RARE Browning Superposed Pigeon Grade 26.5” 20 GA Skeet/Skeet 1968 C&R
SOLD FOR: $4,079.00
WOA#: WY240415EH201
Make: Browning
Model: Superposed Pigeon Grade
Serial Number: 47981 V8
Year of Manufacture: 1968 (https://www.browning.com/support/date-your-firearm/superposed-shotgun.html)
Gauge: 20 Gauge, 2 ¾” and 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 PQ. MADE IN BELGIUM”. The right side of the barrel is marked “SPECIAL STEEL-20GA-SHELLS 2 ¾” AND 3” PATENTS No 2.203.378-2.233861”. The left side of the monobloc is marked “47981V8” and the designation for Skeet. The forend mounting metal is marked and tabs are marked with the serial number. The top tang is marked “47981 V8”, the water table is marked with a Belgian proof and an inspector’s mark. The receiver has Pigeon Grade engraving.
Barrel Length: 26.5” Vent rib barrel.
Choke: Fixed Skeet Over Skeet.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a Silver bead fixed to the rib. The rib has checkering for glare reduction.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The furniture is a two-piece checkered high gloss finish walnut. The stock is a prince of wales grip, fluted straight comb, with black plastic buttpad. The LOP measures 14.25” from the trigger to the rear of the buttpad. The wood on the stock is in Like New condition and may have been replaced as part of the Salt wood replacement program. The forend is the checkered traditional Superposed style forend also in Like New condition. Overall, the furniture is in Like New condition.
Type of Finish: Blue & French Grey (Coin) finish.
Finish Originality: Original.
Bore Condition: The smooth bores are mirror bright with no erosion and no signs of use. In this writer’s opinion the bores rate 10/10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 99% of its metal finish. There is light finish wear on the edges of the muzzle and what appears to be discoloration on the underside of the rib. The screwheads are sharp and the pinheads are clean. Overall, this shotgun is in about Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly including the ejectors. 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 2×20 gauge snap caps.
Our Assessment: The Browning Superposed Pigeon Grade in 20 Gauge with Skeet choked barrels is a fine example of a classic over/under shotgun, renowned for its craftsmanship, performance, and elegance. The Superposed series, designed by the legendary John Moses Browning and first introduced in the 1930s, has been a favorite among shooting enthusiasts for decades. The Pigeon Grade, in particular, represents a higher level of artistry and refinement within the Superposed line. The receiver of the Pigeon Grade is intricately engraved with detailed and ornate scrollwork and game scenes, featuring pigeons, which is where the grade gets its name. This engraving is done by skilled artisans, ensuring each shotgun is a unique piece of art. The 20 Gauge variant of the Superposed Pigeon Grade is prized for its balance and handling, making it an excellent choice for skeet shooting and upland game hunting. The shotgun features skeet choked barrels, which are specifically designed to provide a wide and even shot pattern at shorter ranges. This makes it ideal for the fast and close targets encountered in skeet shooting. One of the standout features of the Pigeon Grade is its beautiful woodwork. The stock and forearm are made from high-grade walnut, featuring a rich, deep grain and a high-gloss finish. The Superposed Pigeon Grade is equipped with a single selective trigger, allowing the shooter to choose which barrel to fire first. In terms of handling, the 20 Gauge Pigeon Grade is well-balanced and relatively lightweight, making it easy to carry and quick to mount. Aesthetically, this Browning Superposed Pigeon Grade is a masterpiece. The combination of its finely engraved receiver, high-quality walnut stock, and polished metal surfaces creates a visually stunning firearm that exudes class and sophistication. It is not only a highly functional shotgun but also a collector’s item, admired for its beauty and craftsmanship. This shotgun stands as a testament to Browning’s legacy of excellence in firearm design and manufacturing and this example in particular is just stunning. Please see our photos and best of luck with your bidding!!!-R.L.
