Winchester model 12 shotgun

[eteofisto]

I just got a Winchester model 12, 16ga. shotgun with ser. no. 12079XX. The barrel is 27" long, chambered 2-3/4" with full choke. The action is still pretty much tighter than usual, considering its age, but obviously it was seldom used. Surface finish (bluing) is nil with some pitting. Any info on:
a) when it was made
b) how much it is worth now, I understand some models are collectors' item

 

[chas08]

My list puts it made in 1949
Hard to say on value, rough shape, 3-400$ sounds like the metal finish would put it on the lower end. As I said hard to say without seeing it. 49 models weren't anything special to my knowledge.

 

[10X]

Sounds like you have a standard field grade gun. A great shooter, not a collector. The prices stated above is probably $50 higher than I see in my area.

Use it and enjoy it.

Try some Hoppes oil to make it work more freely. Old oil varnishes and with dust makes a gun sticky.

 

[Tom Held]

Rib?

If it has a vent or even better a solid rib value will double and should be restored. Once restored it could double again. This would be somewhat rare on a early 16 gauge gun.

 

[whitefeather]

Model 12's are the finest pump guns ever produced.

Don't know what how you plan to use it, but if you want to hunt birds, you will find no finer pump gun than a Model 12.

If the action is still tight and the bore is still in good shape, I would consider having the metal cleaned up and reblued.

I have a 16 ga. field model with a Modified choke (no vent rib) made in 1940. It is the most balanced and fastest handling shotgun I have ever carried afield. I prefer it to my Browning Citori for most bird hunting.

I've taken quail, pheasants, chuckars and rabits with it.

The only down side is the cost of 16ga. shells.