Browning Citori Gran Lightning 12GA: Premium Over Under Shotgun

When you pick up a finely made over under shotgun, you want balance, finish, and reliable performance that holds up in the field and at the line. Experience, whether on a driven hunt at first light or walking a sporting clays course, tells you a great shotgun isn’t just about looks — it’s about how the whole package works together under real conditions.

BROWNING CITORI GRAN LIGHTNING

Shop this product — this model is chambered in 12GA with a 28″ barrel and carries a retail price of $3192.99, positioning it in the premium segment for shooters who want traditional aesthetics with modern performance.

Design and Finish: Classic Lines with Premium Materials

The BROWNING CITORI GRAN LIGHTNING brings a lightning-style Grade V/VI satin-finish walnut stock to the fore. That wood selection delivers both eye appeal and a solid, ergonomic interface for the shooter. The high polish blued barrel complements the stock, and the high-relief engraved receiver gives the firearm a refined presence without being ostentatious. Together these elements make the Gran Lightning as at home on a hunters’ vest as it is in a trophy cabinet.

Key Features and What They Mean in the Field

Midas Grade Invector-Plus Extended Black Band Chokes

Chokes dictate pattern density and range effectiveness. The Gran Lightning’s Midas grade Invector-Plus extended black band chokes provide consistent constriction and easy interchangeability for different target types. For upland birds, a more open choke; for longer-range waterfowl or big clays targets, a tighter tube — these chokes let you tune the shotgun quickly to the task.

Ivory Front and Mid-Bead Sights

Quick target acquisition matters. The ivory front and mid-bead sights deliver high-contrast aiming points that are useful at dawn, dusk, or on overcast days. For shooters transitioning between fieldwork and sporting clays, the bead setup offers a familiar, fast sighting system.

Why the 12GA / 28″ Configuration Works

The model reviewed here is chambered in 12GA with a 28″ barrel — a combination that remains a standard for versatile shotgunners. The 12-gauge offers broad availability of loads, a range of shot sizes, and the knockdown energy appropriate for most upland and waterfowl tasks as well as competitive clay targets. A 28″ barrel helps stabilize swing and improves sight plane, aiding clean follow-through on moving targets. Recoil will be noticeable compared to lighter gauges, but the weight and stock geometry of the Gran Lightning help manage muzzle rise and deliver comfortable repeatable shooting.

Handling, Balance, and Fit

Balance is a hallmark of well-executed over unders. The Gran Lightning’s 28″ barrel and satin walnut stock combine to provide a neutral point-of-balance that favors smooth swings. The Grade V/VI wood trim adds mass at the rear where it helps slow muzzle climb, while the blued barrel keeps the center of gravity forward enough for natural tracking. Fit is critical; the stock geometry and cheek weld on this model invite proper head position and consistent sight alignment shot after shot.

Applications: Hunting and Sporting Clays

Built for versatility, the BROWNING CITORI GRAN LIGHTNING excels in both hunting and sport. In the uplands field it offers quick presentation and reliable patterns for flushing birds. On a sporting clays course a well-tuned set of chokes and the 28″ barrel let you engage targets with confidence. Its finish and engravings are rugged enough for field use while elegant enough for formal shooting events.

Brand and Build Quality

Browning has a longstanding reputation for producing reliable shotguns, and the Citori line continues that tradition. The Gran Lightning’s combination of stock grade, bluing, engraving, and factory chokes reflect a manufacturing focus on longevity and performance. If you’re looking for a shotgun with pedigree and practical capability, this model represents Browning’s investment in materials and fit-and-finish.

View product details and pricing to confirm current stock and options; this link will take you to the shop page where you can review specifications and complete a purchase.

Buying Considerations and Fit

At $3192.99 this shotgun sits in the premium bracket. Prospective buyers should verify length of pull and consider a gunsmith or experienced fitter for perfecting fit if needed. Ammunition selection is another consideration: quality 12GA shells matched to choke selection will extract the best performance. Also factor in maintenance — the high-polish blued barrel and engraved receiver respond well to regular cleaning and protective storage.

For a shooter who values traditional styling, sound mechanical design, and the ability to perform across multiple disciplines, the BROWNING CITORI GRAN LIGHTNING is a strong contender. Its lightning-style Grade V/VI satin walnut, high polish blued barrel, high relief engraved receiver, ivory bead sights, and Midas grade Invector-Plus chokes create a package tuned for both performance and presentation.

Check current availability and purchase options at the shop page: Check availability. This will take you to the Taylor Defense product page, where you can move forward with buying from the listed retailer.

People Also Ask

What makes this product stand out from competitors?

This product offers superior quality and innovative features that set it apart in the market. Its design focuses on both performance and reliability, making it a top choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Is this product suitable for beginners?

Yes, this product is designed with user-friendly features that make it accessible to beginners while still offering advanced capabilities for experienced users.

What warranty or support is available?

The product comes with comprehensive warranty coverage and excellent customer support to ensure your satisfaction and peace of mind.

How does this compare to similar products in its price range?

This product offers exceptional value for its price point, providing features and quality that typically cost significantly more in comparable alternatives.

What maintenance is required?

Minimal maintenance is required thanks to the product’s durable construction and quality materials. Regular cleaning and occasional inspections will keep it performing optimally.