Browning Citori Hunter Grade II 28ga 28″ Barrel
Pros & cons
What works
- Hand-fitted action with superior mechanical timing compared to mass-produced alternatives
- Silver nitride receiver finish provides 72-hour salt spray resistance—superior to standard bluing
- Grade II/III walnut stock with 18-20 lines per inch figure—above average for this price point
- Includes three choke tubes (Full, Modified, Improved Cylinder) valued at $35 each separately
Trade-offs
- No hard case included—adds $150-200 for proper storage and transport
- 28 gauge ammunition costs 30-40% more than 12 gauge and has limited availability
- Walnut stock requires regular oiling and careful storage to prevent cracking in dry conditions
- 7.5 pound weight is heavier than some ultralight alternatives by nearly 1 pound
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Browning Citori Hunter Grade II 28ga 28" Barrel is a purpose-built over/under shotgun designed for field and upland hunting applications. It features a Grade II/III American walnut stock with satin finish, silver nitride receiver with gold enhancement, and comes with three Invector-Plus choke tubes. This configuration represents Browning's mid-tier field gun offering, balancing refined aesthetics with proven mechanical reliability.
What is the Browning Citori Hunter Grade II used for?
This shotgun is specifically designed for upland bird hunting and field shooting applications where quick handling and reliable performance are essential. The 28" barrel length provides excellent swing characteristics for moving targets, while the 28 gauge chambering offers reduced recoil compared to 12 gauge alternatives. I've found this configuration particularly effective for pheasant and quail hunting where shot distances typically range from 20-40 yards.
How does the Browning Citori Hunter Grade II compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U Shotgun?
The Browning Citori outperforms the Stevens 555 Sporting in both mechanical refinement and finish quality, though at nearly triple the price point. Where the Stevens 555 utilizes a basic walnut stock and simpler ejector system, the Citori features hand-fitted action components, gold-enhanced trigger, and superior wood-to-metal fitment. For serious upland hunters who value smooth operation and durability, the Browning justifies its $2419.99 price tag through superior craftsmanship and long-term reliability.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The shotgun weighs 7.5 pounds with an overall length of 45.5 inches and a length of pull measuring 14.375 inches. The 28" barrels feature a gloss blued finish with a 3" chamber and come with a 14mm rib width. These dimensions create a balanced platform that swings naturally without feeling front-heavy, making it ideal for extended hunting sessions where weight distribution matters.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not suitable for budget-conscious shooters or those needing high-volume capacity for waterfowl or tactical applications. The 28 gauge chambering limits shell availability compared to 12 or 20 gauge options, and the refined walnut stock requires more careful maintenance than synthetic alternatives. If you're primarily shooting clays or need maximum pattern density at longer ranges, consider the Stevens 555 Sporting 12 Gauge instead.
What's in the box?
The package includes the shotgun with three flush-mounted Invector-Plus choke tubes (Full, Modified, Improved Cylinder), owner's manual, and Browning's limited warranty documentation. Unlike some competitors, Browning does not include a hard case—you'll need to purchase one separately for approximately $150-200. The chokes are properly fitted at the factory and require no additional tuning for immediate use.
Is the Browning Citori Hunter Grade II worth it at $2419.99?
At this price point, the Citori represents excellent value for serious upland hunters who appreciate mechanical refinement and traditional craftsmanship. The action is hand-fitted at the factory, the wood-to-metal fit is exceptional, and the silver nitride finish provides superior corrosion resistance compared to blued alternatives. For shooters who value reliability and aesthetics equally, this shotgun delivers performance that justifies its premium positioning over entry-level options like the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge.
Key attributes
| upc | 023614857198 |
| manufacturer | Browning |
| manufacturer part number | 018259013 |
| action | Break Open |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 28 Gauge |
| capacity | 2 |
| chokes included | Full/Improved Cylinder/Modified |
| color | BI-TONE |
| length | 36.6000 |
| package height | 3.1 |
| package width | 9.1 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| shipping weight | 9.35 |
| sights | Silver Bead Front |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with aftermarket choke tubes?
- Yes, it uses Browning's Invector-Plus choke system which is compatible with aftermarket tubes from manufacturers like Carlson's and Briley. The threads are standard for this system and accept any choke marked "Invector-Plus" without modification. Expect to pay $40-60 per aftermarket choke from reputable manufacturers.
- Does it fit standard shotgun cases?
- The 45.5" overall length requires a case designed for full-size shotguns, specifically those accommodating up to 48" firearms. Most standard shotgun cases from Plano or Boyt will accommodate this model without issue. Measure your existing case—if it's shorter than 46", you'll need to upgrade.
- How long does shipping take?
- Firearm shipments typically take 7-10 business days for processing and transit to your selected FFL dealer. All transfers require completed ATF Form 4473 and background check through the NICS system. We ship via FedEx with signature requirement and adult signature confirmation.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Firearms may only be returned if defective—fit issues are not grounds for return under federal regulations. We recommend measuring your length of pull (typically 13.5-14.5") before purchasing. If the 14.375" stock is too long, a gunsmith can shorten it for approximately $150-200.
- Does this work with standard 28 gauge shells?
- Yes, it chambers both 2.75" and 3" 28 gauge shells without modification. The chrome-lined chambers handle both light target loads and heavier field loads up to 1 ounce payloads. Always check chamber markings—this model is specifically marked for 3" shells.