Belgium Browning Superposed Field Grade 12GA 30” O/U Shotgun C&R MFD 1960
SOLD FOR: $1,425
WOA#: WY240229MD011
Make: Browning
Model: Superposed Field Grade
Serial Number: 78559
Year of Manufacture: 1960 (https://www.browning.com/support/date-your-firearm/superposed-shotgun.html)
Gauge: 12 Gauge, 3” 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. / SPECIAL STEEL-12GA-CHAMBERED FOR 3” MAGNUM”. The right side of the barrel is marked “PATENTS NO 2.203.378-2.233.86 / MADE IN BELGIUM”. On the take down level for the non removable forend “78559 EO 0” and a proof mark. On the right side “M5”. On the inside of the take down recess there is a series of proofs including an “X”. On the left side just in front of the chambers both barrels are marked “12-75” with proof marks. The left side of the Monoblock is marked “78559” and One star for the top barrel and one star for the bottom barrel. There are also several more proofs on the right and underside of the block. The bottom of the receiver is marked “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 “78559”. The safety selector is marked “S U O”. The buttpad is marked “BROWNING”.
Barrel Length: 30” Vented Rib.
Choke: Fixed Full over Full.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a low brass bead and there is a smaller brass mid bead, both are fixed to the rib. The rib has checkering 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 vented buttpad. The stock shows minor compressions and lines throughout the stock. With several very small dents. The forend wood has some scattered very minor lines with a slightly larger scratch on the right side just in front of the receiver. The checkering is mostly defined both on the forend and the stock. The LOP measures 14” from the trigger to the rear of the buttpad. Overall, the stocks are in about Very Good to Excellent condition as C&R. The buttpad rubber is very pliable and in excellent shape for its age.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original.
Bore Condition: The smooth bores are mirror bright with almost no scratches and no erosion. In this writer’s opinion the bores rate 9.5/10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 98% of its metal finish. There are some scattered small nick in the finish of the barrels and the receiver. There is a notable scratch on the upper barrel on the left side just in front of the receiver. There is some finish loss on the bottom barrel where the handguard rubs, also where the safety rubs on the tang, the trigger, trigger guard, receiver bottom and a small place on the lower tang also have some finish loss. Overall, this shotgun is in about Very Good to Excellent condition for C&R considering its age.
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: The Browning Superposed 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 Field Grade 12 gauge with 30″ barrels, representing a versatile option suitable for a variety of shooting activities, including hunting, clay shooting, and sport shooting. With its longer barrels, this shotgun offers enhanced accuracy and a smooth swing, making it particularly well-suited for shooting targets at longer ranges. The fixed chokes, full over full are ideal for longer-range trap, double trap, waterfowl hunting or sporting clays shooting on a longer range course. Manufactured in 1960, 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 shooted to take down the shotgun without the handguard coming loose or falling, a very appealing feature while in the field. Overall, the Browning Superposed field grade 12 gauge shotgun with 30″ 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.
