Browning Citori Lightning Grade I 28 Gauge Over/Under Shotgun, 28" Barrels, 1997 Production
Built in 1997 on Browning’s true small-bore Citori frame, this Lightning Grade I pairs classic lines with reliable Japanese craftsmanship. A forged steel receiver, polished blued finish, and factory scroll engraving give it a clean, traditional look, while the 28 Gauge chambering keeps weight and recoil low. Chrome-lined 2 ¾" chambers, Browning Special Steel barrels, and a gold-plated single selective trigger round out a package designed for fast-handling upland work.
Condition
Overall Condition: Fair – Extensive signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good – Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Specific Condition Notes: The metal surfaces show minor scratching, scuffing, finish loss, and assorted blemishes. The walnut stock and slim fore-end display moderate dents, scuffs, and small gouges, but remain structurally sound.
What’s Included
- Browning Citori Lightning Grade I 28 Gauge over/under shotgun
- Improved Cylinder Invector choke tube (installed)
- Modified Invector choke tube (installed)
This shotgun features 28" Browning Special Steel barrels regulated for precise point-of-impact alignment. The pair of Invector choke tubes—Improved Cylinder and Modified—provide versatile patterns suited to close- and mid-range upland hunting.
The forged steel receiver carries factory scroll engraving on the flats, trigger guard, and tang. A full-width hinge pin and under-lug lock-up deliver long-term durability, while the polished blued finish complements the gloss walnut furniture.
A Lightning-style rounded pistol grip and cut checkering give a secure, natural hold. The 14.5" length of pull balances the gun for quick shouldering, and the slim rounded fore-end promotes lively swing characteristics inherent to 28 Gauge guns.
The gold-plated single selective trigger uses an inertia reset system, and the tang-mounted safety doubles as a barrel selector for rapid choke choice in the field. A silver front bead provides a clear reference without adding bulk.
Marked “Morgan, Utah & Montreal P.Q.” on the barrel, this example represents the last year before Browning changed its serial-number format for the Citori line, adding subtle collector interest to an already desirable small-bore configuration.




