The Browning Citori Hunter Grade I: A Masterpiece for Field and Firing Line

Are you searching for a versatile, reliable, and aesthetically pleasing over-under shotgun that excels in various shooting disciplines, from challenging upland bird hunts to competitive sporting clays? Do you value timeless craftsmanship combined with modern performance? Look no further than the Browning Citori Hunter Grade I 20 Gauge Over-Under Shotgun. This exceptional firearm, model 018258604, is designed for discerning shooters who demand precision, durability, and a touch of elegance in their chosen tool. It addresses the common needs of hunters seeking a dependable companion in the field and sport shooters aiming for consistent performance on the range.

For decades, the Browning Citori has stood as a benchmark in the world of over-under shotguns. Renowned for its unparalleled quality, robust construction, and superb balance, the Citori series embodies John M. Browning's commitment to excellence. The Hunter Grade I variant upholds this proud legacy, offering a firearm that’s not just a tool but an extension of the shooter’s will. Whether you're a seasoned wingshooter, a dedicated clay target enthusiast, or a new shooter looking for a premium, reliable shotgun that will last generations, the Citori Hunter Grade I delivers.

Unpacking the Citori Hunter's Core Strengths

What makes the Browning Citori Hunter Grade I a standout choice in a crowded market? Its design philosophy centers on a harmonious blend of traditional artistry and practical innovation. Every feature is meticulously engineered to contribute to an superior shooting experience.

Precision and Control: The Over-Under Advantage

The fundamental design of an over-under shotgun offers inherent advantages that are fully realized in the Citori Hunter. Unlike side-by-side or semi-automatic shotguns, the over-under configuration provides a single sighting plane, making target acquisition more intuitive and consistent. This streamlined profile also contributes to better balance and a more natural swing, which is crucial for hitting fast-moving targets like pheasants, grouse, or clay pigeons.

• Streamlined Sighting: The vertical alignment of the barrels ensures a consistent point of aim, simplifying the shooter's visual focus.
• Exceptional Balance: The Citori Hunter is engineered to balance perfectly between the hands, promoting fluid movement and reducing fatigue during long days in the field or on the range.
• Reduced Barrel Jump: While not eliminating recoil, the over-under design can help manage muzzle rise more effectively than some other configurations, allowing for quicker follow-up shots.

The Versatile 20 Gauge Chambering

Choosing the right gauge is critical for any shotgun, and the 20 gauge chambering of this Citori Hunter offers a compelling blend of power and manageability. Often described as the "gentleman's gauge," the 20 gauge provides ample knockdown power for a wide variety of game birds and clay targets while producing less recoil than a 12 gauge. This makes it an excellent choice for:

• Upland Bird Hunting: Ideal for pursuing agile birds like quail, partridge, and grouse, where quick, accurate swings are paramount. The lighter recoil also allows for more comfortable extended hunting trips.
• Waterfowl (Smaller Species): Suitable for certain smaller duck species, especially with modern high-performance loads.
• Sporting Clays & Skeet: The reduced recoil facilitates higher shot counts during practice or competition, leading to less fatigue and improved focus.
• New or Smaller-Statured Shooters: The manageable recoil makes the 20 gauge an excellent entry point into shotgunning, allowing new shooters to develop proper form without being deterred by excessive kick.

With a 3-inch chamber, this Citori Hunter can accommodate a wide array of 20-gauge ammunition, from light target loads to powerful magnum hunting rounds, ensuring versatility for any application.

Intuitive Barrel Selector and Inertia Trigger

A hallmark of high-quality over-under shotguns, the convenient barrel selector on the Citori Hunter allows the shooter to instantly choose which barrel fires on the first pull of the single inertia trigger. This feature is invaluable in dynamic shooting situations:

• Strategic Shot Placement: For hunters, it means you can load different choke and load combinations (e.g., a more open choke with lighter shot in the first barrel for close-flushing birds, and a tighter choke with heavier shot in the second for longer shots) and select them on the fly.
• Enhanced Control: The ability to decide which barrel fires first provides an added layer of tactical control, adapting to varying distances and target presentations without breaking your shooting rhythm.
• Reliable Firing: The inertia trigger system, a common and highly reliable mechanism in break-action shotguns, ensures consistent primer ignition and minimizes the chance of a "doubled" fire where both barrels discharge simultaneously (unless specifically designed as a selectable single trigger).

