The Browning Citori Upland Special is a highly regarded over-and-under shotgun, prized by upland bird hunters for its blend of elegance, reliability, and performance. This in-depth guide explores its features, history, variations, and why it remains a top choice for hunters across the country. We'll cover everything from its construction to its handling characteristics, helping you understand what makes the Browning Citori Upland Special so special.
The Legacy of the Browning Citori
The Citori line itself boasts a rich history, built on Browning's reputation for quality and innovation. Known for its Invector-DS system (offering interchangeability of chokes), the Citori's design has evolved over the decades, constantly refining its already exceptional features. The Upland Special represents a specific iteration focused on the needs of the upland hunter.
Key Features of the Browning Citori Upland Special
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Lightweight Construction: One of the most defining characteristics is its lightweight construction. This is crucial for all-day hunts, minimizing fatigue and maximizing your ability to react quickly to flushing birds. Typically utilizing aluminum alloys, this reduces weight without sacrificing strength.
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Balance and Handling: The Citori Upland Special is engineered for excellent balance and swing. This contributes to effortless target acquisition and quick target transitions. This is essential for hitting fast-moving targets characteristic of upland bird hunting.
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Stock and Forend: The stock is typically designed with a slightly less aggressive drop and cast compared to other Citori models, making it comfortable for a wider range of shooters. The forend is often designed for a secure, comfortable grip even in wet or cold conditions. Specific wood grades vary by model year and availability.
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Invector-DS Choke System: The Invector-DS choke system allows for easy interchangeability of chokes, offering versatility to match different loads and shooting situations. This system ensures optimal patterns for various target ranges.
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Reliable Action: The action itself is renowned for its smoothness, reliability, and durability. Browning has established a reputation for building exceptionally robust actions capable of withstanding the rigors of frequent use.
Variations and Model Differences
While the core design remains consistent, there have been minor variations in the Browning Citori Upland Special over the years. These might include subtle changes in stock dimensions, wood grade, or engraving. It's important to check the specifics of individual models when purchasing. Look for information on the year of manufacture and any specific details highlighted by the seller.
Comparing the Citori Upland Special to Other Upland Guns
The Citori Upland Special competes with other premium upland shotguns like the Beretta 686 E Sporting or the Caesar Guerini Summit Sporting. While all offer excellent performance, the Citori often stands out for its balance, lighter weight, and its established reputation for reliability. A direct comparison requires considering individual preferences regarding weight, stock dimensions, and handling characteristics.
Choosing the Right Browning Citori Upland Special: A Buyer's Guide
Before purchasing, consider the following:
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Gauge: The Citori Upland Special is available in various gauges (12, 20, 28), choosing the right gauge depends on personal preference and the type of game hunted. 20 gauge is often preferred by upland hunters for its reduced recoil and lighter weight.
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Barrel Length: Barrel length affects swing characteristics and weight. Shorter barrels are often preferred by upland hunters, but slightly longer barrels can be advantageous in certain situations.
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Stock Dimensions: Proper stock dimensions are critical for comfort and proper fit. Consider having the gun professionally fit to your body to ensure optimal performance and reduce discomfort.
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Condition: If buying a used gun, carefully inspect it for any signs of wear, damage, or improper maintenance.
Case Study: A Season with the Citori Upland Special
One hunter reported consistent success using the Browning Citori Upland Special across a variety of upland hunting scenarios. He commented on the ease of handling and the lack of fatigue even after an extended day in the field, emphasizing the gun's light weight and balance as key contributors to his success. He frequently hunted pheasant and quail.
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of the Browning Citori Upland Special
The Browning Citori Upland Special endures as a classic upland shotgun for good reason. Its blend of performance, reliability, and manageable weight makes it an exceptional choice for seasoned hunters and those new to the sport. By carefully considering the factors discussed above, you can choose the perfect Citori Upland Special to enhance your upland hunting experience for years to come. Its reputation, backed by Browning’s history, speaks for itself.