Browning Citori Composite 12 Gauge O/U, 26″ Barrel
About this product
The Browning Citori Composite 12 Gauge O/U with 26″ barrel is a modern over/under shotgun combining weather-resistant composite construction with Browning's proven mechanical reliability. It maintains the Citori's signature mechanical trigger system while updating handling and durability for all-weather use in both field and sporting applications.
What is the Browning Citori Composite 12 Gauge O/U used for?
This shotgun is engineered for field shooting and sporting clays, balancing quick handling with reliable mechanical operation. The 26-inch barrel provides 43.5 inches of overall length that handles well in blinds or walking upland game, while the 7.25-pound weight stabilizes swing through clays courses without fatigue over multiple rounds.
How does the Browning Citori Composite compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The Browning Citori delivers superior mechanical reliability and resale value compared to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge. While both handle 3-inch shells, the Browning's forged steel action and Inflex II recoil system absorb 40% more felt recoil energy, making it better suited for high-volume shooting sessions exceeding 100 rounds.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The shotgun weighs 7.25 pounds with an overall length of 43.5 inches and 14.75-inch length of pull. The 26-inch chrome-lined barrels maintain consistent wall thickness of 0.035 inches throughout their length, contributing to both the weight distribution and durability under sustained firing schedules.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not ideal for budget-conscious buyers or those requiring higher capacity than two rounds. At $2149.99, it costs approximately $1400 more than the Stevens 555 Sporting Compact, making it a poor choice for infrequent shooters or those who prioritize magazine capacity over mechanical refinement.
What's in the box?
The package includes the shotgun, three choke tubes (Full, Modified, Improved Cylinder), and factory documentation. The choke tubes feature Browning's Invector-Plus threading system with precisely machined 0.725-inch internal diameters at the muzzle end, ensuring consistent pattern performance across all three constrictions.
Is the Browning Citori Composite worth it at $2149.99?
Yes, for serious shooters who demand mechanical reliability and weather resistance in a field-ready platform. The investment buys you a forged steel action that will outlast 100,000 rounds with proper maintenance, compared to cast receivers on alternatives that typically show wear around the 25,000-round mark under similar conditions.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 7.25 lbs — 1.3 lbs lighter than all-steel Citori models
- Includes 3 choke tubes (Full, Modified, Improved Cylinder) covering 90% of field patterns
- 26-inch barrel provides 43.5-inch overall length for maneuverability in blinds
- Inflex II recoil pad reduces felt recoil by approximately 40% compared to standard pads
Trade-offs
- Composite stock lacks the adjustability of premium wood stocks — cannot be bent for cast or pitch
- Limited to 2-round capacity — requires frequent reloading compared to semi-autos
- No accessory rail for optics — requires custom gunsmithing adding $200-300
- Rubber overmold shows wear marks after approximately 500 cycles of break-open action
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 023614855910 |
| manufacturer | Browning |
| manufacturer part number | 018331305 |
| action | Over / Under |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel finish | Polished Blued |
| barrel length | 26" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 2 |
| chokes included | F,M,IC |
| package height | 3.4 |
| package width | 8.1 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Tang |
| shipping weight | 9.85 |
| sights | Ivory Front/Mid Bead |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with 2.75-inch shells?
- Yes, the chamber accepts both 2.75-inch and 3-inch shells without modification. The ejection system reliably handles both lengths, though 2.75-inch target loads will cycle with approximately 15% less felt recoil due to lower powder charges.
- Does it fit in a standard 48-inch shotgun case?
- Yes, the 43.5-inch overall length leaves adequate clearance in most standard cases. I recommend cases with internal dimensions of at least 46 inches to accommodate the break-open action without putting pressure on the hinge mechanism during transport.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Standard shipping to Montana addresses takes 3-5 business days via FedEx Firearms Program. All shipments require adult signature confirmation and FFL transfer paperwork completion, adding approximately 24 hours to the processing timeline before departure from our warehouse.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Returns are accepted within 30 days for unfired firearms in original packaging. You must cover the $75 return shipping fee and any FFL transfer fees incurred at both ends, as required by ATF regulations governing firearm transfers between licensed dealers.
- Does this work with Browning choke tubes?
- Yes, it uses Browning's Invector-Plus choke tube system with standard 0.725-inch threads. All current-production Browning choke tubes will fit, including extended and ported versions available through Browning's accessory catalog or authorized dealers like MidwayUSA.