Browning Citori CXS 12 Gauge 30 in Barrel 3 in Chamber
About this product
What is the Browning Citori CXS 12 Gauge 30 in Barrel 3 in Chamber? It is a production-grade over/under shotgun engineered for consistent point-of-impact across sporting clays and upland hunting, built on Browning's proven boxlock action. This specific configuration pairs a 30-inch back-bored barrel with a Grade II American walnut stock and the Inflex recoil pad system. For the serious shooter, it represents the entry point into Browning's field-proven mechanical over/under reliability compared to budget Turkish imports.
What is the Browning Citori CXS used for?
The Citori CXS is designed primarily for the sporting clays course and secondarily for upland game over dogs. Its 30-inch barrel, 50/50 point-of-impact, and ventilated top and side ribs provide a deliberate, smooth swing for sustained target acquisition. The Invector-Plus Midas choke system (Full, Improved Cylinder, Modified included) allows precise patterning from close-range skeet to long-range trap targets, and the 3-inch chamber provides flexibility for heavier upland loads.
How does the Browning Citori CXS compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
Mechanically, the Browning Citori CXS operates with notably smoother lockup and a cleaner trigger break, averaging about 4.8lbs on the lower barrel and 5.2lbs on the upper. The Browning is better for the shooter requiring absolute mechanical consistency for 500+ rounds in a weekend event, while the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U is a competent entry-level tool for lighter recreational use. The Browning's Invector-Plus choke system also provides superior concentricity and pattern consistency compared to the 555's standard flush chokes, particularly at 40+ yards.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The shotgun weighs 8 pounds 1 ounce (just over 3.65 kg) unloaded, with an overall length of 47.5 inches and a 14.75-inch length of pull. The 30-inch barrels are back-bored to a diameter of approximately 0.742 inches, which contributes to the gun's forward balance and recoil management. The trigger reach is 2.5 inches from the front of the trigger to the middle of the Inflex recoil pad, a critical dimension for consistent shoulder and face placement shot-to-shot.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for the shooter on a strict budget seeking a first-time utility field gun, nor is it suited for tactical or home defense applications. The 30-inch barrel and 47.5-inch overall length make maneuverability in tight blinds or thick brush challenging. For that user, a Stevens 334 Rifle in a compact configuration would be a more appropriate choice. It is also not for the shooter requiring an easy-to-carry, all-day upland companion; the weight and length become noticeable over miles of walking.
What's in the box?
The shotgun ships with three Invector-Plus Midas choke tubes (Full, Improved Cylinder, Modified), a plastic choke tube key, a steel Briley-style choke wrench, and a standard cardboard Browning hard case. The case interior dimensions are 48 inches by 12 inches by 5 inches, providing minimal but adequate protection. Note that high-end aftermarket accessories like a custom cleaning rod, bore guide, or additional choke tubes are not included and must be sourced separately, adding $100-$300 to the initial setup cost.
Is the Browning Citori CXS worth it at $2,425.99?
Yes, but only for the shooter who values mechanical reliability over 10,000+ rounds and consistent point-of-impact across a wide range of ammunition. The Browning name guarantees a proven internal mechanism and readily available factory and aftermarket support. At this price point, you are paying for the predictable durability of the Citori action and the quality of the walnut-to-metal fit, which is markedly better than the sub-$1,500 import alternatives. It's an investment in a tool that will perform without question, not a disposable item.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- 50/50 point-of-impact system - delivers a consistent 60/40 pattern for sporting clays straight from the factory.
- Triple Trigger System provides clean, consistent pulls at 4.8lbs (lower) and 5.2lbs (upper) for reliable ignition.
- Back-bored 30" barrels (approx. 0.742" bore) reduce felt recoil by an estimated 15-20% compared to standard 0.730" bores.
- Inflex recoil pad system mitigates muzzle rise, allowing for faster follow-up shots in skeet and sporting clays.
Trade-offs
- Heavy at 8 lbs 1 oz - for all-day upland hunting, this weight becomes a noticeable burden after 3-4 miles.
- Fixed 14.75" LOP and 2.5" trigger reach - non-adjustable for shooter fit; altering requires a $200+ stock modification.
- Includes only three choke tubes (F, IC, M) - omits useful Skeet or Light Modified tubes, requiring a $40+ per-tube aftermarket purchase.
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 023614443001 |
| manufacturer | Browning |
| manufacturer part number | 018073303 |
| action | Over / Under |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel finish | Polished Blued |
| barrel length | 30" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 2 |
| chokes included | F,M,IC |
| color | BLUED |
| length | 36.6500 |
| package height | 3.5 |
| package width | 10.0 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Top Tang |
| shipping weight | 10.55 |
| sights | Ivory Front & Mid Bead Sights |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard 12-gauge ammunition?
- Yes, the 3-inch chamber accepts all standard 2.75-inch and 3-inch 12-gauge shells, including target loads, buckshot, and rifled slugs. The Invector-Plus Midas chokes are specifically designed for lead and steel shot up to size #2 steel. For best pattern performance with steel shot, use no tighter than Improved Cylinder constriction.
- Does it fit in most standard shotgun cases?
- Given its 47.5-inch overall length, this model requires a case at least 49 inches interior length for safe transport. Most standard 50-inch takedown cases from brands like Plano or SKB will accommodate it. The supplied cardboard case is for initial shipping and storage, not for regular range or field transport.
- How long does shipping take?
- Ironclad Armory ships all firearms within 2-3 business days following an approved FFL transfer verification. Ground shipping via FedEx is typically 5-7 additional business days to your selected FFL dealer. You will receive tracking information once the firearm has left our secure facility.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Due to federal regulations, Ironclad Armory cannot accept returns on firearms once they have been transferred by your FFL, except in the case of a verified manufacturer defect. We strongly recommend you handle a Citori at a local dealer to verify fit or be prepared for potential stock modifications, which can cost $200-$500 from a qualified gunsmith.
- Does this work with a Briley aftermarket choke system?
- No, it does not. The Citori CXS uses Browning's proprietary Invector-Plus Midas thread pattern. Briley offers tubes for Invector-Plus, but the "Midas" designation indicates a specific extended, knurled design. You must verify any aftermarket chokes are specifically for the "Invector-Plus Midas" system to ensure proper fit and function.