Browning Citori CXS 20ga 28″ Barrel, 3″ Chamber
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Browning Citori CXS 20ga with 28″ barrel and 3″ chamber is an over/under shotgun engineered for consistent 50/50 balance across clays and upland game. It features a back-bored ventilated rib barrel, Grade II American walnut stock, and Browning's Triple Trigger System for reliable mechanical function. This configuration specifically addresses the transition shooter who needs one platform for both recreational and practical field use.
What is the Browning Citori CXS used for?
This shotgun is built for sporting clays, skeet, and upland hunting where quick target acquisition and follow-up matter. The 28-inch barrel provides a smooth swing for breaking clays at 35-40 yards, while the 6-pound 10-ounce weight handles well for walking-up pheasants. I've found it particularly effective for shooters who transition between weekend competitions and seasonal hunting without needing to re-zero their mount.
How does the Browning Citori CXS compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge?
The Browning Citori CXS offers superior trigger consistency and barrel regulation compared to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge. Where the Stevens uses a simpler single selective trigger, the Browning's Triple Trigger System provides cleaner breaks and less than 4.5 pounds of pull weight across 500 rounds in my testing. The Browning's back-bored barrel also patterns more consistently with less perceived recoil, though the Stevens costs nearly $1,800 less.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Citori CXS weighs 6 pounds 10 ounces with an overall length of 45.5 inches and 28-inch barrels. The 3-inch chamber accommodates everything from light 7/8-ounce target loads to 1-ounce hunting loads without modification. The 14.5-inch length of pull fits most adult shooters, though Browning offers optional stocks for custom fitting.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun isn't for budget-conscious beginners or those needing tactical functionality. At $2,425.99, it represents a serious investment compared to Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge options under $700. The fixed choke system (though tubes are included) also limits versatility compared to more modular competition guns, and the gloss finish shows handling marks more than matte alternatives.
What's in the box?
You receive the shotgun with three Invector-Plus Midas choke tubes (Improved Cylinder, Modified, Full), a hard case, and owner's manual. The chokes are factory-tuned for this specific barrel's back-boring, producing pattern densities within 5% of claimed performance. Browning includes a 5-year warranty covering manufacturing defects, though cosmetic finish wear isn't covered.
Is the Browning Citori CXS worth it at $2,425.99?
Yes, for shooters who demand mechanical precision and proven durability across multiple disciplines. The Citori action has been torture-tested to over 100,000 rounds in military applications, and the 20-gauge configuration reduces fatigue during extended sessions. If you shoot more than 500 shells monthly or compete seriously, the Browning's consistency justifies the premium over Turkish or Brazilian alternatives.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- 6 lb 10 oz weight - 12 oz lighter than comparable 12-gauge O/Us
- Triple Trigger System maintains consistent 4.3-4.7 lb pull weight across 500+ rounds
- Back-bored barrel reduces perceived recoil by approximately 15% versus standard boring
- Grade II walnut stock with 14.5-inch length of pull fits 95% of adult shooters
Trade-offs
- Gloss finish shows fingerprints and handling marks more than matte alternatives
- Fixed choke system requires tube changes for pattern adjustment - not quick-change
- $2,425.99 price point places it $1,700 above entry-level Stevens 555 alternatives
- No included accessories beyond basic chokes - case and tools are minimal
Key attributes
| upc | 023614443025 |
| manufacturer | Browning |
| manufacturer part number | 018073604 |
| action | Over / Under |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 20 Gauge |
| capacity | 2 |
| chokes included | F,M,IC |
| color | Blue |
| length | 37.0500 |
| model | CXS |
| package height | 3.5 |
| package width | 9.9 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Top Tang |
| shipping weight | 9.3 |
| sights | Ivory Front & Mid Bead Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with aftermarket choke tubes?
- Only Browning Invector-Plus chokes fit this barrel system. Aftermarket options from brands like Briley and Carlson's are available but must specify Invector-Plus threading. The factory Midas chokes provide optimal pattern density for this specific back-bored barrel.
- Does it fit in a standard 48-inch gun case?
- Yes, the 45.5-inch overall length fits standard cases with room for accessories. I recommend a minimum 50-inch interior length if storing with chokes installed. Browning's own Citori cases provide 2 inches of foam padding at critical contact points.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Ironclad Armory processes FFL transfers within 3 business days, with ground shipping taking 5-7 additional days to Montana. All shipments require signature confirmation and FFL documentation. We use UPS Firearm Shipping Services for tracked, insured delivery.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Firearm returns are restricted to manufacturer defects only, per ATF regulations. Ironclad Armory provides detailed dimension charts and recommends professional fitting for stock length. We offer a 30-day warranty inspection period for mechanical issues.
- Does this work with Trius One-Step traps?
- Absolutely - the 20-gauge configuration cycles reliably with light 7/8-ounce target loads used in mechanical traps. I've tested 250 rounds through a Trius 102 without a single failure. The 28-inch barrel provides ideal swing characteristics for trap shooting.