J.C. Higgins Model 60

[RWMC]

I found an older J.C. Higgins Model 60 semi-auto shotgun for sale at the local pawn shop for $75. I was told they were made by Hi-Standard for Sears. It is a 12 gauge, and has seen some miles. Internally, it is very dirty. It looks like the previous owners never heard of or believed in powder solvent. A friend of mine told me to pass it up because parts would be about impossible to locate if anything broke on it. What do you all think? Deal, or no deal? Were they a decent shotgun, or did they lack in quality? Thanks for the help!

 

[darkwing]

Numrich list a JC Higgins 66 as a High Standard Supermatic Deluxe model C1200 & C1211 and they have parts. I've dealt with the pump version and they are either the best gun you can get or the worse. Personally I'd offer 50 bucks. After cleaning it and any problems arise I'd part it out and sell the parts. Its probably a solid frame gun and the barrel may not be easily removed [heat and a good barrel wrench]. Any auto shotgun here at a pawn shop priced under 300 usually means its a piece of junk and they can't get rid of it.

 

[Fred Fuller]

My usual reflex reaction to something like that is, if it were THAT good a deal, it would have been gone long before I saw it. 8^) Of course, you might be the planet's greatest deal magnet, and/or the first to see it. What are the odds?

Seriously, for older out-of-production semiautos made by now-defunct companies, my usual advice is to shy away. If this one really speaks to you, and you can afford the possible frustrations of dealing with an unsupported firearm make/model, not to mention the expense of buying it and getting/keeping it running, then go for it.

The High Standard Supermatic was the basis for the Model 10A/10B bullpup police shotguns, because it had no bolt return spring in the stock and could thus be converted to bullpup configuration easily. I had a 10A for several years and never had a bit of trouble with it, but that is my only experience with the design. It's your call, good luck with your decision!

lpl/nc

 

[BSlacker]

If it has the Cutts Comp and vari choke and vent rib it is worth a bit more. I have a couple and with the Comp it is my favorite. Don't shoot steel with the Comp gun. It tends to break action bars and they are scarce as hens teeth I bought a few a couple of years ago and they could have been the last. A good example of an early gas operated gun and needs to be cleaned to be reliable. If it has the Cutts Comp rib and choke I am interested. One near me is asking 295 without Comp no rib and with vari choke. If it had the rib and Comp I would be shooting it now.