fusil Griffin & Howe - All
Ernest Hemingway and the Leopard Photo: A Story of Myth.
One of the most iconic images of Ernest Hemingway shows the famed American author standing triumphantly beside the carcass of a large leopard in the African bush, a rifle slung over his shoulder. Dressed in safari gear, his expression is characteristically stoic—confident, weathered, and self-assured. The photograph, taken during his 1933–1934 African safari, has long been interpreted as a testament to Hemingway’s prowess as a big-game hunter, reinforcing his public image as a rugged adventurer and master of the wild.
But the truth behind the image is far more nuanced—and revealing—than the myth it helped create.
The Leopard That Wasn’t His
Contrary to popular belief, Hemingway did not shoot the leopard in the photograph. At the time the photo was taken, he had actually failed to bring down the animal himself. The leopard had been killed by Mayito Menocal, a young Cuban friend and fellow member of the safari party. Hemingway, ever the showman and keenly aware of image, posed with the trophy anyway—capturing a moment that would be remembered as a personal triumph, even though it was not.
This detail underscores a recurring theme in Hemingway’s life: the blurring of fact and fiction, not only in his writing but in the persona he cultivated. The photo became a symbol of the Hemingway legend—the hunter, the man of action, the conqueror of nature. Yet behind the pose was a man who, on that particular day, had come up short. It wasn’t until three months later that Hemingway finally succeeded in shooting a leopard of his own, an achievement he would later recount with pride in Green Hills of Africa, his 1935 nonfiction account of the African safari.
The Rifle: A Beloved Weapon with a Troubled Fate
The rifle slung over Hemingway’s shoulder in the famous photo is a Griffin & Howe .30-06 bolt-action rifle, serial number 956. He purchased it in 1930 from Abercrombie & Fitch in New York for $256.50—a significant sum at the time. Custom-built for precision and durability, the rifle was fitted with a telescopic sight and tailored to Hemingway’s preferences for African hunting.
Interestingly, the rifle originally came with a side-mounted diopter sight, which Hemingway removed shortly after acquiring it. He reportedly never used it, preferring open or telescopic sights for long-range shooting. The Griffin & Howe became one of his favorite firearms, accompanying him on multiple safaris and used to take a variety of game, including kudu, eland, and buffalo.
A Legacy Interrupted by Tragedy
Two years after Hemingway’s suicide in 1961, his widow, Mary Hemingway, attempted to part with the rifle. In 1963, she consigned it to Abercrombie & Fitch with instructions to sell it for $150. However, in a moment of reconsideration, she changed her mind and reclaimed the weapon—perhaps struck by its emotional and historical weight as a relic of her late husband’s adventurous life.
Eventually, Mary passed the rifle down to their son, Patrick Hemingway, who had accompanied his father on later hunting trips and shared his passion for the outdoors. Patrick used the rifle just once: in 1967, while hunting in Montana, he successfully took a moose with his father’s old .30-06—a poignant moment of continuity between father and son.
In the late 1970s Griffin & Howe .30-06 was stolen from Patrick Hemingway’s home in Montana during a burglary. Despite efforts to track it down, the weapon has never been recovered. Its disappearance remains one of the enduring mysteries in Hemingway lore.
Over the years, a persistent rumor has circulated that the stolen rifle—along with other firearms taken in the same heist—was smuggled out of the United States and sent to the Irish Republican Army (IRA)during the height of The Troubles in Northern Ireland. Some speculate it was part of a larger cache of American weapons funneled to Irish republican paramilitaries through sympathetic networks. While there is no verifiable evidence to confirm this theory, the idea that Hemingway’s rifle might have ended up in a conflict far removed from the African savanna adds a layer of irony and melancholy to its story.
Browning 825 Pro Sport: A Detailed Review for the Discerning Shotgunner
The Browning 825 Pro Sport is a well-regarded over-under shotgun that occupies a sweet spot for both hunting and clay target shooting. It's designed to offer a blend of performance, reliability, and aesthetics that Browning is known for. Let's dive into the details.
Overview and Purpose
The 825 Pro Sport is built on the proven B525 action, a workhorse in the shotgun world. It's intended as a versatile gun, comfortable in the field for game birds and equally at home on the clay range. The "Pro Sport" designation indicates features geared toward competitive shooting, but without sacrificing its hunting pedigree.
