Belgium Browning Superposed Lightning 20 GA 26.5” Shotgun C&R MFD 1967

SOLD FOR: $1,750.00

WOA#: WY240605WP014

Make: Browning

Model: Superposed Field Grade

Serial Number: 47257 V7

Year of Manufacture: 1967 (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 mechanical 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-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 “47257 V7 ” and on the right side “P1”. On the locking tab “47257 V7”. 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 “47257 V7” 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 “47257 V7”. The safety selector is marked “S U O”. The buttpad is marked “Decelerator”.

Barrel Length: 26.5” Vented Rib.

Choke: This shotgun has been cut for Briley Thin Wall (S3) chokes. Currently installed MODIFIED / IMPROVED CYLINDER. Also Includes Cylinder, SKEET, and FULL.

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 semi pistol grip, fluted straight comb, with an added Decelerator buttpad. The forend is a checkered thin profile, non removable, forend. The LOP measures 14” from the trigger to the rear of the buttpad. The stock shows some very faint hairline marks with some small scallop cuts in the toe, there is a small dot depression in the grip face and compression in the right side of the comb. The forend shows compressions and lines scattered throughout the finish. 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 off the trigger. 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 notable rub marks on the right side near the muzzle. 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 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 the 5 chokes, choke wrench, & choke case.

Our Assessment: The Browning Lightning Superposed in 20 gauge from 1967 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 1967 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. This particular shotgun has been modified to accept Briley Thin Wall chokes, a significant alteration that enhances its versatility and adaptability. Originally, Superposed shotguns from this era were fixed-choke models, meaning the shooter was limited to the choke constrictions set by the factory. Modifying the barrels to accept Briley Thin Wall chokes allows the shooter to easily swap chokes to suit different shooting conditions and target presentations, ranging from open chokes for close-range and spread patterns, to tighter chokes for longer-range, concentrated patterns. This modification is particularly valued by those who use their shotguns for multiple purposes, as it extends the practical utility of the gun across a wider range of shooting scenarios. In terms of aesthetics, the Browning Lightning Superposed from 1967 features a distinctive rounded action with classic scroll engraving, a beautifully finished 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 mechanical 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, a 1967 Browning Lightning Superposed in 20 gauge with 26.5-inch barrels that has been modified with Briley Thin Wall chokes is a unique and highly functional firearm. It maintains the elegant lines and reliable operation of the original Superposed design while gaining modern versatility through the addition of interchangeable chokes. This combination makes it not only a cherished piece of Browning history but also a practical, high-performance shotgun for today’s shooting enthusiasts. Please see our photos and best of luck with your bidding!!!-R.L.