Efficiency in Action: Automatic Ejectors

The Citori Hunter features robust automatic ejectors that efficiently eject fired shells when the breech is opened, while simultaneously elevating unfired shells for easy removal. This thoughtful design element provides several key benefits:

• Rapid Reloading: For competitive shooters or hunters needing a quick follow-up, swift shell ejection clears the chambers for fast reloading.
• Convenience: No fumbling with spent casings. Fired shells are thrown clear, while live shells are simply lifted for effortless removal, saving time and effort.
• Safety: The clear indication of empty chambers immediately after firing contributes to safe handling practices.

Built to Last: Durability and Materials

Browning's commitment to durability is evident in every component of the Citori Hunter Grade I. This shotgun is engineered to withstand the rigors of thousands of rounds, ensuring a lifetime of reliable performance.

• Chrome-Plated Chambers: A critical feature for longevity, the chrome plating within the chambers resists corrosion, wear, and the accumulation of plastic fouling from shell wads. This ensures smoother chambering and extraction over countless shooting sessions, simplifying cleaning and preserving the integrity of the firearm.
• Robust Steel Construction: Both the barrel and receiver are crafted from high-quality steel, providing inherent strength and stability. The polished blued finish on both components offers excellent corrosion resistance and contributes to the shotgun's classic aesthetic.
• Vent Rib Barrel: The 28-inch vent rib barrel dissipates heat effectively during rapid firing, minimizing mirage effect that can distort your sight picture. The vent rib also provides a classic, elegant profile and a natural sighting plane leading to the silver bead front sight.

Aesthetic Appeal and Ergonomic Excellence

The Citori Hunter isn't just a performer; it's a piece of art. Its aesthetics are deeply rooted in traditional sporting arm design, reflecting Browning's dedication to both form and function.

• Grade 1 American Walnut Stock: The heart of its beauty lies in the satin-finished Grade 1 American Walnut stock. Walnut is a classic choice for premium firearms, prized for its strength, rich grain patterns, and comfortable feel. The satin finish enhances the natural beauty of the wood while providing a durable, understated elegance. The fixed stock design, with a length of pull of 14.25 inches, is designed for broad compatibility and comfort for a wide range of shooters.
• Engraved Receiver with Gold Accents: The steel receiver boasts elegant engraving complemented by subtle gold enhancements on the receiver itself and the hammer ejectors. This detailing adds a touch of sophistication and distinguishes the Citori Hunter as a firearm of true distinction.
• Ambidextrous Design: The shotgun's design is fully ambidextrous, making it comfortable and intuitive for both right-handed and left-handed shooters. This universality ensures that all users can experience the Citori's exceptional handling characteristics.
• Optimized Dimensions: With an overall length (OAL) of 45 inches and a manageable weight of 6.90 lbs, the Citori Hunter is well-balanced and agile. The carefully considered drop measurements (1 5/8" @ Comb & 2 1/2" @ Heel) ensure a natural sight picture and comfortable cheek weld for most shooters.

Adaptability with Invector-Plus Choke System

One of the most valuable features for any shotgun owner is the ability to adapt to different shooting scenarios. The Browning Citori Hunter comes equipped with the Invector-Plus choke tube system, renowned for its reliability and wide range of available constrictions.

• Included Chokes: The shotgun includes three Invector-Plus flush choke tubes: Full (F), Modified (M), and Improved Cylinder (IC). This selection provides excellent versatility right out of the box, covering most common hunting and target shooting situations.
  • Full: Delivers a tight pattern for longer shots on game or specific clay target presentations.
  • Modified: A versatile choice, offering a medium pattern suitable for various distances.
  • Improved Cylinder: Provides a more open pattern, ideal for close-range shots on fast-flushing birds or challenging close-in clay targets.
• Easy Swapping: The system allows for quick and easy swapping of choke tubes using the included flat wrench, enabling shooters to fine-tune their patterns for optimal performance.

