Replacing a Recoil Pad on a Browning Citori Cast-On Stock
A Browning Citori with a cast-on stock is shaped to move the butt slightly to the left when viewed from behind, typically helping a right-handed shooter align the eye with the rib. Replacing its recoil pad is straightforward in principle, but the cast, toe, heel, and pitch must remain unchanged if the shotgun is to mount naturally.
The work involves more than removing two screws. A replacement pad needs to match the original outline, sit squarely against the stock, and avoid damaging the walnut or finish. For an Australian owner, firearm safety, licensed servicing, and state or territory requirements should be considered before starting.
| Work stage | Main concern | Suitable approach |
|---|---|---|
| Identify the pad | Correct size, screw spacing, heel and toe shape | Measure the existing pad and photograph its profile |
| Remove it | Avoid scratched wood and damaged screw heads | Use a correctly sized, lubricated screwdriver |
| Fit the new pad | Preserve cast, pitch and stock alignment | Mark the outline and use a stock-fitting jig or gunsmith |
| Finish the edges | Prevent exposed wood and uneven contact | Shape gradually, seal the edge and check the mount |
| Final check | Confirm safe handling and comfortable fit | Have a qualified gunsmith inspect the result if uncertain |
Confirm the Stock and Pad Geometry
Unload the Citori completely before handling it. Open the action, check both chambers and the breech face, and keep ammunition in another room. Do not rely on the safety catch as a substitute for an unloaded firearm.
Measure the old pad’s overall height, width, heel-to-toe length, screw spacing, and thickness. Record the cast and pitch by placing the stock on a flat surface and photographing the original position. A cast-on stock should not be treated like a neutral or cast-off stock, because reversing the pad can make the shoulder contact and eye alignment feel wrong.
Look for the Browning model and gauge markings, since Citori dimensions can vary between over-under configurations. Used shotguns may also have a shortened stock, an aftermarket pad, or filled screw holes. Photos of the specific firearm and its existing recoil pad are useful when ordering parts; a retailer’s shopping cart may show availability, but verify compatibility rather than relying on the product title alone.
Prepare a Safe Work Area
Use a padded bench with good lighting. Cover the surface with a clean towel or gun mat, and support the stock so that the receiver and barrels are not carrying the weight. A properly fitting gunsmith’s screwdriver is important because ordinary hardware-store drivers can slip out of the slot and mark the pad or stock.
Many recoil pads conceal their screws beneath small slits or rubber flaps. Apply a small amount of wax or non-staining lubricant to the screwdriver tip, then press firmly into the screw head while turning slowly. Keep the driver aligned with the screw so the slot does not burr.
A replacement pad can be fitted with hand tools, but shaping is often performed on a belt sander or disc sander. Those machines remove material quickly and can burn rubber, round the stock line, or alter the pitch. If you do not already have stock-fitting experience, a licensed Australian gunsmith is the safer choice, particularly for a valuable Citori or a figured walnut stock.
Remove and Fit the Replacement Pad
With the screws removed, ease the old pad away from the stock. If it sticks, do not pry against the wood with a knife or screwdriver. Work around the edge with a plastic trim tool and inspect the stock face for cracks, crushed wood, moisture damage, or previous repairs.
Transfer the screw locations to the new pad only after confirming the pad’s orientation. Mark the heel, toe, left side, and right side with masking tape. The pad should follow the cast-on stock’s existing direction, and the toe should not protrude or twist away from the shoulder contact area.
A pilot hole should be smaller than the screw diameter and drilled straight into the stock. Use a depth stop so the bit cannot enter the stock too far. Tighten both screws evenly until the pad is secure; excessive torque can compress the rubber, strip the wood, or distort the pad.
Shape, Seal and Check the Fit
Protect the stock with several layers of masking tape, leaving only the edge to be shaped. Mark the old pad outline on the new one, then remove material gradually. Keep the pad cool by using light passes and pauses. Heat can smear rubber and make the edge appear finished before it has reached the correct shape.
The final edge should meet the stock cleanly without a sharp lip. Do not sand away the stock’s cast, heel, toe, or pitch to compensate for an incorrectly selected pad. If the new pad is too small, or its screw holes cannot be placed safely, select another model rather than forcing the fit.
After installation, mount the unloaded shotgun several times in a safe direction. Check that the pad contacts the shoulder consistently, the comb still brings the eye naturally over the rib, and the toe does not catch on clothing. A light coat of suitable stock finish on exposed, unfinished wood can help protect the edge, but keep liquids away from the action and internal parts.
Australian Ownership and Service Considerations
Australian firearm regulation is administered through states and territories, so requirements differ between New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, Western Australia, South Australia, Tasmania, the Australian Capital Territory and the Northern Territory. A recoil pad is generally an external stock accessory, but importing firearm parts, sending a shotgun interstate, and engaging a person to work on a firearm may involve separate rules. Confirm the position with the relevant firearms registry or a licensed dealer.
In Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and regional areas, sporting shooters commonly use local gun shops and licensed gunsmiths for fitting work. This can be more practical than importing a pad from overseas, where postage, customs treatment and product restrictions may complicate a small order. A local supplier directory may help locate businesses, but verify that any gunsmith is properly licensed and experienced with sporting shotguns.
Keep the Citori secured according to the storage requirements in your state or territory, even while awaiting a replacement pad. Do not transport it to a gunsmith assembled and unsecured; follow the applicable rules for unloading, containment and travel. These precautions are especially relevant when travelling from outer Melbourne, regional Queensland or another area to a specialist in a larger city.
Useful checks before beginning include:
- Confirm the shotgun is unloaded, open and separated from ammunition.
- Measure the original pad and record heel, toe, cast and pitch.
- Match the replacement to the exact Citori stock profile.
- Use a correctly fitting screwdriver and a padded work surface.
- Drill pilot holes with a controlled depth stop.
- Shape the pad gradually while protecting the walnut.
- Arrange a licensed gunsmith inspection if the stock has been altered before.
A correctly fitted recoil pad should look like part of the original stock, preserve the cast-on geometry and provide even shoulder contact. If the pad, stock or screw holes raise any doubt, stop before cutting material and take the Citori to a qualified Australian gunsmith for assessment and final fitting.