Description
The Browning Citori CXS 12 Gauge 30 in Barrel 3 in Chamber is a field-ready over/under built for shooters who want a straight-aught gun that pulls double duty on clays and in the uplands. With a polished blued receiver, Grade II American walnut stock, and a back-bored 30-inch barrel, this Browning Citori CXS 12 Gauge 30 in Barrel 3 in Chamber delivers consistent swing and a 50/50 point-of-impact for sporting clays, skeet, and pheasant walks.
| Manufacturer | Browning |
|---|---|
| Model | Citori CXS |
| Material | Steel receiver and barrels with Grade II American walnut stock and fore-end (per manufacturer specs) |
| Compatibility | 12 gauge 2.75-inch and 3-inch shells |
| Finish | Polished blued receiver and barrels with ventilated top and side ribs |
| Weight | Approximately 7 lbs 8 oz (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Back-Bored Barrel Design: Reduces felt recoil and patterns more uniformly—critical when you’re shooting 100-plus shells in a round of sporting clays.
- 50/50 Point-of-Impact: Means the shot charge centers evenly above and below the aim point, so you don’t have to hold over or under on crossing targets.
- Inflex Recoil Pad: Uses a progressive spring system to cut recoil by up to 30% versus standard pads, letting you stay on the gun longer without flinching.
- Ventilated Top and Side Ribs: Dissipates barrel heat fast and provides a flat sighting plane that picks up targets quickly in bright light or overcast.
- Grade II Walnut Stock: Select American walnut with cut checkering and a gloss finish—looks good in the rack and feels solid in the hands.
Who It’s For
This Browning Citori CXS is for the shooter who wants one O/U that can handle a Saturday NSCA shoot and a Monday pheasant hunt without compromise. It’s built for the guy who values a reliable, mid-weight gun that swings naturally and doesn’t beat you up after a long day afield. If you’re a sporting clays regular or an upland hunter who also shoots skeet for practice, this is your gun.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Smooth, consistent swing; low perceived recoil from the back-bored barrel and Inflex pad; versatile 50/50 POI works for both clays and field; Grade II walnut is above average for the price point.
- Cons: The 30-inch barrel can feel a bit muzzle-heavy in tight cover; the gloss finish on the stock shows handling marks faster than a satin or oil finish.
Comparison vs. Competitors
| Model | Browning Citori CXS | Zev Technologies Osprey 12G | Geissele Automatics Super Semi-Auto |
|---|---|---|---|
| Action | Over/Under | Over/Under | Gas-operated semi-auto |
| Barrel Length | 30 inches | 30 inches | 28 inches |
| Weight | 7 lbs 8 oz | 8 lbs 2 oz | 7 lbs 2 oz |
| Recoil Reduction | Inflex pad + back-bored barrel | Standard pad | Gas system + buttpad |
| Stock Material | Grade II American walnut | Synthetic | Carbon fiber / polymer |
| Price | $2,425.75 | $2,899.99 | $1,899.99 |
| Best For | Sporting clays, skeet, upland | Competition only | Hunting, 3-gun |
Per Browning specs, the CXS weighs 7 lbs 8 oz, which is a full 10 ounces lighter than the Zev Osprey—a big deal if you’re carrying it all day. The Geissele semi-auto is lighter and faster for follow-ups, but it’s not an O/U and can’t offer the same barrel-select versatility for doubles. One honest drawback: the CXS’s gloss stock finish shows scratches and dings easier than the matte finishes on the Zev or Geissele, so plan to handle it with care.
FAQ
What choke tubes does the Browning Citori CXS 12 gauge use?
This model uses Browning Invector-DS choke tubes. You can swap them quickly with the included wrench for different target presentations or field loads.
Is the 3-inch chamber necessary for sporting clays?
Not for clays—most target loads are 2.75-inch. The 3-inch chamber gives you the option to use heavier field loads for waterfowl or turkeys if you ever switch roles.
Does the 30-inch barrel make a difference in swing speed?
Yes. A 30-inch barrel swings slower but smoother than a 28-inch, which helps on sustained leads for crossing targets. It’s a trade-off: better for long-range clays, slightly slower in tight brush.
Can I use steel shot in this Browning Citori CXS?
Yes, the back-bored barrel and Invector-DS chokes are rated for steel shot. Just avoid steel in extra-full or turkey chokes.
✔ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
✔ Ships 1-2 business days
✔ 30-day returns
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Last updated: April 2026
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