Choosing between a Browning Superposed and a Browning Citori is a decision many discerning shotgunners face. Both are legendary over-and-under shotguns renowned for their quality, reliability, and elegant design. However, understanding the key differences is crucial to selecting the perfect firearm for your needs and shooting style. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the nuances of each, helping you make an informed decision.
History and Heritage: A Legacy of Excellence
The Browning Superposed, first introduced in 1926, holds a place of honor in shotgun history. Its design, a marvel of engineering for its time, established Browning's reputation for building exquisitely crafted, high-performance shotguns. The Superposed's thin, elegant profile and distinctive receiver shape are instantly recognizable. This classic is often considered a collector's item, prized for its history and superior craftsmanship.
The Browning Citori, launched much later, represents a modern evolution of the over-and-under design. Introduced in 1973, the Citori incorporates advancements in metallurgy and manufacturing, resulting in a robust and reliable shotgun built for years of dependable service. While sharing a similar aesthetic with the Superposed, the Citori boasts a more substantial build and features that cater to a wider range of shooting disciplines.
Key Differences: Design, Mechanics, and Feel
While both shotguns share the over-and-under configuration, several key differences set them apart:
Action Type:
-
Superposed: Employs a boxlock action, where the locking mechanism is concealed within the receiver. This design contributes to the elegant, slim profile but can be more complex and expensive to manufacture and repair.
-
Citori: Utilizes Browning's patented Invector-DS system (later Invector-Plus), a bottom-locking system. This design offers superior strength and reliability, easier maintenance, and quicker disassembly. This system is also known for its ease of choke tube changes.
Receiver Shape and Design:
-
Superposed: Features a distinctive, rounded receiver with a more delicate, artistic appearance.
-
Citori: Possesses a straighter, more angular receiver, providing a more robust and substantial feel.
Weight and Balance:
-
Superposed: Generally lighter and more nimble, making it well-suited for upland hunting and sporting clays. This lighter weight can, however, make it feel snappier on recoil.
-
Citori: Typically heavier, contributing to better recoil absorption and improved stability on the shoulder. This added weight can be beneficial for larger game hunting and trap shooting.
Stock and Forend:
Both shotguns offer a variety of stock and forend options to accommodate different shooters and shooting styles. However, the Superposed's often more slender proportions may suit smaller-framed shooters better, while the Citori's more substantial stock may feel better for those with larger hands.
Choosing the Right Gun: Your Shooting Style and Needs
The best choice between a Superposed and a Citori ultimately depends on individual preferences and intended use:
-
Upland Hunting: The lighter weight and balanced feel of the Superposed might be preferred for all-day hunting in the field.
-
Sporting Clays: Both guns excel in this discipline, but the Citori's robustness might appeal to those shooting high volumes.
-
Trap and Skeet: The heavier Citori generally offers better recoil management, ideal for high-volume shooting.
-
Waterfowl Hunting: The Citori's durability makes it a more suitable choice for harsher hunting conditions.
-
Collectors: The Superposed's historical significance and elegant design make it a highly sought-after collectible.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Quality in Two Forms
Both the Browning Superposed and the Citori represent pinnacles of over-and-under shotgun design. The Superposed offers a classic, elegant, and historically significant experience. The Citori provides a more modern, robust, and versatile platform. Careful consideration of your shooting style, intended use, and budget will guide you to the perfect Browning shotgun. Ultimately, whichever you choose, you're inheriting a legacy of quality and craftsmanship.
