When I first began reading about Back-Bore and Over-Bore technology, I was skeptical...
Back-Bore or Over-Bore technology in shotguns, particularly in models produced by Browning, represents a significant advancement in firearms engineering. This technology involves increasing the diameter of the shotgun barrel's bore beyond the standard size. The standard bore diameter for a 12-gauge shotgun is typically 0.729 inches. In back-bored barrels, this diameter is increased slightly, often to about 0.735 inches or more. This modification, though seemingly minor, brings several key benefits to shotgun performance and user experience.
Browning makes such a good case for it, that I decided it would be worth the Four Grand investment just to see for myself, first-hand, so to speak. The stakes would be high and I knew it. I'm not referring to the cost of the gun. Oh no! What I'm thinking of, is the laughing stock I might become when Jimmy out-shoots me with his 50 year-old, $250 Franchi. Or worse yet, his 13 year-old grandson beats me with a $75 short barrel 20 gauge.
My 8-year-old granddaughter said that some old, fat dude that lives in Ohio invented Over-Boring.
Admittedly, shooting small paper targets placed at 30 yards with a shotgun involves a certain amount of luck. However, the right performing gun and a modicum of skill, play key roles as well. Oldtimers like me, throw out sayings all the time like, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it." Sometimes we're right, sometimes we're wrong. At my age, I need all the help I can get. After attending the first Turkey Shoot this season, I realized that the sight in my right eye was very blurry. I made an appointment with my eye doctor and now I have an appointment to get an injection in that eye on Thursday of this week. We had a syaing when I was a child that had a line about "stick a needle in my eye", well it looks like I'm about to have it done to me.
Son Chris with his Remington 1100 at the Turkey Shoot
Enhanced Pattern Performance - One of the primary advantages of back-bore technology is improved shot pattern performance. A larger bore diameter reduces the friction between the shot and the barrel walls. This reduction in friction means that the shot can maintain better velocity and energy as it travels down the barrel. Consequently, the shot exits the barrel with a more consistent velocity, leading to a more uniform and tighter shot pattern. This is particularly beneficial in target shooting and hunting scenarios where accuracy and a consistent shot pattern are crucial.
My new gun is a Browning Citori Gran Lightning. It uses the Midas grade Invector-Plus choke tubes. The buffalo hide case was made by Roosevelt & Drake. I bought that case sometime between 2000 and 2006 and put it up, knowing one day I would have a gun that would fit it. Evidently, the whole premise behind back-bore, is that the over-bored backend of the barrel to 0.742" will result in a better pattern on the target, even if the constriction from the choke tube measures only 0.034" or 0.708" at the opening as a Full Choke equivalent.
Bottom Barrel, Modified Choke, 30 Yards
Reduced Recoil - Another significant benefit of back-bore technology is the reduction of recoil. The increased bore diameter allows gases from the fired shell to expand more before exiting the barrel. This expansion results in a slightly lower shot velocity at the moment of firing, which translates into less recoil felt by the shooter. Reduced recoil improves shooter comfort, reduces fatigue, and can lead to better shot accuracy, especially in situations where multiple shots are fired in quick succession.
Extended Barrel Life - The enlarged bore diameter also contributes to extended barrel life. The larger diameter reduces pressure and friction inside the barrel, which in turn reduces wear and tear on the barrel over time. This is particularly beneficial for avid shooters who put a lot of rounds through their shotguns.
Improved Shot Velocity - While it might seem counterintuitive, back-bore technology can actually improve shot velocity. This is because the reduction in friction allows the shot to maintain more of its initial velocity. The result is a faster shot, which is beneficial for hunting fast-moving targets. Browning has been a leader in adopting and refining back-bore technology. Their shotguns that feature this technology are designed to maximize its advantages while maintaining the quality and reliability that Browning is known for. Browning's implementation often goes hand in hand with other barrel innovations such as lengthened forcing cones, which further enhance the advantages of a back-bored barrel.
No Brag, Just Fact... Or Wishful Thinking?
If this over-bored, back-bore stuff will work, I will prove it. Let me get my eye fixed and play with this thing. I ordered an Extra Full Choke Tube that just came in and when I measured it, it still measured less than Full Choke. I understand that just measuring the opening is about as scientific as dropping a dime in there, but I'm still skeptical. At this point, I've fired the gun 12 times over the course of two weekends. That's not enough real-life testing to draw a conlcusion. After I get that shot in my eye Thursday and return to the range Saturday with the Extra-Full Choke Tube, I will report back.
Confession time, I really like this over-bored shotgun. I like the way it handles and shoots. I really wish I were not having right eye problems. I suspect that my poor performance has more to do with operator than equipment.
Considerations and Limitations
While back-bore technology offers numerous advantages, there are also considerations to keep in mind. For instance, the change in bore diameter can affect the way certain chokes perform. Shooters may need to experiment with different chokes to find the best match for a back-bored barrel. Additionally, the technology might not be as beneficial for all types of shooting; for example, in situations where extremely tight shot patterns are not necessary.
Conclusion
Back-Bore or Over-Bore technology in Browning shotguns is a testament to the continual evolution in firearms design and engineering. By slightly increasing the diameter of the shotgun barrel, this technology enhances shot pattern performance, reduces recoil, extends barrel life, and offers improved shot velocity. It also ensures compatibility with environmental regulations, particularly concerning the use of steel shot. While there are certain considerations to keep in mind, the overall benefits of this technology make it a valuable feature for both recreational and professional shooters. As with any advancement in firearms technology, it's essential for users to understand and adapt to the changes in order to fully realize the benefits. Browning's adoption and refinement of this technology demonstrate their commitment to innovation and excellence in shotgun manufacturing.
