FOSSARI – CRX9 SPORTING

The CRX9 Sporting was born around this need. Its identity does not depend on a single component, but on the interaction between a monolithic steel receiver, a robust locking system, barrels developed to achieve consistent patterns, interchangeable long chokes, and a stock designed to make shouldering the gun natural.

The result is a competition shotgun designed not only to offer accuracy on a single target, but to maintain stability, continuity and reliability during intensive training and competitions characterised by a high number of shots.

FOSSARI: the competition line developed by FAIR

FOSSARI is the brand through which FAIR focuses its experience in the construction of over-and-under shotguns for competitive shooting. The project originated in the Val Trompia gunmaking district with the goal of creating platforms capable of satisfying both the advanced shooter and the professional competitor.

The CRX9 range includes specific configurations for different disciplines. Each model shares a robust mechanical base, but is configured with barrels, ribs, stocks, chokes, and adjustment systems consistent with the type of shooting for which it is intended.

The Sporting represents the most versatile version of the line. Unlike a configuration designed around relatively repetitive trajectories, it must allow the shooter to tackle very different targets without altering their relationship with the gun.

The philosophy of FOSSARI CRX9 Sporting

A sporting rifle must strike a precise balance between stability and handling. Excessive mass can slow down corrections on fast-moving targets; a gun that's too light can become jittery, interrupt movement, and make lead less consistent.

Il FOSSARI CRX9 Sporting has an indicative weight of approximately 3,9 kilogramsThis value allows you to absorb a significant portion of the recoil, limit muzzle climb and keep the rifle stable when swinging.

The weight, however, is not concentrated randomly. The receiver, barrel assembly, and stock must work as a single system, allowing the shooter to initiate the movement decisively and continue it beyond the moment of firing without abrupt interruptions.

In Sporting, this continuity is essential. The clay isn't hit by aiming at a stationary target, but by building a dynamic relationship between its trajectory and the movement of the barrels. A balanced shotgun helps the shooter maintain this fluid relationship.

Monolithic action frame made from a block of steel

The heart of the CRX9 Sporting is a monolithic steel receiver , machined from a single block using five-axis CNC machining.

The monolithic construction avoids the need for a structure assembled from numerous main elements and allows for material continuity. Modern mechanical processes allow for seats, bearing surfaces, and sliding surfaces to be created with precise tolerances.

In a competition shotgun, the robustness of the action takes on particular importance. The number of shots fired during training and competitions can be much higher than that normally achieved by a purely hunting gun.

The action must therefore withstand repeated cycles of opening, closing, and firing, maintaining the quality of the couplings over time. The mass of the steel also helps stabilize the rifle and distribute the stresses generated by the shooting cartridges.

Boss derivation closure and solidity over time

The CRX9 uses a locking system inspired by Boss architecture , with integrated lugs under the chambers and a locking block placed centrally on the barrel axis.

This geometry allows the receiver to be kept relatively low, favoring a compact line between the barrels and the stock. A compact profile reduces the distance between the barrel axis and the shoulder rest, helping to limit muzzle climb when firing.

The central position of the locking mechanism promotes symmetrical distribution of forces and creates a solid connection between the barrel assembly and the action. During intensive shooting, the ability to maintain proper mechanical sealing directly impacts the rifle's durability and consistent performance.

IRF System: A frame designed to be reset

Among the most interesting solutions of the platform FOSSARI the system figures IRF, consisting of an interchangeable insert in hardened and chromed steel placed in the area of ​​the receiver face.

Over the years, the contact surfaces between barrels and action are subjected to repeated stress. Even a robust structure can show a progressive change in the fit after extremely intense use.

The interchangeable insert allows you to service the area most affected by wear without having to replace the entire receiver. This solution is consistent with the CRX9's competitive purpose, as it considers extraordinary maintenance a natural part of the gun's long service life.

The value of the system therefore does not only concern the initial resistance, but the possibility of bringing the rifle back to the correct closing conditions after a very high number of shots.

T-REX system for fore-end coupling recovery

The front of the weapon adopts the T-REX system , developed to allow the repositioning and recovery of the coupling between the fore-end and barrel group.

The forend of an over-and-under competition shotgun is continually removed and reassembled during normal disassembly and maintenance. It is also subjected to the vibrations of firing and the forces exerted by the front hand during aiming.

The ability to intervene on the coupling helps to preserve the correct solidity of the assembly, avoiding play that could affect the perception of the weapon or produce unwanted noises and movements.

IRF and T-REX express a precise construction philosophy: to design a rifle not only to function well when new, but to be able to be kept efficient during prolonged sporting activity.

Removable battery for inspection and maintenance

The battery of FOSSARI CRX9 Sporting It can be removed manually from the receiver. This solution allows quick access to the trigger group and internal mechanisms without having to resort to complex disassembly each time.

