The Browning Citori is a legendary name in the world of shotguns, renowned for its quality, reliability, and versatility. This review focuses specifically on the 20-gauge model with a 26-inch barrel, a popular choice for a wide range of shooting disciplines. We'll delve into its features, performance, and suitability for various hunting and sporting applications.
Why Choose a 20-Gauge Citori?
The 20-gauge Citori offers a compelling blend of performance and manageability. Compared to its 12-gauge counterpart, it delivers less recoil, making it a more comfortable option for extended shooting sessions and for those with less upper-body strength. The lighter weight also enhances its maneuverability in the field, crucial for quick target acquisition in fast-paced hunting situations. However, the 20-gauge still packs sufficient power for most upland game and smaller waterfowl. The 26-inch barrel provides a good balance between swing speed and shot pattern consistency.
Advantages of the 26-Inch Barrel:
- Versatility: The 26-inch barrel is considered a versatile length, suitable for various hunting scenarios, from close-quarters shooting to longer-range targets.
- Balance: It contributes to a well-balanced feel, making the gun comfortable to shoulder and swing.
- Pattern Density: While not as tight as longer barrels, the 26-inch barrel still delivers adequate pattern density for most game.
- Maneuverability: Its shorter length enhances maneuverability in dense cover or tight shooting situations.
Performance and Handling
The Browning Citori's Invector-DS system allows for easy interchangeability of chokes, giving you fine-grained control over your shot pattern. This adaptability makes it suitable for various game and shooting styles. The renowned Citori action is known for its smooth, reliable operation, ensuring consistent performance in even the most demanding conditions. The overall handling is exceptional; the gun feels well-balanced and points naturally, contributing to intuitive target acquisition.
Ideal Applications
The Browning Citori 20-gauge with a 26-inch barrel is an excellent choice for a variety of applications:
- Upland Bird Hunting: Its lightweight and manageable recoil make it ideal for pursuing pheasants, quail, grouse, and other upland game birds.
- Dove Hunting: The quick-handling characteristics and versatile chokes are perfect for fast-moving doves.
- Small Waterfowl Hunting: While not ideal for large geese, it's suitable for ducks and other smaller waterfowl.
- Sporting Clays: The balanced design and smooth action make it a competitive choice for sporting clays.
Considerations
While the 20-gauge Citori is exceptionally versatile, it's important to consider its limitations. The reduced shot capacity compared to a 12-gauge means fewer shots before reloading, which can be a disadvantage in certain situations. Also, the lighter payload might not be sufficient for larger game or extremely long-range shots.
Conclusion
The Browning Citori 20-gauge with a 26-inch barrel offers a superb blend of performance, handling, and versatility. Its lightweight design, smooth action, and adaptability make it an excellent choice for a wide range of shooting enthusiasts, from seasoned hunters to sporting clays competitors. Its legendary reliability and build quality make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a top-tier over-and-under shotgun. If you're looking for a reliable and enjoyable firearm for various applications, this Citori model deserves serious consideration.
