Discovering the Ultimate Crossover Shotgun: The Browning Citori CX 12 Gauge

Are you an avid clay target shooter looking for a single shotgun that excels across multiple disciplines? Or perhaps you're a discerning hunter seeking a versatile field companion that also performs admirably on the range? For those who demand uncompromising quality, reliability, and adaptable performance, the Browning Citori CX 12 Gauge Over/Under Shotgun, specifically model 018115304, presents an exceptional solution. This meticulously crafted firearm is engineered to bridge the gap between dedicated competition shotguns and robust field guns, offering a true "crossover" experience that empowers shooters to achieve their best.

What Makes the Browning Citori CX 12 Gauge the Right Choice for You?

Choosing a shotgun often involves balancing specialized features against overall versatility. The Browning Citori CX was conceived to eliminate this compromise. It's designed for shooters who participate in trap, skeet, and sporting clays, but also appreciate a shotgun capable of handling upland bird hunting. This model is particularly suited for right-handed shooters who value traditional aesthetics combined with modern engineering.

Key Questions This Shotgun Answers for Shooters:

• "What is the best all-around shotgun for competitive clay shooting disciplines like trap, skeet, and sporting clays?" The Citori CX’s balanced design, responsive trigger, and versatile chokes make it an outstanding performer across all these disciplines.
• "How can I improve my shooting consistency and reduce felt recoil during long sessions?" Features like the Inflex Technology recoil pad and the inherent weight distribution of an over/under shotgun significantly contribute to comfort and control, leading to more consistent performance.
• "Is there an over/under shotgun that offers classic elegance without sacrificing modern performance and durability?" The Citori CX, with its polished blued finish and gloss black walnut stock, embodies timeless beauty, while its robust Citori action ensures decades of reliable service.
• "As a serious shooter, what features should I prioritize in a new shotgun to elevate my game?" Key elements like a high-post ventilated rib for enhanced sight picture, precise trigger pulls, and an effective choke system are all integral to the Citori CX's design.
• "Where can I find a reliable and highly-regarded shotgun for both competitive shooting and occasional hunting?" The Browning Citori CX fits this description perfectly, available through trusted retailers like DEGuns, known for their selection of quality firearms.

Unpacking the Superior Engineering of the Citori CX

The Browning Citori CX (model 018115304) is a testament to Browning’s legacy of crafting world-class firearms. Every component is designed to contribute to a superior shooting experience.

Barrel and Rib Configuration: Precision and Sight Picture

Central to the Citori CX's performance is its 28-inch barrel length. This specific length strikes an optimal balance, providing sufficient swing weight for fluid follow-through on clay targets and maintaining maneuverability for quick shots in the field. The barrels are meticulously polished blued, offering a classic, deep luster that is both attractive and durable.

A defining feature for competition shooters is the high-post ventilated rib. Unlike traditional low-profile ribs, the elevated design of the CX's rib raises your line of sight, allowing for a more upright and comfortable head position. This reduces neck strain during extended shooting sessions and provides an exceptionally clear sight picture, making target acquisition faster and more intuitive. The ventilation in the rib also helps dissipate heat from the barrels during rapid firing, preventing mirage distortions that can obscure your target. This model typically features a mid-bead and an ivory front bead for precise alignment.

The Legendary Citori Action: Durability and Low Profile

At the heart of every Citori is its renowned low-profile box lock action. The action is also finished in a durable polished blued treatment, matching the barrels for a cohesive aesthetic. This low-profile design brings your hands closer to the axis of the bores, which minimizes muzzle jump and provides a more natural point of aim. The robust hinge pin and tapered locking bolt design ensure an incredibly strong and reliable lock-up, capable of handling tens of thousands of rounds without loosening. This inherent durability is a primary reason why Citori shotguns maintain their value and reputation over decades of use. Automatic ejectors swiftly clear spent hulls, allowing for quick follow-up shots or efficient reloading between stations.

Ergonomics and Aesthetics: The Gloss Black Walnut Stock

The gloss black walnut stock is where the Citori CX truly shines in terms of both feel and appearance. Black walnut is a time-honored material for firearm stocks, prized for its strength, rich grain patterns, and ability to be shaped for optimal ergonomics. The gloss finish enhances the natural beauty of the wood, providing a luxurious look and feel that stands out on the range or in the field.

Designed for right-handed shooters, the stock features precise checkering on the pistol grip and fore-end, ensuring a secure and comfortable hold even with gloved hands or in adverse conditions. The shape of the pistol grip provides excellent control, allowing for consistent trigger pull and comfortable recoil management.

