I just purchased at auction a gun listed as “Winchester Model 12 Heavy Duck 3″ 32” Solid Rib S/N 406419.
There is nothing on this gun to say heavy duck gun. It only says Winchester Model 12-12ga Full Nickel Steel.
My question…Is this gun a true “Heavy Duck Gun” or did I get taken?
Thanks
Unfortunately, you got suckered.
Winchester introduced the “Heavy Duck Gun” in 1935, and all of them were made with “Proof Steel” barrels. S/N 406419 was manufactured in July, 1924… 11-years before the Heavy Duck Gun was first available.
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
The first thing to look for on a heavy duck is the 3″ chamber. They came with a shorter than standard length of pull, 13 1/2″ if memory serves me correct. They should also have the red rubber Winchester pad on the butt stock. The butt stocks came with lead added into the butt stock. If one looks at the muzzle, the barrel thickness is about twice as thick as a standard model 12. I’ve got 5 of them and these characteristics run the same on all.
Hope this helps,
Erin
Erin Grivicich said
The first thing to look for on a heavy duck is the 3″ chamber. They came with a shorter than standard length of pull, 13 1/2″ if memory serves me correct. They should also have the red rubber Winchester pad on the butt stock. The butt stocks came with lead added into the butt stock. If one looks at the muzzle, the barrel thickness is about twice as thick as a standard model 12. I’ve got 5 of them and these characteristics run the same on all.Hope this helps,
Erin
Erin,
The fact that the gun in question has a “Nickel Steel” barrel was the first clue that it is not a Heavy Duck Gun. The second clue is the serial number & corresponding date of manufacture.
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
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