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I have a winchester model 12, ser. number 341,8xx end of 1923 I believe.Has a 25″ barrel and says 2 3/4″ on barrel.I thought winchester didn’t come out with 2 3/4 cham. until 1925. So I SHOT IT WITH 2 3/4 ” shells and it ejected them perfectly. Was there a transition period? I didn’t know any 25 ” barrel had 2 3/4 inch cham. thanks, Doug
November 7, 2015
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Interesting. Last Model 12 (12GA) 25″ I handled had been cut down for some reason. I’m guessing you have a 12GA. Did you measure the choke?
Hello Doug,
First, there is absolutely no valid reason not to post the entire serial number, especially here on the WACA forums.
Based on the stated barrel length and chamber length question, I am assuming that you are asking about a 20-Ga Model 12. Is the barrel Nickel Steel, or Proof Steel?
I seem to remember that Winchester first listed the new 2-3/4″ 20-ga in the 1926 catalog (which would indicate that it was first available in 1925). The partial serial number you mention does indicate that it was serialized sometime in 1923. My guess (if it has a Nickel Steel barrel) is that the receiver frame was not used to assemble a new ready to sell gun until late 1925 (or later).
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
yes, it is a nickel steel barrel, 20 gauge, sn-341,847. Chamber is 2 3/4. As I said it ejects perfectly after firing.I’ve fired 2 3/4 shells in a 1912 20 gauge before and the shell does not eject properly.I have the model 12 book by Riffle and that’s why I had the question.I have read that quite a few were sent back to factory to be opened up. The barrel states—NICKEL STEEL——WINCHESTER—–MODEL 12-20 GA. 2 3/4″ FULL
THANKS, Doug
Doug,
My bet is that it was originally assembled as it is now. There is not a big time gap between the receiver being serialized and the introduction of the 2 3/4″ chamber. If you are really curious about when the barrel was made, it should have a 2-digit year number stamped on the bottom (6 o’clock position) about 2-inches from the take down extension. If you roll the gun belly up at a 45-degree angle and shine an LED light on the bottom of the barrel, you should be able to see it.
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
Bert;
thank you, 24 under barrel,along with vp in circle and letters mns. learned something today.thanks again, Doug
douglas faery said
Bert;thank you, 24 under barrel,along with vp in circle and letters mns. learned something today.thanks again, Doug
Then it has been a very good day, and you are welcome!
The MNS is the manufacturer, Midvale Nickel Steel.
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
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