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August 25, 2006
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My apologies to the board – I’m sure this subject has been beaten to death over the years.
I’m looking at a vintage 1919 Model 12 (SN 1876XX) that I’ve only seen a few photos of and I’m wondering if the ventilated rib is one that was put on by Winchester, or was a later Simmons add-on. I will be talking with the owner later today and will see if the rib has any Simmons markings on it, and whether the barrel proof mark is visible or hidden.
In the meantime, I would appreciate any other thoughts or observations.
TIA,
Tom
PS Any thoughts on whether or not the buttstock and forearm look original? I’m guessing replacements, as they don’t look old enough to be from 1919.
November 7, 2015
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Nice looking shotgun! I’ll be happy to check my Riffle book when I get home. Rib looks right but I don’t know. Will check on the wood also unless someone with a better memory chimes in.
Mike
August 25, 2006
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My apologies – I had to edit my original post. The serial number indicates a 1919 manufacture, not 1960s. So it appears the gun has been done over.
November 7, 2015
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Tom-
I believe you may be correct about the update but if the receiver was serialized in 1917 it’s not inconceivable that the shotgun was assembled in 1920 when a rib very similar to yours was used along with an extended forearm. Problem is the forearm used starting in 1920 measured 11 3/8” and yours appears somewhat shorter and is probably at least several years newer than the date the serial number was applied. Not sure about the butt, thinking pistol grip cap may have been added. Some later caps were hard rubber but this one appears to be a light-colored material under the paint. I’m probably wrong but I’d venture a guess that your shotgun was indeed updated at least once, maybe in the 30’s? Some better pics of the ventilated rib and the grip cap may help pin it down a bit better. A good clear photo of the barrel markings would be helpful as well.
Mike
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