Key Features and Specifications
Action: Reliable B525 Over-Under
Receiver: Steel, typically with tasteful engraving
Barrels: Back-bored, Vector Pro lengthened forcing cones
Chokes: Invector Plus flush or extended chokes (typically 5 included)
Stock: Grade 3 or higher walnut, adjustable comb options available
Trigger: Mechanical, adjustable for length of pull
Calibers: 12 gauge
Barrel Lengths: 30" or 32" (most common)
Rib: Ventilated, adjustable options available
Weight: Around 7.5-8 pounds (depending on configuration)
Modifications and Variants
While the core of the 825 Pro Sport remains consistent, here are some variations you might encounter:
Adjustable Comb: Models with adjustable combs are highly sought after for fine-tuning fit and ensuring proper eye alignment with the rib.
Adjustable Rib: Some versions feature adjustable ribs, allowing shooters to change the point of impact.
Engraving: The level of engraving can vary, from simple scrollwork to more elaborate scenes.
Wood Grade: Higher grades of walnut offer enhanced figure and aesthetics.
Design and Systems
Back-Bored Barrels and Vector Pro: These features are designed to reduce recoil and improve pattern consistency. The back-boring process increases the bore diameter slightly, while the Vector Pro lengthened forcing cones gradually transition the shot column into the barrel.
Invector Plus Chokes: Browning's Invector Plus choke system is widely respected for its versatility and consistent performance. The extended chokes provide a longer parallel section, potentially improving patterns.
Mechanical Trigger: A mechanical trigger ensures reliable operation, even with light target loads. The ability to adjust the length of pull allows for a customized fit.
Caliber and Performance
The 825 Pro Sport is primarily chambered in 12 gauge, the most popular and versatile shotgun caliber. It's capable of handling a wide range of loads, from light target loads to heavier hunting loads.
Effective Range: With appropriate chokes and loads, the 825 Pro Sport can effectively engage targets out to 40-50 yards for hunting and sporting clays.
Target Compatibility: Ideal for all clay target sports.
Hunting Applications
The 825 Pro Sport can be used for a variety of hunting applications:
Upland Birds: Excellent for quail, pheasant, grouse, and other upland species. The gun's balance and responsiveness make it suitable for quick shots in dense cover.
Waterfowl: With appropriate steel shot loads and choke selection, it can be used for ducks and geese over decoys.
Small Game: Can be used for rabbit and squirrel hunting with appropriate loads and chokes.
Performance in Different Conditions
Weather Resistance: Browning shotguns are generally well-built and can withstand typical hunting conditions. However, it's important to clean and maintain the gun regularly to prevent rust, especially in wet or humid environments.
Recoil: The back-bored barrels and Vector Pro cones help to mitigate recoil, making it more comfortable to shoot for extended periods. The gun's weight also contributes to recoil reduction.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Reliable and durable B525 action
Versatile for both hunting and clay shooting
Adjustable features for a customized fit
Excellent balance and handling
High-quality construction and materials
Cons:
Can be relatively expensive compared to some other shotguns
Some shooters may find the weight to be a bit heavy for all-day hunting
Factory chokes may not be optimal for all applications
User Reviews and Common Feedback
Positive: Many owners praise the 825 Pro Sport for its smooth swing, consistent patterns, and comfortable shooting experience. The adjustable features are also highly valued.
Negative: Some users have reported minor issues with trigger creep or occasional failures to eject, but these seem to be relatively rare.
Why Choose the Browning 825 Pro Sport?
The Browning 825 Pro Sport is an excellent choice for shooters who want a versatile, high-quality over-under shotgun that can excel in both hunting and clay target sports. Its adjustable features, reliable action, and comfortable handling make it a joy to shoot. If you're looking for a gun that can do it all, the 825 Pro Sport is definitely worth considering.
Is it Right for You?
Consider it if: You want a gun that can seamlessly transition between hunting and clay shooting, value adjustability, and appreciate the quality of a Browning shotgun.
Maybe not if: You're on a tight budget or primarily need a dedicated lightweight hunting gun.
Alternatives
Beretta 686/687: A classic over-under known for its reliability and handling.
Caesar Guerini Tempio Light: A higher-end option with exceptional fit and finish.
Benelli 828U: A modern, lightweight over-under with unique features.
Final Thoughts
The Browning 825 Pro Sport strikes a good balance between a field and target gun. Its feature set makes it good for both clay target sports and hunting. #browning825
Browning Citori Composite: A Modern Classic Over Under Shotgun Review
The Browning Citori is a name synonymous with quality, reliability, and performance in the world of over-under shotguns. The Citori Composite takes the classic design and brings it into the 21st century with modern materials and features, offering a blend of tradition and innovation. This article delves deep into the Citori Composite, examining its various aspects, intended for both seasoned hunters and clay target enthusiasts.
