20 gauge 725 or 16 gauge citori lightning

[Johnny Lightning]

The 16 gauge is close to $400 less expensive then the 725 and I like the feel of both guns but I am a little concerned about finding ammo for the 16 lightning. Is the 725 that much better of an upland gun then the lightning? Purpose of this shotgun will be doves, pheasants, and sporting clays once or twice a year.

 

[Virginian]

I'm not an O/U fan, especially a Browning O/U fan, but I would get a 20 gauge anything over a 16.
Note - I did not say there is anything wrong with Browning O/Us. Now all the 16 fans can start lauding a gauge that has been stagnant for half a century. These is a reason for that.

 

[oneounceload]

There are a lot of models of the 725. I have the older version called the Ultra XS, but mine was made more for targets. 16 ammo, while not offering as many selections is around. If you are only shooting it a little, then the 16 might work nicely. But if you are going to shoot it a lot at a variety of things, the many 20 offerings would sway me towards that, especially when you factor in sporting clays for fun (not registered). Regular loads in 8s for doves, Fiocchi makes a Golden Pheasant that is great, etc.

It all comes down to which one fits you the best and how you like it when handling it

 

[rbernie]

The 20ga 725 has a slightly different stock than the larger 'traditional' Citori's; less drop, most notably. I suggest that you handle both to see which one fits better.

 

[DM~]

the 20ga 725 has a slightly different stock than the larger 'traditional' citori's; less drop, most notably. I suggest that you handle both to see which one fits better.

+1

dm