Baron Engraving is proud and honored to have created a one-of-a-kind, hand-engraved Browning Citori CXS shotgun in recognition of Bryan Perry’s service as the outgoing National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) National President and Member of the Board of Directors.
Projects like this represent more than craftsmanship alone. They serve as lasting tributes to leadership, conservation, and the organizations that help preserve outdoor traditions. Through thoughtful design, detailed engraving, and precious metal accents, this custom shotgun was created as a commemorative firearm worthy of the legacy it celebrates.
Crafted in the Baron Custom Shop, this exceptional piece reflects the level of artistry, precision, and attention to detail that transforms a firearm into an heirloom.
A Tribute to Leadership and Conservation
The National Wild Turkey Federation has long played a vital role in wildlife conservation, habitat preservation, and the advancement of hunting traditions throughout North America. Under Bryan Perry’s leadership, the organization continued to expand its mission of protecting wild turkey populations while supporting conservation initiatives and the outdoor community.
To commemorate his service, a truly special firearm was commissioned—one that would stand as a symbol of appreciation and recognition for his contributions to the NWTF and its members.
The Browning Citori CXS was selected as the foundation for this project, a shotgun widely respected for its performance, reliability, and timeless design. Its balanced form and elegant lines also make it an exceptional canvas for custom engraving, allowing Baron’s artisans to bring a meaningful artistic vision to life.
The result is a firearm that not only honors leadership but also celebrates the heritage of hunting and conservation.
Crafted in the Baron Custom Shop
Every detail of this shotgun was meticulously engraved in the Baron Custom Shop, where experienced artisans combine traditional engraving techniques with modern technology to produce firearms of exceptional quality.
For more than four decades, Baron’s engravers have specialized in transforming firearms into works of art, blending old-world craftsmanship with industry-leading engraving capabilities.
On the Browning Citori CXS, the engraving begins with elegant, tightly executed scrollwork flowing across the receiver. This style of engraving draws inspiration from classic firearm engraving traditions, where carefully balanced scroll patterns add movement and sophistication without overwhelming the natural lines of the firearm.
The scrollwork demonstrates both restraint and mastery—qualities that distinguish true engraving artistry. Each line is precisely placed to enhance the overall design while maintaining harmony with the firearm’s form.
Gold Plating that Tells the Story
While the scrollwork provides the foundation of the design, the most striking visual elements of the shotgun are the 24-karat gold plated that highlight the firearm’s commemorative significance.
The left and right receiver cameos feature beautifully detailed gold turkeys, paying tribute to the iconic bird at the center of the NWTF’s mission. These gold accents provide both contrast and symbolism, immediately connecting the firearm to the organization and the conservation efforts it represents.
At the bottom of the receiver, the NWTF logo is prominently displayed in 24-karat gold, serving as the centerpiece of the design and reinforcing the purpose of the firearm as a tribute to the federation and its leadership.
Gold-plated accents have long been used in fine firearm engraving because they add visual richness while emphasizing important imagery within the design. On this shotgun, the gold turkeys and NWTF emblem create a bold yet refined focal point that complements the surrounding scrollwork.
Attention to Detail in Every Surface
True craftsmanship is revealed not only in prominent design elements but also in the small details that many may overlook.
On this commemorative Browning Citori, engraving extends beyond the receiver to include the trigger guard and the top lever. By carrying the design language across these components, Baron’s artisans ensured that the firearm maintains visual continuity from every angle.
Each surface was carefully considered during the design process to ensure that the finished firearm would feel cohesive and balanced. The engraving flows naturally across the firearm’s architecture, reinforcing the sense that every element was intentionally crafted.
Nickel Plating for Brilliance and Contrast
To further elevate the visual presence of the firearm, the entire receiver, trigger guard, iron, and small components were nickel plated.
Nickel plating serves several purposes in high-end firearm finishing. It enhances durability and corrosion resistance while providing a bright surface that accentuates engraved details.
On this particular shotgun, the nickel finish creates a striking contrast with the engraved scrollwork and gold plating. The reflective quality of the plating allows light to interact with the engraved surfaces, highlighting the depth and precision of the engraving work.
The result is a firearm that commands attention while maintaining a refined elegance consistent with traditional sporting arms.
From Fine Firearm to Collector Heirloom
Commemorative firearms like this Browning Citori occupy a unique space within the world of collecting. While they remain fully functional firearms, their artistic craftsmanship and historical significance elevate them beyond utility.
Collectors often value firearms that embody several key characteristics:
Historical or Organizational Significance
Firearms that commemorate individuals, milestones, or organizations carry a narrative that connects the piece to a larger story.
Exceptional Craftsmanship
Hand engraving, precious metal plating, and specialized finishing techniques dramatically enhance both the visual appeal and collectibility of a firearm.
Limited or One-of-a-Kind Production
Unique pieces—especially those created to honor a specific individual or event—are inherently rare and highly desirable among collectors.
Provenance and Story
The story behind a firearm often becomes as valuable as the object itself. A commemorative piece tied to leadership within a respected conservation organization adds meaningful context that collectors appreciate.
Together, these factors transform a firearm from an object of function into a lasting heirloom.
Preserving Legacy Through Engraved Firearms
Throughout history, engraved firearms have served as meaningful ways to commemorate people, events, and traditions. Whether honoring military service, conservation leadership, or historic milestones, these firearms become physical reminders of the stories they represent.
Organizations frequently commission commemorative firearms to recognize leadership transitions, anniversaries, or contributions that deserve permanent recognition.
By combining artistic craftsmanship with symbolic design elements, engraved firearms preserve those stories for future generations.
They are not simply objects to admire today—they become artifacts that carry meaning far beyond their creation.
Baron Engraving: Creating Firearms Worth Passing Down
For more than 40 years, Baron Engraving has partnered with firearm manufacturers, organizations, and collectors to create firearms that blend artistry, history, and craftsmanship.
From limited-edition collector series to one-of-a-kind commemorative firearms, Baron artisans approach every project with the same philosophy: every firearm should tell a story.
The custom engraved Browning Citori CXS created in honor of Bryan Perry exemplifies that philosophy. Through intricate scrollwork, gold plating, and expert finishing, the firearm stands as a tribute not only to an individual but also to the values of conservation and outdoor heritage represented by the National Wild Turkey Federation.
At Baron Engraving, we are proud to create heirloom firearms designed to be admired today and passed down for generations to come.