Browning Superposed Lightning Grade I 20 Gauge O/U, Belgian 1972, 26 In. Special Steel Barrels, 3 In. Chambers, Scroll Engraved
This Belgian-made Browning Superposed Lightning Grade I is a 1972-production 20 gauge with desirable factory features and markings. It pairs 26-inch Special Steel barrels and 3-inch chambers with a coin/satin gray, scroll-engraved receiver, a single gold-colored trigger, and a tang safety with barrel selector. The gun is marked 'Lightning' on the receiver underside and has a neutral fitment, making it a notable example for Browning enthusiasts.
Factory legends include 'BROWNING SUPERPOSED' and 'SPECIAL STEEL 20GA. SHELLS—3', along with 'BROWNING ARMS COMPANY MORGAN, UTAH & MONTREAL P.Q. • MADE IN BELGIUM.' The serial number format with a 'V72' suffix indicates 1972 production by FN Herstal in Belgium. The ventilated, matted top rib carries a single front bead, and the stock is checkered walnut with a round-knob pistol grip and a Browning-marked hard buttplate. Length of pull measures 14.5 inches.
Condition
Overall Condition: Fair condition, showing extensive signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Specific Condition Notes: There is heavy finish loss with numerous markings and scratches from previous handling and use. The top rib is dented near the muzzle. The top lever position indicates the locking lug has little life left and will need to be replaced or refitted soon. The barrel fit is loose. The ejectors are timed, and the firing pins appear to be in good condition.
Refer to pictures.
What's Included
- Browning Superposed Lightning Grade I 20 gauge over/under shotgun
Made in Belgium by FN Herstal, this Superposed Lightning Grade I is confirmed to 1972 production by its 'V72' serial suffix. The receiver shows factory scroll and rosette motifs on a coin/satin gray finish, with the 'Lightning' marking on the underside. As a Grade I Lightning, it retains the classic Superposed profile and the well-known Belgian build quality that defined the line in this era.
The 26-inch barrels are marked 'Special Steel' and are chambered for 3-inch 20-gauge shells. A ventilated, matted top rib with a single front bead provides a traditional sighting plane. The barrels wear a blued finish, and the ejectors are correctly timed.
Controls and fire controls are set up in the familiar Browning pattern, with a tang-mounted safety and barrel selector and a single, gold-colored trigger. The steel receiver and frame components carry the coin/satin gray finish that contrasts with the barrel blue.
The stock set is walnut with sharp checkering and a round-knob pistol grip, capped by a Browning-marked hard buttplate. Length of pull is 14.5 inches, and the gun is noted as a neutral fitment.
Factory markings include 'BROWNING SUPERPOSED,' 'BROWNING ARMS COMPANY MORGAN, UTAH & MONTREAL P.Q. • MADE IN BELGIUM,' and 'SPECIAL STEEL 20GA. SHELLS—3'. These legends, combined with the 1972 date code and Lightning Grade I configuration, provide clear provenance and model identification.