Browning, sn30688 V3, 1963, 20ga., 6lbs. 1oz., Chokes SK/SK
The Browning Superposed was the first prominent over/under introduced to the USA. Beginning in 1931, the Superposed action has been used in the field and at gun clubs with over 93 years of proven, rock-solid performance. These are hand-fitted, quality guns made one at a time by skilled craftsman that are a dying breed. This fine Pigeon Grade Superposed 20 gauge Lightning, sn30688 V3 built in 1963, is a nearly new gun with the most desirable features, including weighing a very light 6lbs. 1oz. and balanced perfectly 1/8” ahead of the hinge pin. As you compare this gun to others, keep in mind that the most desirable Superposed guns are the long tang, round knob guns built before 1966, like this one. This beautiful Pigeon Grade is just as it shipped from the factory and retains over 99% overall condition with the factory barrel blue a solid 99%, action and trigger guard retain factory 100% French grey; and the wood has a near perfect finish and checkering with a few tiny handling marks in the well-figured French walnut stocks. The gun also retains the original 14 ¼” LOP to the factory buttplate, another strong point for this gun. Browning Superposed guns with pads are much less desirable and make poor investments. The 26.5” barrels are marked SK/SK and measure .005” constriction in the bottom barrel (SKEET) and .009” constriction in the upper barrel (SKEET 2 or same as IC), just about the perfect chokes for most of your upland pursuits and clay target games. The Pigeon Grade came from the factory with nice hand cut engraving, deep chiseled oak leaf engraving in the top of the action, pigeons in flight, and nice floral bouquets on the bottom. The Pigeon Grade also came with nicely figured French walnut stocks, and this gun will not disappoint. Guns built after 1965 were prone to salt contamination and rust because of the manner which Browning cured their wood. The marketplace has an aversion to the later guns with short tangs and/or square knob pistol grips. The early guns like this one are highly sought after and rarely encountered in such unmolested, high condition. This is a great upland gun that is notably lighter than most Lightning models and light enough to carry all day afield. With the factory 3” chambers you can even chase tough game with magnum loads. The value of these earlier Superposed guns continues to climb, so you can invest in this gun and enjoy its use as it gains value. The price of this gun reflects its rarity and having all the most important features, ie pre-1966, butt plate, light weight, superior wood figure, long tang round knob with field style forend, condition, and a factory case. A premium gun at a fair price. This Pigeon Grade comes with an excellent vintage Browning hardcase, a value of over $300. The specifications are below. Thanks for looking!
Barrel: 26.5"
Chokes: .005/.009 SK/SK
Bores: mirror
Bore Diameter: .622/.625
Wall Thickness: .037/.031
% Blue: 100% factory blue
Chambers: 3"
Ribs: vent-tight
Sights: front/middle ivory
Action: tight Right of Center
Ejectors
Receiver: 99% French Grey factory
Screws: perfect
Engraving: clear, sharp; not signed
Trigger: single selective crisp
Trigger Guard Color: 100% french grey
Stock: Long Tang Round Knob; field forend; nicely figured Euro walnut
LOP: 14 1/4"
LOP To End Of Wood:13 15/16"
DAH: 2 1/4"
DAC: 1 1/2"
Cast: 1/4" off
Checkering: perfect
Butt: factory Butt plate
INQUIRIES
There is a 30 day mechanical warranty on long guns. If it is a "VFI Certified" gun there is a 90 day mechanical warranty. Call or email us for more details or questions. Thanks!
