Gun Problem

[orhunter]

I picked up a new to me Browning Citori 28 gauge. Hadn't fired it prior to taking to MT. Shot a couple birds with it using Fiocchi Golden Pheasant and it functioned fine. Fired one shot with Hevi-Shot (non-toxic) which is required on Federal waterfowl land. The gun wouldn't open. The action release lever (or whatever it's called) was stuck. Took some real effort to get it to move and get the gun open. I did take the time to thoroughly clean and lube the gun prior to leaving for MT so it isn't that. Although the gun is 32 years old, hasn't been shot or handled much. Still looks new and very tight.

[SwitchGrassWPG]

What's the powder load comparison between the two shells? Possible the Hevi-shot is loaded "hotter" creating more pressure causing the "brass" to interfere with something once fired?

[orhunter]

Hi Jay: That's what I was thinking but when I examined the fired cartridge it looked the same as the others. I've fired the Hevi-Shot in my Model 12 and nothing seemed odd. Maybe the powder has changed over time which doesn't seem right as all my ammo is stored correctly. Maybe it's time to start handloading the 28 with some of the heavier than lead options.

[Dmog]

I have had low brass shells swell after firing in my Citori and not eject and on rare occasions making it more difficult to break open the action. I thought my ejectors were worn as I didn't have problems with the ammo in my other guns but other ammo ejected just fine so I just didn't buy the ammo anymore. Sure was a nice shotty but moved to semi autos and haven't missed carrying that heavy thing unless I see my friend bring it out and out shoot me with less ammo.

[Willie T]

Bottom barrel I would bet. Remove the firing pin and clean the firing pin channel and see if that fixes it. 32 years is enough time for burnt powder to accumulate and that is where it accumulates. What you describe is typical symptoms. Easy fix. YouTube is your friend.

[orhunter]

The gun opened fine once I was able to move the locking lever. It's the lever that was stuck.

[blue04]

Did the empty hulls come out of the chambers easily? Or did you have to work to get them out?