BROWNING CITORI HUNTER GRI 28/28 3″
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About this product
What is the Browning Citori Hunter GRI 28/28 3″? The Browning Citori Hunter GRI 28/28 3″ is a classic over-and-under shotgun built on Browning's proven boxlock action with Greystone Gray receiver finish and Invector-Plus choke system, chambered specifically for 3-inch 28-gauge shells. It represents a specific configuration of the Citori platform, one of the most reliable designs in modern American-made field guns. For shooters moving beyond introductory models like the Stevens 555, this firearm offers a measurable step up in durability and mechanical refinement.
What is the Browning Citori Hunter GRI 28/28 3″ used for?
The Browning Citori Hunter GRI 28/28 3″ is primarily used for upland bird hunting, specifically for species like grouse, woodcock, and quail where its lighter 28-gauge chambering is ideal. The 28-inch barrel length provides a smooth, balanced swing in dense cover, and the 3-inch chamber accommodates a wider variety of factory loads for reach and pattern density. It's also perfectly suitable for recreational clay shooting, though its lack of a raised rib makes it less specialized for that role than dedicated target models.
How does the Browning Citori Hunter GRI 28/28 3″ compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge?
The Browning Citori Hunter is a more durable and mechanically refined field gun than the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge. The Citori's action uses a proven mechanical trigger and selective single selective ejectors that are more robust under heavy field use, whereas the Stevens utilizes a simpler inertia-driven system. The Browning is better for shooters who plan on high-volume, multi-season use and require the longevity of its boxlock design, evident in its weight of 6 pounds 12 ounces versus the Stevens' lighter 5 pounds 14 ounces.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Browning Citori Hunter GRI 28/28 3″ weighs 6 pounds 12 ounces (108.9 ounces or 3085 grams) and measures 45.5 inches in overall length. Its 28-inch barrel length is the standard chamber-specific length for this gauge, and the stock features a 14.25-inch length of pull and a 1.5-inch drop at the comb. These dimensions create a balanced, fast-handling firearm that points naturally but requires a proper mount to align its lower-profile field rib.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for high-volume clay shooters who require a dedicated target gun with a high, wide rib for consistent visual acquisition. It's also a poor choice for waterfowl or turkey hunting, where the 28-gauge lacks the payload and energy required for clean, ethical kills at standard ranges. Finally, budget-conscious buyers seeking a first or occasional-use field gun would be better served by the more economical Stevens 555 Sporting lineup.
What's in the box?
You receive the complete shotgun, three Invector-Plus flush-mounted choke tubes (Improved Cylinder, Modified, and Full), a Browning-branded choke tube wrench, and the original manufacturer's documentation including a serialized owner's manual and warranty card. The box does not include a soft or hard case, which is an additional $75 to $200 purchase depending on quality, nor does it include any cleaning tools or lubricant.
Is the Browning Citori Hunter GRI 28/28 3″ worth it at $2179.99?
At $2179.99, the Citori Hunter GRI represents a justifiable investment for the dedicated upland hunter or shooter who values American-made mechanical reliability above all else. You are paying for a proven, serviceable action that can last for decades of hard use, not for elaborate engraving or exotic wood. If your annual shell count is under 500 rounds or you're primarily a casual clay shooter, the price-to-performance ratio tilts heavily toward more affordable Turkish or Japanese-made alternatives.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 6 lbs 12 oz — optimized balance for a fast-pointing 28-gauge field gun
- Includes 3 Invector-Plus choke tubes (IC, M, F), a $75+ value if purchased separately
- Mechanical single selective trigger — proven reliability over inertia systems in high-volume use
- 14.25-inch length of pull — fits most adult shooters without modification
Trade-offs
- No included case — adds a minimum $75 expense for basic protection
- Field-profile rib is low — requires a disciplined cheek weld, less forgiving for new shooters than a high-rib target model
- Greystone Gray finish shows handling marks more readily than a matte black or camouflage finish
Key attributes
| upc | 023614857174 |
| manufacturer | Browning |
| manufacturer part number | 018258013 |
| action | Over / Under |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 28 Gauge |
| capacity | 2 |
| chokes included | Full/Improved Cylinder/Modified |
| color | BI-TONE |
| length | 36.6500 |
| package height | 3.1 |
| package width | 9.1 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Tang |
| shipping weight | 9.55 |
| sights | Silver Bead |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with lead and steel shot?
- Yes, the Invector-Plus choke system is rated for both lead and steel shot, provided you use the appropriate choke constriction. For steel shot, do not use a choke tighter than Modified constriction to avoid potential barrel damage. Always refer to the Browning choke tube guide for specific steel shot ratings.
- Does it fit in a standard 28-inch shotgun case?
- Yes, but you must account for the overall length. This shotgun measures 45.5 inches assembled. A case with an interior length of at least 46 inches, like those from Boyt or Plano, is required for safe transport. The disassembled barrel is 28 inches long.
- How long does shipping and FFL transfer take?
- Processing and shipping from our warehouse typically takes 2-3 business days. Delivery to your selected FFL dealer then takes 3-5 business days via ground shipping. The FFL transfer process itself at the dealer adds another 20-60 minutes for paperwork and background check, depending on local volume and NICS queue times.
- Can I add a recoil pad or adjust the length of pull?
- Yes, the wood stock can be fitted with aftermarket recoil pads, but it requires cutting and finishing by a competent gunsmith. The factory length of pull is 14.25 inches. Adding a 1-inch thick pad will increase it to approximately 15.25 inches. We recommend services from a specialist like Cole's Gunsmithing for this work.