[Mossyback]

I have wanted a Win. model 12 for quite some time and finally got enough money to purchase one. I would love any info that anybody can give as far as year made, is this a good one for Pheasant hunting, and about what the going price is? It is Ser. # 16827XX , 30 inch , full choke, For super & super-X 3 inch. Condition is , ex. blueing (Must of been re-blued) wood on forarm very good and buttstock also good except for a small chip on butt near recoil pad. I paid $400 and wanted it only for hunting not as an investment. Thank you.

 

[only winchesters]

Hello Mossyback: Well you bought what is known as a Model 12 Heavy Duck, (3in Chamber) These guns came with a slightly shorter butt stock with a lead weight in it, along with a Winchester rubber recoil pad. Your gun was made in 1956 according to Author Dave Riffle.

$400 for a reblued duck gun isn't a bad price, if it has a plain barrel vs. a Solid Rib barrel. If it has a solid rib even better. You have a great shooter, it has no collector interest if it's been reblued.

Regards Dave

 

[Mossyback]

Thanks Dave, I needed (Or maybe just wanted) a better then just ok bird gun and when a member of my gun club passed he left behind a dozen or so model 12's. I had to pick mine out quickly before all were sold. Just wanted to make sure that my pick was a good one. I hate to bother you more but do you know if this model will handle the newer 3 inch mag's? I am not going to shoot anything except lead. P.S. I really like this website. It is full of useful information.

 

[only winchesters]

Hello mossback: your "Heavy Duck" Md 12 can handle any 12 ga. 3 in lead load on the market today, 1 5/8oz,1 3/4oz, 1 7/8oz, and 2oz. It can also handle any non-toxic load made by Bismuth, or any Tungsten/Matrix load. you are correct don't shoot STEEL through it.

I will say this a "Heavy Duck" while nice that you can shoot 3 in. but when loaded weighs slightly over 9LBS, hope you have strong arms! LOL Yes I use mine on occassion, I hunt behind flushers, (not pointers) and late season when they run, you need to make long shots.

Regards Dave