For the competitive shooter, the ability to inspect and clean the magazine is a real advantage. Residue, dust, and lubricants can be more easily controlled, while any technical intervention can be completed more quickly.

The removable battery also makes it possible to replace the unit if necessary, reducing the weapon's downtime during training or competitions.

This architecture recalls the solutions found on high-end competition shotguns, in which mechanical accessibility and maintenance are an integral part of the design.

Selective single trigger and management of the two barrels

The firing system uses a single selective trigger . The selector is positioned on the upper tang of the action, in an area easily accessible by the thumb.

The shooter can choose which barrel to use first, thus establishing the choke best suited to the initial target. This option is particularly important on shooting ranges with double-barrelled guns characterized by different distances or trajectories.

A first close-range clay target may require a more open choke, while the second, more distant target can be approached with a more concentrated setup. By reversing the barrel sequence, the shooter adapts the shotgun to the course without altering their technique.

The shape of the trigger and its relationship to the grip are designed to allow a natural pull. The trigger pull must remain consistent, as variations in weight or travel can disrupt the movement and cause involuntary hand reactions.

XBORES barrels: internal geometry and ballistic regularity

The reeds represent one of the most characteristic elements of the CRX9 Sporting. FOSSARI uses internal geometry XBORES, developed to improve the passage of the charge and obtain a regular distribution of the pellets.

In a sporting shotgun, ballistic performance shouldn't be evaluated solely by maximum grouping. It's more important to achieve a homogeneous distribution, free of significant voids, and sufficiently stable from one shot to the next.

A regular pattern widens the useful margin around the center and reduces the probability that a correctly intercepted clay will cross an area poorly covered by the pellets.

The XBORES profile works together with the connecting cones and the chokes, forming a system in which the different internal sections of the barrel progressively accompany the load from the chamber to the muzzle.

X-CONES long connecting cones

Between the chamber and the bore of the barrel are the elongated X-CONES connecting cones . The function of these elements is to make the transition of the cartridge towards the internal diameter of the barrel more progressive.

A less abrupt transition can limit pellet deformation, especially those located in the peripheral part of the load. More geometrically regular pellets tend to maintain more predictable trajectories and contribute to a uniform pattern.

Long cones can also affect the perceived recoil, distributing the load's acceleration more progressively. They don't eliminate the energy generated by the shot, but they can make the gun's response less abrupt.

During a long shooting session, even a limited reduction in felt recoil can help the shooter maintain posture, concentration and quality of shouldering.

71, 76 and 81 centimetre rods

Il FOSSARI CRX9 Sporting is available with rods from 71, 76 and 81 centimeters, equivalent to 28, 30 and 32 inches respectively.

The 71-centimeter barrels favor speed and are ideal for those seeking a nimble shotgun for fast, close-range clays. The lower inertia allows for quicker movement and immediate corrections.

The 76cm configuration represents the most balanced solution . It offers a good combination of handling, stability, and sight length, adapting to the wide variety of trajectories found in Sporting.

The 81-centimeter barrels develop greater inertia and promote a wide, progressive movement. They can be particularly effective on long clays and trajectories that require stable follow-through.

There's no universally superior length. The choice depends on the shooter's physical build, technique, speed of movement, and preferences.

TECHNICHOKE HPS90: Long Chokes for Sporting

The CRX9 Sporting uses five interchangeable TECHNICHOKE HPS90 choke tubes . The overall length is approximately 90 millimeters, of which 70 millimeters are inside the barrel and approximately 20 millimeters protruding beyond the muzzle.

The increased length allows for a progressive transition between the bore diameter and the final diameter of the choke. The goal is to guide the load without compressing it too abruptly, promoting regular and repeatable patterns.

The external portion facilitates choke tube identification and replacement. The shooter can quickly change the configuration based on the target location, expected distance, and target type.

The availability of different chokes makes the shotgun particularly versatile. The more open configurations can be used on close-range targets, while the more closed ones maintain a useful density at longer ranges.

Kick from Sporting and triple take

The kicking of the FOSSARI CRX9 Sporting It is designed to offer a stable grip without limiting the shooter's natural mobility. The indicative length is 375 millimeters.

The grip features a wraparound shape and a wide-surface knurling. The so-called triple grip involves the areas where the hands exert control during shouldering and swinging.

The trigger hand should reach the trigger without excessive tension, while the front hand should be able to guide the barrels while maintaining a fluid movement. A grip that's too vertical or too full can stiffen the wrist; an overly thin grip can reduce stability.

The design of the stock therefore seeks a compromise between control, freedom of movement and repeatability of shoulder support.

Why football adaptation is crucial

Even the best competition shotgun can't fully express its qualities if the stock isn't suited to the shooter's build. Cast, drop, length, and comb height determine the position of the eye relative to the rib.

