Winchester

Another gun from a large consignment that we have been selling and another beautiful, vintage gun.

Based on the serial number of 1783258, we believe that it was manufactured in 1957 although some sources have indicated 1959.  If you've ever tried to get specific data from Winchester, you already know that they are only somewhat helpful.  Whichever date is correct, it doesn't change the fact that this is one incredibly well preserved shotgun.

The shotgun is a 12 Gauge model and is chambered for 2-3/4 inch shells.  The barrel is a 30 inch vent rib and the rib is marked "Simmons Gun Specialties Inc.  Kansas City, MO".  This is a full choke version, as is most common for the 30 inch Model 12.  The limiter or magazine plug is in the magazine tube and we have not removed it.  Removing that, if you desire, is a quick and easy process.

Our shotgun features the corn cob forearm and uncheckered pistol grip stock.  A White Line Deluxe ventilated recoil pad sits at the end of the stock.

The wood is in Excellent (or better) condition with only the very lightest of handling marks.  We find no cracks, chips or gouges.  Please check the photos and we think that you'll agree that this is truly beautiful wood.  The metal finish is nearly entirely intact.  The receiver has, again, just very light handling or storage marks and nothing remarkable or unattractive.  We would grade the metal as Near Mint.  The barrel is bright, the bore is clean and the bolt is bright and pristine.  The only thing that we need to call out on this one is the front sight.  A fiber light tube is currently mounted in a front sight bracket.  While it makes for an excellent sight picture, that would not be original to the shotgun.

While the Model 12 is not a rare shotgun at all, what is rare is to see one from 1957 (or '59) in this condition.  We would grade this one as Near Mint.  It likely has seen limited use and it's been incredibly well maintained and cared for.  The saying, "They don't make them like that anymore" is certainly true of the Model 12.  Winchester hasn't produced that model since 1964.  A different version of the Model 12 was used by U.S. military forces from the First World War through the early years of the Vietnam War.  It's a robust and reliable platform.  This one just happens to look great as well.  If you're after a nearly pristine vintage shotgun, we don't think that you'd be disappointed in this one

Purchase includes the shotgun as shown and cloth gun sock.

This is a consignment sale and, like all of our consignments, we have not test-fired this shotgun.  We have performed all function checks and find no issues.  As with all pre-owned purchases, please review the photos carefully so that you are fully comfortable with the condition of the shotgun.