1965 Browning Superposed Lightning 12ga - 30" Barrels - Made in Belgium

Description:
This is a Belgian made Browning Superposed Lightning 12-gauge, manufactured in 1965. The standard model features 30-inch barrels.
The stocks on a 1965 Browning Superposed mark a significant "pre-salt" era and are distinguished by high-quality walnut.

Core Features & Design

• Long Tang vs. Short Tang: A 1965 model is one of the last years for the highly desirable Long Tang. This refers to the trigger guard's metal strap, which extends further back into the grip than on later "short tang" models (1966 onwards).
• Y-Inletting: 1965 stocks almost exclusively feature the "Y" inletting pattern at the head of the stock where it meets the receiver. This changed to a "U" shape in the following years to simplify manufacturing.
• Round Knob vs. Full Pistol Grip: Most 1965 field models (like the Lightning) used a round knob (half-pistol) grip. While this example features a full pistol grip.
• Finish & Wood: These stocks featured a high-gloss finish on European walnut.

The "Pre-Salt" Advantage
Collectors value 1965 stocks because they are "safe." Beginning in 1966, Browning began using a salt-curing process to dry wood faster, which inadvertently caused metal corrosion. Because 1965 wood was typically dried using traditional kiln methods, these guns do not suffer from the "salt wood" issues common in 1967–1969

Technical Details and Condition:

• Action: Tight lockup with the top lever positioned right of center. This is a long-tang model with a single selective trigger.
• Barrels: 30-inch ventilated rib barrels. The original blued finish is in 95% plus condition.
• Bores: Both bores are bright and clean
• Stock: Original checkered walnut stock with pistol grip. The wood shows light field use with no cracks or dings.
• Corrosion Check: There is no evidence of salt-related corrosion at the wood-to-metal fit.

Shotgun Gauge: 12 Gauge
Manufacturer: Browning (FN Belgium)
Model: Superposed Lightning
Serial Number: 44404S5
Barrel Length: 30
Bore Info: Bright
Chambers: 2 3/4
Ejectors: Yes
Condition: VG
Metal Condition: VG
Wood Condition: VG
Bore Condition: VG
Barrels: 30
Barrel Type: OU
Action: Break Action, Full-Width Hinge
Triggers: Single Selective
Stock: Checkered Walnut Full Pistol Grip
Fore End: Checkered Walnut
Butt Pad: Factory Brown
LOP: 14 3/8
Rib: Yes, standard
Sights: White front, white mid
Manufacture Date: 1965
Chokes: FULL / MOD
Case: Original Factory Case

Price: $3,000.00
Shipping: $45.00