Browning Superposed Lightning Broadway 12GA 32” O/U Shotgun 1973 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,702.00
LSB#: WY250106SD004
Make: Browning
Model: Superposed Lightning
Serial Number: 15447 S73
Year of Manufacture: 1973 (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 mechanical trigger. The safety does not automatically re-set.
Markings: The left side of the upper barrel is marked “BROWNING ARMS COMPANY MORGAN, UTAH & MONTREAL P.Q. / MADE IN BELGIUM”. The right side of the barrel is marked “BROWNING SUPERPOSED / SPECIAL STEEL 12GA. SHELLS 2 3/4””. On the take down level for the non removable forend “15447S”. On the locking tab “15447S”. On the left side just in front of the chambers is marked “1 / 3 “ . The left side of the Monoblock is marked “15447 S3” and one star for the top barrel and one star “-” 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 “15447 S73”. The safety selector is marked “S U O”. The buttpad is marked “BROWNING”.
Barrel Length: 32” Vented Broadway Rib.
Choke: Fixed Chokes. The barrels are marked Full over Improved Modified. Our Choke gauge reads Full over Improved Modified.
Sights / Optics: The front sight was a large white bead affixed to the front of the rib. However the bead has broken off now only the white post is left. The sight still looks mostly correct. There is a smaller white mid bead present. The broad rib is serrated for glare reduction.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The wood furniture is a two-piece checkered, high gloss, walnut set. The stock is a checkered semi pistol grip, fluted straight comb, with a brown vented buttpad. The forend is a wide nose tapered 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 slightly right handed, the drop at comb is 1.5” and the drop at heel is 1.5”. The forend shows some minor compressions and lines and some dulling to the checkering. The stock shows minor lines and compressions with several nick, mainly in the belly that go through the high gloss finish. There is a notable compression on the right side of the wrist. Most of the texture on the back of the buttpad has worn away, the rubber is still pliable. There are no visible cracks. Overall the wood is in about Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original.
Bore Condition: The smooth bores are mirror bright with no erosion. There are some very minor lines from use and minor visible plastic fouling. In this writer’s opinion the bores rate 9/10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains 98% of its metal finish. The barrels have a few small marks, a small scratch near the muzzle, and the characteristic rub mark from the forend. The forend latch shows some surface rust in the recess and the serrations. The receiver shows finish thinning on the edges, the lever, and the friction surfaces of the action. The trigger has two large divots in the right side most likely from a clamp on trigger shoe. There is some minor finish thinning on the trigger guard. 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 mechanical 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 Broadway Trap is a renowned over/under shotgun that exemplifies craftsmanship and performance, tailored for the trap shooting enthusiast. Manufactured in 1973, this 12-gauge shotgun features 32-inch barrels, an optimal length for precision and follow-through in trap shooting. The barrels are choked Full over Improved Modified, offering a versatile pattern for breaking clay targets at varying ranges. The shotgun’s signature Broadway rib, a wide, flat ventilated rib provides an excellent sighting plane, enhancing target acquisition and alignment during competition or practice.
Designed by the legendary John Moses Browning and produced in Belgium, the Superposed series is celebrated for its meticulous hand-fitting and elegant finish. The 1973 model exhibits high-quality walnut furniture, with checkering that enhances grip and adds to its aesthetic appeal. The robust blued steel construction ensures longevity and reliability, qualities that have made the Superposed a favored choice among sports shooters for decades. Combining timeless design with practical features, the Superposed Broadway Trap remains a cherished firearm for collectors and shooters alike. Please see our high quality photos via the link and best of luck with your bidding!!!-R.L.