When the stock is properly sized, the eye naturally falls along the aiming line and the shooter can concentrate on the target. If the head has to be moved or forced to achieve alignment, the shouldering becomes less repeatable.

Sporting amplifies this problem because shooting positions can vary significantly. The target can be approached uphill, downhill, sideways, or with the body partially rotated.

Before working on chokes or cartridges, it is therefore advisable to check that the stock allows for natural and constant support.

The CRX9's behavior on Sporting trajectories

Weighing approximately 3,9 kilograms and offering a variety of barrel lengths, the CRX9 can be configured to suit your personal style. The rifle feels solid, yet still needs to be agile enough to handle sudden changes in trajectory.

On cross-country targets, the mass promotes smooth movement and helps with continued swing after firing. On fast, close-range trajectories, the balance allows for rapid barrel release without losing control.

Distant clays require precise readings of velocity and angle. In these situations, the stability of the shotgun helps maintain lead and avoids sudden accelerations that can cause the barrels to move in front of or behind the target.

The CRX9 Sporting therefore does not seek to impose a single behavior, but provides a stable platform on which the shooter can build his own technique.

Comfort during long shooting sessions

In sport shooting, comfort is not a secondary consideration. A competition or training session can involve a large number of shots, plus those needed for warm-up and practice.

The weight of the gun, the XBORES geometry, the long X-CONES cones and a correctly sized stock together contribute to making the response to the shot more manageable.

The rifle's mass absorbs some of the energy and limits muzzle climb, allowing for quicker recovery of the aiming line for the second clay. The buttpad distributes the load across the shoulder, while the shape of the grip prevents the hand from having to tense up against the recoil.

The real benefit emerges at the end of the session: less fatigue means a greater ability to maintain consistent posture, concentration, and quality of technical movement.

Reliability and maintenance of a competition shotgun

The CRX9 Sporting is designed to withstand heavy use, but any competition gun requires regular maintenance. Barrels, chokes, hinges, locking surfaces, and ejectors must be cleaned and lubricated with appropriate products.

HPS90 chokes must be periodically removed to prevent residue and oxidation from making disassembly difficult. The threads must be cleaned and protected with a small amount of specific lubricant.

The removable battery simplifies control of the trigger group, while the IRF and T-REX systems allow you to intervene on the areas subject to the most significant wear.

A consistent maintenance program not only helps maintain the appearance of your firearm, but also helps maintain reliability, consistent firing patterns, and accurate fit.

FOSSARI CRX9 Sporting BSS and BSR: a brief overview

Alongside the Sporting model, the line includes the versions FOSSARI CRX9 Sporting BSS e CRX9 Sporting BSRBoth retain the mechanical structure and main ballistic solutions of the CRX9, introducing adjustment systems designed for more advanced customization.

The BSS version features a Monte Carlo stock with an adjustable XR-STOCK comb and a semi-flat rib, allowing the shooter to adjust the eye position and shouldering setup more precisely.

The BSR version adds an adjustable top rib, which allows you to adjust the visual relationship between the rib, the target, and the point of impact. This makes it the most adjustable configuration in the Sporting line.

The unique features of the BSS and BSR models, however, deserve a dedicated analysis. For this reason, they will be explored separately, without overlapping their characteristics with the specific identity of the CRX9 Sporting.

Technical table FOSSARI CRX9 Sporting

Features and equipment may vary depending on the market, year of production and configuration requested.

Final considerations on the FOSSARI CRX9 Sporting

Il FOSSARI CRX9 Sporting It is an over-and-under built around the real needs of a complex discipline. The variety of targets requires a rifle capable of combining stability and speed, maintaining predictable behavior on both short and long trajectories.

The monolithic steel action, the Boss locking system, and the IRF and T-REX reset systems define a structure designed to withstand a high number of shots. The removable lock facilitates maintenance and inspection, making the gun suitable for continuous competitive use.

The XBORES barrels with X-CONES cones and TECHNICHOKE HPS90 chokes form the ballistic core of the project. They don't simply seek very tight patterns, but a regular distribution that can be adapted to the different distances of Sporting.

The availability of 71, 76, and 81 centimeter barrels allows shooters to choose the level of inertia best suited to their technique. The weight of approximately 3,9 kilograms contributes to stability, recoil control, and continuity of movement.

The CRX9 Sporting is therefore not a generic sporting version of an over-and-under hunting shotgun. It is a platform designed for shooting , in which durability, maintainability, ballistic adaptability and ergonomics work together to offer consistency over time.

The BSS and BSR versions further expand this approach with adjustable stocks and ribs, but they represent configurations with their own technical identity. The Sporting model remains the most essential and direct base of the family: a solid, balanced and specialized shotgun , designed for those who want to tackle the variability of courses while focusing on clays and the quality of their movement.