old shotgun still viable?

[B3XD]

is a Winchester 12 gauge 12A made in 1943 still safe to shoot?

 

[owlhoot]

Yes, indeed, assuming the gun is in decent condition. The model 12 is, in the opinion of many, the best pump shotgun ever made. I have several shotguns far older than yours that I shoot regularly. Assuming, good condition, the only thing that users of older shotguns must be aware of is short chambers for contemporary ammunition, a condition that is easy and inexpensive to correct by any competent gun smith.

 

[Fred Fuller]

There are a great many Model 12s several decades older than that one still carrying on that great Winchester tradition. But suitability for use and safety are not generic questions- they're specific to the individual firearm being examined, and without having hands on the gun as well as appropriate tools and gauges it isn't a question that can be readily answered.

If you have any questions regarding its safety and suitability for use, refer them to a professional gunsmith who is familiar with the design, and let the 'smith examine it.

lpl/nc

 

[foghornl]

A couple of caveats:

It SHOULD be OK to shoot, but have a 'smith very familiar with Model 12's examine it. It MAY have short chambers (2-9/16" instead of 2-3/4").

Caveat #2...if it has the original barrel DO NOT USE STEEL SHOT. Now, some of the newer 'Non-Toxic' waterfowling shot MAY be acceptable, but again ask the Model 12 'smith.

 

[TrapperReady]

As has been stated, the condition of the actual gun in question is the determining factor. However, I still regularly use 2 Winchester Model 12s. One was made in 1922 and the other in 1926. I also periodically hunt with a Browning A5 made in 1930.

Old guns can be substantially better than their modern counterparts.

 

[MCgunner]

Now, some of the newer 'Non-Toxic' waterfowling shot MAY be acceptable, but again ask the Model 12 'smith.

There is the Kent Tungsten Matrix, very expensive. Bismuth (I've heard it's out of production, but might be back) is safe. I'd not use it on waterfowl, just upland stuff, personally. I have an old double that's in that boat.

 

[Hoppy590]

1913. still works fine.

 

[B3XD]

Thanks

Exactly what I needed to hear. Now, know of any good smiths to examine that gun in the Houston area?

 

[jkingrph]

Condition vs age. I am shooting an 1869 Swiss Vetterli rifle, originally rimfire,I converted to centerfire and have to make my own brass from 348 Win or 8mm Lebel.

We are talking about a bolt action rifle that is approximately 138 years old and in better shape than some new rifles that have been abused, misused, neglected that are less than 10 years. I just have to make sure to use loads appropriate for black powder of the day.

I have several other rifles that are in excess of 100 years old, Swedish Mausers and Swiss 1896/11 that are perfectly sound and safe with modern loads. Shotguns a Parker cicra 1911 and an old French Charlin, sliding breech, most likely 1930's vintage but do not know or can find info for date of mfr.