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Posted: 3/11/2009 9:01:55 PM EDT
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I have this old Winchester Mod 12 my grandpa gave me. Apparently it was given to him by his grandfather. I have shot it a few times, including a couple of weeks ago.
It has like a 26" barrel, with a very open fixed choke. Busts clays really nice when they are up close. I think it has a 6 rnd mag or so. My question is this: what power rounds can I shoot through this thing? All I have shot is birdshot. Can it handle 00, slugs, etc? Anywhere to get an 18" barrel for cheap for this thing? |
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What gauge is it? 12, 16, 20? Did you measure the length of the barrel by putting a dowel down the muzzle until it contacts the bolt face, mark the muzzle and mesure to that mark? What choke is roll marked on the barrel? Is the front bead 1/2" back from the muzzle? Nickel Steel or Winchester Proof Steel (Chrome-Moly)? Chamber length- 2 1/2" or 2 3/4"?
The most common Model 12 is a 12ga., 30", Full Choke. Any deviation from this adds to the collectability and price. The Model 12 can handle most factory ammunition that meets the specs stamped on the barrel, (don't shoot 3" in a 2 3/4" for example) NO STEEL SHOT! The 18" barrel cannot be fitted by a novice. You either have to buy a receiver extension, barrel and related parts and have them fitted by a knowledgeable gunsmith or unscrew the original barrel and have an 18" barrel fitted to the existing extension by a knowledgeable gunsmith. The cost to have this done will equal or exceed the price of another shotgun. Nu-Line Guns http://www.nulineguns.com/ Wright's http://www.wrightsgunsmiths.com/ Simmons http://www.simmonsguns.com/ When your Model 12 is cocked and the bolt is foward in battery, push up on the shell lifter so that it makes contact with the bottom of the bolt. Can you push the bolt up into the receiver? If so, the shotgun has "bolt drop" and continued firing in this condition can crack the bolt or batter the bolt locking recess in the receiver. How is the fit between the barrel and receiver extension? The Winchester Model 12 is the finest pump shotgun ever made. The last Field grade models were made over 40 years ago, parts wear and age. The Model 12 has a "Manual of Arms" that differs from more modern shotguns, notably the loading and unloading of the magazine that confounds younger shooters. The hand fitting that went into the assembly of it literally made it a custom firearm. Keep it original as your grandfather and his father used it. Treat it as a family heirloom and pass it on. Regards, Gregor |
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12 ga. Barrel states full choke but my grandpa said his dad had it opened up. Barrel is about 28.25" using the method you described. I cant find a chamber marking anywhere on it aside from 12 ga. Barrel is marked nickel.
Looks like it has the bolt drop symptom. I guess I won't shoot it anymore. I don't really have the need to shoot it, and since it is an heirloom I don't want to damage it. Thanks for the help, you seem extremely knowledgeable on the subject of the model 12! |
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The bolt drop issue can be fixed by welding up the action slide so that it puts more upward force on the bolt. It is not that expensive or difficult. Finding someone locally or use your own MIG or TIG if avaialble is the best way.
My friend's brother-in-law has his Grandfather's 16ga. Model 12 that he bought around 1915. He served in W W 1then passed it down to Jim. Jim's son is not a hunter and is married to a somewhat liberal lady. Fortunately, she sees the family history and it will stay in the family. You are lucky to have such a family treasure. Regards, Gregor |
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Quoted:
12 ga. Barrel states full choke but my grandpa said his dad had it opened up. Barrel is about 28.25" using the method you described. I cant find a chamber marking anywhere on it aside from 12 ga. Barrel is marked nickel. Looks like it has the bolt drop symptom. I guess I won't shoot it anymore. I don't really have the need to shoot it, and since it is an heirloom I don't want to damage it. Thanks for the help, you seem extremely knowledgeable on the subject of the model 12! [/quote Take a dime and try to put it into the barrell ,if it wont go then it is full choke. Bob 
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Also take the shot-gun and grab it by the pistol grip below the reciever,hold it straight up in the air and try to wiggle it side
ways . If it wiggles then the adjusting sleeve may need adjusting also. I had to buy a new one for my 1897 win. I have pictures of what to look for,and how to adjust it if it has any notches left! My Win 1912 (20 gauge)1917 had only been adjusted once! The 1912 is a great shotgun! Bob
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