The Browning Citori is a legendary over-under shotgun, renowned for its reliability, balance, and elegant design. Within the Citori family, the Special Steel 20 gauge holds a special place, offering a blend of power, versatility, and refined handling that appeals to a wide range of shooters. This in-depth guide will explore the features, performance, and overall value of the Browning Citori Special Steel 20 gauge, helping you decide if it's the right shotgun for you.
The Allure of the 20 Gauge
Before diving into the specifics of the Special Steel, let's address the appeal of the 20 gauge itself. While the 12 gauge reigns supreme in popularity, the 20 gauge offers several compelling advantages:
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Reduced Recoil: The lighter load and reduced shot charge of the 20 gauge result in significantly less recoil, making it a more comfortable option for younger shooters, smaller-framed individuals, or those sensitive to recoil. This translates to faster follow-up shots and improved overall shooting experience.
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Lighter Weight: The lighter weight of the 20 gauge contributes to better handling and maneuverability, particularly in the field or during upland bird hunting. This is especially noticeable during extended hunting trips where fatigue can impact accuracy.
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Versatility: The 20 gauge is surprisingly versatile. While not as powerful as a 12 gauge, modern ammunition provides sufficient stopping power for most hunting applications, including upland birds, waterfowl, and even smaller game animals.
Browning Citori Special Steel 20 Gauge: Key Features
The Browning Citori Special Steel 20 gauge builds upon the Citori's renowned reputation with specific features designed to enhance performance and durability:
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Invector-DS Choke Tubes: This system allows for easy interchangeability of choke tubes, allowing shooters to optimize their patterns for various hunting scenarios and shot types. The Invector-DS system is renowned for its consistent patterns and reliability.
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Steel Shot Compatible: The "Special Steel" designation indicates the shotgun's ability to safely handle steel shot, expanding its versatility for waterfowl hunting and other applications where non-toxic shot is required.
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Inox Finish: The receiver often features a durable Inox finish, which provides exceptional resistance to corrosion and wear. This is particularly beneficial for hunters who face challenging weather conditions.
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Exceptional Balance: The Citori is praised for its inherent balance, allowing for quick target acquisition and smooth swings. This is amplified in the lighter 20 gauge model.
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Reliable Mechanism: The Citori's action is known for its smooth, reliable cycling, ensuring consistent performance even under pressure. This is a key advantage in hunting situations where quick follow-up shots are crucial.
Performance and Handling
The Browning Citori Special Steel 20 gauge delivers exceptional performance across a range of hunting scenarios. The reduced recoil makes it incredibly easy to manage, allowing for faster target acquisition and more accurate shots. The lightweight design also makes it easy to carry for extended periods, a significant advantage in the field.
Case Study: A recent survey of Citori 20 gauge owners reported an average satisfaction rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, with many users praising the gun's light recoil, ease of handling, and consistent performance.
Comparing the Citori Special Steel to Other 20 Gauge Options
While there are many excellent 20 gauge over-unders on the market, the Browning Citori Special Steel often stands out due to its combination of features:
| Feature | Browning Citori Special Steel 20 Gauge | Competitor X | Competitor Y |
|---|---|---|---|
| Recoil | Low | Moderate | High |
| Weight | Lightweight | Moderate | Heavy |
| Choke System | Invector-DS | Invector | Others |
| Steel Shot | Compatible | Compatible | Not Compatible |
| Price | Mid-range | High | Low |
Note: Competitor X and Y are placeholder names representing other popular 20 gauge over-under shotguns. Specific models and features should be researched individually.
Conclusion: Is the Browning Citori Special Steel 20 Gauge Right for You?
The Browning Citori Special Steel 20 gauge is a superb shotgun that offers a winning combination of elegance, reliability, and performance. Its lightweight design, low recoil, and versatility make it an excellent choice for a wide range of shooters, from seasoned hunters to those new to the sport. While the price point may be higher than some entry-level shotguns, the superior quality, long-term value, and overall shooting experience justify the investment for many users. If you are seeking a versatile, reliable, and enjoyable 20 gauge over-under, the Browning Citori Special Steel is definitely worth considering.