Smith & Wesson semi-auto shotgun questions.....

[art g]

A fellow at work just mentioned to me that he had a Smith & Wesson 12 gauge auto loading shotgun 28†vent rib modified choke that he purchased new around 1978. I have not seen the gun yet but I am guessing that it is a model 1000? My question is who made these guns for Smith & Wesson and were they any good in regards to quality and durability? Also, if the gun is in excellent condition what would be a fair offer for me to make? Are replacement parts still available anywhere? My purpose would be to use it as a field gun for hunting. Any information or advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks! Art G.

 

[JA]

http://www.e-gunparts.com/productschem.asp?chrMasterModel=1980z1000
The first thing you need to do before you shoot it is to replace the shock absorber part#38. All the model 1000 shotguns that I have seen in the last 10 years this part has pretty much on it way to or turned into a crispy critter. If it was not kept oiled it would dry rot with age.
From the Blue Book of Gun Values;
S&W discontenued importation in 1984 mfg. by Howa of Japan.
There were 5 models standard,magnum,super,trap,and skeet. The standard had a alloy reciever,magnum(3") had a steel receiver with M serial number prefix,super had a steel receiver and would fire all loads,trap had a steel receiver,and skeet had alloy or steel recievers.
Standard $350 new in the box to $200 for one in 60% condition.
Add $25 for magnum model,$150 for super model,$50 for skeet model,$250 for trap model.
I have had several friends that have model 1000 shotguns and all have worked fine untill the shock absorber wears out or dry rots from neglect.
The magnum model was pretty popular here for duck hunting till the use of lead shot was outlawed.

 

[art g]

Thanks!

JA: Outstanding information! Thank you very much for taking the time to answer my post! Art G.

 

[JA]

No problem glad I could help.