Only Browning knows. Information not in the public domain.
Pigeon Grade, as used in firearms, specifically shotguns, is a term for a higher level of fit and finish - both mechanically and appearance wise for a limited number of guns. Pigeon grade guns are more valuable than regular production guns or Sporting guns. Recently some manufacturers have further subdivided into categories such as Silver Pigeon, Gold Pigeon, Onyx, etc. Pigeon grade guns will carry, often, more engraving, better wood (though there are again levels of wood, the best being "exhibition" wood), gold inlay, wood carving, etc. Some, at least a pre-war Winchester Model 12, will have an engraved pigeon near the serial number. Wood grade is not indicated by any markings, but by visualization. A greatly valuable combo would be an unfired pigeon grade gun with exhibition grade wood.
There were so few Pigeon grade Winchester model 42,s made that it would be foolish not to have a member of the Winchester collectors assoc.visually check your shotgun.These fine made shotguns are very collectable,and the value could be between 7,000-12,500 dollars.A reputable collector/gun dealer should be consulted,and a hands on appraised value should be sought by you.
better grade wood and blueing
Yes.The winchester model 23 shotgun began production in the year 1978.It was the first Winchester shotgun to have interchangable chokes,along with fixed choke barrels.The model 23XTR was offered in Grade I,pigeon grade,pigeon grade lightweight,pegion grade ducks unlimited,golden quail series,light duck,heavy duck,custom 2 barrel set,grande canadian,and the model 23 custom,and classic series.I believe that these shotguns were discontinued in the year 1987.
The value of a 12 gauge Browning Citori Pigeon Grade is actually dependent upon a number of factors. Some of these factors would be the age and condition.
Similar in size, if you mean common pigeon as the rock dove.
It means they are in the same flock
I bought a trap model with a similar serial number here in Australia in 1979 and a skeet model also with a very similar number in 1985. XTR is a Winchester thing for a higher grade model and pigeon grade suggests the stock is set for live bird shooting it also is used loosely for down the line trap where it is shot double barrel is here and the UK and probably other places as well. Well both of mine certainly didn't set the safety when the action was opened.
Yes. Website: Double Barreled Shotguns, High Grade Shotguns Dates of Production
Impossible to answer without the serial number.
A lot!. Starting with the least expensive, Grade 1, Pigeon, Diana and Midas. After WWII, Grade 1 Grade II, Grade III, Grade IV, Grade V, Grade VI. In 1960 they started back with Gr 1, Then Pigeon, Pointer, Diana and Midas. Presentation grades were 1,2,3&4. Waterfowl limited edtions were Mallard, Pintail, Black Duck and Bicentennial.