgun w/ Ejectors, and Single selective inertial trigger. The safety does not reset automatically.
Barrel Length: 26.5” Vented Rib.
Choke: Fixed Chokes. The barrels are marked Modified Over Improved Cylinder. However our Choke gauge reads Full over Improved Cylinder.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a small white 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 Prince of Wales grip, fluted straight comb, with a Browning black butt plate made of horn. 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 butt plate. The drop at comb is 1.5” the drop at heel is 2.25” and the shotgun weighs 6lbs 7OZ. The wood shows some surface level lines, and minor compressions scattered throughout. There are no visible chips or cracks in the wood. The horn butt plate shows some surface level cracks and fraying in the fibers. There are some chips missing mostly around the screw holes. Overall the furniture set is in about Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original.
Bore Condition: The smooth bores are bright with no erosion or pitting. The bores show minor lines and minimal plastic fouling from use. In this writer’s opinion the bores rate 9.25/10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 95% of its finish. The bottom barrel has the signature Superposed rub mark from the forend. The barrels show light scattered marks with a small notable patch of discoloration on the right side of the barrel set about 6” back from the muzzle. The inside of the action shows some minor rub wear with minor pitting on the top edge from use. The lower tang shows the majority of the finish loss. There is finish loss from rub wear under the safety. The markings are clear and the screw heads are sharp. Overall this shotgun is in about Very Good condition.
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: None.
Our Assessment: This Browning Superposed in 20 gauge from 1952 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 1952 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, 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 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 Superposed from 1952 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 1952 Browning 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 high quality photos via the link and best of luck with your bidding!!!-R.L.
