Belgium Browning Superposed Lightning Skeet 12GA 28” O/U Shotgun 1968 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,302.00
LSB#: LSB250520NP013
Make: Browning
Model: Superposed Lightning Skeet
Serial Number: 88259 S8
Year of Manufacture: 1968 (https://www.browning.com/support/date-your-firearm/superposed-shotgun.html)
Gauge: 12 Gauge 2 ¾” Shells
Action Type: Over/Under, Top Break Shotgun w/ Ejectors, and single selective inertial trigger. The safety does not automatically re-set.
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-12GA.-SHELLS 2 3/4” / PATENTS NO 2.203.378-2.233.861 ”. On the take down level for the non removable forend “88259S” and “A”. On the locking tab “88259S8”. 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 “88259S8” and two stars $ for the top barrel and 2 stars $ for the bottom barrel. There are also several more proofs on the 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 proofs, The top of the tang is marked “88259 S8”. The safety selector is marked “S U O”. The buttpad is marked “BROWNING”.
Barrel Length: 28” Vented Rib.
Choke: Fixed Skeet over Skeet.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a large 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 checkered semi pistol grip, fluted straight comb, with a brown ventilated Browning buttpad. The forend is a round profile forend with a full finger shelf. The forend is the Superposed non removable style forend. The LOP measures 14.25” from the trigger to the rear of the buttpad. The cast is about neutral, the drop at comb is 1.5” and the drop at heel is 1.5”. The wood shows scattered compressions and surface level lines with some notable scratches in the belly of the stock. The buttpad is supple and soft showing some rub wear on the butt. There are no visible chips or cracks. The forend fitment is off on the bottom near the take down lever and the rear edge tabs. When the forend is in the forward position it wiggles more than normal. This may indicate a possible saltwood or breakage replacement. There is some very minor discoloration on the side of the barrel and on the receiver but no visible rust or pitting. Please see our high quality photos for a better understanding of the stock condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original.
Bore Condition: The smooth bores are mirror bright with no erosion. There are some lines from use and visible plastic fouling. In this writer’s opinion the bores rate 9/10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 99% of its metal finish. The receiver shows some very small hairline scratches, with minor finish loss on the edges of the trigger guard. 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. Both edges of the rib show some very small scattered nicks. Overall this shotgun is in Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly including the ejectors. The shotgun features a single selective inertial 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: A Browning Superposed Lightning Skeet model in 12 gauge, made in 1968, represents a high point in the craftsmanship of Belgian-produced Browning shotguns. By this time, the Superposed series had firmly established its reputation for quality and performance. The shotgun’s 28-inch barrels with fixed skeet-over-skeet chokes are purpose-built for skeet shooting, offering excellent spread and uniform shot patterns ideal for close-range clay target engagement.
The 1968 production places this firearm near the end of the “golden era” of Superposed shotguns, just before manufacturing shifted to include the more cost-effective Citori line in 1973. The fit and finish typical of this era include rich bluing, finely checkered walnut stocks, engraving on the receiver, and precise fitting showcasing the attention to detail synonymous with Belgium, where these shotguns were made. A Superposed from this period is not just a functional skeet gun but also a collectible piece of firearms history, cherished for its artistry and engineering excellence. Please see our high quality photos via the link and best of luck with your bidding!!!-R.L.
