Browning Citori Feather Lightning 20ga 28in 3in Chamber
About this product
The Browning Citori Feather Lightning is a purpose-built 20 gauge over/under shotgun designed for upland hunting and sporting clays. It combines a lightweight alloy receiver with a 28-inch back-bored barrel and Grade III/IV walnut stock for exceptional balance and swing dynamics. This configuration delivers reliable performance across various field conditions while maintaining the mechanical precision expected from Browning's Citori line.
What is the Browning Citori Feather Lightning used for?
The Citori Feather Lightning excels in upland bird hunting and sporting clays competitions where fast handling and precise patterning matter. Its 5 lb 15 oz weight and 45-inch overall length make it ideal for all-day carry through dense cover, while the back-bored 28-inch barrel with Invector-Plus chokes provides consistent pattern control. The ivory front bead and mid-bead sight configuration offer rapid target acquisition across varying light conditions.
How does the Browning Citori Feather Lightning compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U Shotgun?
The Citori Feather Lightning offers superior mechanical refinement and engraving quality compared to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U Shotgun at nearly triple the price. While both handle 20 gauge shells, the Browning's back-bored barrel reduces perceived recoil by approximately 15% and provides more consistent patterning across different choke configurations. The Stevens 555 remains a solid entry-level option, but the Browning delivers professional-grade fit and finish that serious competitors will appreciate.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The shotgun weighs 5 pounds 15 ounces (94.8 ounces) with an overall length of 45 inches and 28-inch barrel length. The receiver measures 2.125 inches wide at the breech, while the walnut stock features a 14.5-inch length of pull with 1.5-inch drop at comb and 2.25-inch drop at heel. These dimensions create a balanced platform that swings naturally without feeling front-heavy like some competition shotguns.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun isn't suitable for budget-conscious buyers or those needing heavy waterfowl loads beyond 3-inch shells. The Grade III/IV walnut stock requires more maintenance than synthetic alternatives in wet conditions, and the $3032.99 price point places it well above entry-level options like the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge. Tactical shooters seeking magazine capacity or accessory rails should consider semi-automatic platforms instead.
What's in the box?
The package includes the shotgun with three extended Invector-Plus choke tubes (Full, Modified, Improved Cylinder), a Browning-branded hard case, and owner's manual with choke tube specifications. The choke tubes feature laser-etched identification and are constructed of stainless steel with a blued finish matching the barrel. No additional accessories like cleaning kits or choke wrenches are included, which is standard for firearms at this price point.
Is the Browning Citori Feather Lightning worth it at $3032.99?
Yes, for serious upland hunters and competitive shooters who value mechanical precision and heritage craftsmanship. The investment buys you a shotgun that will maintain its value better than mass-produced alternatives, with fit and finish that exceeds Turkish or Brazilian imports. While you could purchase three Stevens 555 Sporting Compact shotguns for the same price, the Browning's superior balance and engraving justify the premium for discerning shooters.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 5 lb 15 oz — 1.3 lb lighter than most 12 gauge over/unders
- Back-bored 28-inch barrel reduces perceived recoil by 15% compared to standard bore
- Includes three Invector-Plus choke tubes (F, M, IC) valued at $120 separately
- Grade III/IV walnut stock with 14.5-inch length of pull fits most adult shooters
Trade-offs
- No included choke tube wrench — requires $25 aftermarket tool for proper installation
- Walnut stock requires regular oiling in humid conditions — synthetic stocks need less maintenance
- Price at $3032.99 places it $1800 above entry-level Stevens 555 alternatives
- Limited to 3-inch shells — not suitable for 3.5-inch waterfowl loads
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 023614736769 |
| manufacturer | Browning |
| manufacturer part number | 018163604 |
| action | Over / Under |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel finish | Blue Polished |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 20 Gauge |
| capacity | 2 |
| chokes included | F,M,IC |
| color | BI-TONE |
| length | 37 |
| package height | 4.0 |
| package width | 10.0 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Top Tang |
| shipping weight | 8.7 |
| sights | Ivory Bead Front, Mid-Bead Rear |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with aftermarket choke tubes?
- Yes, it uses Browning's proprietary Invector-Plus choke system. Aftermarket tubes from companies like Carlson's and Briley are available, but must be specifically designed for Invector-Plus threading. The factory tubes provide excellent patterning with lead shot up to #4 size.
- Does it fit in a standard 48-inch shotgun case?
- Yes, the 45-inch overall length fits comfortably in most standard shotgun cases. I recommend a case with at least 47 inches interior length to accommodate the extended choke tubes. Browning's included hard case provides 2 inches of foam padding at both ends.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- FFL shipments typically take 3-5 business days via FedEx Priority Overnight. All firearms ship with adult signature required and must be sent to a licensed FFL dealer. Ironclad Armory processes orders within 24 hours of payment verification.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit properly?
- Firearms sales are final once transferred through an FFL, per ATF regulations. We recommend handling similar models at local dealers before purchasing. Ironclad Armory does offer a 30-day warranty against manufacturing defects handled through Browning's service center.
- Does this work with standard 2.75-inch target loads?
- Absolutely—the 3-inch chamber handles everything from 2.75-inch light target loads to 3-inch magnum hunting loads. The back-bored barrel particularly improves patterning with lighter loads, reducing pellet deformation by approximately 12% compared to standard bore diameters.