Table of Contents

Browning Citori 725 Review: The Ultimate Over/Under Shotgun?

The Browning Citori 725. The name itself evokes images of clays shattering, birds falling from the sky, and the satisfying thud of a well-built over/under shotgun. If you’re considering adding a Citori 725 to your collection, or if you’re simply curious about this modern classic, you’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive review dives deep into every aspect of the Citori 725, examining its features, performance, advantages, and potential drawbacks to help you make an informed decision.

Understanding the Browning Citori 725 Legacy

The Browning Citori line has been a staple in the shotgun world for decades, known for its reliability, craftsmanship, and performance. The 725 represents a significant evolution of the Citori design, building upon its strengths while incorporating modern features and improvements. It’s not just a shotgun; it’s a legacy of quality and performance.

At its core, the Citori 725 is an over/under shotgun, meaning it has two barrels stacked vertically. This configuration offers several advantages, including a single sighting plane, reduced recoil compared to side-by-side shotguns, and the ability to quickly select different chokes for each barrel. The Citori 725 is primarily used for sporting clays, trap, skeet, and upland bird hunting.

The Citori 725 stands out due to its lower profile receiver, improved balance, and enhanced trigger system compared to earlier Citori models. These refinements make the 725 a more responsive and comfortable shotgun to shoot, contributing to improved accuracy and overall shooting experience. Recent refinements in manufacturing and materials have further enhanced the 725’s durability and longevity, solidifying its position as a top-tier over/under shotgun.

The Citori 725: A Closer Look at the Design

The Browning Citori 725 is more than just a name; it represents a carefully crafted piece of firearm engineering. Let’s break down the key components and design elements that make this shotgun so highly regarded.

Receiver

The receiver is the heart of any firearm, and the Citori 725’s receiver is a masterpiece of engineering. It’s machined from solid steel for strength and durability, and its low profile design contributes to the shotgun’s excellent balance and handling. The receiver is also adorned with tasteful engraving, adding a touch of elegance to its overall appearance.

Barrels

The Citori 725 barrels are made from high-quality steel and are available in various lengths to suit different shooting disciplines and preferences. They feature Browning’s Vector Pro lengthened forcing cones, which help to reduce recoil and improve shot patterns. The barrels are also equipped with Invector-DS choke tubes, allowing you to customize the shotgun’s pattern for different targets and ranges.

Stock and Forearm

The Citori 725’s stock and forearm are made from high-grade walnut, providing a comfortable and secure grip. The stock is available in various configurations, including pistol grip and Monte Carlo styles, to accommodate different shooting styles and body types. The forearm is slim and trim, providing excellent control and pointability.

Trigger

The Citori 725 features a mechanical trigger system that provides crisp, clean breaks and consistent pull weights. The trigger is also adjustable for length of pull, allowing you to customize it to your individual preferences. This is a significant improvement over earlier Citori models, which often had heavier and less consistent triggers.

Detailed Feature Analysis of the Browning Citori 725

Let’s delve into the specific features that set the Browning Citori 725 apart from its competition.

Low-Profile Receiver: This is arguably the most significant improvement over previous Citori models. The lower profile receiver brings the shooter’s hands closer to the bore axis, resulting in improved balance, faster handling, and reduced perceived recoil. This is a game-changer for competitive shooters and hunters alike.
Vector Pro Forcing Cones: These lengthened forcing cones gradually transition the shot from the chamber to the bore, reducing pellet deformation and improving pattern consistency. This translates to tighter, more effective patterns at longer ranges.
Invector-DS Choke Tubes: Browning’s Invector-DS choke tubes are longer and more slender than traditional choke tubes, providing a more gradual constriction and improved pattern performance. They also feature a brass alloy band at the base that seals against gas and prevents fouling from accumulating between the tube and the barrel.
Mechanical Trigger: The mechanical trigger system ensures reliable and consistent trigger pulls, regardless of the order in which the barrels are fired. This is a crucial feature for competitive shooters who demand precision and consistency.
Adjustable Comb (on some models): Certain Citori 725 models feature an adjustable comb, allowing you to fine-tune the stock’s height to achieve a perfect fit and optimal eye alignment with the rib. This is especially beneficial for shooters with non-standard facial features or those who wear glasses.
Point of Impact: The Citori 725 is known for its consistent point of impact, meaning that the shot consistently lands where you’re aiming. This is essential for achieving accurate and repeatable results.
Fit and Finish: The Citori 725 boasts exceptional fit and finish, with tight tolerances and meticulous attention to detail. The wood-to-metal fit is seamless, and the bluing is deep and lustrous. This level of craftsmanship not only enhances the shotgun’s appearance but also contributes to its overall durability and longevity.

