Browning Citori Lightning Grade VI 16 Gauge Over/Under, 26 in Barrels, 2 3/4 in Chambers, French Gray Receiver with Gold Inlays (1989, Miroku Japan)
This 1989 Browning Citori Lightning Grade VI in 16 Gauge stands out with factory full-coverage scroll engraving and gold game-bird and hare inlays on a French gray receiver, paired with upgraded, highly figured walnut. Built by Miroku in Japan and correctly marked, it features 26 in Special Steel barrels chambered for 2 3/4 in shells, a ventilated top rib with a single white bead, and a single gold-colored trigger. Fixed Full and Modified chokes are installed, and the stock presents a neutral grip with very slight right-hand cast-off.
Condition
Overall Condition: Excellent condition, showing only faint signs of any prior use or handling.
Bore Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Specific Condition Notes: The wood shows only mild handling wear with very light scuffs. Barrel fit is very tight. The locking lug has approximately 95% life remaining. The firing pins are pristine, and the ejectors are properly timed.
What’s Included
- Original Browning factory cardboard box
The Grade VI treatment defines this example: a French gray (coin finish) receiver with full-coverage scroll engraving, gold game-bird inlays on both sides, and a gold hare on the underside. The top lever, trigger guard, and tang are engraved to match, consistent with factory Grade VI execution.
The blued 26 in Special Steel barrels are marked "SPECIAL STEEL 16GA – 2 3/4 – 26" and are topped with a ventilated top rib and a single white front bead. Chambers are 2 3/4 in, and fixed Full and Modified chokes are installed.
Mechanically, this shotgun exhibits a tight lockup, timed ejectors, and pristine firing pins. The single gold-colored trigger ties in with the Grade VI aesthetic while delivering a clean, consistent pull.
The upgraded walnut stock shows highly figured grain under a high-gloss finish, with fine-line checkering for secure purchase. It features the classic Lightning-style round-knob pistol grip, a field-length fore-end, and an engraved fore-end latch plate. The grip is neutral with very slight right-hand cast-off, and length of pull measures 14.25 in.
Manufactured by Miroku in Japan for Browning in 1989, it bears the Browning Arms Co. Morgan, Utah & Montreal P.Q., Japan markings. Capacity is 2 rounds.