The 28 really should be more popular than it is. As a boy's first shotgun, a 28 beats the .410 hollow in every way, except ammunition cost.

Actually the cost differential is justified because the factories don't make el cheapo low to non-existent antimony 28 loads. That is why the 28 seems to punch above its weight. It can make killing patterns at 35 yards that will make you blink. 

Given a choice between a 20 or a 28 for my upland hunting, I'd take the 20. But as between a 28 or a .410, the 28 is so superior it can't be argued. 

A modified choke 28 gauge Model 12 would have made a lot of sense for a 12 year old's first shotgun. In a perfect World.

Let us see how much this one brings.

Listing #447 is a pigeon grade upgrade with the following description "Manufactured in 1953 and subsequently upgraded to the current configuration".  I wonder what this means?  Was a 28 gauge field grade gun up graded to pigeon grade and the rib and wood added or did the gun start life as a pigeon grade.  It seems to me that a real pigeon grade gun would not be described in this manner.  

Herod's advice to Claudis was to trust no one!

jlb

Bert H. said
It should have a 28-inch barrel.  Do you know if it has a FULL, MOD, or CYL choked barrel?
I can see it has the typical cracked slide handle stock (a sizeable value demerit), and that it is very little original bluing left on the steel.  It is chambered for 2-9/16" shells.  
Based on the condition of the gun, the top bid for it should be no more than $275.
Bert
  

Not sure on the choke.  The barrel at least doesn’t seem to be cut down at all.  I don’t think I’d bid more than $100 on it.  Might be purchasing some other stuff in the auction.  So I thought why not.  

thanks 

I can see it has the typical cracked slide handle stock (a sizeable value demerit), and that it is very little original bluing left on the steel.  It is chambered for 2-9/16" shells.  

Based on the condition of the gun, the top bid for it should be no more than $275.

Bert

local auction has a 97 16ga I might bid on. An 188140.  Looks like a 30” barrel. It’s seems to be about the same condition as my 12 gauge.  It has 10 days before auction close.  I think if it stays cheap I might bid.  From what I remember I believe I’ll have to load 2.5” shells if I want to shoot it though.  Any thoughts advice are welcome 

thanks

Frankly, I couldn't sleep nights after buying any Winchester 28 gauge Model 12 at current prices, unless a factory or reliable dealer record supported the originality of the gauge. Emphasis on "reliable." Boxes mean zip. 

Maybe it is my imagination, but the reason for the existence of this 28 gauge pump was Skeet. While there are any number of used 20 gauge Model 12 guns kitted out with a Cutts, some roony adjustable buttplate, and plenty evidence of extensive use in competition-- such well used and modified Model 12 guns in 28 gauge are notably absent from the marketplace. 

When a 28 gauge Model 12 does come up for sale,  almost invariably it is a deluxe model in high condition, without any indicia of use in Skeet competition. Just Decades of protected storage in an eccentric owner's climate-controlled closet. 

I am no expert on the Model 12 and mine ( a 20)  is presently  a Browning, as is my Model 42. Perhaps someone who collects and more fully understands the originals will illuminate the 28 gauge mystery. 

jlb said
How would one verify this gun other than by physical examination and disassembly?  
 
jlb
  

You answered your own question.  Auction descriptions should never be trusted to be accurate, and they seldom if ever provide the requisite photos of the gun in question.

Bert

I am not a buyer at auctions as my trust level is inadequate.  What may I be missing from this auction item.  How would one verify this gun other than by physical examination and disassembly?  

jlb

Zebulon said
Thanks, Jim.  I've watched his videos wherein he repairs small bore, high grade Superposed guns that were badly corroded from salt cured stocks. Makes you sick to look at the guns.
  

It sure does! . . . .

I’ve seen a few “in the flesh!”