Inflex Technology Recoil Pad: Comfort Through Innovation

One of the most significant advancements for shooter comfort in modern Browning shotguns is the Inflex Technology recoil pad. This innovative pad is designed to direct felt recoil down and away from the shooter's face, significantly reducing the impact on the shoulder and cheek. The internal design of the pad features directional deflection pockets that absorb and redirect energy more effectively than traditional pads. For competitive shooters who fire hundreds of rounds in a single session, or hunters who need to remain ready for a second shot, the Inflex pad is a game-changer, allowing for longer, more comfortable shooting sessions without fatigue.

Versatile Invector-Plus Choke System: Adapting to Any Target

The Invector-Plus choke tube system is a cornerstone of the Citori CX's versatility. This system allows shooters to quickly change the shot pattern density to suit different target presentations or hunting scenarios. The CX typically comes with a set of three Invector-Plus choke tubes (Full, Modified, Improved Cylinder), offering a range of patterns from tight to wide. This adaptability is crucial for sporting clays, where targets can vary widely in distance and speed, and equally beneficial for hunting, where different game birds or shots require specific patterns. Changing chokes is a simple process, enabling the shooter to optimize their setup in minutes.

The Trigger: Gold-Plated Precision

The Browning Citori CX features a single selective trigger, which allows the shooter to choose which barrel fires first. The trigger itself is often gold-plated, adding a touch of elegance, but more importantly, it is designed for a crisp, clean break with minimal overtravel. A consistent and predictable trigger pull is vital for accuracy, enabling the shooter to maintain precise aim as the shot is fired.

Who Benefits Most from the Browning Citori CX 12 Gauge?

This shotgun is an ideal choice for:

• Competitive Clay Target Shooters: Whether you compete in ATA Trap, NSSA Skeet, or NSCA Sporting Clays, the Citori CX provides the necessary features for high-level performance. Its balance, rib height, and recoil absorption make it suitable for long days on the range.
• Serious Recreational Shooters: If you regularly visit the range and want a high-quality, durable shotgun that will last a lifetime, the Citori CX offers an unparalleled shooting experience.
• Upland Bird Hunters: While primarily designed for clays, its 12-gauge chambering, 28-inch barrels, and ability to handle 3-inch shells make it perfectly capable for pheasant, grouse, or other upland game. The over/under design is also compact for maneuvering through brush.
• Discerning Firearm Enthusiasts: Those who appreciate superior craftsmanship, timeless design, and a shotgun built to deliver consistent performance will find the Citori CX a valuable addition to their collection.
• Individuals Seeking a "Do-It-All" Over/Under: If you want one shotgun that can confidently handle diverse shooting activities without compromise, the Citori CX is engineered for exactly that purpose.

Maintaining Your Browning Citori CX for Peak Performance

To ensure your Browning Citori CX provides decades of reliable service, proper maintenance is essential. After each use, especially when exposed to moisture or heavy use, the shotgun should be cleaned. This involves:

• Barrel Cleaning: Use a bore snake or cleaning rod with appropriate brushes and patches to remove powder residue and lead/plastic fouling from the bores.
• Action Cleaning: Wipe down the action area to remove any debris or unburnt powder. Apply a light coat of gun oil to all metal-to-metal contact points, such as the hinge pins and locking surfaces, to prevent wear and corrosion.
• Stock Care: Wipe down the black walnut stock with a clean cloth. For the gloss finish, occasional application of a quality gun stock wax or oil specifically designed for wood stocks can help protect the finish and maintain its luster.
• Storage: Store your Citori CX in a clean, dry, and secure location, ideally in a quality gun safe or humidity-controlled cabinet.

Why Consider Purchasing Your Browning Citori CX from DEGuns?

When investing in a high-quality firearm like the Browning Citori CX (model 018115304), choosing a reputable retailer is paramount. DEGuns is a leading online and retail destination for firearms enthusiasts, known for their extensive selection, competitive pricing, and commitment to customer service. They offer a secure and streamlined purchasing process, ensuring that your new Browning Citori CX arrives safely and efficiently. By choosing DEGuns, you benefit from their expertise and their dedication to providing access to the finest firearms on the market.

In conclusion, the Browning Citori CX 12 Gauge with its 28-inch polished blued barrels, 3-inch chamber, and gloss black walnut stock (model 018115304) represents the pinnacle of "crossover" shotgun design. It’s an investment in unparalleled performance, timeless beauty, and the legendary reliability that only Browning can deliver. Whether your passion lies in breaking clays or pursuing game, this shotgun is engineered to help you achieve your best, every time you pull the trigger.

Browning Citori CX 12 Gauge (018115304) Specifications

Feature	Description
Model	Browning Citori CX
Gauge	12 Gauge
Chamber	3"
Barrel Length	28 Inches
Receiver Finish	Polished Blued
Barrel Finish	Polished Blued
Stock Material	Gloss Black Walnut
Hand	Right Hand
Choke System	Invector-Plus
Recoil Pad	Inflex Technology
Trigger	Single Selective, Gold Plated
UPC	018115304