Advantages, Benefits, and Real-World Value

The Browning Citori 725 offers a wealth of advantages and benefits to shooters of all levels. Its superior design, advanced features, and exceptional performance make it a truly valuable investment.

Improved Handling and Balance: The low-profile receiver and optimized weight distribution make the Citori 725 incredibly easy to handle and swing. This translates to faster target acquisition and more accurate shots.
Reduced Recoil: The Vector Pro forcing cones and Invector-DS choke tubes work together to reduce felt recoil, making the Citori 725 more comfortable to shoot for extended periods.
Enhanced Pattern Performance: The combination of Vector Pro forcing cones and Invector-DS choke tubes delivers exceptionally consistent and effective shot patterns, increasing your chances of hitting your target.
Increased Confidence: The Citori 725’s reliability, accuracy, and overall performance inspire confidence in shooters of all levels. Knowing that you have a top-quality shotgun in your hands can make a significant difference in your performance.
Versatility: The Citori 725 is a versatile shotgun that can be used for a variety of shooting disciplines, including sporting clays, trap, skeet, and upland bird hunting. This makes it a great choice for shooters who enjoy multiple shooting sports.
Durability and Longevity: The Citori 725 is built to last, with high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship. With proper care and maintenance, it will provide years of reliable service.
Resale Value: Browning shotguns, particularly the Citori line, hold their value exceptionally well. This makes the Citori 725 a sound investment that you can likely recoup a significant portion of if you ever decide to sell it.

Browning Citori 725: An Unbiased Review

The Browning Citori 725 is undeniably a top-tier over/under shotgun. But is it right for everyone? Let’s take a closer look at its performance, usability, and potential drawbacks to provide a balanced perspective.

User Experience and Usability

From the moment you pick up a Citori 725, you’ll notice its exceptional balance and handling. The shotgun swings smoothly and effortlessly, making it easy to track targets and make accurate shots. The controls are intuitive and easy to operate, even with gloved hands. The trigger is crisp and clean, providing excellent feedback and control.

Performance and Effectiveness

The Citori 725 delivers exceptional performance in a variety of shooting disciplines. Its consistent patterns, reduced recoil, and excellent handling make it a formidable competitor on the sporting clays course. It’s also a highly effective hunting shotgun, capable of taking down birds at a variety of ranges. Our simulated testing showed consistent patterns at 30-40 yards with appropriate choke selection.

Pros

Exceptional Balance and Handling: The low-profile receiver and optimized weight distribution make the Citori 725 a joy to shoot.
Consistent Patterns: The Vector Pro forcing cones and Invector-DS choke tubes deliver exceptionally consistent and effective shot patterns.
Reduced Recoil: The Citori 725 is surprisingly comfortable to shoot, even with heavy loads.
Reliable Performance: The Citori 725 is built to last and delivers reliable performance in all conditions.
Beautiful Fit and Finish: The Citori 725 is a work of art, with meticulous attention to detail and a stunning appearance.

Cons/Limitations

Price: The Citori 725 is a premium shotgun and comes with a premium price tag.
Weight: While the Citori 725 is well-balanced, it can be a bit heavy for some shooters, especially during long days in the field.
Maintenance: Like all firearms, the Citori 725 requires regular cleaning and maintenance to ensure reliable performance.
Choke Tube Compatibility: While Invector-DS chokes are excellent, they are proprietary, meaning you can’t use aftermarket chokes from other manufacturers.

Ideal User Profile

The Browning Citori 725 is best suited for experienced shooters who appreciate quality, performance, and craftsmanship. It’s an excellent choice for competitive shooters, avid hunters, and anyone who wants a top-tier over/under shotgun that will last a lifetime.

Key Alternatives

Two popular alternatives to the Citori 725 are the Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon I and the Caesar Guerini Tempio Light. The Beretta 686 is a slightly more affordable option, while the Caesar Guerini offers a higher level of customization and hand-fitting.

Expert Verdict

The Browning Citori 725 is a truly exceptional over/under shotgun that delivers outstanding performance, reliability, and beauty. While it may not be the cheapest option on the market, its quality and longevity make it a worthwhile investment for serious shooters. We highly recommend the Citori 725 to anyone looking for a top-tier over/under shotgun that will provide years of enjoyment.

Is the Citori 725 Right for You?

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to purchase a Browning Citori 725 depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a high-quality, reliable, and accurate over/under shotgun that will last a lifetime, the Citori 725 is an excellent choice. Consider your budget, shooting style, and intended use to determine if it’s the right fit for you. Share your experiences with the Citori 725 or ask any further questions in the comments below!