Question on a 1300 pump slide release.

[Twiki357]

I recently purchased a used Winchester 1300 12 gauge 18.5” bbl for HD. This is my first and only shotgun. It has a small button just behind the trigger guard that prevents the slide from operating when the hammer is cocked until the button is depressed regardless of whether or not a round is in the chamber. The only thing it seems to accomplish is locking the action when the gun is cocked, which prevents checking the chamber for a round or chambering the first round after reloading without first pushing this stupid little button. I’m wondering what the purpose of this is. And can (Or should) it be removed.

 

[mnrivrat]

It is the manual bolt release. It keeps the breech closed when the gun is fired - needed ! When the gun is fired the hammer comes forward and unlocks the breech with an internal cam.

In other words your gun works as it should.

 

[Milkmaster]

Yep! Works just as it should. Other pumps work similar and have the releases around the same location with most in front of the trigger guard. Be glad it does work. Firing a shotgun without it would be painfull!

Advice... Don't forget to acquire and read your owner's manual. Also go to a gun show or gun store and examine a few other brands of shotgun. You will see how they are similar in design. The trip alone will be worth what you learn.

Good Luck

 

[Fred Fuller]

Twiki,

It's normal and necessary. Every modern pumpgun design I've ever seen incorporates a similar action release button, thought they are not always in the same location on every make/model.

RTFM* - before you hurt yourself and/or damage the shotgun...

http://media.winchesterguns.com/pdf/om/model1300_manual_om_s.pdf

or

http://stevespages.com/pdf/winchester_1300.pdf

lpl
===

* Read That Fine Manual (alternate translations apply in other environments, especially military)

 

[JoeMal]

Button is normal...as mentioned. Enjoy your 1300, mine has been a trusty and reliable shotgun for over a decade

 

[Twiki357]

Thanks all for the advice. I'll definately leave well enough alone.

 

[SwampWolf]

Where have you been, friend? There aren't many shooters who can say that they got their very first shotgun at age 69! Good luck with your new Winchester-it's a fine shotgun. After familiarizing yourself with the Model 1300, a trip to the range and busting some clays should be your next step.