12 gauge Topper made in the 50's or 60's.

[Dixie Dude]

I have a 12 gauge Topper made in the 50's or 60's.  I have several questions:

1) Can you buy a 50 cal BP barrel for it?
2) It does not have a half cock, is this right? Or is it broken in mine?  
3) My forend snaps on, does this help with the time frame it was made?  Or does anyone know if the serial number can tell the time frame?
4) I recently inherited this gun, but just out of curiosity, it will load a 3" mag shell?  Is it a 3" mag?  I fired a light 2-3/4" shell out of it, but not a 3" until I find out more.  I will clean it good and see if the barrel shows if it is and see if I can measure it.  It is a 30" full choke 12 gauge.  Would make a good turkey gun.  I was wanting to get extra barrels for it if possible.  It was however covered with rust and not well taken care of.  I am going to try to refinish it.  

[Spanky]

Hang it on the wall as a keepsake and buy a new one.
Get one with an SB2 frame and you can fit everything to it.



Spanky

[Dee]

Got a brand new one for Christmas in 1963 in 12 gauge, full choke, and 32" barrel 3" magnum, and blond colored hardwood stock, and yes the forearm snap into place. No half cock, has a rebounding hammer. Kick like a mule, but will reach out and the birds, rabbits, squirrel or what ever. Wish I had it back it was my first good shotgun. Cheap but, good.

[PHATINJUN]

Check the Faq's not only will you find out what decade it was actually built but you will know the exact yr. kurt 

Also BE VERY CAREFUL WITH THE 3" SHELLS. If is does not say 3" it probly is not made to take 3" .You can fit 3" shells into many shot guns made for 2 3/4" only but the problem is the crimp DOES NOT open or doesn't open correctly as there is not enough room.

[Dee]

If the old Topper you have is marked 3" magnum, it is safe to shoot them. The one I owned, and all others of that era that my friends had were marked on the barrel for which shell length it took.