Factory Engraved Browning Citori Skeet Grade I 28 GA 26” OU Shotgun 1979
SOLD FOR: $1,675
WOA#: WY240213RD004
Make: Browning
Model: Citori Skeet Grade I
Serial Number: 12441RN1E3
Year of Manufacture: 1979 (RN Date Code)
Gauge: 28 GA, 2 ¾” Shells
Action Type: Over Under O/U, Top Break, Single Selective Trigger (Inertial) Shotgun with Ejectors
Markings: The left side of the upper barrel is marked “BROWNING ARMS COMPANY MORGAN, UTAH & MONTREAL P.Q. / MADE IN JAPAN”. The left of the monoblock is marked “**s”. The bottom of the monoblock is marked with three proofs. The right of the top barrel is marked “SPECIAL STEEL 28 GA – 2 ¾” – 26””. The inside of the forend iron is marked “12441” and the inside of the forend is stamped “12441”. The top tang, under the lever, is marked “12441RN1E3”. The receiver has tasteful Grade I engraving.
Barrel Length: 26”, Vent-Rib
Choke: Fixed, Skeet over Skeet
Sights / Optics: This shotgun is mounted with a white bead in a base at the front of the rib. There is a smaller white midbead. The top of the rib is serrated for glare reduction.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece checkered walnut with a finger groove forend, semi-pistol grip, straight comb, and brown vent rubber Browning buttpad. There are a few light handling marks. The checkering is sharp. The LOP measures approximately 14.25” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. The pad has some scattered light wear. Overall, the stocks are in about Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blued with Gold Washed Trigger
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bores are bright. There is no erosion in the bores. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 10/10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 99% of its metal finish. There are no major defects or operation wear. There is some thick grease on some of the components. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this shotgun is in about Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly including the ejectors. The barrels lock up with no play to the receiver. 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: Included is a serial matching box, paperwork including the manual.
Our Assessment: Browning Citori shotguns are extremely dependable and make for great investments. The Citori was introduced in 1973 as an alternative to the highly successful Superposed model. It has been made ever since in numerous calibers and configurations filling just about any role you could think of for an over under shotgun. This one is a 28 Gauge Grade I that was made in 1979. It has beautiful engraving. Proportionally the 28 gauge Citori is a thing of beauty with its smaller frame and sleek lines, add the engraving and you have a masterpiece. This shotgun is certainly a looker that will turn some heads but with its accessories and in such high condition, this is a prime contender to add to a collection. Please see our photos and good luck! – L.S.
