A bittersweet development has taken place in my family. My dad passed away last Thursday, and I flew out to the funeral in Oregon this week. He left my brother and I approximately 50 firearms, mostly modern centerfire rifles. Among them is a Winchester model 1893 shotgun that was supposedly owned by his great grandfather. The serial number is 6251 which I believe was made in the first year of production. Unfortunately, the receiver has been reblued. The barrel might also be refinished, but I can’t tell for sure. It looks like it is in pretty good shape, although I probably won’t fire it, even with low-base cartridges.
There was also a pre-64 model 1894 eastern carbine and a model 12 shotgun in 16 gauge in one of his two safes. I will have to wait until next summer to take possession of them though, as I flew out to the funeral this week. Below are some pictures of the model 1893.
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My condolences on the passing of your father.
The serial number on your Model 1893 does appear to be 6251. It was manufactured in November of 1893.
It most definitely has been refinished.
You should not attemt to fire it with any modern 12-ga shells, as it was designed for black powder, and for a maximum shell length of 2-5/8".
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
Even though it has been refinished, it is a connection with the past to hold a shotgun once used by your great grandfather. Even better, sitting in the bullrushes waiting for some ducks knowing that your great grandfather once did the very same thing with the very same shotgun. That is the kind of stuff that I love.
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