Browning Superposed Lightning 12 Gauge Over/Under, 28 in Vent Rib, Fixed F/M Chokes, 1971, Blued, Factory Engraved
This 1971 Browning Superposed Lightning is a classic field-configured over/under in 12 gauge with factory engraving, 28 inch Special Steel barrels, and fixed Full/Modified chokes. It carries the period-correct barrel address and markings, a single gold-colored trigger, and a clean, purposeful setup with a front bead only. The stock features a round-knob pistol grip with a neutral grip profile and slight right-hand cast-off, plus crisp checkering and a ventilated recoil pad.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Overall Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Fouling: Mild Fouling - Light buildup of fouling or dirt.
Specific Condition Notes: The metal and wood show scratches, scuffs, pitting, and wear. Barrel fit is very good and slightly tight. The locking lug retains a fair amount of life. The firing pins appear good, and the ejectors are properly timed.
What’s Included
- Browning Superposed Lightning 12 gauge over/under shotgun
Built in 1971, this Lightning field configuration Superposed follows Browning's serial code format where S denotes 12 gauge and 71 denotes the year. The barrels are marked "Special Steel" with the address "BROWNING ARMS COMPANY MORGAN, UTAH & MONTREAL P.Q." and the shotgun is chambered for 2 3/4 inch shells. Capacity is two rounds, and the receiver is steel with a blued finish.
The 28 inch barrels wear a ventilated, matted rib and a front bead sight only (no mid-bead). Fixed chokes are Full and Modified, providing a traditional field setup well-suited to varied upland and general-purpose use.
Controls are straightforward: a single gold-colored trigger and a top-tang safety. Ejectors are timed, the barrel fit is very good with a slightly tight feel, and there is a fair amount of life remaining in the locking lug, indicating solid mechanical engagement.
The stock set is configured for field carry and handling, with a round-knob pistol grip, neutral grip profile, and slight right-hand cast-off. Checkering at the wrist and the field-style forend (with point-pattern checkering and a forend latch) offer secure purchase. A ventilated recoil pad with a white-line spacer and a 14.5 inch length of pull rounds out the stock features.
Engraving is factory-applied with simple scroll and rosette motifs accented by border work, complementing the classic blued finish. Markings include "BROWNING SUPERPOSED," "SPECIAL STEEL 12GA. SHELLS—2 3/4"," and "BROWNING PATENTS," consistent with the era.