Model 12 action inoperable (stuck in closed position)

[Doug B.]

Grabbed my Winchester Model 12 from my gun case the other day and as I always do I attempted to open the action....stuck in the closed position.   I am 99.9% sure the firearm is safe as I always use a snap cap in it.  None-the-less the muzzle WILL be pointed in a safe direction!

Any suggestions/opinions or should I be planning on a trip to my gunsmith?

Thanks!

[gunnut69]

You did try pushing forward a bit on the forearm before attempting to open the action? Removing the trigger assembly will free the action. The action slide lock may be causing your problem although there are several possibilities. Sometime pushing the slide forward a bit will loosen this lock. They sometimes have to be adjusted a bit to function correctly. The attached drawing may be of some help.

http://stevespages.com/ipb-winchester-12.html

[Doug B.]

I did try rocking the slide back and forth while attempting to push the release button.  No luck.  I will look at the trigger assembly next. Thanks for the parts breakdown, it's great!

[michael orlen]

.....sounds like that snap cap might be stuck in the chamber.....