The Browning B25 Exhibition Superposed .410: A Masterpiece of Belgian Craftsmanship
The Browning B25 Superposed stands as one of the most iconic over-and-under shotguns ever created, a design perfected by the legendary John Moses Browning. While Browning’s original Superposed design was first produced in the early 1930s, the B25 series represents the continued evolution of this masterpiece, crafted by the master gunmakers of Belgium’s Fabrique Nationale (FN). Among these exceptional firearms, the Browning B25 Exhibition Superposed .410, engraved by Perfido and completed in 1983, stands as a testament to the artistry and refinement of high-grade sporting arms.
This particular B25, chambered in the nimble .410 bore, features 26 1/2-inch vent-rib barrels choked Modified and Full, ensuring tight, consistent patterns for small game or competitive shooting. The 3-inch chambers allow versatility in load selection, giving the shooter options for both standard and magnum shells. As expected of a high-grade B25, the shotgun is equipped with a single selective trigger, providing crisp, reliable performance, and automatic ejectors, which efficiently clear spent shells with each break of the action.
What sets this particular B25 apart is the exquisite engraving executed by the renowned artisan Perfido. The engraving work elevates the firearm into the realm of fine art, blending traditional scrollwork with highly detailed gold-inlaid game scenes. The contrast between the richly blued steel and the gold accents imbues the shotgun with a regal elegance, reflecting both the engraver’s mastery and the timeless aesthetic of Belgium’s finest sporting arms. Each line and flourish of engraving enhances the contours of the action, making the gun not just a shooting instrument but a collector’s treasure.
The craftsmanship of this B25 extends beyond its aesthetics to its handling characteristics. The three-piece Schnabel forearm, a distinctive feature of Browning’s higher-grade guns, provides a secure and comfortable grip, while the pistol grip stock offers enhanced control and stability. The finely checkered butt not only adds to the overall aesthetic but also improves shouldering and grip, crucial for precise shot placement.
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