Make: Browning
Model: Superposed Lightning
Serial Number: 63621 V71, All the serialized parts match.
Year of Manufacture: 1971
Gauge: 20 Gauge 2.75" and 3" Shells.
Action Type: Over/Under, Top Break Shotgun w/ Ejectors, and single selective inertial trigger. The safety does not reset automatically.
Barrel Length: 26.5" Vented Rib.
Choke: Fixed Chokes Modified Over Improved Cylinder.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a small silver bead affixed to the front of the rib. The rib has checkering for glare reduction.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The wood furniture is a two-piece high gloss checkered walnut set. The stock is a Prince of Wales grip, fluted straight comb, with a Decelerator butt pad. The forend is a checkered round profile, non removable, forend. The LOP measures 13.75". The drop at comb is 1 3/8ths" the drop at heel is 2 1/8ths" and the shotgun weighs 6lbs 2OZ. The wood shows some surface level lines, minor nick, crazing and minor compressions scattered throughout. There are no chips or cracks in the wood. There is a notable scratch on the right side of the nose. The butt pad is soft and pliable showing only minor wear. Overall the furniture set is in about Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original.
Bore Condition: The smooth bores are bright with no erosion or pitting. The bores show a few lines and minimal plastic fouling from use. In this writer’s opinion the bores rate 9.75/10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 95% of its finish. The bottom barrel has the signature Superposed rub mark from the forend. The barrels show scattered marks and small scratches notably about mid length on the lower barrel there is a series of small scratches. The upper tang shows rub wear from the safety. The lower edges of the receiver show finish loss. The inside of the action shows minor rub wear. The markings are clear and the screw heads are sharp. Overall this shotgun is in about Very Good+-Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly including the ejectors. There is zero movement between the barrels and frame. The safety does NOT set automatically when the action is opened but functions properly when manually set. We have not fired this shotgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: This Browning Superposed Lightning in 20 gauge from 1971 is a classic over under shotgun that represents the pinnacle of craftsmanship and design from the mid-20th century. The Superposed line, designed by the legendary John Moses Browning and later refined by his son Val Browning, was the company’s flagship over-and-under shotgun, known for its impeccable build quality, elegant design, and reliable performance. Produced in Belgium by FN Herstal, these shotguns are highly regarded by collectors and shooters alike for their historic significance and enduring functionality. A 1971 model in 20 gauge with 26.5-inch barrels is particularly desirable due to its balance and versatility. The 20 gauge is a popular choice for upland bird hunting, and sporting clays with its lighter recoil compared to the 12 gauge, while still providing sufficient power and shot capacity for effective performance in the field. The 26.5-inch barrels contribute to quick handling and faster target acquisition, making this configuration ideal for fast-moving game and dynamic shooting sports. In terms of aesthetics, this 1971 example features classic scroll engraving, a Prince of Wales walnut stock with fine checkering, and the iconic lightning-style rounded forend that contributes to the gun’s graceful appearance and handling. The action is known for its strength and smooth operation, with a reliable trigger system that offers a crisp, consistent pull. The tang-mounted safety and barrel selector are intuitive and easy to operate, adding to the shotgun’s ease of use. Overall, this 1971 Superposed is a unique and highly functional firearm.
