Best of the Best: Ultra Light 20 vs Citori 725 Field
Ultra Light 20 vs Citori 725 Field
Our #1 and #2 picks from The 10 Best Pheasant Shotguns, compared spec-by-spec with clear pros, cons, and a verdict.
Choosing the right shotgun for pheasant hunting can dramatically impact your experience, blending speed, reliability, and comfort in the field. Today, we pit two titans against each other: the Benelli Ultra Light 20 Gauge and the Browning Citori 725 Field. Both are premium firearms, but they approach the task with fundamentally different designs – a semi-automatic versus an over-under – each offering distinct advantages for flushing birds in varied terrain. Your decision hinges on prioritizing factors like recoil management, handling speed, capacity, and the overall feel of the gun in your hands during those critical moments.
Ultra Light 20
Benelli
Under six pounds, inertia-driven, and the fastest-handling autoloader in an upland field.
Find it on AmazonCitori 725 Field
Browning
The benchmark over-under: low profile, mechanical triggers, and a swing that keeps moving.
Find it on AmazonSpec-by-Spec
| Spec | #1 Ultra Light 20 | #2 Citori 725 Field |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | Approx. 5.2 - 5.5 lbs (20 ga, 24-26" barrel) | Approx. 6 lbs 12 oz (12 ga), 6 lbs 8 oz (20 ga) |
| Capacity/Size | 2+1 rounds (20 ga), 24-26" barrel | 2 rounds (Over-Under), 26-28" barrel options |
| Materials | Aluminum alloy receiver, Steel barrel, Carbon fiber rib, Walnut stock | Steel receiver, Steel barrels, Grade II/III Walnut stock |
| Price Tier | Premium ($1,800 - $2,200+) | Premium ($2,700 - $3,200+) |
| Warranty | 5-Year Mechanical Warranty | Not published (Browning typically offers limited lifetime) |
| Best Use | Upland hunting, fast-flushing birds, long walks | Upland hunting, clays, all-around sporting |
| Portability | Excellent (extremely lightweight) | Good (slightly heavier, but well-balanced) |
| Durability | Excellent (simple Inertia Driven system) | Excellent (robust Citori action) |
| Feature Highlights | Inertia Driven system, Lightweight design, Carbon fiber rib | Low-profile receiver, Fire Lite Mechanical Triggers, Invector-DS choke system |
Ultra Light 20
Best for: The hunter who covers vast distances and values an ultra-light, reliable semi-automatic for fast-flushing birds.
Pros
- Unmatched lightness for extensive walking
- Reliable Inertia Driven system requires minimal cleaning
- Soft-shooting for a lightweight shotgun
- Faster follow-up shots with 3-round capacity
Cons
- Recoil can be more noticeable with heavier loads compared to heavier guns
- Only 3-round capacity can feel limited for some
- Semi-auto platform not preferred by all traditionalists
Citori 725 Field
Best for: The traditionalist hunter who prioritizes balance, precise triggers, and classic over-under aesthetics for varied upland pursuits.
Pros
- Superior balance and swing characteristics
- Precise trigger feel with Fire Lite Mechanical Triggers
- Classic aesthetics and craftsmanship
- Two chokes can be set for different shot distances
Cons
- Heavier than the Ultra Light, noticeable on long treks
- Higher price point
- Slower to reload and fewer rounds than semi-autos
The Verdict
For pheasant hunting, both of these shotguns are exceptional, but they cater to different priorities. The Benelli Ultra Light 20 Gauge is the clear winner for hunters prioritizing miles over minutes. Its featherlight build makes it an absolute joy to carry across vast fields, reducing fatigue significantly. While recoil is slightly more pronounced than a heavier gun, the Inertia Driven system is incredibly reliable and soft-shooting for its weight class. The Browning Citori 725 Field, on the other hand, is the champion for those who value classic elegance, impeccable balance, and the precision of an over-under. It swings beautifully, offers a superb trigger, and its robust build inspires confidence. Ultimately, the Benelli is for the dedicated upland hunter covering serious ground, while the Browning is for the hunter who appreciates tradition, balance, and fine shooting dynamics, willing to carry a bit more weight for the feel of a classic.