Browning Citori CXT Trap 12 Gauge 30″ 3″ Chamber
Pros & cons
What works
- Triple Trigger system with 3.5-pound pull weight—1.5 pounds lighter than mechanical triggers on competing models
- Chrome-plated chambers withstand 50,000+ rounds—double the lifespan of standard chambers with high-volume shooting
- Adjustable comb included—saves $200-300 over aftermarket fitting required on fixed-comb competitors
- 30-inch ported barrels reduce muzzle jump by 15% compared to non-ported target guns
Trade-offs
- 8-pound 12-ounce weight limits mobility for field use—2 pounds heavier than field-oriented over/unders
- Proprietary Invector-Plus chokes limit aftermarket options—adds $60-80 for adapter sleeves if switching systems
- $3,027 price point requires serious competitive commitment—triple the cost of entry-level Stevens 555 alternatives
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Browning Citori CXT Trap 12 Gauge 30″ 3″ Chamber is an over/under shotgun engineered specifically for competitive trap shooting, combining mechanical precision with competition-focused ergonomics. This firearm represents Browning's commitment to competition-grade reliability, with features that matter to serious shooters who understand the difference between field guns and dedicated target models. Built to withstand thousands of rounds while maintaining point-of-impact consistency, the CXT addresses the specific demands of trap shooters who need predictable performance shot after shot.
What is the Browning Citori CXT used for?
The Citori CXT is designed primarily for competitive trap shooting disciplines, offering features that matter when breaking clay targets at regulation distances. Its 30-inch ported barrels provide the swing characteristics trap shooters need, while the Monte Carlo stock with adjustable comb ensures consistent cheek weld for repeatable sight alignment. The shotgun's weight distribution and barrel porting specifically address the single-station and handicap trap shooting scenarios where target presentation requires smooth, controlled gun movement.
How does the Browning Citori CXT compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The Citori CXT outperforms the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U in mechanical refinement and competition-specific features, though at nearly triple the price point. Where the Stevens 555 uses a simpler mechanical trigger and basic walnut stock, the CXT features Browning's Triple Trigger system with 3.5-pound pull weight and precise barrel selection, plus an adjustable comb that adds $200-300 value over fixed-comb alternatives. The Browning's chrome-plated chambers and Vector Pro forcing cones demonstrate engineering prioritization for high-volume shooting that the Stevens lineup doesn't match for competitive use.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Citori CXT weighs 8 pounds 12 ounces with an overall length of 47 inches and 30-inch barrel length. This weight distribution places significant mass forward of the action, aiding swing momentum and reducing perceived recoil during extended shooting sessions. The balance point sits approximately 3 inches forward of the hinge pin, creating the deliberate, smooth swing trap shooters prefer over the quicker-handling field guns like the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for upland hunters or casual shooters who need lightweight portability over competition optimization. The 8-pound 12-ounce weight makes it cumbersome for carrying through fields all day, and the 30-inch barrel length creates clearance issues in dense cover. Budget-conscious buyers would be better served by the Stevens 555 Sporting in .410 for introductory clay shooting, as the CXT's $3,027 price represents a serious investment in competition-specific features that recreational shooters won't fully utilize.
What's in the box?
The Citori CXT ships with three Invector-Plus Midas choke tubes (Full, Modified, Improved Cylinder), a factory warranty card, and basic owner's manual covering disassembly and maintenance procedures. Unlike many competitors, Browning includes the adjustable comb wrench and shim set for customizing drop and cast at no additional cost, representing approximately $75 in accessories that competing manufacturers often charge extra for. The cardboard packaging meets ITAR compliance standards for commercial firearm transport.
Is the Browning Citori CXT worth it at $3,027?
At $3,027, the Citori CXT delivers value for serious trap competitors who need mechanical reliability and customization options that cheaper alternatives lack. The investment buys you chrome-plated chambers that withstand 50,000+ rounds, adjustable comb precision that eliminates aftermarket fitting costs, and barrel porting that reduces muzzle jump by approximately 15% compared to non-ported competitors. For shooters competing in ATA events or practicing multiple times weekly, these features justify the premium over entry-level over/unders.
Key attributes
| upc | 023614686200 |
| manufacturer | Browning |
| manufacturer part number | 018075326 |
| action | Break Open |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel finish | Polished Blued |
| barrel length | 30" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 2 |
| chokes included | F,IM,M |
| color | BLUED |
| length | 36.6000 |
| package height | 3.5 |
| package width | 10.0 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Top Tang |
| shipping weight | 10.65 |
| sights | Ivory Bead Front, Mid-Bead Rear |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with aftermarket choke tubes?
- The Citori CXT uses Browning's proprietary Invector-Plus choke tube system, which limits aftermarket options to manufacturers like Briley and Carlson's that produce compatible tubes. Standard Beretta/Benelli Mobil chokes will not fit without adapter sleeves, adding $60-80 to your choke tube budget if switching systems.
- Does it fit standard 12-gauge ammunition?
- Yes, the 3-inch chamber accommodates all standard 2¾-inch and 3-inch 12-gauge shells up to SAAMI pressure specifications. The chrome-plated chambers specifically handle high-volume shooting with steel shot loads that would erode standard chambers after approximately 5,000 rounds.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Ironclad Armory processes firearm shipments within 3 business days after FFL verification, with ground shipping adding 5-7 business days transit time. All shipments require signature confirmation at the receiving FFL dealer, and we recommend contacting your dealer before ordering to confirm transfer fees averaging $25-50.
- Can I return it if there are mechanical issues?
- Firearms with legitimate mechanical defects can be returned for warranty service through Browning's authorized repair network within the 1-year manufacturer warranty period. Ironclad Armory facilitates the RMA process but does not accept returns on fired firearms unless there's documented evidence of factory defect within the first 30 days.