1973 Browning Citori Grade I 12 Gauge Over/Under Shotgun – 30” Fixed-Choke Barrels, Tang Safety, Japan-Made
This first-year 1973 Browning Citori Grade I brings the revered Superposed design into a modern Japanese-built package. Manufactured by Miroku, it retains John Browning’s cross-bolt boxlock action, 30-inch vent-rib barrels with early fixed chokes, and classic gloss blued steel paired with cut-checkered walnut. Collectors value these early Citoris for their low production numbers, Belgian lineage, and pre-Invector barrel configuration.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good – clean, well-maintained with minor wear marks.
Specific Condition Notes: The barrels display noticeable finish loss and scattered blemishes consistent with field use, but no deep pitting or structural concerns were observed.
What’s Included
- Browning Citori Grade I 12 Gauge Over/Under shotgun
Introduced in 1973, the Citori replaced the Belgian Superposed while keeping its proven mechanics. The H-series serial number confirms this shotgun as a 1973, first-year production piece—desirable for collectors tracking early Miroku examples.
The 30-inch barrels feature a ventilated rib, single front bead, and fixed chokes that predate Browning’s later screw-in systems. This configuration offers consistent patterns and preserves the original factory contour.
A single-selective trigger pairs with a tang-mounted safety/barrel selector, allowing quick barrel choice without breaking grip. The action remains tight, reflecting Browning’s cross-bolt boxlock strength.
The Grade I’s gloss-blued steel receiver is intentionally plain, letting the 18-line cut checkering and rich walnut shine. The pistol-grip stock wears its factory finish, complemented by the original Browning ventilated recoil pad with white-line spacer and a 14-inch length of pull.