Winchester 12ga Model of 1912

[Bamaflyer]

I just acquired an old Winchester pump 12ga that is marked Winchester Model of 1912. It is in rough shape but is mostly dirty. It seems to work properly but I haven't tried to fire it yet. Can ya'll give me a little information on this shotgun.One of the questions I have is it related to the model 12 or just a distant relative?

Thanks,

Bamaflyer

[Win71]

Your shotgun is the same gun as a model 12. Prior to about 1920 all Winchester rifles and shotguns were model numbered by their year of origin then around 1920 the 18 or 19 was dropped and the model 1912 became the model 12, the model 1894 became the model 94 and so on.

[Bamaflyer]

Thanks for the information. I am not too savvy about Winchester shotguns and didn't know about the Model of 1912. The old gun doesn't look like it has been cleaned since around WWII but still seems to function. The barrel was once a full choke but has been cut to 24" leaving it a cylinder bore. I'd almost bet that the previous owner had one of those famous "mud plugs" and bubbled the barrel. I think I'll break it down for a real good cleaning and see where it goes from there. The bluing( or should I say browning ) is still fair.The stocks seem to be original and in good shape. They have the normal marks and scratches of a gun this age. As I have very little in the gun, I cam spend a little on it.

Thanks,

Rusty,  AKA Bamaflyer

[dukkillr]

A well cared for M12 is STILL the most reliable shotgun you can buy today.  I own 870s, benellis, BPSs, etc... and under my bed is my favorite M12.  You'll enjoy it, and if you shoot it much I bet you'll be looking for more.