Real-World Applications and Why it Excels

The Browning Citori Hunter Grade I is more than just a collection of features; it's a solution for a variety of shooting challenges.

• For the Avid Upland Hunter: When you're trekking through brush and cover, pursuing elusive pheasants, grouse, or quail, you need a shotgun that's light enough to carry all day yet robust enough to handle the elements. The Citori Hunter's 20-gauge chambering, excellent balance, and quick-handling characteristics make it an ideal companion. The barrel selector allows you to adapt to sudden flushes or varying distances, ensuring you have the right pattern when it counts.
• For the Dedicated Clay Target Shooter: Whether you enjoy trap, skeet, or sporting clays, consistency is key. The Citori's single sighting plane, crisp inertia trigger, and manageable recoil allow for extended practice sessions without excessive fatigue. The Invector-Plus system lets you fine-tune your patterns for different stations and target presentations, helping you break more clays and improve your scores.
• For the Shotgun Enthusiast or Collector: Beyond its practical utility, the Citori Hunter's classic lines, Grade 1 American Walnut stock, and elegant receiver engraving make it a firearm to be admired. It represents a significant piece of Browning's enduring legacy and is a worthy addition to any collection, promising both aesthetic pleasure and superb performance.
• For the New Shooter Seeking a Quality Investment: While not an entry-level price point, the Citori Hunter offers exceptional value as a first serious shotgun. Its durability ensures it will last a lifetime, and the 20-gauge's manageable recoil provides a forgiving platform for learning. The intuitive controls and inherent reliability build confidence and foster good shooting habits.

Maintaining Your Citori Hunter

Proper care ensures your Browning Citori Hunter continues to perform flawlessly for decades. Basic maintenance involves:

1. Cleaning the Barrels: After each shooting session, clean the chrome-plated chambers and steel barrels to remove powder residue and lead/plastic fouling.
2. Wiping Down Metal Surfaces: Use a lightly oiled cloth to wipe down all metal surfaces, especially the polished blued finish, to prevent rust.
3. Inspecting the Action: Periodically check the action for any debris and apply a thin layer of gun oil to moving parts as recommended by Browning.
4. Stock Care: While durable, the satin American Walnut stock can benefit from occasional cleaning and a light application of wood conditioner to preserve its beauty.

By following these simple steps, you ensure the longevity and pristine condition of your investment.

Why Choose the Browning Citori Hunter Grade I from DEGuns?

The Browning Citori Hunter Grade I 20 Gauge Over-Under Shotgun, with its UPC 023614744566 and model 018258604, is more than just a firearm; it's a legacy of performance and craftsmanship. It embodies Browning's commitment to building shotguns that are both exquisitely beautiful and supremely functional. From its durable chrome-plated chambers and robust steel construction to its elegant Grade 1 American Walnut stock and versatile Invector-Plus choke system, every detail is engineered to provide an unparalleled shooting experience.

This shotgun offers the perfect blend of traditional elegance and modern performance, making it an excellent choice for hunting upland game, competitive shooting sports, or simply enjoying the timeless artistry of a finely crafted firearm. Available at DEGuns, this Browning Citori Hunter Grade I is ready to become your trusted companion for years to come, offering dependable function, impeccable looks, and championship performance.

Experience the difference of a Browning Citori – a shotgun built to exceed expectations, round after round.

Browning Citori Hunter Grade I 20 Gauge Specifications

Feature	Detail
Brand	Browning
Model Series	Citori Hunter
Gauge	20 Gauge
Barrel Length	28"
Chamber	3"
Capacity	2 Rounds
Action	Break Open
Overall Length	45"
Weight	6.90 lbs
Hand	Ambidextrous
Sights	Silver Bead Front
Stock Material	Grade I Satin American Black Walnut
Stock Finish	Brown
Barrel Finish	Polished Blued
Receiver Finish	Polished Blued
Receiver Detail	Engraved with Gold Accents
Choke System	Invector-Plus Flush (F, M, IC incl.)
Trigger	Gold Plated Inertia
Safety	Tang
Application	Field, Sporting
Length of Pull	14.25"
Drop Dimensions	1 5/8" @ Comb & 2 1/2" @ Heel
Includes	Flat Wrench
UPC	023614744566