Overview and Design Philosophy
The Browning Citori has earned a well-deserved reputation for reliability, durability, and performance. The Citori Composite aims to enhance these features through innovative design, creating an all-weather shotgun that offers both functionality and aesthetics. The Composite’s appeal lies in its ability to withstand harsh conditions while maintaining the classic Citori feel.
Available Modifications and Configurations
The Citori Composite is offered in several configurations to suit a variety of shooting disciplines. Here are a few key variants:
Barrel Lengths: Commonly available in 28", 30", and 32" barrel lengths. Shorter barrels (26") may be available on some models or by special order.
Gauge Options: Primarily available in 12 gauge, which is the most versatile option for hunting and clay target shooting. Some models may be available in 20 gauge, offering lighter recoil and handling.
Stock Options: The composite stock is the signature feature, but variations in grip style (e.g., pistol grip, palm swell) might be available depending on the specific model year.
Adjustable Comb: Certain Citori Composite models may feature an adjustable comb, allowing shooters to fine-tune the stock for optimal eye-to-rib alignment.
Key Features and Systems Browning Citori
Receiver: The Citori's receiver is machined from a solid block of steel, ensuring strength and longevity. The blued finish (or sometimes a nickel finish on certain models) provides corrosion resistance and a traditional aesthetic.
Composite Stock and Forearm: The black composite stock and forearm provide superior weather resistance compared to traditional wood stocks. The composite material is durable, impervious to moisture, and helps reduce felt recoil.
Invector-Plus Choke System: Browning's Invector-Plus choke system is a common feature, allowing shooters to easily change chokes for different shooting scenarios. These chokes are longer than standard chokes, providing a more gradual constriction for improved patterns.
Mechanical Triggers: Citori shotguns are known for their crisp, mechanical triggers that offer consistent pull weight. This is particularly beneficial for clay target shooting.
Ejectors: The Citori features strong, reliable ejectors that automatically eject spent shells, allowing for quick reloading.
Vent Rib: A vent rib along the top of the barrel helps dissipate heat and provides a clear sight picture.
Calibers and Specifications Browning Citori
Calibers: Primarily 12 gauge (20 gauge models may exist, but are less common).
Chamber: Typically 2 ¾" and 3" chambers, allowing for a wide range of ammunition options.
Weight: Approximately 7.5 to 8 pounds, depending on the barrel length and specific configuration.
Overall Length: Varies based on barrel length, typically ranging from 45" to 50".
Length of Pull: Usually around 14 ¼" to 14 ½", but adjustable comb models can offer some flexibility.
Drop at Comb: Typically around 1 ½"
Drop at Heel: Typically around 2 ¼"
Effective Range and Target Applications
The Citori Composite's effective range depends heavily on the choke used and the gauge.
Hunting: For upland birds like quail and pheasant, improved cylinder or modified chokes are suitable, providing effective patterns out to 30-40 yards. For waterfowl, tighter chokes like modified or full are needed to reach birds at 40-50 yards.
Clay Target Shooting: For skeet, cylinder or skeet chokes are preferred. For trap and sporting clays, modified, improved modified, or full chokes are commonly used to break targets at longer distances.
Ideal Game and Target Types Browning Citori
The versatility of the Citori Composite makes it suitable for a wide array of game and target types:
Upland Birds: Quail, pheasant, grouse, woodcock
Waterfowl: Ducks, geese
Small Game: Rabbits, squirrels
Clay Target Sports: Skeet, trap, sporting clays
User Reviews and Feedback
Positive:
Durability: The composite stock is highly praised for its resistance to weather and wear.
Reliability: Citori shotguns, in general, have a reputation for being reliable and long-lasting.
Recoil Reduction: The composite stock helps absorb some recoil, making it more comfortable to shoot for extended periods.
Aesthetics: While opinions on aesthetics are subjective, many appreciate the modern look of the composite stock combined with the classic Citori receiver.
Performance: Users consistently report excellent patterns and consistent trigger pulls.
Negative:
Weight: Some users find the Citori Composite to be slightly heavier than other over-under shotguns.
Aesthetics: Some traditionalists prefer the look and feel of a classic wood stock.
Price: Citori shotguns can be relatively expensive compared to some other brands.
Why Choose the Browning Citori Composite?
The Browning Citori Composite is an excellent choice for shooters who value durability, reliability, and versatility. Its composite stock ensures that the shotgun can withstand harsh conditions without sacrificing performance. The Citori Composite is suitable for any shooter looking for a high-quality over-under shotgun that will last for years.
Final Thoughts
The Browning Citori Composite represents a modern take on a classic design. Its weather-resistant composite stock, combined with the Citori's proven reliability and performance, make it a top contender for hunters and clay target shooters alike. #Browning #Citori #Composite
